Most federal hydroelectric (hydropower) projects are constructed and operated by either the U. S. Corps of Engineers or the Department of Interior’s Bureau of Reclamation. Electric power from hydroelectric projects is marketed by the federal government’s power marketing administration (Booneville, Southwestern, Southeastern, Western Area, and Alaska). Most non-federal hydroelectric projects are regulated and licensed by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission.
At present, hydroelectric plants contribute about 7 percent of total electric power generated in this country. Water flowing through the dams spins turbine blades that are connected to generators. The power produced is sent to homes and businesses. Most hydroelectric power plants have a dam and a reservoir because the process utilizes a large quantity of water. The EIA reports that China is currently the largest producer of hydroelectricity, followed by Canada, Brazil, and the U. S.
Hydroelectric Pros: 1. Hydroelectric is the most widely used form of renewable energy.
2. Hydroelectric is independent of fossil fuels. 3. The operational costs involved in hydroelectric are low.
Hydroelectric Cons:
1. Hydroelectric power generation requires a large reservoir.
2. The location of hydroelectric power can be a challenge because of the area needed to construct a huge reservoir.
3. Droughts can impact hydroelectric generation.
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