What is it?

 

Hydro energy is energy generated from the force of water moving through a turbine. A hydroelectricity system consists of a reservoir atop a hill, a dam to regulate the flow from this reservoir, and a series of turbines and generators.

 

 

How does it work?

 

Water from a low source (a stream or pond) is pumped through a pipe uphill into a reservoir that sits atop a hill. The pump can be powered by another renewable energy source (free electricity) or by the grid during off-peak hours (reduced price electricity). The water in the reservoir can then be released whenever elecricity is needed, particularly during peak hours. This water runs downhill through a turbine. The force of the water rotates the turbine. The rotating turbine is used to drive a generator that produces elecricity that can be used in the house. The amount of electricity generated is dependent on the height from which the water is falling, the volume of water flowing through the turbine, and the size of the turbine. 

 

 

Advantages:

 

• free or reduced price electricity

• zero-emission

• built in storage system

• easy integration into farm irrigation systems

 

Disadvantages:

 

• requires nearby water supply

• need external power source to run pump