14% of global electricity is generated from Hydropower

Hydroelectric energy, often referred to as hydro, harnesses the power of moving water to generate electricity. This clean, sustainable energy source takes advantage of the Earth's water cycle, primarily utilizing the gravitational force of falling or flowing water. By diverting water from rivers or through dams, it captures energy which is then converted into electrical power. Hydro is one of the oldest and most established forms of harnessing natural forces for electricity production, playing a crucial role in reducing reliance on fossil fuels and mitigating climate change.

The process of generating electricity via hydropower essentially involves three steps. First, water from a river is directed towards a turbine. As the water flows over the turbine blades, it causes them to spin, converting the kinetic energy of the water into mechanical energy. This mechanical energy is then transferred to a generator, where it is converted into electrical energy. The resulting electricity can then be distributed to the power grid for use in homes, businesses, and industries. This method of energy generation is incredibly efficient and boasts a low carbon footprint, contributing significantly to global efforts in reducing greenhouse gas emissions.

One of the remarkable advantages of hydropower is its exceptionally low carbon intensity, averaging only 24 gCO2eq/kWh. This low level of carbon emissions is comparable to other low-carbon energy sources like wind, which stands at 11 gCO2eq/kWh, and nuclear, at 12 gCO2eq/kWh. Solar energy, another vital low-carbon source, emits about 45 gCO2eq/kWh. In stark contrast, fossil fuels like coal and oil have much higher carbon intensities, with coal reaching up to 820 gCO2eq/kWh. This significant difference underscoring hydropower and other low-carbon sources highlights their importance in combating climate change and reducing global greenhouse gas emissions.

Hydropower contributes significantly to global electricity consumption, providing more than 14% of the worldwide electricity supply. Its impact is even more pronounced in specific countries: it accounts for 71% of electricity generation in Iceland, 89% in Norway, 93% in Bhutan, and an impressive 99% in Paraguay. Canada also relies heavily on hydro, with more than half of its electricity coming from this source. These statistics demonstrate hydropower's essential role in supplying clean energy, especially in countries with abundant water resources.

The ability of hydropower to generate a significant portion of electricity in various regions showcases the potential for expanding low-carbon technologies worldwide. Integrating hydro with other clean energy sources like wind, solar, and nuclear can provide a balanced and resilient approach to achieving a sustainable energy future. This diversified strategy ensures that countries can reduce their carbon footprints and improve energy security while paving the way toward a greener and more sustainable planet. By embracing a mix of these low-carbon technologies, nations can effectively counter the detrimental effects of fossil fuels, such as climate change and air pollution.