15% of global electricity is generated from Hydropower

Hydropower, also known simply as hydro, is a form of energy that harnesses the power of water in motion—such as rivers, streams, or waterfalls—to generate electricity. This natural force has been utilized for centuries, initially to drive mechanical processes such as grain milling and metal forging. Today, modern hydroelectric power plants convert the kinetic energy of flowing or falling water into electrical power through sophisticated technology. This reliable and consistent form of energy plays a significant role in global electricity generation, contributing substantially to the energy mix in various countries.

The process of generating hydroelectric power typically involves the construction of a dam on a river, which creates a reservoir of water. Water released from the reservoir flows through turbines, causing them to spin. These turbines are connected to generators, which convert the mechanical energy of the spinning turbines into electrical energy. Run-of-the-river hydro projects, which don't require large reservoirs, utilize the natural flow of the river to turn turbines. Both methods harness the kinetic energy of water in a clean and efficient manner, contributing significantly to low-carbon electricity generation.

One of the most significant advantages of hydroelectric power is its low carbon intensity. According to data from the IPCC, hydroelectric power has a carbon intensity of just 24 gCO2eq/kWh. This is considerably lower than fossil fuel-based energy sources, such as coal (820 gCO2eq/kWh) and gas (490 gCO2eq/kWh). In comparison, other low-carbon energy sources like wind (11 gCO2eq/kWh), nuclear (12 gCO2eq/kWh), and solar (45 gCO2eq/kWh) also contribute to reducing greenhouse gas emissions, but hydro remains one of the most established and widely used clean energy technologies.

Hydropower is a major player in the global electricity market, generating about 15% of all electricity consumed worldwide. This substantial share underscores the importance of hydro in achieving sustainable energy goals and reducing reliance on fossil fuels. Several countries heavily rely on hydroelectric power for their electricity needs. For example, in Iceland, 70% of electricity is generated from hydro, while Norway derives an impressive 89% of its electricity from this source. Bhutan and Paraguay are even more dependent, with 92% and 100%, respectively, of their electricity coming from hydro. Canada also benefits significantly, with more than half of its electricity (57%) generated through hydropower.

An important aspect of hydroelectric power, and other low-carbon technologies such as wind, nuclear, and solar, is their contribution to mitigating climate change and improving air quality. Unlike fossil fuels, which release large amounts of carbon dioxide and other pollutants into the atmosphere, low-carbon energy sources produce minimal greenhouse gases. By investing in and expanding these clean energy technologies, countries can significantly reduce their carbon footprints and combat the detrimental effects of climate change, while fostering a sustainable and resilient energy infrastructure for the future.