15% of global electricity is generated from Hydropower

Hydropower, commonly referred to as hydro, is a form of energy that harnesses the power of moving water to generate electricity. This energy source relies on the natural water cycle, utilizing rivers, dams, and turbines to capture and convert kinetic energy from flowing or falling water into a usable form of electrical power. Hydro is unique due to its ability to provide a constant, reliable supply of energy, as long as the water flow remains consistent. This consistency makes hydro an integral part of the global effort to transition to low-carbon energy solutions.

In generating electricity, hydropower begins with water stored at a height, whether in a reservoir or a river with a natural high flow. This water is released through turbines, causing them to spin. The mechanical energy from this rotation is then converted into electrical energy through a generator connected to the turbine. This process is highly efficient and capable of producing a substantial amount of electricity with relatively low ongoing maintenance and operational costs. Importantly, hydroelectric systems can respond quickly to fluctuations in electricity demand, making them a versatile addition to any electrical grid.

One of the significant advantages of hydroelectricity is its exceptionally low carbon intensity, which stands at around 24 gCO2eq/kWh. This makes it one of the cleanest energy sources available, significantly reducing the carbon footprint compared to fossil fuels such as coal and natural gas, which release 820 gCO2eq/kWh and 490 gCO2eq/kWh, respectively. Hydropower, alongside other key low-carbon technologies like wind (11 gCO2eq/kWh), nuclear (12 gCO2eq/kWh), and solar (45 gCO2eq/kWh), is crucial in combating climate change and reducing global greenhouse gas emissions.

Globally, hydroelectricity is responsible for generating around 15% of all electricity consumed, underscoring its importance in the global energy landscape. Some countries heavily rely on hydro due to their abundant water resources and favorable geography. For instance, in Iceland, 72% of electricity comes from hydroelectric sources; in Norway, this figure rises to 90%, while Bhutan relies on hydro for 93% of its electricity. Similarly, Canada and states like Montana in the USA generate more than half and a third of their electricity from hydro, respectively. This extensive utilization demonstrates hydropower's critical role in supporting communities and industries with sustainable electrical supply.

The steady growth and deployment of hydroelectric systems, alongside other clean energy sources such as nuclear, solar, and wind, highlight a positive trend toward a future of sustainability. By continuing to expand and invest in these low-carbon technologies, the global community can significantly mitigate the effects of climate change, reduce dependency on fossil fuels, and ensure a greener, more resilient energy infrastructure that can meet the increasing electricity demands of our rapidly evolving world.