14% of global electricity is generated from Hydropower

Hydropower is a significant form of energy derived from the movement of water, typically harnessed through the flow of rivers or the release of stored water from reservoirs. By capturing the kinetic energy inherent in flowing water, hydropower transforms this natural force into a usable and efficient form of electricity. This approach has been utilized for generations, powering everything from small watermills to expansive hydroelectric power stations.

The process of generating electricity with hydropower involves several key steps. Water is collected in a reservoir, often created by a dam, and is released in a controlled manner to flow through turbines. As water moves through these turbines, it spins them, converting kinetic energy to mechanical energy. The mechanical energy is then transformed into electrical energy using generators. The electricity produced is then fed into power lines and distributed for consumption.

Hydroelectric power is celebrated for its low carbon emissions. With an average carbon intensity of 24 gCO2eq/kWh, it stands as a beacon of low-carbon technology, significantly less than fossil fuels like coal and natural gas, which emit 820 and 490 gCO2eq/kWh respectively. This characteristic is shared with other vital low-carbon sources like wind (11 gCO2eq/kWh), nuclear (12 gCO2eq/kWh), and solar (45 gCO2eq/kWh), all contributing to the vital task of reducing global carbon footprints. The need for low-emission power sources is urgent, given the serious challenges of climate change and air pollution posed by reliance on fossil fuels.

Hydropower's contribution to global electricity consumption is not insignificant, with about 14% of the world's electricity being sourced from this clean, sustainable technology. Some nations have harnessed hydropower to meet a large portion or even nearly all of their electricity needs: in Paraguay, it provides 99% of electricity, while in Norway, Iceland, and Bhutan, it meets 89%, 71%, and 93% of demand, respectively. Canada too relies on hydropower for more than half of its electricity supply at 55%. Such statistics underscore the importance of hydropower in facilitating a transition to a low-carbon future globally.

The growth and implementation of hydropower, alongside wind, nuclear, and solar, highlight the pathway towards a sustainable electricity future. A strategic shift to expand these clean energy sources promises to accommodate future electricity demands arising from advancements in technology, including artificial intelligence and increased electrification. This progress is vital as we aim to replace polluting energy sources with clean, reliable, and sustainable electricity. The effective collaboration between these low-carbon technologies contributes significantly to the aspirations of a energy-independent and environmentally friendly future.