Exploring Hydropower

Water Cycle

Gravitational Energy

Harnessing Water Power The NEED Project 2014

World’s First Hydropower Plant

Top Hydropower Producing States 1.Washington 79,877 2.California 38,822 3.Oregon 36,568 4.New York 22,760 5.Idaho 12,281 Other major hydropower producing states include Montana, Arizona, Alabama, and South Dakota. They all produce over 5,000 Mwh annually (thousand megawatt hours)

Top Hydroelectric Generation Countries 2011 Data: EIA

U.S. Electricity Production 2011 Data provided by US EIA Net Generation by Energy Source

The NEED Project 2014

Advantages  Renewable Energy  Clean Energy Source  Domestic Energy Source  Generally Available As Needed  Provides Recreational Opportunities  Water Supply and Flood Control

Power Plant Efficiency

Coal vs. Hydro Kinetic Energy Conversion 35%95%

Possible Environmental Impacts  Fish Population  Quality and Flow of Water  Ecosystems of Rivers and Streams

Other Disadvantages  Drought  Impact on Local Environment and Land Use  Preservation Concerns

For More Information The NEED Project Energy Information Administration U.S. Department of Energy The NEED Project 2014