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