Hydroelectric power
By Ethan Howe
Alexander Martellio
Corey Moss
Michael Walsh
Jacob Robbins

What is hydroelectric energy?

Hydroelectric energy is energy derived from the movement of water. Water has mass, it falls and flows downward due to gravity. When it moves, it has kinetic energy which can be harnessed.

How does a hydroelectric generator work?

Here is a video explaining a hydro generator:
http://youtu.be/Lx6UfiEU3Q0

How does a turbine work?

Here is a video explaining a hydro turbine:
http://youtu.be/Jd5BN7SPkqI

One popular way hydropower is created is with dams. These consist of both generators and turbines that create electricity. One of the most reconizable dams is the Hoover Dam in the Black Canyon in the Colorado River.

Hydro electricity is used in just as many ways as any other alternative energy. It does not take water away, as it is completely reusable thanks to the turbines and generators.

Hydroelectricity stats:
It currently represents almost 20% of global electrical capacity and has development potential of 3 times its current level. More than 60 countries get over half their electricity from hydropower. Small-scale hydroelectricity production grew by 28% during 2008 from 2005, raising the total world small-hydro capacity to 85 GW.

TOP 5 POWER GENERATING DAMS

• China-three gorges dam
• Brazil/Paraguay-itaipu dam
• Venezuela-Guri dam
• Brazil-Tucurui dam
• USA-Grand Coulee dam

Hydroelectricity cost:
Currently Hydro power is 7% of the total US Energy Budget. Operating costs about 0.6 cents per KWH.

Water reservoirs are lake-like areas of water created behind a dam. Other than being used for electricity, these are usually used for public water sports, tourist spots, and are even used as centers for aquaculture.

Our model is consisting of