Fascinating facts that make hydropower a first choice for energy
With pressure intensifying for the development of renewable sources of energy, most people have heard of hydropower – electricity converted from the kinetic energy of flowing water – but few know much about it. In fact, hydroelectricity, as it is also known, is one of the cleanest, most cost-effective and environmentally friendly forms of renewable energy available: a viable option for businesses keen to cut their operational costs and to reduce their carbon footprint.
Superior energy efficiency
- With over two-thirds of the Earth’s surface covered by water, it’s perhaps surprising that hydro power isn’t more widely incorporated into the world’s energy infrastructure, especially as the method first emerged in the late 19th century. Globally, approximately 20% of electricity is generated in this way, but rates vary considerably between countries.
- In Norway and New Zealand, over 99% and 75% respectively of electricity is generated from hydropower, yet in the United States the figure is only 10%.
- Nevertheless, even in the US hydroelectricity provides enough energy to supply 28 million domestic customers, demonstrating the enormous potential of this method of energy production.
Indisputable benefits for the environment
- The green credentials of hydroelectricity are irrefutable, making it one of the most environmentally friendly ways of producing power that harnesses the Earth’s natural resources, without producing unwanted and damaging waste.
- Unlike fossil fuels, hydroelectricity is clean, producing no air pollution or damaging greenhouse gases, therefore protecting both the environment and the health and well-being of citizens.
- In fact, even at its current usage, hydroelectricity prevents the burning of 120 million tons of coal or 22 billion gallons of oil each year, with no residual waste left behind.
Low costs and high efficiency
- Hydro power offers greater efficiency than any other method of generating electricity – unlike fossil fuel plants which may only be 50% energy efficient at best, hydroelectricity can achieve efficiency rates of up to 90%.
- Production rates are a fraction of other forms of energy, even compared with natural gas, and operational costs enjoy stability below the rate of inflation, making hydroelectricity an affordable and logical choice for businesses.
First choice for hydro installations
Hallidays Hydropower offers end-to-end planning and installation of hydroelectricity power generating plants, working closely with clients to ensure the timely delivery of complex projects within an agreed framework of efficiency and cost objectives. With a commitment to new technologies that are specifically approved by the Environment Agency, we can ensure small and medium power plants enjoy exceptional efficiency of up to 87%, maximising cost effectiveness while making a significant contribution to protecting the natural world.
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