Hydropower plants serve a dual role in electricity generation: they produce baseload power, which constitutes the constant electricity demand, and function as balancing power, capable of rapidly adjusting output to meet fluctuations in demand.
One challenge with electricity is its limited storage capacity, unlike water, which can be stored extensively. Adjacent water reservoirs to hydro power stations essentially act as substantial "batteries." During periods of high water inflow and low electricity demand, energy can be stored. This stored energy becomes accessible during times of peak demand, effectively managing and utilizing the energy supply.
There are several types of hydropower plants, which are categorized according to their power and how the water is channelled.
Hydropower plants based on water flow
Hydropower plants utilizing storage: This system is highly prevalent. Constructing dams creates reservoirs that store significant water volumes, effectively controlling the flow directed through turbines for electricity generation. Consequently, this ensures consistent energy production year-round.
Run-of-river hydroelectric plants: Employed in rivers featuring continuous flow along steep gradients, these facilities redirect water to drive turbines for generating electricity. After harnessing electrical energy, the diverted water is reintroduced into the river's flow.
Pumped-storage hydroelectric plants: function akin to a massive rechargeable battery. These plants feature two reservoirs situated at varying elevations interconnected with each other. During periods of low electricity usage, surplus energy is employed to transfer water from the lower reservoir to the higher one via a hydraulic pump. Conversely, during high energy demand, the plant operates similarly to a standard hydroelectric facility.
it is a renewable and clean energy, the energy is obtained from falling water which is rain water, so it doesn’t consume resources and is non-pollutant.
This type of energy offers an excellent way to reduce external energy dependence since it is an abundant resource in our country.
Technological advances have made it possible to adapt the water flows from the power plants to the demand to guarantee supply at all times.
As an indigenous energy source, it promotes economic development and the generation of local employment.
The construction of hydroelectric dams represents a significant initial investment, however, once in operation, they are very affordable and efficient production plants.
