Hydro-Electric Power

• Hydro-electric power uses falling water
• Hydro-electric power usually requires the flooding of a valley by building a big dam. Water is allowed out through turbines and there is no pollution
• There is a big impact on the environment due to the flooding of the valley (rotting vegetation releases methane and CO2) and possible loss of habitat for some species (sometimes whole villages)
• The reservoirs can also look very unsightly when they dry up
• Putting hydroelectric power stations in remote valleys tends to produce their impact on humans
• A big advantage is it can provide an immediate response to an increased demand for electricity
• Initial costs are high, but there are no fuel costs and minimal running costs
• It can be a useful way to generate electricity on a small scale in remote areas