Understand hydroelectric dams—from their construction and benefits to environmental impact and FAQs. A comprehensive guide to one of the leading renewable energy sources.
What are Hydroelectric Dams?
-
Hydroelectric dams are large structures built across rivers to harness the potential energy of stored water. They convert this energy into electricity by using turbines and generators.
Hydroelectric dams harness the power of flowing water to generate clean, renewable energy, helping to meet our electricity needs. Once that power reaches your home, managing your bills is just as important. With Bajaj Finserv’s BBPS platform, Bajaj Pay, paying your electricity bill is smooth and hassle-free, ensuring you stay connected without the stress.
These dams are crucial in renewable energy production, providing a sustainable and reliable power source. In addition to electricity generation, hydroelectric dams can help with flood control, irrigation, and recreational activities. As a significant contributor to the global energy mix, hydroelectric power accounts for about 15% of the world's electricity supply, making it one of the most widely used forms of renewable energy.
Types and Functions of Hydroelectric Dams
Conventional dams: Store water in reservoirs to generate power.
Run-of-the-river dams: Utilize river flow without significant storage; rely on natural water flow.
Pumped-storage dams: Move water between two reservoirs to manage peak demand.
Tidal dams: Harness tidal movements for energy generation.
How hydroelectric dams work
Hydroelectric dams create a reservoir where water is stored at a height. When released, the water flows through a penstock—a large pipe—driving turbines that convert kinetic energy into mechanical energy. This mechanical energy is then transformed into electrical energy by generators. The amount of electricity produced depends on the volume of water and the height from which it falls (known as the "head"). Control gates manage the flow of water through the turbines, ensuring efficient operation while meeting electricity demand. The generated electricity is then transmitted via high-voltage lines to consumers.
Construction process of dams
The construction of hydroelectric dams involves several key steps:
Site selection: Identifying a suitable location on a river with sufficient water flow.
Diverting water: Redirecting river flow to allow for construction.
Foundation preparation: Excavating and reinforcing the foundation area.
Dam structure construction: Building the dam using concrete or earth materials.
Reservoir filling: Gradually allowing the reservoir to fill with controlled water flow.
Installation of turbines and generators: Setting up equipment to convert water energy into electricity.
Key components of a hydroelectric facility
Component Function Dam Holds back water to create a reservoir Penstock Transports water from the reservoir to turbines Turbines Convert kinetic energy of falling water into mechanical energy Generator Converts mechanical energy into electrical energy Spillway Releases excess water without passing through turbines Powerhouse Houses turbines and generators Environmental impact and benefits
Benefits:
Renewable and clean source of energy
Reduces greenhouse gas emissions compared to fossil fuels
Provides flood control and irrigation support.
Environmental Impacts:
Disruption of local ecosystems and wildlife habitats
Potential changes in river flow patterns affecting aquatic life.
Sedimentation issues in reservoirs impacting long-term viability.
Major hydroelectric dams around the world
Dam name Location Capacity (MW) Notable features Three Gorges Dam China 22,500 Largest hydroelectric dam in the world Itaipu Dam Brazil/Paraguay 14,000 One of the largest in terms of output Hoover Dam USA 2,080 Iconic structure with significant history Sardar Sarovar Dam India 1,450 Key for irrigation and power supply Mica Dam Canada 1,805 Tallest dam in Canada Conclusion
Hydroelectric dams are vital for sustainable energy production, offering numerous benefits such as renewable electricity and flood control. While they contribute significantly to reducing greenhouse gas emissions, careful management is essential to mitigate environmental impacts. Overall, they play a crucial role in the global energy landscape.
-
Recharge and Pay Bills
Mobile Prepaid
Mobile Postpaid
Broadband Bill Payment
Electricity Bill Payment
Bajaj Finserv App for All Your Financial Needs and Goals
Trusted by 50 million+ customers in India, Bajaj Finserv App is a one-stop solution for all your financial needs and goals.
You can use the Bajaj Finserv App to:
You can use the Bajaj Finserv App to:
- Apply for loans online, such as Instant Personal Loan, Home Loan, Business Loan, Gold Loan, and more.
- Explore and apply for co-branded credit cards online.
- Invest in fixed deposits and mutual funds on the app.
- Choose from multiple insurance for your health, motor and even pocket insurance, from various insurance providers.
- Pay and manage your bills and recharges using the BBPS platform. Use Bajaj Pay and Bajaj Wallet for quick and simple money transfers and transactions.
- Apply for Insta EMI Card and get a pre-approved limit on the app. Explore over 1 million products on the app that can be purchased from a partner store on Easy EMIs.
- Shop from over 100+ brand partners that offer a diverse range of products and services.
- Use specialised tools like EMI calculators, SIP Calculators
- Check your credit score, download loan statements and even get quick customer support—all on the app.
Frequently asked questions
How do hydroelectric dams work?
Hydroelectric dams generate electricity by harnessing the power of flowing or falling water. Water is stored in a reservoir behind the dam. When released, the water flows through turbines, causing them to spin. The turbines are connected to generators, which convert the mechanical energy of the turbines into electrical energy. The electricity is then transmitted to the grid.
How much electricity can a hydroelectric dam generate?
The electricity generation capacity of a hydroelectric dam depends on its size, the height of the water reservoir (the “head”), and the flow rate of the water. Large hydroelectric dams can generate a significant amount of power, with capacities typically ranging from several megawatts (MW) to over 10,000 MW in the case of massive projects. For example:
Small-scale hydroelectric plants: Can generate from 100 kW to several MW.
Large hydroelectric dams: Can produce hundreds to thousands of MW, such as the Three Gorges Dam in China, which has a capacity of over 22,000 MW.
Small-scale hydroelectric plants: Can generate from 100 kW to several MW.
Large hydroelectric dams: Can produce hundreds to thousands of MW, such as the Three Gorges Dam in China, which has a capacity of over 22,000 MW.
How long do hydroelectric dams last?
Hydroelectric dams are designed for long-term use, typically lasting 50 to 100 years or more with proper maintenance. The turbines and generators may need to be replaced or refurbished during the dam’s lifespan, but the basic structure can remain operational for many decades.
Can hydroelectric dams work in cloudy or rainy weather?
Yes, hydroelectric dams are unaffected by cloudy or rainy weather in the same way that solar or wind power generation systems are. The ability of a hydroelectric dam to generate electricity depends on the flow and availability of water, not weather conditions like cloud cover. However, heavy rainfall can increase the water flow, leading to more electricity generation, while drought conditions may reduce the available water supply and, thus power production.
Show More
Show Less
