BEVAE-181 Solved Assignment 2024-2025 | Why hydropower is regarded as the best source of energy? Explain it in detail.

BEVAE-181 Solved Assignment 2024-2025 | ENVIRONMENTAL STUDIES | IGNOU

Why hydropower is regarded as the best source of energy? Explain it in detail.

In the modern world, the demand for energy is increasing rapidly due to urbanization, population growth, and industrial development. Among all the renewable sources of energy, hydropower (also called hydroelectric power) is considered one of the most efficient, eco-friendly, and sustainable sources. Hydropower is produced by using the force of flowing or falling water to spin turbines, which then generate electricity.

1. Renewable and Sustainable Source of Energy

• Hydropower is completely renewable because it relies on the natural water cycle, which is continuously replenished by rainfall and melting snow.

• As long as there is water flowing in rivers, we can produce electricity using hydropower.

• Unlike fossil fuels, it doesn’t run out or get exhausted.

• This makes hydropower a sustainable solution for long-term energy needs.

2. Environmentally Clean and Green

• One of the biggest advantages of hydropower is that it does not produce any air pollution or greenhouse gases during electricity generation.

• It helps in reducing carbon dioxide emissions and fighting climate change.

• Compared to coal or gas-based power plants, hydroelectric plants have almost zero emissions.

• Therefore, hydropower is considered a clean and eco-friendly energy source.

3. High Efficiency and Reliability

• Hydropower plants have very high efficiency, often above 90%, which is more than any other energy source.

• They can start and stop production almost instantly, which helps in maintaining grid stability and meeting peak energy demands.

• Hydropower is a highly reliable energy source with very little fluctuation in power output.

• Unlike solar and wind energy, which depend on weather conditions, hydropower works day and night as long as water is available.

4. Long Life of Power Plants

• Hydropower plants have a long operational life. Some dams and power stations remain functional for 50 to 100 years with proper maintenance.

• Once built, the cost of operating and maintaining a hydropower plant is relatively low.

• This makes it economically beneficial in the long term.

5. Multipurpose Utility of Dams

• Hydropower projects are often multi-purpose.

• Dams built for hydropower also help in: Irrigation of agricultural fields, Controlling floods in downstream areas, Storing drinking water for urban and rural use, Recreation and tourism (like boating and fishing)

• These added benefits make hydropower more useful for society as a whole.

6. Energy Security and Rural Development

• Hydropower reduces a country’s dependence on imported fuels like oil and coal, improving energy security.

• Small and micro hydropower projects can be set up in remote or hilly areas, providing electricity to villages that are off the grid.

• This helps in rural development, education, and healthcare, especially in mountainous regions.

7. Hydropower Supports Grid Stability

• In many countries, hydropower acts as a “balancing power source” in the electricity grid.

• During times of peak electricity demand, water can be released quickly to generate extra power.

• It is also useful in combination with other renewables like solar and wind, which are not always constant.

8. Creation of Jobs and Local Economy Boost

• The construction and maintenance of hydropower projects create employment opportunities for engineers, laborers, technicians, and more.

• Infrastructure projects also boost local economies by improving transport, communication, and access to basic facilities.

• Small hydro projects promote community-based energy production.

9. Technological Advancements

• With new modern technology, today’s hydropower plants are more efficient and have minimal ecological impact.

• Run-of-the-river projects and small hydro units can now be built without large dams, reducing displacement and environmental damage.

• Technologies like pumped-storage hydroelectricity help in storing energy, which can be released when needed, acting like a giant battery for the power grid.

Challenges and Solutions

Conclusion

Hydropower is undoubtedly one of the best sources of energy due to its renewable nature, environmental benefits, high efficiency, reliability, and multiple social advantages. It plays a key role in ensuring clean energy for a sustainable future and supports economic development.

As we move towards a greener and more sustainable world, hydropower stands out as a powerful, dependable, and eco-friendly energy solution. With proper planning and eco-sensitive implementation, hydropower can lead the way toward energy independence and environmental conservation.