Hydropower is the most cost-efficient way to
generate electricity. Modern hydro turbines can convert as much as 90% of the
available energy into electricity. The best fossil fuel plants are only about
50% efficient. In the U.S., hydropower is produced for an average of 0.85
cents per kilowatt-hour (kwh).
Most countries have
rivers that can be dammed. They can build reservoirs and hydro plants to
generate electricity, mitigate flooding and develop fresh water supplies. The
construction costs are high, but hydro pays for itself over time.
In 2017, China
generated the most with 1195 terawatts. Next was Canada with 403
terawatts. Next was Brazil with 401
terawatts. Next was the US with 322 terawatts.
There are 70
hydro-electric plants operating on the globe with capacity in excess of 2,000
megawatts. There are 18 additional
plants under construction. There are 7 of these plants in the US, but none
under construction. There are 18 of these plants in China plus 5 under
construction.
Norb Leahy, Dunwoody
GA Tea Party Leader
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