Hydroelectric Power

Of all renewable energy sources, hydroelectric has proven to be one of the most reliable, controllable and cost-effective, as well as the most viable alternative fossil fuel energy. (However, operation of these plants can decrease in times of low rainfall.) World hydroelectric generation peaked in 2022 at 4,323.4 terawatt-hours and fell to 4,240.2 terawatt-hours in 2023. North American hydroelectric generation peaked in 2017 at 722.3 terawatt-hours and was down to 620.9 terawatt hours in 2023. During 2022, hydroelectric accounted for 11% of U.S. renewable energy consumption. Costs are extremely low, in the two cent per kilowatt hour range. Unfortunately, potential locations for new hydrodams are limited, and there is little projected growth in large installations in the U.S. However, microhydro power has been of long-term interest to landowners and investors. That is the use of small turbines installed on creeks and streams that have reliable flow.

About 60% of America’s hydro power is owned and managed by the U.S. Army Corp of Engineers. Washington State is the largest American hydro power producer, primarily on the Columbia and Snake Rivers. Elsewhere in North America, Canada generates about 60% of its electricity via hydroelectric means.

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