Explain in detail : Hydropower plants

Explanation

Hydropower plants convert the potential energy of falling water into electricity.
A quarter of our energy requirement is met by hydropower plants.
Hydropower plants are mainly associated with dams.

In order to produce hydel electricity high-rise dams are constructed on the river. The flow of water is obstructed and thereby water is collected in larger reservoirs. The water level rises and the kinetic energy of flowing water gets transformed into potential energy.
The water from the upper levels in the dam is carried to the turbine at the bottom of the dam through the pipes. As turbine rotates electricity is generated.
Advantages:
`rarr` It is a non-polluting source of energy.
`rarr` It is a renewable resource of energy because water in the reservoir would be refilled each time it rains.
Disadvantages:
`rarr` Dams can be constructed in a hilly terrains and it is highly expensive.
`rarr` Large area of agricultural land and human habitation are submerged.
`rarr` Large eco-systems are destroyed.
`rarr` It creates the problem of satisfactory rehabilitation of displaced people.