Hydro-electric power produces electricity by using water. To do that power plants capture the energy released by water. That water falls through a vertical distance and transforms this energy into useful electricity. The falling water is channeled through a turbine, which converts the energy into mechanical power.
Hydro-electric power has always been an important part of the worlds electricity supply. During the twentieth century hydro power had a great influence on peoples lives than any other time in history. However hydro power still play a major role in making the wonders of electricity a part of everyday life. Hydro power continues to produce twenty-four percent of the worlds electricity and supply more than one billion people with power.
Hydro-electric power must be one of the oldest methods of producing power. The first recorded use of water power was with a clock. It was built around 250 BC. The world s first hydro-electric power plant began operation on September 30, 1882. The plant was located on Fox River in Appleton, Wisconsin. Later the plant was called "Appleton's Edison Light Company". It was initiated by H.F. Rogers. Rogers was inspired by Thomas Edison, Even though Edison had plans for a power producing station in New York. .
Hydro-electric power have both advantages and disadvantages to the environment. Just recently there was almost an universal belief that hydro power is a clean and environmentally safe method of producing electricity. Hydro power plants do not emit any of the standard atmospheric pollutants such as: carbon dioxide and sulfur dioxide given off by fossil fuel fired plants. The water needed to run the power plant is provided free by nature. Hydro-electric power is the leading source of renewable energy. Rainfall renews the water in the reservoir, so water is basically always there.