Energy Resources & Consumption

It is costly

It has variable costs depending on the location

It has no costs associated with it

It is inexpensive

Ocean salinity increases significantly as less freshwater reaches estuaries and bays.

Riparian zone ecosystems are disrupted due to altered flooding regimes.

Atmospheric carbon dioxide levels decrease because of enhanced carbon sequestration in rivers.

Global sea levels fall as more freshwater is stored in reservoirs rather than flowing into oceans.

Increased flow velocity could lead to more efficient pollutant dilution.

Reduced sediment transport may alter habitat composition.

Elevated nutrient concentrations downstream would boost primary productivity without drawbacks.

Heightened water temperatures would likely increase aquatic species diversity.

Encouraging algae growth in the reservoir to absorb carbon dioxide.

Limiting the flooding of areas with high amounts of organic matter.

Periodically draining the reservoir for maintenance purposes.

Flooding extensive forested areas for larger reservoirs.

Expanded solar utilization resulting from excess electricity generation.

Enhanced plant growth near dams leading to increased carbon sequestration.

Direct emission of carbon dioxide during water turbine operation.

Reservoir creation may release methane from decomposing organic matter.

It is a medium-sized hydropower producer in the USA

It is a hydropower producer in the USA, but its size is unknown

It is the largest hydropower producer in the USA

It is the smallest hydropower producer in the USA

Condenser

Generator

Turbine

Reservoir

Electricity gets stored

Water evaporates from the reservoir

Turbines cool down

Water flows through turbines

As water is released from the reservoir, it flows through a pipe and falls to a lower elevation, generating kinetic energy

As water is stored in the reservoir, it heats up and generates thermal energy

As water is released from the reservoir, it evaporates and generates steam energy

As water is stored in the reservoir, it freezes and generates potential energy

Increased sediment leads to enhanced nutrient levels that boost energy production efficiency.

Sediment buildup offers additional protection against structural wear and tear on turbines.

It reduces capacity and efficiency over time as less water can be stored or passed through turbines.

Accumulated sediment can be used as raw material for construction purposes within the plant.