Hydropower

Hydropower is generated when flowing water is channelled through a water turbine, which rotates a shaft, driving an electrical generator. This action converts the water motion into electricity. The widespread use of hydropower has meant:

• It is now one of the most cost effective ways to generate clean energy with minimal impact on the environment
• It's a mature technology, providing long time, reliable technical solutions
• There are nearly 22 000 small hydro power plants in operation in Europe and it is expected that this number will increase to 24 000 by the end of 2020
• Small hydro power plants are generally built using simple structures with little alteration of the watershed conditions and surrounding areas and are designed to cause minimal damage to natural habitats.