Hydro electric power is the term used to describe the making of electricity utilising the gravitational force of falling or flowing water. Hydro electricity is the most widely used of all renewable energy sources, being used in 150 countries all over the world. China is the largest producer. The cost of producing hydro electric power is relatively low, making it a great way to produce electricity with a relatively low impact on the economy. However it does have some impacts on the environment as building massive dams and power plants can harm the local ecosystem and displace people and wildlife.

Steps for hydroelectric power generation: Water is pumped through into the power plant. The amount of water going through is controlled by a gate. The water then travels down the penstock (tube through which water goes) into a chamber where the water passes through a turbine, spinning the turbine and creating electricity. The power is stored in a generator which passes the water through to transformers which distribute the power out to houses and businesses. After passing through the turbine the water flows out of the power plant and down the river.

Coal fired electricity is the largest source of electricity in Australia, accounting for around 85% of Australia’s total electricity production. Coal in Australia is mainly mined on the eastern side of Australia, in Queensland, New South Wales and Victoria. Coal fired power has a major impact on the environment accounting for 42% of Australia’s greenhouse gas emissions. Australia produces around 500 million tonnes of coal a year.

The electricity used in homes and businesses is mostly generated at power stations by burning coal, gas or other fuels (e.g. bagasse) in a large furnace that boils water and turns it into steam. This steam is forced at high temperature and pressure through a turbine, which is like a giant fan. The steam forces the blades of the turbine to spin (turning the heat energy from burning fuel into kinetic energy, or movement). The turbine is connected to a generator - a coil of wire surrounded by large magnets which create a strong magnetic field. The turbine spins the coil of wire in the magnetic field, producing electricity. The steam is then cooled, condensed back into water and returned to the boiler to start the process again.

Coal PowerSolar Power AdvantagesDisadvantagesAdvantagesDisadvantages PlentifulEmissionsCleanReliant on sun for power Low CostNon-renewableLowers power bills. Toxin releases- cadmium telluride. Reliable source of power. Mining can result in substances released in to the environment. RenewableCan produce concentrated beams that affect wildlife.