1. Hydroelectricity

2. Objectives Why should we care? What is hydroelectricity?
Why is it good?
Why is it bad?
Is it used today?
What can we expect in the future?

3. The Problem
Over 85% of U.S. energy comes from fossil fuels – a figure which is projected to remain constant through 2025
The U.S. is highly dependant on other countries for it’s energy needs
The majority of sources for U.S. energy are non-renewable
Oil production is expected to peak in 2037

4. What is Hydroelectricity?

5. Pros
Its green!
No noxious emissions
No thermal waste
Renewable energy
Although initially costly, the lack of fuel costs makes it economically viable in the long run

6. Cons Requires lots of government funding.
Restricted by location (there are not rivers and suitable water sources everywhere)
Large projects draw criticism for disrupting the environment and society
Floods areas that are not associated with the project

7. Current Applications
Hydroelectricity makes up nearly two-thirds of energy produced in Canada. Canada is the world leader in hydroelectric production behind the U.S. and Brazil
Country
Production (GWh)
Canada
353,000
U.S.
300,000
Brazil
China
258,000
Russia
174,000
Norway
121,000
World Total
2, 740,000
Energy production in Canada

8. Future Implications Improvement of the technology itself very limited
Locations very limited
No foreseeable drastic increase in use
Although it works, it is not feasible for a large-scale alternative fuel in the U.S.