Hüdroelektrijaamadega

Hüdroelektrijaamadega, commonly referred to as hydroelectric power plants, are facilities that generate electricity by harnessing the power of moving water. The fundamental principle behind their operation is the conversion of potential energy stored in water at a higher elevation into kinetic energy as it flows downwards, which then drives turbines connected to generators.

The main components of a hydroelectric power plant include a dam, reservoir, intake, penstock, turbine, generator, and transformer. The dam is constructed to create a reservoir, storing a large volume of water. This stored water is then released through an intake structure and directed down a penstock, a large pipe or tunnel. The force of the flowing water spins the blades of a turbine, which is directly coupled to a generator. The generator converts the mechanical energy of the spinning turbine into electrical energy. Finally, a transformer increases the voltage of the generated electricity for efficient transmission over power lines.

There are several types of hydroelectric power plants, including conventional (storage) hydropower, run-of-river hydropower, and pumped-storage hydropower. Conventional hydropower plants utilize reservoirs to store water and control its release, allowing for electricity generation on demand. Run-of-river plants, on the other hand, use the natural flow of a river with minimal impoundment. Pumped-storage hydropower plants act like a giant battery, pumping water to an upper reservoir during periods of low electricity demand and releasing it to generate power during peak demand.

Hydroelectric power is a significant source of renewable energy globally. Its advantages include its low greenhouse gas emissions during operation, long lifespan of facilities, and ability to provide baseload power and grid stability. However, the construction of dams can have environmental impacts, such as altering river ecosystems, displacing communities, and affecting fish migration.