Scientists analyzed data from nearly 3 million rivers around the world to identify where hydroelectric power plants could be placed with minimal environmental impact.
The analysis identified 124,761 potential locations that meet stringent environmental standards. Of those, 4,644 schemes operate profitably and are capable of generating an additional 5.27 petawatt hours of energy annually, equivalent to one-fifth of current global electricity use.
We first identified potential locations based on high water volumes and the requirements a hydropower station would need to function. Sites with environmental costs have been removed from the list.
With careful planning and development, hydropower can make a significant contribution to electricity generation.
Exclusion criteria included having to evict communities or disturbing forest or peatland ecosystems. Areas of significant heritage or biodiversity, or areas with increased risk of flooding, or areas where the construction process degrades the land were also excluded, along with sites in earthquake-prone areas.
Professor Joseph Holden, Director [email protected]A research group at the University of Leeds, one of the international team of scientists involved in the project, said the study would help correct negative perceptions of hydropower.
he said: Our detailed analysis shows that there is another side to this story. With careful planning and development, hydropower can make a significant contribution to electricity generation. This major task identifies where those sites are located in the world.
“Hydropower can bring significant benefits in reducing demand for coal- and gas-fired power plants that contribute to climate change.”
Hydroelectric power is part of electricity generated from renewable resources and provides a source of power when weather conditions may reduce power from wind and solar.
the study, A Global Framework for Hydropower Development Incorporating Stringent Environmental Constraintswas published in the first issue of the scientific journal nature waterr.
This study focused on two major hydropower systems. In a diversion, water flows from a river to another path to power a power plant further downstream.
Over 80% of potential power plants involve dam construction.
One of the environmental criteria that had to be met was to ensure that the altered river flow downstream of the dam was not excessive enough to severely impact other users and the aquatic ecosystem.
Leigh Brown, Professor of Aquatic Sciences at the University of Leeds and one of the study’s co-authors, said: A rate faster than that seen in terrestrial or marine ecosystems.
“To avoid further losses and reverse declines, it is important to maintain sufficient environmental flow to the downstream portion of the river where dams are built.”
The analysis argues that small-scale hydropower plants based on the diversion approach can be located in the Himalayas and Andes with steep valleys and generate the water pressure needed to generate electricity.
Responding to Electricity Demand with Hydropower
The study found that countries with the highest number of potential hydropower plants, including Myanmar, Pakistan, Peru, Nepal, Democratic Republic of the Congo, Ethiopia and Laos, could develop designated locations to meet their “total current electricity demand.” We have found that it is possible to fully satisfy as a potential profit.
In addition, most African countries have been able to meet their electricity needs to a large extent through the expansion of hydropower.
Professor Holden added: “This research provides a pathway to develop more sustainable global hydropower, enabling hydropower to play a greater role in future energy resources while reducing adverse environmental and social impacts.” increase.”
Original: Environmentally friendly hydroelectric power generation
Than: University of Leeds
