The advantages of hydroelectric
Just like other types of renewable sources, hydroelectric energy is characterised by remarkable advantages as compared to the production of electric energy from fossil fuels. To begin with, it is a renewable and endless source.
Secondly, emissions of polluting substances into the air and water are virtually absent, since no combustion process is involved. In particular, carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions are reduced by 670 grams for each kW/h of energy output. Other advantages are: a low dependence on ester energy sources, source diversification and the regional re-organization of energy production.
Moreover, mini-electric plants, in many cases, thanks to their hydraulic arrangement, create many advantages to the watercourse (in particular to the regulation of floods in water streams, especially on the mountains characterized by soil deterioration), and can efficiently contribute to the protection and safeguarding of the territory.
In some cases, the artificial lake that forms as a consequence of a weir o dam can improve the surrounding area, by allowing the development of tourist, sports and productive activities that can coexist together with hydroelectric exploitation. The chance to accumulate water and then regulate its flow downhill can also contribute to reduce floods and encourage a better use of water resources, which are becoming more and more precious and rare.
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From the Multimedia section
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