Efficiency is one of the hydropower advantages that may be of interest to consumers. Governments tend to find pleasure in the fact that hydroelectric power can be produced domestically, and this often motivates them to increase investments in alternative energy. Environmentalists regard the clean production of this type of power as one of its most important advantages. The ability to limit production when necessary is also a major benefit.
Depending on foreign suppliers for energy sources is a concern for many countries. Such arrangements are commonly viewed as potential threats to national security. For governments, therefore, having a domestic power source is one of the most important hydropower advantages. Although hydroelectric power has yet to completely replace any major imported power source, it can stimulate hope and motivate the development of larger scale national power production efforts.
Hydroelectric power is appreciated by many for its efficiency. Determining how efficient an energy source is generally involves measuring how much power is produced during the conversion process. Water that flows through a hydroelectric dam has been found to generate electricity at a much higher rate than many of the other more common fuel sources.
Protection of the environment is one of the hydropower advantages that is recognized by both governments and individuals, especially environmentalists. The power sources used the most, such as oil, gas, and coal, have been found to be major pollutants, to contribute to global warming, and to have adverse effects on human health. Hydroelectric power, however, is a clean energy source, meaning that producing it and using it does not create these problems.
Along with the movement to live more in harmony with the environment are increasing concerns about waste and conservation. Another of the hydroelectric advantages is the ability to produce only the amount of electricity needed. A hydroelectric dam produces energy when water flows through its turbines. In instances where it is determined that the output is exceeding demand, the water flow can be reduced thereby reducing the amount of electricity generated.
Reliability and renewability are two hydropower advantages that should not be overlooked. Water is a renewable resource. As long as it is present in close proximity to a hydropower dam, there is generally little concern that the production of electricity will be hindered. Dams tend to be built in a manner that make them reliable for long periods of time.