Did You Know...

. . . that hydropower is America's largest renewable energy resource, providing eight percent of all electricity generated in the United States each year? Among the advantages of hydropower:

Efficient — hydropower turbines are capable of converting more than 90% of available energy into electricity.

Clean — hydropower noes not produce air pollution or create toxic by-products.

Renewable — hydro's "fuel" is not depleted during the production of electricity.

Reliable — hydropower can go from zero power to maximum output rapidly and predictably.

Flexible — hydro's unique voltage control, load-following and peaking capabilities are critical for electrical grid stability

Multiuse projects — hydro projects also create and enhance wildlife habitats; provide water supply, control floods and create recreational opportunities.

Source: National Hydropower Association

(reprinted from the USSD Newsletter, November 2008, page 3)