According to the Texas Comptroller, there are currently 26 hydroelectric dams in the state of Texas.

There are many more non-power dams across the state, but only a few locations meet the requirements to host a dam.

How much power is generated from hydroelectric plants in Texas?

Together they have a maximum capacity of 481 megawatts (MW). This is less than 0.5% of the Texas’ total generating capacity. The grid in Texas relies more heavily on renewable resources like wind and solar, as they are much more abundant in the state.

How drought impacts hydropower in Texas

Drought in Texas can have a significant impact on the state’s hydropower generation capacity due to reduced availability of water in key rivers and reservoirs that feed the plants stationed at those locations.

Photo attribution: MisterKenobi, CC BY-SA 4.0 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0, via Wikimedia Commons

The post Hydroelectric Dams in Texas appeared first on BKV Energy.

Pros of hydroelectric power

Hydroelectric power is a reliable form of renewable energy with many benefits, making it an attractive way to generate electricity.

1. Renewable and sustainable

Hydropower relies on the natural movement of water to generate electricity, which makes it a renewable and sustainable source of energy that won’t deplete over time as long as that flow of water is maintained.

2. Low greenhouse gas emissions

Hydroelectric plants, tidal power, and wave power systems emit very low amounts of greenhouse gases compared to fossil fuels like oil and coal, reducing the environmental impact related to climate change.

3. Reliable and consistent power generation

Unlike wind and solar, hydropower can provide more consistent and reliable electricity generation. Wind requires the wind to blow, and solar requires daylight. Hydroelectric dams would only be unable to generate power in the extreme case of a river or reservoir behind a dam drying up completely.

4. Energy storage capabilities

Some hydroelectric dams can store excess energy using pumped-storage systems. They can pump water to a higher elevation during low-demand periods and release that water later during high demand.

5. Long lifespans

Hydroelectric dams have long lifespans compared to solar panels, wind turbines, and fossil fuel plants. They can last between 50-100 years or more, making them a solid long-term investment for energy infrastructure. For example, the Hoover Dam was constructed in the 1930s and has a generation capacity of 2,000 megawatts (or 4.5 billion kWh annually).

6. Cost-effective operation

In comparison to fossil fuel plants, hydroelectric dams and other hydropower systems generally have lower operational and maintenance costs. There is no need to purchase fuel because they rely on the natural flow of water.

7. Energy independence from fossil fuels

Hydropower contributes to energy independence by reducing the need to import fossil fuels and by providing a local, sustainable, and self-sufficient source of electricity.

8. Flexibility in grid stabilization

Hydroelectric dams are a great source of power to complement the intermittency and variability of solar and wind. By adjusting the amount of water that is allowed to flow through the dam, operators can scale up or down the amount of energy produced.

9. Job creation

Construction, operation, and maintenance of new and existing hydropower facilities create jobs, which is especially beneficial to rural and undeveloped areas where these types of utility-scale projects take place. According to a 2022 report published by the International Renewable Energy Agency, nearly 2.5 million people around the globe work in the hydropower industry.

10. Dams serve multiple purposes

Dams are not only used for generating power. They can also be used to help provide drinking water, water for irrigation of crops, and space for recreational activities. By keeping the population hydrated, fed, and entertained, they add a lot of value to society.

11. High energy efficiency

One of the most energy-efficient power sources, hydropower plants convert up to 90% or more of the energy from flowing water into electricity. This is much higher than that of fossil fuel plants. Coal plants can achieve around 32% efficiency, natural gas plants can reach up to 60% if they are combined cycle, and oil plants land at about 40% efficiency.

12. No air pollution

According to the U.S. Energy Information Association, hydropower plants do not directly emit air pollution. Because hydropower systems do not burn fossil fuels, they help reduce the amount of air pollution produced. This contributes to improved air quality and overall public health.

13. Drought and flood mitigation

In case of severe drought, dams can help maintain water supply when demand is high. Additionally, when there is too much water, dams can be opened to help control water flow and prevent damage to structures in the area.

Cons of hydroelectric power

As with all methods of electricity generation, hydroelectric power is not without disadvantages.

1. Impact on local environments by changing water flow

The construction of a dam or reservoir can significantly alter the makeup of a local ecosystem, which can affect the animals that live there both up and downstream from the dam.

2. High initial costs

Building a hydroelectric dam requires significant financial investment. Though the operating costs are low, in some cases, the upfront costs can be a barrier. Additionally, there is the cost of transmitting and distributing the power. If the dam is not easily connected to existing grid infrastructure, the cost to build new power lines can be prohibitive.

3. Dependence on the availability and flow of water

Because hydropower relies on the flow of water to generate electricity, intense droughts can reduce the reliability of a hydroelectric dam’s generation capacity. From another perspective, if a community that relies on a reservoir for drinking water is going through a drought and needs to conserve water, this can create conflict with the dam’s mission to generate electricity.

4. Risk of catastrophic failure due to natural disaster

In the case of a natural disaster such as an earthquake measured high on the Richter Scale, a dam could collapse and the fallout from the dam’s failure could be catastrophic. Other causes of total failure include poor construction or design, severe rainfall events, landslides, human operator error, fire, and explosions.

5. Limited suitable locations

There are several factors that determine whether a location is suitable for a hydroelectric dam. Of course, there must be a water source that is unlikely to dry up. Areas that are prone to severe earthquakes may not be suitable. Additionally, suppose the proposed location is very remote and would require significant investment in infrastructure to connect it to the grid. In that case, that cost may be too high to justify that spot.

6. Impact on water temperatures in ecosystems

Water released from a deep reservoir behind a dam can be colder than the natural temperature of the river or lake downstream. Aquatic life is very sensitive to water temperature, which can be harmful and disruptive.

7. Seasonal variability

In some areas, water flow is highly dependent on seasonal rainfall or snowmelt. This can lead to fluctuations in power generation capacity and reduce the reliability of the plant.

8. Impact on groundwater levels

The construction of a dam may lead to a large reservoir of water that can affect the water table of the nearby area. When groundwater is impacted, agriculture, local ecosystems, and water wells can also experience negative change as a result.

9. Downstream flood risks during natural disasters

Hydroelectric dams require close regulation of river flow. If an operator suddenly releases a large volume of water at once, such as during an extreme weather event, the areas downstream are at risk of flooding.

10. Limited technological advancement opportunities

The basic technology behind large-scale hydroelectric plants has matured and has not seen much advancement in comparison to wind or solar. This may limit future efficiency gains. However, many hydropower plants are already capable of 90% efficiency which outpaces wind and solar significantly.

11. Aesthetics

Large hydroelectric dams can drastically change the visual landscape of an area in ways that locals or tourists find undesirable. Changes in water flow can also impact recreational activities such as boating or fishing. Alternatively, some dams, like the Hoover Dam, become tourist attractions.

12. Geopolitical tensions

It’s possible that the ideal location for a new hydroelectric plant could span international borders, and within the US, between states. When this occurs, construction and management can become very complicated. There may be conflict over water rights and access or the energy produced by the dam.

13. Buildup of sediment and silt

Over long periods, reservoirs behind dams can accumulate sediment. This may reduce their storage capacity and limit a plant’s efficiency. Sedimentation also impacts downstream ecosystems by altering the transportation of nutrients and minerals that are now blocked by the dam.

The post Pros and Cons of Hydroelectric Energy appeared first on BKV Energy.

What is tidal energy?

Tidal energy refers to the practice of generating electricity by utilizing the natural rise and fall of the ocean’s tidal cycle. Captured through various technologies such as tidal barrages, tidal stream generators, and tidal turbines, power output is achieved by converting the kinetic energy of tidal currents into usable electricity.

Tidal energy vs wave energy

While tidal power and wave power are both types of hydroelectric energy, the method of electricity generation is different:

• A tidal energy system harnesses the vertical movement of water between high and low tides using kinetic energy derived from the gravitational pull of the moon and the sun. 

• Wave power generates electricity by harnessing the horizontal power of ocean movement using kinetic energy derived from wind patterns that create surface water movement. 

Is tidal energy renewable?

Yes, tidal energy is a type of renewable energy. Unlike fossil fuels that rely on a finite supply of source material that will deplete over time, tidal streams present a continuous and inexhaustible power supply, making tidal energy generation a sustainable option. 

The immense potential of utilizing ocean tides over other energy sources,  including other renewable alternatives, lies in the consistency of the way the moon orbits the Earth and the Earth orbits the sun. The Earth rotates through two tidal “bulges” every lunar day, meaning most coastal areas experience two predictable high and low tide periods every 24 hours and 50 minutes. This makes tidal electricity generation much more reliable than wind and solar power, where the abundance of source availability is less predictable. 

How does tidal energy work?

Employing specialized equipment in areas with a significant tidal range, such as estuaries, bays, and narrow channels, is the most efficient way to generate power. Three primary types of tidal energy systems exist: tidal stream generators, barrages, and lagoons. Let’s take a look at how each one works in more detail. 

Tidal stream generators

Tidal generators use turbine technology. Turbines are placed on the sea floor and rotate as the tide flows in and out, just like the wind turbines we see on land. As the turbines turn, the mechanical power drives the generators connected to them, which in turn produce electricity via electromagnetic induction. The electricity is transmitted through underwater cables to a tidal power station, where it undergoes voltage conversion and integrates into the electrical grid. 

Tidal barrages

Tidal barrages are dam-like structures built across estuaries or bays, equipped with sluice gates that open and close to control water flow. The basic principle involves exploiting the difference in water levels between the ocean and barrage enclosure during high and low tides. With each sea level rise that accompanies high tide, water enters the reservoir and the sluice gates are closed. The water is then released back into the ocean through turbines to generate electricity. 

Tidal lagoons

Tidal lagoons are similar to tidal barrages in their function and how they create electricity. The critical difference is the construction of circular or semi-circular structures that form a partial enclosure in the ocean (i.e., a lagoon). Though one of the more expensive tidal technologies in terms of setup, there is more flexibility with positioning as a tidal lagoon can be installed along the natural coastline and/or use estuaries with fresh water emptying into them. 

Pros and cons of tidal energy

While it may sound like an ideal solution, it’s essential to evaluate all aspects of tidal energy, pros and cons alike. Let’s explore a complete list of benefits and limitations in more detail.

Advantages of tidal energy

Let’s dig into the specific potential of tidal power as a clean and renewable energy source. The primary benefits of tidal energy are as follows:

Renewable

Tidal power is a finite resource. Regardless of their energy output, tidal power plants will never deplete our tidal energy reserves.

Predictable

Tides follow a consistent and predictable pattern based on lunar and solar cycles, reducing reliance on unpredictable weather conditions.

Cost efficiency 

Once installed, tidal energy devices are cheaper to maintain and operate than fossil fuel-based power plants, as they require no fuel and have fewer moving parts.

High energy density 

Tidal currents are dense with energy, resulting in a high electricity generation capacity, even from relatively small-scale installations.

Potential for innovation 

Ongoing research and development into the cost-effectiveness and environmental sustainability of tidal technologies enhance its viability as a mainstream energy source.

Disadvantages of tidal energy 

While there are undoubtedly several positives, it’s essential to consider the potential limitations of using ocean tides to generate power. The most significant drawbacks include: 

High installation costs

The initial setup cost of constructing a tidal stream generator, barrage, or lagoons is substantial, requiring significant capital investment.

Geographic limitations 

Tidal power is only viable in areas with strong tidal currents along coastal areas or estuaries. Therefore, it has limited applicability to land-locked regions.

Ecosystem impact 

Tidal installations may disrupt marine ecosystems and aquatic species by creating changes in water flow patterns that lead to habitat loss.

Maintenance challenges

Because they’re located in harsh environments, submerged equipment like tidal turbines and underwater cables present logistical challenges in maintenance and repair.

The future of tidal energy

Though still in its infancy, tidal power is emerging as a pivotal player in reducing fossil fuel reliance and mitigating the impacts of climate change. So, what is tidal energy’s potential in the future as we continue to embrace an ever-broader energy mix?

The total amount of energy contained in the world’s tides is 3,000 gigawatts (one GW being 1 billion watts), and it’s estimated between 120 and 400 GW is available for power generation. To put that into perspective, just 1 GW is enough to power 100 million LED light bulbs. However, either a high tidal range or strong current is required to generate electricity effectively, and some scientists believe that rising sea levels may threaten both in the long term.  

Continued research and development into all types of tidal electricity generation is essential to ensure longevity. Currently, much focus is on dynamic tidal power (DTP) – a yet untested but promising concept involving the creation of long, dam-like structures perpendicular to the coast. Unlike traditional tidal power systems, DTP wouldn’t rely on the rise and fall of tides. Instead, it would utilize the kinetic energy of tidal currents as they flow through passages within the dam structures. 

Affordable energy plans from BKVE

At BKVE, we believe energy is a source for good, and we’re committed to offering simple, affordable, and straightforward energy plans tailored to your needs and preferences. 

Our number one goal is to help Texas homeowners and renters save money on electricity. Enter your zip code to learn more and find the right plan for your household.

The post What Is Tidal Energy? appeared first on BKV Energy.

Wave power harnesses the ocean’s waves to generate power by converting waves’ kinetic energy into electricity. Wave power is based on interaction between ocean waves and energy converters, specifically engineered to harness wave energy. The kinetic energy produced by the waves drives turbines, which then generate power that can be converted into electricity.

The conversion of wave energy into electricity involves various methods and technologies, including the placement of devices on or just below the water surface, as well as anchoring devices to the ocean floor. This is a form of renewable and sustainable energy that is often overlooked but with immense potential.

• Wave power is the process of converting ocean wave kinetic energy into electricity.
• Tidal and wave energy are distinct forms, utilizing different methods to capture sun, moon and ocean waves respectively.
• Wave power has potential cost benefits over solar & wind but faces technological obstacles limiting its large scale adoption for applications such as generating electricity & desalination of water.

Ocean waves and energy production

Ocean waves offer more than just recreational value for surfers. They represent a tremendous source of energy, generated by the motion of the waves, which is caused by wind movement across the open water surfaces in oceans and lakes.

Wave energy systems capture this energy, converting the kinetic power of these waves into electrical energy using a wave energy converter. Imagine the vast expanse of the ocean, every wave a potential source of clean, renewable energy, waiting to be harnessed by wave energy technologies.

Tidal energy vs. wave energy

Although tidal and wave energy both belong to the category of ocean energy and hydroelectric power, they possess notable differences. Wave power involves harnessing the energy from the movement of ocean waves, whereas tidal energy relies on the energy generated by gravitational forces of the Sun and Moon.

Tidal turbines and tidal barrages serve to capture tidal energy, whereas wave energy employs devices such as oscillating water columns, point absorbers, and terminators to transform wave energy into electrical power. Despite their differences, both sources of energy continue to play a crucial role in our quest for renewable energy sources.

Types of wave energy devices

Wave energy devices are the tools that allow us to effectively harness wave energy by transforming the kinetic energy of waves into usable electricity.

These devices, like point absorber buoys, oscillating water columns (OWCs), and overtopping devices, each have unique mechanisms for capturing and converting wave energy. Let’s examine these devices in more depth, uncovering the process through which they convert ocean waves into a renewable energy source.

Point absorber buoys

Imagine a buoy bobbing in the ocean, rising and falling with the waves. This is more than just a floating device; it’s a point absorber buoy, a device designed to generate electricity by harnessing the energy of ocean waves.

These buoys use a floating cylinder to capture the vertical movement of waves, which is then harnessed through a cable anchored to the seabed. This up and down motion is subsequently transformed into electricity via converters such as alternators, linear generators, or hydraulic systems.

Oscillating water columns (OWCs)

Another intriguing wave energy device is the Oscillating Water Column (OWC), a device that uses wave power to generate electricity. These devices use the rise and fall of waves to compress air, which then drives a turbine to produce electricity.

As the waves rise and fall, the air in the column is forced to move, creating a strong air flow that can power turbines.

Overtopping devices

The last of the wave energy devices we’ll explore are overtopping devices. These devices harness wave energy by allowing waves to flow into a reservoir, which then releases the water through turbines to generate electricity.

Factors that can influence the efficiency of overtopping devices include:

• Design
• Flow dimensions
• Turbine efficiency
• Structural elements like hydraulic height and mooring patterns

Despite potential drawbacks, such as lower energetic wave content compared to other converter types, overtopping devices offer a promising approach to harnessing wave energy.

Environmental impact of wave energy

Despite the significant benefits of wave energy, we must also take into account its potential environmental impact. Although it is generally considered a clean energy source with no greenhouse gas emissions, wave energy conversion can affect marine habitats,

However, concerns remain about potential impacts of wave energy converters, including:

• Collision risks for marine life
• Disruption of marine habitats
• Alterations to natural flow patterns and sediment transport
• Noise pollution in the marine environment
• Potential physical obstacles impacting marine navigation

Wave energy’s potential and challenges

Wave energy presents an attractive opportunity in the renewable energy sector, theoretically possessing the capability to fulfill a substantial part of global power requirements. With wave energy development on the rise, it offers reliable and steady power generation, enhancing predictability in energy supply.

Nonetheless, the journey towards harnessing wave power is not devoid of obstacles. High costs, complex design requirements, and technological constraints are some of the hurdles that wave power development faces. More specifically, operating technology in the sea is difficult due to the corrosive nature of salt water (which damages the metal), barnacles can grow on the equipment and impact performance, and once the electricity is generated, it needs to be transmitted somehow. Transmission from the ocean is very expensive.

Despite these challenges, the potential of wave energy remains largely untapped and holds immense promise for our renewable energy future.

Comparing wave energy to other renewable sources

In comparison with other renewable energy sources, wave energy exhibits its own distinct set of pros and cons. While it offers a more dependable and consistent output compared to wind energy, it also comes with higher initial costs and the requirement for effective energy converters.

Despite these challenges, wave energy holds potential cost benefits over solar and wind energy. However, its adoption is currently less widespread, and it faces technological obstacles in expanding on a significant scale.

Real-world applications of wave power

Wave power extends beyond theoretical concepts, manifesting itself in practical, real-world applications. Some examples of wave power projects include:

• Islay LIMPET
• Eco Wave Power

The post What Is Wave Power? appeared first on BKV Energy.

Hydroelectric power is a form of energy generated by the force of moving water. This process involves channeling water through turbines, which spin a generator to create electricity. It is one of the oldest and most mature methods of producing electricity that converts the natural flow of water into valuable energy.

As we delve into the world of water-powered energy, several key questions arise:

• Types of hydropower
• Is water a renewable energy source?
• Is hydropower renewable or nonrenewable?
• What are the advantages of hydroelectric power?
• Is hydroelectric energy expensive?

These questions are crucial in understanding the sustainability and viability of hydroelectric power as a solution for our energy needs. By examining these aspects, we can appreciate how hydroelectric power stands as a testament to human innovation in harnessing natural resources.

Hydropower: A Cornerstone Renewable Energy Source

Water is the lifeblood of hydroelectric power and is considered a renewable energy source due to its natural lifecycle. It is constantly replenished by the Earth’s hydrological cycle, which includes evaporation, condensation, precipitation, and runoff. This cycle ensures a steady supply of water for hydroelectric generation, making it a reliable and sustainable form of energy.

Unlike nonrenewable energy sources that can diminish over time, such as coal or oil, water is abundant and consistently available, making hydroelectric power a sustainable choice for long-term energy production.

Different types of hydroelectric power

There are three main types of power generation using the force of water.

Hydroelectric dams

It begins with a reservoir of water behind a dam. When the dam gates are opened, water passes through turbines, capturing its raw power. 

These turbines are connected to generators, which transform the kinetic energy of the water into mechanical energy. This is then converted into a tremendous amount of electrical energy. Hydroelectric power is a renewable source that provides electricity and showcases our ability to work with nature for sustainable energy solutions.

Tidal power

Tidal power is a form of renewable energy that harnesses the energy from the rise and fall of tides to generate electricity. As the gravitational forces between the Earth, Moon, and Sun, causing the rise and fall of tides, tidal turbines, similar to underwater wind turbines, spin. This generates mechanical energy that is converted into electricity by connected generators.

Wave power

Wave power captures energy from the motion of ocean waves to generate electricity. Devices such as oscillating water columns, point absorbers, or attenuators are placed on or near the ocean’s surface. As waves move these devices, mechanical motion or pressure changes are converted into electrical energy through turbines or generators, providing a sustainable and renewable source of power. Despite the potential as a clean energy source, wave power technologies are still in the early stages of development and face challenges related to efficiency, durability, and environmental impact.

The environmental impact of hydropower

The great environmental benefit of hydropower as an energy source is that it creates electricity in a clean and controlled manner, all without the need to burn fossil fuels. This means we’re looking at a significant reduction in the release of greenhouse gases and nasty pollutants that usually come from traditional power generation. Plus, if you compare the space a hydroelectric plant occupies to, say, a wind farm or a solar field, hydro typically requires less real estate to produce a comparable amount of energy over its lifetime.

However, there are potential negative environmental impacts to the production of electricity using hydropower.

• Creating dams involves can involve flooding a large swath of land that was previously not underwater – a serious change to the nearby landscape. This can cause the displacement of local communities or the destruction of animal habitats.
• Changes to river flow regimes can impact downstream ecosystems and the species that depend on those patterns.
• Tidal power systems can lead to the death of fish.
• Wave power systems impart significant changes to coastal ecosystems and completely change the visual dynamic of the area.

The multifaceted advantages of hydropower

Hydropower is not just about energy generation; it brings a plethora of advantages:

• Reliability: Hydroelectric plants provide a consistent energy supply, with the ability to quickly adjust to fluctuating energy demands.
• Low Operational Costs: Once a plant is established, the cost of operation is relatively low compared to other forms of energy production.
• Longevity: Hydroelectric facilities can operate for decades, providing a long-term energy solution.
• Recreational Benefits: Reservoirs created by impoundment hydropower can also be used for recreational purposes, such as boating and fishing.

Understanding impoundment hydropower

Impoundment hydropower, also known as conventional hydropower, is the most prevalent and widely used form of hydroelectric power generation. This method involves the construction of dams on rivers, which create reservoirs for storing large amounts of water. 

When electricity is needed, the stored water is released through turbines, which convert the potential energy of the water into mechanical energy. This mechanical energy is then converted into electrical energy, facilitating the generation of electricity on demand. Due to its ability to respond quickly to changes in electricity demand, impoundment hydropower is considered a highly flexible and reliable source of renewable energy.

Cost of hydroelectric energy

While the initial costs of hydroelectric energy facilities are high due to the need for substantial infrastructure, these costs are offset over time by the low operational and maintenance expenses. Hydroelectric power plants typically have long lifespans, which can make them economically viable and often less expensive than other power sources over their operational life.

Fun facts about hydroelectric energy

• Historical Milestone: The world’s first hydroelectric power plant began operation on the Fox River in Appleton, Wisconsin, USA, in 1882.
• Sheer Scale: The Three Gorges Dam in China is the world’s largest hydroelectric power facility in terms of electricity generation capacity, and it’s so massive that its construction shifted enough mass to slightly alter the Earth’s rotation.
• A Greenhouse Gas Fighter: Hydroelectric power plants have helped avoid over 100 billion metric tons of carbon dioxide emissions since 1965.
• Wildlife Habitat Creation: While dams are often criticized for their environmental impact, reservoirs created by hydroelectric plants can also become new habitats for various wildlife species, both aquatic and terrestrial.
• Ancient Origins: The concept of using water for power dates back thousands of years, with ancient civilizations using water wheels to grind wheat into flour.
• Longevity: Some of the earliest hydroelectric power plants are still in use today. The Hoover Dam, completed in 1936, continues to provide power for about 1.3 million people in the USA.
• Underwater Potential: Tidal and wave power are newer forms of hydroelectric power that harness the energy found in the movements of the ocean.
• Home to the Mighty: The Itaipu Dam between Brazil and Paraguay is one of the world’s largest operational hydroelectric energy producers, and it’s so extensive that it spans the distance between two cities.

The post What Is Hydroelectric Power? appeared first on BKV Energy.