The hydropower in Australia plays an important role in the mix of renewable energy. Hydropower is one of the oldest forms of clean energy. It’s also the most mature and advanced renewable energy technology. It is currently used to generate electricity in more than 160 countries. This makes it a reliable source of power around the world. Hydropower is a reliable source of electricity that minimises environmental damage by harnessing the power of moving water, typically through rivers, dams or pumped-storage systems.
Hydropower is able to react quickly to changes in demand for electricity. It can generate both peak and base loads, thanks to its high ramp rates, which help maintain grid stability. Hydropower is also a low-cost source of energy and emits significantly less greenhouse gases than fossil fuel-based power. Hydropower is not only environmentally-friendly, but also economically viable over the long run.
In this article, we will explore the development, usage, and future potential of hydropower in Australia, showcasing how it supports the nation’s transition toward cleaner, more sustainable energy systems.
What is Hydropower?
Hydropower is an alternative form of energy that uses the kinetic power of water flowing through a dam, stream, river, etc., to generate electricity. The main way to do this is by directing the water flow through turbines that spin and activate a generator, producing electric power. Hydropower systems can range from large hydroelectric dams to smaller run-of-river systems, and even micro-hydro systems designed for rural communities or individual properties.
Hydropower is a modern technology that includes two types: Pumped Hydro Energy Storage and Conventional Hydroelectricity. In traditional hydro systems, the water naturally flows from a higher elevation to a lower one, generating turbines. In PHES, water is pumped up to a reservoir when electricity demand is low and released back to produce electricity during high demand. This acts as a large battery to support grid stability and energy storage. Hydropower is a great way to manage supply and demand.
Hydropower is one of the oldest forms of energy. The roots of hydropower go back thousands of years, when ancient civilisations used waterwheels for mechanical tasks such as grinding grain or irrigation. It is still one of the world’s most popular renewable energy sources, supplying electricity to more than 160 countries. Hydropower is a great option for regions that have consistent rainfall or a suitable geographical location, like parts of Australia. It provides clean, low-emission energy and helps to transition to a sustainable future.
What is Hydroelectricity and How Is It Produced?
Hydroelectricity is also called hydropower or hydroenergy. It generates electricity using the power of falling or moving water. The kinetic energy from flowing water, usually found in rivers, falls, or reservoirs, is converted into mechanical energy by turbines. This energy, then, is transformed into electricity through generators. Hydroelectric power, one of the world’s most popular renewable energy sources, is used by over 160 countries. Some rely on it as their main source of electricity. Hydroelectric power is a clean alternative to fossil fuels because it produces large amounts of energy with little greenhouse gas emissions.
Hydroelectricity production begins by storing water in a dam-created reservoir. The water is then released into large pipes, called penstocks. It is then pumped at high speeds to turn the turbine blades. This spinning motion powers the generator, which converts mechanical energy into electricity. The electrical energy is then sent to homes and businesses via power lines. Hydropower plants come in a variety of sizes and types, such as impoundment systems (large dams), flow-of-the river systems, and pumped-storage plants that store the energy for later usage. Hydroelectricity has many benefits, including energy reliability, grid stabilisation, and water management. However, it may also cause environmental changes or the displacement of residents.
Different Kinds of Hydropower in Australia
Hydropower plants are classified into three types: diversion, impoundment and pump storage. Many hydropower systems use dams. However, not all do. Each type is different, depending on the way water flow is controlled to generate electricity.
Run-of-river Hydropower Plants
Run-of-river hydropower systems are also known as diversion hydropower plants. They rely on the natural flow of the river and its elevation drop to produce electricity, without affecting the river’s path or storing large amounts of water. These systems redirect a part of the river to a penstock or canal, which directs the water flowing directly into turbines. Diversion plants are less environmentally damaging because they do not typically use a large reservoir or dam. However, their power output may be inconsistent, particularly during periods of low river flow or dry seasons.
Impoundment Hydropower Plants
The most common hydropower plant is the impoundment plant, which involves the construction of a reservoir. The stored water is released when needed and flows through turbines, which spin and activate generators to produce electricity. These facilities are able to generate large amounts and can provide better control of energy production, water supplies, flood control and recreation. They can have significant social and environmental impacts, such as habitat destruction and the displacement of communities.
Pumped Storage Hydropower Plants
Pumped storage hydropower plants work like large batteries, storing energy to be used later. In times of low demand for electricity, excess power can be used to pump water up from a lower to an upper reservoir. The stored water is then released through turbines to the lower reservoir when demand increases. This type of facility is critical to energy grid stability as it balances supply and demand.
These hydropower plants are used for a variety of purposes in the energy system. Their use is dependent on the energy, environmental and geographic needs of each region.
Advantages of Using Hydropower
Energy Storage: Renewable and Sustainable
Pumped Hydropower is sometimes referred to a “green batteries” because it offers large-scale renewable energy storage while having minimal impact on the environment. The system uses excess electricity to pump the water from one reservoir to another. The stored water is released when energy demands increase, causing the turbines to spin and generate electricity. The system uses water, a naturally replenished and renewable resource. It is an efficient and eco-friendly way to produce and store power.
Pumped storage systems are typically closed loops that reuse the same water. This is unlike traditional hydropower, which relies on the natural flow and ecosystem disruption of rivers. The environmental impact is reduced significantly. The system does not require fuels like coal or natural gas. This reduces emissions and helps to create a cleaner grid. The system is highly sustainable and renewable because it uses only simple inputs such as water and gravity.
Water Supply and Flood Control: A Dual Role
Pumped hydropower systems are not only a source of energy, but they also help to manage water and reduce floods. These systems use reservoirs that can be used as backup water sources during droughts or dry seasons. They help to ensure that water is available when the natural resources are low by controlling water flow. This is particularly useful in areas prone to unpredictable rain.
These systems also help to prevent flooding. During heavy rains, reservoirs can be used to store excess runoff. This reduces the risk of flooding and protects communities. Pumped hydropower is a solution that can be used in regions with water scarcity or extreme weather conditions. Its dual capabilities of managing water and storing energy make it a viable option.
Environmentally Friendly Operation
Low environmental impact is one of the main advantages of pumped-hydropower. These systems are built to produce no emissions or waste. This is unlike fossil fuel plants, which release pollutants into the air. The use of water as a working medium reduces greenhouse gas emissions and helps to mitigate climate change.
Pumped hydropower is designed to minimise disruptions to local ecosystems. Some systems use underground water or sites that have been repurposed, such as old mine pits. This reduces their ecological footprint. These plants are one of the most environmentally friendly methods of producing large amounts of energy. They do this by avoiding the constant extraction of water from rivers and natural habitats.
Low-cost long-term operating costs
Pumped-hydropower is both environmentally and economically sustainable. Once the infrastructure has been installed, these plants will operate for many decades with little maintenance. Gravity and water, rather than fuel, keep operational costs stable and low over time. They are not affected either by fluctuating fuel prices or shortages.
Construction and maintenance are the main expenses, as there is no raw fuel required. Pumped hydropower also produces clean energy and avoids future costs related to carbon taxes or environmental penalties. These systems are a reliable and low-cost option in the long run, which makes them an attractive choice for sustainable energy development.
Hydropower in Australia
Hydropower has been a constant Australia’s energy mix for many years, providing approximately 5-7% the nation’s electricity. More than 120 hydroelectric plants are located in Australia, from large-scale to regional. The majority of these power stations are located in southeast Australia, where the terrain and water are ideal for hydroelectric production. These facilities help to stabilise the grid by providing renewable energy, particularly during peak demand times.
In Australia, pumped hydro energy storage is also receiving renewed attention as a way to support the increasing share of renewable energies. Several PHES are already connected to Australia’s national electricity grid, and new projects to increase energy storage capacity are being developed. A pumped-hydro project was built in northern Queensland on the site of an old gold mine. The facility was designed to work with solar and wind power to help balance the energy supply and demand. Hydropower and PHES are important tools to maintain grid reliability and energy security as Australia transitions to cleaner energy sources.
Conclusion
Hydropower is a key part of Australia’s strategy for renewable energy, providing a consistent and reliable source of electricity. The country’s ability to balance demand and supply is improving as it adds more renewable energy sources, such as wind and solar, to the grid. Australia’s commitment towards innovative and sustainable energy solutions is reflected in projects such as the redevelopment of former industrial sites to accommodate PHES. Hydropower is an important component of the transition towards cleaner energy. It will also be essential for ensuring long-term sustainability, energy storage, and energy security.
