Scarica Hydroelectric Energy: Advantages, Disadvantages, and Impact on the Environment e più Esercizi in PDF di Inglese solo su Docsity! Compito di realtà Intro: Hydroelectric energy is one of the main forms of renewable energy capable of replacing the exploitation of fossil fuels and significantly reducing air pollution. Prima risposta: hydroelectric energy is obtained by exploiting the kinetic and potential energy of water. Hydroelectric energy makes it possible to exploit the waterways of rivers to transform the movement of water into electricity. In Italy, about one fifth of all electricity produced comes from hydroelectric power plants. Seconda risposta: The main advantages related to the exploitation of hydroelectric energy are: Reclamation of marshy areas Hydroelectric power plants make it possible to protect swampy areas and remove the danger of flooding thanks to the containment of waterways by means of dams. In areas with high rainfall, these make it possible to release controlled quantities of water from rivers, regulating the jet in a constant and regular way. Cleaning and cooling of rivers The rake of the hydroelectric power plant ensures adequate cleaning and navigability of the waterways by retaining branches and trees. Irrigation Thanks to hydroelectric plants, it is possible to have water reserves even in periods of drought, ensuring a continuous source of electricity. Cost containment The production of energy through hydroelectric plants has rather low costs, dictated by particularly advantageous and economical maintenance and operating costs, especially when compared to those of nuclear or coal plants. The installation of this type of system by private individuals, in fact, allows the exploitation of one of the cheapest systems to satisfy their energy needs. If, on the one hand, the initial investment for the construction of a hydroelectric plant may apparently be high, hydroelectric power plants ensure a continuous availability of raw material over time for free and allow it to be supplied very quickly. Terza risposta: the main disadvantages of hydroelectricity are: Environmental changes The total dependence on atmospheric agents makes the operation of hydroelectric plants rather sensitive to climate changes and variations in weather conditions, exposing them to high risks in a prolonged period of safety. The construction of dams and penstocks, in addition to causing a disfigurement of the environment, triggers possible environmental changes that have a particular impact on flora and fauna. Especially near rivers, the construction of the plants generates the disappearance of some species of fish, in particular salmon, which are unable to lay their eggs during migration. Some technologies, such as ladders, are now being used to help them reach their spawning site, allowing them to swim upstream and overrun dams. The noise of the plant also generates the transfer of local inhabitants and indigenous species, which tend to move away, contributing to the alteration of ecosystems and the landscape. Presence of chemicals In addition to being a danger to natural habitats, hydroelectric power plants can also damage those in river beds due to the low levels of dissolved oxygen in the water. Additionally, dams can overcome coastal erosion by preventing the transport of solid materials such as gravel and sand. In conclusion, therefore, it can be affirmed that the exploitation of water resources can represent an advantageous solution on which to invest in order to safeguard the health of the Planet and for the production of clean energy.
