Hydropower is a renewable energy source that has many environmental benefits, including:

 Hydropower is a renewable energy source that has many environmental benefits, including: 

 

Reduced emissions: Hydropower plants don't emit the waste heat and gases that contribute to air pollution, global warming, and acid rain. 

 

Water flow control: Hydropower plants can help control water flow fluctuations in river basins. 

 

Aquatic habitat enhancement: Hydropower plants can increase water flow during dry months to improve aquatic habitats. 

 

Flood control: Hydropower plants can help control flooding. 

 

Irrigation support: Hydropower plants can support irrigation for farmers. 

 

Clean drinking water: Hydropower plants can provide clean drinking water. 

 

Recreational opportunities: Hydropower plants can create reservoirs that offer recreational opportunities such as fishing, swimming, boating, camping, hiking, and whitewater rafting. 

 

Backup power: Hydropower plants can provide power to the grid immediately during major electricity outages or disruptions. 

 

Energy storage: Hydropower plants can store energy in the water reservoirs, which can be used when wind and solar power are not available. 

 

However, hydropower can also have negative environmental impacts, such as destroying native lands and

 wildlife habitats.