What are the advantages of hydro power compared to e.g. open cycle gas turbine or coal plant?
Hydro has no fuel cost. It does not release carbon dioxide or other harmful gas emissions or particulate pollutants into the atmosphere. Its source of energy is local, secure and renewable. It is a natural source of energy. No money flows out of the country to import fuel. While construction costs can be high, after it is built, operational costs are extremely low. Unlike steam and gas turbine plant, no components are subject to high temperatures and associated thermal stresses. Rotational speeds are slower than steam or gas turbines and cause less mechanical stress and reduce ageing. It is extremely reliable and easy to maintain. It has a very long working life. Plants built pre 1900 are still in every day service. It is very flexible and can change load rapidly. This is a popular feature with grid operators and dispatch engineers. Because of its heavy weight, it has large inertia and contributes to grid stability. Hydro plant is very simple to operate and can easily be configured for
