Is hydropower a significant source of energy?

Water is a valuable resource that can be used for sustainable energy production in various ways. One common method is hydropower, where the energy of flowing water is harnessed to generate electricity. This technology has been used for decades and is a reliable source of renewable energy.

Source picture: Pumped-Storage plants / Hydropower (alley600.eu)

In Europe, hydropower plays a significant role in the energy mix of many countries. Countries like Norway, Sweden, and Switzerland rely heavily on hydropower for their electricity needs. These countries have abundant water resources, which makes hydropower a viable and sustainable option for them.
Another essential role that water will increasingly play for the energy transition, is the use of pumped storage plants as energy storage.  Here, abundant clean energy eg. from wind and solar not needed at the moment is used to pump water up a hill into a reservoir. The water flows down again over turbines when energy is needed.

Can hydropower be used for heating?

Additionally, water can also be used for heating and cooling purposes through technologies like geothermal heat pumps. These systems use the stable temperature of water underground to provide energy-efficient heating and cooling for buildings.

Source picture: Swedish hydropower plant to receive help from Fortum battery (power-technology.com)

Overall, the use of water for sustainable energy in Europe is an important aspect of the region's transition to a more environmentally friendly energy system. By harnessing the power of water, countries can reduce their reliance on fossil fuels and contribute to a cleaner and more sustainable future. However, every hydropower plant is an invasion into the specific ecosystem, which must undergo a firm assessment beforehand in order to not interrupt local flora and fauna.