Hydro-Electric Power

Question 1

What % of global energy is derived from HEP?

Answer 1

3%

Question 2

What is the potential of HEP compared to current global consumption?

Answer 2

Potential to provide the same amount as current GPEC

Question 3

Give the name and location of the world’s largest HEP dam

Answer 3

Three Gorges Dam, China

Question 4

Give 4 reasons why the Three Gorges dam was constructed

Answer 4

• Reduce flooding down stream
• Increase water supply
• Increase energy supply
• Improve navigation

Question 5

Ability to generate ………………

Answer 5

22,500 MW of electricty

Question 6

Give 2 socio-economic positives of the Three Gorges dam

Answer 6

• New buildings and houses, subsidised by the government have been built for residents who had to move.
• Jobs and increased economic activity in the local area during construction.

Question 7

Give 2 environmental positives of the Three Gorges dam

Answer 7

• Reducing greenhouse gas emissions from China, reducing the impacts upon Japan, such as acid rain
• Replacing a coal power plant, reducing emissions by 150 million tonnes

Question 8

Give 3 negative social impacts of the Three Gorges dam

Answer 8

• Town demolished to make way for flooding
• Rising waters forced over 1 million people to relocate
• After-effects such as landslides, which destroyed homes and forced more people to move

Question 9

Give 3 negative environmental impact of the Three Gorges dam

Answer 9

• Before the dam was built, the river carried waste away, now it is remaining and polluting the water
• Erosion from changing water levels caused landslides
• Water levels are rising, increasing flood risk