Water Power Technologies Office

Hydropower plants produce renewable energy using the elevation difference created by a dam or diversion structure. Water flows in one side and exits at a lower point, spinning a turbine, which runs a generator and produces electricity.

• Hydropower Program
• Hydropower Basics

Pumped storage hydropower relies on two reservoirs of water. During periods of high energy production, excess energy can be used to pump water up into a higher reservoir. At times of high energy demand, facilities can release water from that higher reservoir into a lower pool. When the water flows downhill, it spins a turbine, running a generator and producing power.

• Pumped Storage Hydropower Basics

Marine energy refers to power harnessed from waves, tides, ocean and river currents, and even from differences in ocean salt levels, temperatures, and pressure. These resources are abundant, geographically diverse, and complementary to other energy sources.

• Marine Energy Program
• Marine Energy Basics