Hydraulic energy

Hydraulic energy is a renewable energy that releases a very low amount of greenhouse gas. This source ofrenewable energy uses the movements of water put into motion by the sun and gravity, the water cycle, tides and sea currents.

Whether using natural or artificial waterfalls (such as natural waterfalls or hydroelectric dams), the flow of water courses or sea currents (tides, thermohaline circulation...), hydraulic plants produce mechanical energy that is usually converted into electricity (hydroelectricity).

Since ancient times water mills have used this energy to pump water, grind grain or even operate hammers. Their modern descendants hydroelectric plants, provide renewable electricity while producing very little greenhouse gas (except in tropical regions, where the deterioration of organic matter produces methane).

However, the use of hydraulic energy has some disadvantages, especially in terms of the continuity of water courses. Indeed, the creation of a dam is an obstacle for navigation, the migration of aquatic species and the transfer of sediment.