Why don't we use hydroelectric power more often?

Answer 1

Hydroelectric energy is very efficient, yes? well the reason we dont use it more than we do is because hydroelectric isnt all good for the environment, or the economy.

Storage facilities can cause harm to the environment in surrounding areas. They can alter quality and amount of water flowing down the stream, which can affect plants, as well as aquatic and land based animals. Fish are killed from the spinning turbines in the river, although this can be avoided with the use of fish ladders and similar structures. Dams can block the migratory routes of fish such as salmon and others that live in the ocean, but come upstream to breed. When new dams are created, they can destroy the habitat of species in the surrounding areas, and even destroy forests. When these forests are destroyed, they produce methane, a potent greenhouse gas. C0 can also be emitted in the process of making the hydroelectric plants. Dams also reduce the flow of sediment and nutrient downstream, and they reduce the temperature of the water. These are the main arguments against hydropower.

Answer 2

The main reason is the continuing worldwide glut of conventional fossil fuels, making it uneconomic to develop renewable energy.