1. Dam and Reservoir:
- A dam is constructed across a river or a natural water body to create a reservoir. The dam controls the flow and increases the water pressure.
2. Intake:
- Water from the reservoir is directed towards the hydroelectric power plant through an intake structure.
3. Penstock:
- The water flows through a pipe called a penstock, which channels the water with high pressure down towards the turbines.
4. Turbines:
- The high-pressure water from the penstock hits the blades of the turbine, causing them to rotate. Turbines are specifically designed to capture the energy from the water flow and convert it into mechanical energy.
5. Generator:
- The rotating turbine shaft is connected to a generator, which is a device that converts mechanical energy into electrical energy. As the turbine spins, it rotates the generator's rotor, generating electricity.
6. Transmission:
- The electrical current generated by the generator is then sent through power lines to transformers that increase the voltage for long-distance transmission.
7. Distribution:
- The high-voltage electricity is distributed to homes, industries, and businesses through the electrical grid.
The rotation of the turbine and subsequent generation of electricity requires a continuous flow of water. Thus, hydroelectric power plants are typically located in areas with abundant and consistent water resources, such as rivers or mountainous regions with high rainfall.
