Hydropower: Advantages, Classification, and Future

This lecture covers the advantages of hydropower in Switzerland, the criteria for classifying hydroelectric installations, the unique role and future contribution of Swiss hydropower in the Alpine region and Europe, as well as the challenges and future prospects for Swiss hydropower. It discusses the renewable nature of hydropower, its efficiency, contribution to the economy, flood protection, and its role as a 'battery' for energy storage. The classification criteria include layout, head height, water usage, and turbine type. The lecture also highlights the current challenges faced by Swiss hydropower due to low electricity prices in Europe and market distortions favoring other renewable energies.