hydroelectric power plant

A hydroelectric power plant is a facility which converts mechanical energy from flowing water into usable electric power. It is commonly associated with dams on rivers, which provide a controlled flow and a difference in water elevation for generation.

The amount of energy available depends on both water flow and the difference in elevation, or head. The moving water drives a turbine connected to a generator.

A river dam is a common association rather than a requirement for every plant. The use requires electrical generation, so a dam serving another purpose is not sufficient by itself.