What is a limitation of hydropower?

The impact of hydropower on wildlife is a significant limitation of this renewable energy source. When dams are constructed to harness energy from flowing water, they can disrupt local ecosystems. Fish populations, for instance, may be affected by changes in water flow and temperature, as well as by barriers that prevent species from migrating to their spawning grounds. Additionally, the alteration of natural habitats can lead to a decline in local biodiversity, affecting both aquatic and terrestrial wildlife. This ecological concern underscores the complexity of harnessing hydropower sustainably, as the benefits of energy generation must be balanced against the potential harm to animal populations and their habitats.