June is recognized as National Electricity Month, a time to recognize the pivotal role of electricity in our technical and professional lives.  

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Electricity’s journey from curiosity to necessity has been marked by significant milestones. The work of pioneers like Edison and Tesla laid the groundwork for the modern electrical systems we rely on today. Their innovations in direct current (DC) and alternating current (AC) power revolutionized how we harness and distribute energy.   .

This month is also an opportunity to focus on Hydropower – the source of electricity that we work most closely with. As one of the oldest and most reliable renewable energy sources, hydropower has been a cornerstone in our power grids for decades. Its ability to provide consistent, large-scale energy production makes it a critical component in our transition to a more sustainable energy future. 

For anyone wanting to learn more about hydropower, a couple of videos do a great job of exploring the evolution of hydropower technology and its critical role in today’s renewable energy landscape. 

Along similar lines, the second video “Hydropower Energy Basics,” from the National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL) breaks down how hydropower harnesses the kinetic energy of flowing water to produce electricity, powering homes and businesses across the nation. Discover the science behind turbines and generators, and learn how dams and reservoirs contribute to flood control, irrigation, and recreation. Understand how the natural water cycle ensures hydropower remains a reliable and cost-effective renewable energy source.