Contrary to popular belief, there is an abundance of renewable energy sources that we can use today. All of them are sustainable, economically viable, cost-efficient, and safer for the environment.

Two of the most well-established renewable energy sources are solar power and hydropower. Like any energy source, each has its benefits and downsides. In this blog, we’ll know which of them is more efficient in terms of electricity production.

Solar vs. Hydro: Cost

As of today, hydropower is cheaper compared to solar power. One megawatt-hour electricity costs around $98 from hydropower, while it can cost as much as $148 through solar energy.

Because of this, hydropower is also more commonly used than solar power. In the USA, 6% of the overall electric production and 70% of all renewable energy generation comes from hydropower.

However, while it may seem that hydropower is more efficient, it’s important to note that this is achieved through large-scale production.

Solar vs. Hydro: Scalability

Solar power production is a lot more scalable compared to hydropower.

As we mentioned a while ago, hydropower can only be produced on a large scale. This means you need waterfalls, dams, or even rivers to produce electricity with it.

On the other hand, private homeowners can produce solar power independently. With a 120cm x 35cm 100-watt solar panel, you can already power up select appliances and electronics in your house. 

It’s easy to scale up with solar power, too. Just get at least a dozen 600-watt solar panels, and you can produce enough electricity to power a commercial building.

Solar vs. Hydro: Energy Production

Hydropower can produce up to 200 million kilowatts per hour, while a solar power plant can produce 3,100 megawatts per hour.

The difference is significant. However, as we mentioned a while ago, you can’t quickly produce this kind of hydropower production. So while hydropower energy production is high, its accessibility is low.

In conclusion, you can only experience the high efficiency of hydropower if organizations or governments venture into the project. But it’s almost impossible to be achieved through private or residential use.

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