Low-Head Hydropower Development A discussion of low-head hydropower, associated environmental impacts, and mitigation measures to avoid or reduce impacts from low-head hydropower development.

Follow the links below to learn about low-head hydropower and environmental impacts of low-head hydropower development, including impacts from the construction, operation, and decommissioning of low-head hydropower facilities. You'll also find information about mitigation measures than can be used to reduce environmental impacts.

• Resources and Technology
  Low-head hydropower resources, geographic distribution, development scales, and low-head hydropower facilities
• Development Activities and Resource Requirements
  Components of low-head hydropower developments that could result in environmental impacts
• Potential Impacts
  Issues of environmental concern for low-head hydropower energy developments, including direct, indirect, and cumulative impacts
• Laws and Regulations
  Federal legal requirements applicable to low-head hydropower energy development activities
• Mitigation Measures
  Mitigation measures to minimize or avoid environmental impacts
• Government Programs and Tribal Incentives
  Links to government programs and tribal incentives for low-head hydropower development
• Environmental Reports and Case Studies
  Access to environmental reports and case studies related to low-head hydropower development
• General Information
  Links to low-head hydropower development Web sites

Low-Head Hydropower Development and Transmission

Low-head hydropower projects that generate electricity require electric transmission systems to transport the electricity they generate to consumers. Environmental impacts from construction and operation of electric transmission systems are discussed separately in the Energy Transmission section, and must be considered in addition to the impacts presented here.