Hidden Hydro Related with Non-Powered Dams in Romania

Nowadays the development of renewable energy sources has become a necessity, increased electricity demand combined with international agreements to reduce the greenhouse gas emissions being strong arguments for their development. For more than 120 years, hydropower is an important source of low-cost, flexible, and emissions-friendly energy. Since the possibilities to develop new large hydropower plants are limited (few spots available, environmental issues and limitations, etc.) focus have shifted to new, minimally invasive opportunities for hydropower developments, which are hidden in plain sight. Today, there are many new hydroelectric systems which can be used in existing structures (e.g. non-powered dams or pipelines) to provide electricity. This paper presents an estimation for the gain of energy that can be obtained by empowering existing non-powered dams in Romania.