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JDR Vol.13 No.4 pp. 720-732
(2018)
doi: 10.20965/jdr.2018.p0720

Paper:

Evaluation of Diverse Values of Hydropower

Motoyuki Inoue

Water Resources Research Center, Disaster Prevention Research Institute, Kyoto University
Gokasyo, Uji, Kyoto 611-0011, Japan

Corresponding author

Received:
January 15, 2018
Accepted:
April 16, 2018
Published:
August 1, 2018
Keywords:
hydropower generation, diverse values of hydropower, social value, system to support hydropower development, Hydropower Development Research Institute (HDRI)
Abstract

Japan is suitable for hydropower generation because of its varying topology and abundant water resources. The use of natural energy resources has recently gained importance in Japan, and as such the subject of small- and medium-scale hydropower generation has drawn much attention. However, new developments have not advanced significantly. Hydropower has various advantages over other natural energy sources; it provides stable power output, and if construction and maintenance are implemented appropriately, it can provide electricity at low costs and over long timescales. Further, hydropower is environmentally friendly, and can protect and improve the environment when implemented in harmony with natural and social factors. Moreover, it has social benefits; it contributes to aspects such as regional revitalization, local attractiveness, and disaster prevention. The possibilities of hydropower are not fully understood, and methods have not yet been established for its comprehensive practical utilization. Hydropower in Japan has not been in full-scale development for a while. Therefore, there are currently only a few experts on hydropower development. Accordingly, technologies and institutions for the development of small- and medium-scale hydropower generation while ensuring harmony with the natural and social environment are required. Further, a system is also needed to allow experts to promote and support such technologies and institutions in a cross-sectional way.

Cite this article as:
M. Inoue, “Evaluation of Diverse Values of Hydropower,” J. Disaster Res., Vol.13 No.4, pp. 720-732, 2018.
Data files:
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