Water-based Energy Production

Hydroelectricity (electricity produced from water using dams) is the leading renewable energy source in the world. All regions are involved in this type of production, which is mostly consumed locally.

Other ways of using water as an energy resource (tidal energy and wave energy) are dealt with in the section The energy of the oceans.

Energy Accessible Worldwide

Global hydroelectricity production represents approx. 16% of total electricity production. In 2005, China became the leading producer of hydroelectricity worldwide, overtaking Canada. Since then, it has consolidated its position with the commissioning of the world's largest dam, the Three Gorges dam over the Yangtze River.

A Locally Consumed Resource

Countries that produce hydroelectricity generally also consume it. Hydraulic energy is mainly used to serve local needs. Thus, countries are generally listed in the same order for consumption as for production. Here again, China is in first place.

[1] Source: World Energy Council (http://www.worldenergy.org/documents/ser_interim_update_2009_final.pdf)
[2] Source: BP Statistical Review of World Energy, full report 2009