Hydroelectricity is mostly generated by the building and usage of dams that hold back large quantities of water from traveling down the natural river path. The higher level of water stores massive amounts of potential energy that when released down to the lower level, can be transmitted into mechanical and finally, electric energy using special turbines within the dam. For more information about how hydroelectric power is generated, benefits of clean energy production, possible environmental issues caused by dams, and many other topics, read articles written by experts here on Bright Hub.