Question

State the main differences between thermal power and hydro power plants based on electricity generation. Name two dam projects which were opposed due to the problems of Rehabilitation of displaced people, damage to the ecosystem etc.

Answer 1

Difference between Thermal Power and Hydel Power. The thermal power is produced by burning coal, petroleum or natural gas in thermal generator. But Hydro-electricity or hydel power is derived from the force of running water by means of dynamo driven by hydro-turbine.

Thermal power plant	Hydro power plant
A thermal power plant produces electricity by burning fossil fuels.	Hydro power plant produces electricity by the flowing water.
In this, chemical energy of the fossil fuels is transformed into electrical energy.	In this potential energy of water stored is transformed into electric energy.
In this, burning of fossil fuels pollute the air.	In this, blocking of water affects fish and other organisms in the river.

Two dam project, that were opposed due to rehabilitation are Tehri dam and Sardar Sarovar projects.