Hydroelectric power works by harnessing the kinetic energy of flowing water to turn turbines that drive generators to produce electricity. Water is stored in a reservoir behind a dam and flows through turbines connected to generators before being discharged. The theoretical, technical, and economic hydroelectric potential of different regions and countries around the world is presented, along with information on installed capacities, annual generation, and the basin-wise potential of India. Various dam types and hydroelectric technologies including impoundment, diversion, pumped storage, and different turbine designs are described. The environmental impacts of hydroelectricity including the loss of land and interference with sediment transport are also discussed.