Hello, SFIA audio listeners.

In this month's Nebula exclusive, big alien theory, we're asked at the reason alien civilizations might be rare is because most aliens are huge.

To hear it and every episode early and ad-free, plus hours of bonus content, check out go.nebola.tv slash Isaac Arthur and use my code, Isaac Arthur.

Hydroperor has been lighting up our homes and driving industries for over a century.

Indeed, we've been using water wheels for far longer.

But as the world races toward a renewable energy future, will this old powerhouse remain

at the forefront of renewable energy, or are we witnessing a turning

of the tide?

Welcome to another episode of Science and Futurism with Isaac Arthur. I am your aforementioned

host, Isaac Arthur, and today we'll continue our exploration of emerging energy technologies

by focusing on hydroelectric power and its future.

In recent years, we've explored solar power, from terrestrial installations to space-based systems.

We've looked at nuclear fission and innovations with small modular reactors and thorium,

and explored the status of nuclear fusion. We've even

delved into ultra-advanced theoretical power options like zero-point energy, vacuum energy, and

tapping into black holes. We've looked at batteries and other portable power options, moving

power with superconductors, and even getting off the grid entirely.

As usual, our goal is to explore the pros and cons of each energy solution and discuss its future potential, not advocate any particular option.

Today, we'll dive into the past, present, and future of hydroelectric power, exploring

its pivotal role in the transition to sustainable

energy, we'll examine the challenges it faces from environmental concerns to AG infrastructure,

and highlight cutting-edge innovations that aim to make it more efficient, adaptable, and

...