An overview of electric power plants effects on the natural environment

The electric power industry is the branch of power engineering that includes the generation and transmission of electric energy. The key role of this branch is explained by the advantages of electric energy over other kinds of energy- advantages such as the relative easiness of its long-distance transmission, distribution between consumers, and conversion to other kinds of energy (mechanical, thermal, chemical, optical, and so on). Despite having numerous benefits, electric power plants (Thermal, hydro, wind, solar and geothermal) have several adverse effects on various sectors of the natural environment (Water, soil, vegetation and animals). Considering that different parts of the natural environment constantly exposed to the adverse effects of development and operation of electric power plants, planning and providing appropriate tools to mitigate the adverse consequences resulting from these impacts are inevitable. To achieve this goal and help to prioritize appropriate management actions, adequate and accurate information about the environmental impacts of development and operation of these plants is needed. Recognition of these impacts will guide the organizations and the managers to select appropriate adaptive options to mitigate destructive consequences on the natural environment and provides necessary solutions to achieve sustainable development of it. Hence, the aim of this study is an extensive review of wide range of environmental impacts arising from the development of the electricity industry in different parts of the natural environment in various regions of the world.