The claim that hydropower is expensive is inaccurate when considering its levelized cost of energy (LCOE), which reflects the total cost to build and operate a power plant over its lifetime, divided by the total energy output. Hydropower consistently ranks as one of the most affordable sources of electricity, especially when compared to fossil fuel-based energy generation.Hydropower's unsubsidized LCOE in the United States is around $60 per megawatt-hour (MWh), making it highly competitive. In fact, it is cheaper than many other energy sources that use fossil fuels such as natural gas combined cycle plants ($70/MWh) and coal plants ($117/MWh).(2) This illustrates that hydropower is not only cost-effective but also more affordable than many traditional fossil fuel-based generation methods, even without subsidies.Hydropower also benefits from long lifespans and relatively low operational costs. Once a hydropower plant is built, its operational costs are minimal compared to fossil fuel plants, which require ongoing fuel purchases. Hydropower plants can remain operational for 50 to 100 years or more, this long-term stability makes hydropower a valuable asset in any energy portfolio, ensuring cost-effective power generation for generations.