Possible climate change impacts on large hydroelectricity schemes in Southern Africa

Abstract

There is growing concern that developing countries, such as South Africa, should reduce their coal dependence for energy generation and look to other cleaner technologies. Hydroelectricity is one such option. A number of potential large hydro sites have been identified in Southern Africa, which form part of the Southern African Power Pool. However, limited information exists on the impact of climate change on these sites and its effect on the viability of the hydroelectric schemes. Using downscaled global circulation model information, projected climate impacts and the potential impact these may have on future hydro schemes are discussed.