The role of hydropower in renewable energy sector toward co2 emission reduction during the COVID-19 pandemic

Abstract

Due to the Coronavirus 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic social distance became a necessary strategy adopted in order to curb the fast-rise of infection. However, this strategy adopted by the government has impacted the socio-economic activities and lives of citizens as such new adaptive measures had to be put in place to cope with the pandemic. Accordingly, this study explores the relationship between the current COVID-19 pandemic on hydropower and energy sector in relation to Carbon dioxide (CO2) emission reduction. This paper employs a systematic review of secondary data grounded from document reports and existing literature to explore the trend of COVID-19 pandemic on hydropower and energy sector in relation to CO2 emission reduction. Findings from this article offer empirical evidence toward the impact of COVID-19 on hydropower and energy sector in relation to CO2 emission decrease during the pandemic. More importantly, findings from this study discuss the relationship of COVID-19 on energy sector, impact of COVID-19 on the hydropower sector in comparison to other renewables, impact of COVID-19 and oil demand, and connection of COVID-19 on CO2 emission reduction during the lockdown. Finally, implications are provided to guide policy makers in making decision toward sustainable energy production and CO2 emission reduction.