90% of Africas hydropower potential has yet to be tapped, despite hydropower already providing 40% of sub-Saharan Africas power.
This is based on the 2024 World Hydropower Outlook report by the International Hydropower Association (IHA). The annual report monitors and guides global hydropower development toward net zero pathways. It also addresses policy and financial investment challenges.
There are some encouraging signs, with Africa installing 2 GW in 2023, a quarter of the global increase in conventional hydropower, the report says.
In 2023, the top African countries by added hydropower capacity were Nigeria with 740 MW, Uganda with 408 MW, DR Congo with 382 MW, Tanzania with 262 MW, and Burundi with 27 MW.
The top three African countries with total installed hydropower capacity in 2023 were Ethiopia with 4825 MW, Angola with 3836 MW, and South Africa with 3600 MW.
The report emphasises South Africas focus on advancing small-scale hydropower projects, particularly in rural areas with limited grid access. It mentions the governments DWS Hydropower Independent Producer Programme, aimed at attracting private investments in hydropower. Despite significant investments and efforts, none have progressed beyond the initial stage, says the report.
The report also highlights Mozambiques plan to halt its long-standing hydropower supply to South Africa by 2030, redirecting the electricity generated for domestic use and posing challenges for South Africas electricity supply.
The IHA highlights Africas lag in meeting energy goals, stressing the urgent need to modernize hydropower infrastructure for improved efficiency and resilience. The report underscores the importance of supportive policies and investment incentives to maximise Africas hydropower potential.
More droughts and floods due to climate change will mean an increased need to invest in water infrastructure such as dams and reservoirs. Where possible these should be powered, says Eddie Rich , Chief Executive Officer of IHA.
The more variable power that is developed through solar and wind, the more hydropower will be required to provide balance and flexibility when the wind doesnt blow, and the sun doesnt shine, says Malcolm Turnbull , IHA President.
The full report can be accessed here.
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