Zambia's drought reveals hydropower's climate vulnerability

Droughts linked to climate change have crippled Zambia’s hydropower-dependent energy system, leading to economic struggles and a surge in deforestation for charcoal production.

Chico Harlan reports for The Washington Post.

In short:

• Severe drought has left Zambia’s largest hydropower plant operating at 10% capacity, causing widespread blackouts.
• The energy crisis has forced the country to expand coal-fired power plants and turn to charcoal, accelerating deforestation.
• Climate models suggest hydropower will become increasingly unreliable as global warming intensifies droughts. A WWF study found that 26 percent of hydropower dams are in places where water scarcity. risks are medium to very high.

Key quote:

“Without the rainfall, this infrastructure becomes a white elephant.”

— Cephas Museba, Kariba hydro plant manager.

Why this matters:

Hydropower provides nearly half of the world’s renewable energy, but its vulnerability to drought threatens energy security and climate goals. Zambia’s struggles illustrate a broader global challenge, as countries face tough choices between fossil fuels and environmental degradation.

Related: Severe drought in Zambia risks widespread hunger and economic collapse