Climate change and waterpower - Reducing the impacts and adapting to a new reality

Abstract

Many researchers have concluded that waterpower, when viewed over its entire life-cycle is an effective form of renewable energy in terms of reducing carbon emissions. Therefore, development of the world’s inventory of practicable waterpower sites represents one way to reduce the impacts and slow the progression of climate change. However, the new facilities need to be designed and operated in a way in which the safety and sustainability of the facilities in a changing climate is assured. In this paper, the role of waterpower to assist in achieving carbon reduction targets in conjunction with other renewable options is discussed. The paper also outlines climate change resiliency strategies that were considered and used in the design of the 698 MW Keeyask Generating station to help mitigate the risks associated with the changing realities of the dam and waterpower industries are detailed.