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Systematic high-resolution assessment of global hydropower potential
Olivier A C Hoes1, Lourens J J Meijer1,2, Ruud J van der Ent1,3
1Department of Water Management, Faculty of Civil Engineering and Geosciences, Delft University of Technology, Delft, the Netherlands.
Plos One
|February 9, 2017
Summary
Global hydropower potential is vast, offering a sustainable alternative to fossil fuels. This study maps 11.8 million sites, revealing a theoretical capacity of 52 PWh/year, significantly exceeding current hydroelectricity generation.
Area of Science:
- Environmental science
- Energy systems
- Geography
Background:
- Growing global energy demand and fossil fuel depletion necessitate sustainable electricity alternatives.
- Hydropower presents a significant opportunity to replace fossil fuels in the energy mix.
- Previous hydropower potential estimates were limited in scope and resolution.
Purpose of the Study:
- To conduct the first global, high-resolution assessment of theoretical hydropower potential.
- To identify all potentially viable locations for hydroelectric power generation worldwide.
- To quantify the global theoretical hydropower capacity based on riverine data.
Main Methods:
- Utilizing global river data, including slope and discharge, to estimate hydropower potential.
- Developing a methodology for detailed evaluation applicable to every river location worldwide.
- Compiling a comprehensive database of 11.8 million potential hydropower sites.
Main Results:
- An estimated gross theoretical hydropower potential of 52 PWh/year was identified globally.
- This potential is distributed across 11.8 million distinct locations.
- The identified potential represents 33% of global annual energy requirements, vastly exceeding current hydropower generation (3%).
Conclusions:
- Hydropower possesses substantial untapped potential to meet a significant portion of global energy needs.
- This research provides a foundational, globally accessible dataset for future hydropower development planning.
- The findings underscore the critical role of hydropower in transitioning to sustainable energy systems.
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