ASSESSING THE IMPACTS OF CLIMATE CHANGE ON HYDROPOWER GENERATION AND THE POWER SECTOR IN NIGERIA
Abstract
The study recognizes the significant challenges climate change poses, including changes in rainfall patterns, altered hydrological cycles, and increased frequency of extreme weather events. The result showed an upward trend in both the annual mean temperature and evaporation rate from 1979 to 2022, and a downward trend for rainfall in the same period. Rainfall has a strong positive correlation with inflow, therefore with a reduction in rainfall and increased temperature and evaporation in the region, there is certainly a reduction in the inflow over time. These factors can potentially disrupt hydropower infrastructure and affect electricity generation in the country. The assessment emphasizes the need for proactive measures to enhance the resilience of hydropower systems. It highlights the importance of considering future climate projections to inform climate-resilient designs and adaptive measures in infrastructure planning, construction, and operation. Diversifying the energy mix appears as a key strategy to reduce dependence on hydropower and enhance the overall resilience of the power sector. Collective efforts between all agencies involved are essential for developing comprehensive adaptation strategies and implementing early warning systems. Nigeria's power sector can achieve a more sustainable and resilient energy system by recognizing and managing the potential challenges of climate change. It is impetuous for Nigeria to develop a strategic planning framework, robust investment in alternative renewable energy, and pay kin attention to the adaptation and mitigation measures to ensure a reliable and sustainable power supply.
Keywords
Hydropower, Climate change, Power generation, Nigeria, Climate resilient. Climate adaptation, water resources, Renewable energy.