Canada, a global leader in hydroelectricity, is witnessing a significant downturn in hydropower production due to extreme weather events linked to climate change. Sudden shifts between droughts and floods are not only hampering energy output but also threatening the structural integrity of dams across the country.
The decline in hydropower has had a substantial impact on Canada's energy exports. For the first time in 14 years, exports to the United States have reached their lowest levels, highlighting the severity of the situation. This downturn has even led to an unprecedented role reversal, with Canada importing energy from the U.S. for three consecutive months earlier this year—a first in eight years.
The International Energy Agency (IEA) has reported that 2023 marks a record decline in global hydropower generation. Major producers such as China, Turkey, and the United States are also experiencing similar challenges. The IEA attributes these declines to severe and prolonged droughts in key hydropower-producing regions worldwide.
This global trend underscores the urgent need for sustainable energy solutions and enhanced resilience in the face of increasingly unpredictable weather patterns. As nations grapple with these challenges, the future of hydropower remains uncertain, prompting a reevaluation of energy strategies to ensure stability and sustainability.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
