Executive summary – Climate Impacts on South and Southeast Asian Hydropower – Analysis - IEA – International Energy Agency
Published February 18, 2026
Executive Summary: Climate Impacts on Hydropower in South and Southeast Asia
The International Energy Agency (IEA) has released an analysis focusing on the effects of climate change on hydropower resources in South and Southeast Asia. This report highlights the significant challenges that climate variability poses to hydropower generation, which is a crucial component of the energy mix in these regions. The findings underscore the need for adaptive strategies to ensure the sustainability of hydropower as a reliable energy source.
Hydropower's Role in the Energy Landscape
Hydropower plays a vital role in the energy landscape of South and Southeast Asia, providing a substantial portion of electricity generation. Countries such as India, Nepal, Bhutan, and Indonesia rely heavily on hydropower to meet their energy demands. With its ability to generate large amounts of electricity while contributing to lower greenhouse gas emissions compared to fossil fuels, hydropower is positioned as a key player in the transition towards cleaner energy systems.
Climate Change and Its Impacts
Climate change is expected to have profound impacts on hydropower generation in the region. The analysis indicates that altered precipitation patterns, increased temperatures, and the frequency of extreme weather events will affect water availability and river flows, which are critical for hydropower production. As a result, the reliability and efficiency of hydropower plants may be compromised, leading to potential energy shortages.
Water Availability and River Flow Changes
The report emphasizes that changes in water availability will be a significant factor affecting hydropower output. Many regions in South and Southeast Asia depend on seasonal monsoon rains to replenish water reservoirs. However, climate change is leading to unpredictable rainfall patterns, which can result in either excessive flooding or prolonged droughts. These extremes can severely impact the inflow to reservoirs, thus affecting hydropower generation capacity.
For instance, in India, the Himalayan glaciers, which serve as crucial water sources for major rivers, are retreating at an alarming rate due to rising temperatures. This retreat can lead to reduced river flows during dry seasons, jeopardizing the hydropower generation potential. Similarly, in Southeast Asia, changing rainfall patterns can disrupt the seasonal cycles that hydropower plants rely on for consistent energy production.
Extreme Weather Events
Extreme weather events, such as heavy rainfall, floods, and droughts, are becoming more frequent due to climate change. These events can have immediate and devastating effects on hydropower infrastructure. Flooding can damage turbines and other essential components of hydropower plants, leading to costly repairs and prolonged outages. On the other hand, droughts can reduce water levels in reservoirs, limiting the ability to generate electricity.
The analysis highlights that countries with significant hydropower investments must prepare for the increasing likelihood of such events. Developing resilience strategies, including improved forecasting systems and infrastructure upgrades, will be essential to mitigate these risks and ensure the continued operation of hydropower facilities.
Regional Variability and Adaptation Strategies
The impacts of climate change on hydropower are not uniform across South and Southeast Asia; they vary significantly by region. The report points out that while some areas may experience increased rainfall and water availability, others may face severe water shortages. This variability necessitates tailored adaptation strategies that consider local climatic conditions and hydrological patterns.
For instance, in regions where increased rainfall is expected, investments in flood management and infrastructure resilience may be prioritized. Conversely, areas facing drought conditions may need to focus on water conservation measures and the development of alternative energy sources to supplement hydropower generation during dry spells.
Policy Recommendations
To address the challenges posed by climate change on hydropower, the IEA report offers several policy recommendations. Firstly, it advocates for the integration of climate risk assessments into energy planning processes. Policymakers should consider potential climate impacts when designing and implementing hydropower projects to ensure their long-term viability.
Secondly, enhancing collaboration among countries in the region can facilitate knowledge sharing and the development of best practices for managing hydropower resources. Regional cooperation can also lead to more effective management of transboundary rivers, which are essential for hydropower generation.
Furthermore, investment in research and development is crucial to improve the resilience of hydropower infrastructure. Innovative technologies, such as advanced forecasting systems and climate-resilient designs, can help mitigate the impacts of climate change on hydropower production.
Conclusion
The IEA's analysis underscores the critical need for South and Southeast Asia to adapt to the changing climate to safeguard hydropower resources. As climate change continues to alter precipitation patterns and increase the frequency of extreme weather events, the region must prioritize resilience and sustainability in its hydropower planning. By implementing the recommended strategies, countries can work towards ensuring a stable and reliable energy supply while navigating the challenges posed by a changing climate.
The future of hydropower in South and Southeast Asia hinges on proactive measures that address the impacts of climate change. As nations strive to meet their energy needs sustainably, understanding and adapting to these climatic shifts will be essential for the continued contribution of hydropower to the region's energy landscape.
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