2024 World Hydropower Outlook launched in Southeast Asia as IHA opens regional office - International Water Power
Published March 06, 2026
2024 World Hydropower Outlook Unveiled in Southeast Asia as IHA Establishes Regional Office
The International Hydropower Association (IHA) has recently launched the 2024 World Hydropower Outlook during an event held in Southeast Asia, coinciding with the inauguration of its new regional office in the region. This initiative emphasizes the growing significance of hydropower as a critical component of the renewable energy landscape and underscores the IHA's commitment to supporting sustainable hydropower development across Southeast Asia.
The 2024 World Hydropower Outlook presents an extensive analysis of the current state and future prospects of hydropower globally, with a specific focus on the Southeast Asian market. The report reveals that hydropower remains the leading source of renewable electricity worldwide, accounting for approximately 16% of global electricity generation. This statistic highlights the essential role that hydropower plays in meeting energy demands while also contributing to climate change mitigation efforts.
According to the report, the total installed hydropower capacity globally reached 1,450 gigawatts (GW) by the end of 2022. This figure represents an increase of 5% from the previous year, indicating a steady growth trend in the sector. In Southeast Asia, hydropower capacity has also seen significant expansion, with countries such as Laos, Vietnam, and Indonesia leading the way in new project development. The region's hydropower capacity is projected to grow by an additional 20% over the next five years, driven by increased investments and supportive government policies.
The IHA's new regional office, located in Southeast Asia, aims to facilitate collaboration among stakeholders in the hydropower sector. It will serve as a hub for knowledge sharing, capacity building, and technical assistance, helping to address the unique challenges and opportunities faced by the region. The establishment of this office aligns with the IHA's broader mission to promote sustainable hydropower practices and foster dialogue among industry players, policymakers, and civil society.
At the launch event, IHA CEO Eddie Rich emphasized the importance of hydropower in achieving energy security and sustainability goals. He noted that the 2024 World Hydropower Outlook not only provides insights into current trends but also highlights the potential for hydropower to contribute to a more resilient and low-carbon energy system. Rich called for increased investment in hydropower projects, particularly in Southeast Asia, where the demand for clean energy continues to rise.
The report outlines several key trends shaping the hydropower sector. One notable trend is the growing integration of hydropower with other renewable energy sources, such as solar and wind. This hybrid approach can enhance grid stability and provide a more reliable energy supply, especially in regions with variable renewable energy resources. The report also emphasizes the importance of modernizing existing hydropower facilities to improve efficiency and reduce environmental impacts.
In addition to technological advancements, the report highlights the need for robust regulatory frameworks to support hydropower development. Policymakers are encouraged to create conducive environments for investment by streamlining permitting processes and ensuring transparent stakeholder engagement. The IHA advocates for a balanced approach that considers the social and environmental dimensions of hydropower projects, ensuring that local communities benefit from the development of renewable energy resources.
The 2024 World Hydropower Outlook also addresses the challenges faced by the hydropower sector, including climate change impacts, water resource management, and competition from other energy sources. The report stresses the importance of adaptive management strategies to mitigate these challenges and enhance the resilience of hydropower systems. It calls for ongoing research and innovation to develop solutions that can address the evolving needs of the energy sector.
As part of its commitment to fostering sustainable hydropower development, the IHA is also launching a series of capacity-building initiatives aimed at enhancing the skills and knowledge of professionals in the sector. These initiatives will focus on best practices in project development, environmental management, and stakeholder engagement, ensuring that hydropower projects are designed and implemented in a manner that maximizes benefits for both energy producers and local communities.
The establishment of the IHA's regional office and the launch of the 2024 World Hydropower Outlook mark significant steps towards advancing the hydropower agenda in Southeast Asia. As countries in the region seek to transition to cleaner energy sources, hydropower's role as a reliable and sustainable solution is more critical than ever. The insights provided in the outlook will serve as a valuable resource for stakeholders as they navigate the complexities of hydropower development and work towards achieving their energy and climate goals.
In conclusion, the launch of the 2024 World Hydropower Outlook and the opening of the IHA's regional office in Southeast Asia underscore the growing importance of hydropower in the global energy landscape. With robust growth projections and a commitment to sustainability, the hydropower sector is poised to play a crucial role in meeting the energy needs of the future while addressing the challenges of climate change. The IHA's efforts to promote collaboration and knowledge sharing will be instrumental in driving the sector forward, ensuring that hydropower remains a key player in the transition to a low-carbon energy system.