The Dilemma, Challenges and Prospects of Hydropower Generation in West Africa

Abstract

Hydropower – energy which is generated from a large body of water is a major potential source of energy in Africa, which is capable of meeting the industrial, commercial and domestic energy and electricity requirements of the continent. The paper discusses the hydropower potential of the West African region and the current constraints in the exploitation of the valuable resource. The paper highlights the current trends in the exploitation of the hydropower resource in West Africa which currently stands at 10 – 12%, which indicates that there is a huge potential for further development in the sector, considering the energy deficit in the sub – region and the low electricity connectivity access in the major countries in West Africa. The paper further discusses the many constraints and challenges confronting hydropower development, particularly small hydropower development in West Africa. Some of the challenges identified include climate change, policy and instrumental barriers, as well as environmental and public health issues. The paper concludes by highlighting the potentials in mitigating the problem including research collaborative by two major universities within the sub – region to provide solution to this ever daunting challenges and constraints.