“Increasing Hydropower Capacity in South Africa amidst challenges posed by water scarcity, dam siltation and climate change”. – South African Energy Efficiency Confederation

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“Increasing Hydropower Capacity in South Africa amidst challenges posed by water scarcity, dam siltation and climate change”

South Africa has the potential to increase its hydropower capacity to meet its growing energy demands and reduce carbon emissions. However, the country faces challenges due to chronic water scarcity and the impacts of climate change. To address this, innovative strategies are needed to optimise existing resources and adapt to environmental changes.

South Africa has not fully tapped into its hydropower potential. As of 2023, the country’s total hydropower energy generation was 3,484 megawatts, contributing only 3% (0.9% hydroelectric and 2% pumped storage) to South Africa’s overall energy mix. This is a small fraction of its total electricity generation capacity. There is considerable potential for both small-scale and large-scale hydropower projects, indicating room for growth in this sector. However, the effective use of this potential is limited by ongoing water scarcity resulting from climate variability. Hydropower presents a sustainable and reliable energy source and offers a viable means to diversify the energy mix, improve energy security, and reduce dependence on coal, which currently dominates the energy landscape. This is crucial for the country’s transition to cleaner energy and its ability to meet National Determined Contributions targets. Yet, the success of hydropower development is closely linked to managing siltation in dams, a challenge that requires comprehensive strategies and robust capacity building. Despite its benefits, hydropower also has environmental and social drawbacks. The construction of dams and reservoirs can disrupt ecosystems, impacting aquatic and terrestrial life. Dams can obstruct fish migration and lead to stagnant water conditions, while large projects can displace local communities, particularly indigenous and rural populations. However, employing sustainable practices and mitigation strategies can help minimise negative impacts and enable hydropower to be a viable component of a sustainable energy transition.

The accumulation of sediments in reservoirs significantly impacts the operational efficiency and lifespan of hydropower plants. It reduces water storage capacity, damages turbines, and increases maintenance costs, thereby undermining the economic viability of hydropower projects. The reduced storage capacity impacts electricity generation and poses safety risks. Sediments can clog intakes, reduce turbine efficiency, and compromise dam integrity, leading to flooding and water shortages. Effectively managing siltation is crucial to maximise the potential of hydropower. This can be achieved through a combination of engineering and ecological solutions, supported by capacity building. Better management of land in the catchment areas can reduce soil erosion and the inflow of sediment into reservoirs. Planting trees, creating terraces, and using sustainable agricultural practices are crucial for rehabilitating catchment areas. Implementing sustainable desilting operations when feasible can help maintain reservoir capacity and ensure the efficient functioning of hydropower plants. Installing sediment traps and bypass systems can prevent sediments from entering the main reservoir, thus protecting the hydropower infrastructure and maintaining storage capacity. Furthermore, investing in innovative sediment bypass systems and retention structures can help alleviate downstream impacts of siltation while maximising hydropower generation potential. Using advanced monitoring tools and sediment transport models can help predict siltation patterns and plan effective management interventions. Remote sensing and GIS technologies are particularly useful for large-scale monitoring.

It is also important to build technical and institutional capacity to tackle the challenges caused by siltation. This includes training new skilled professionals in hydrology, sedimentology, and water resource management. Additionally, it is crucial to improve institutional frameworks to support integrated water resource management and implement robust policies.

It’s crucial to consider climate change projections when designing infrastructure to ensure it will be suitable for future climates. South Africa, in particular, needs to focus on building more resilient energy systems for energy security and economic growth. Understanding the impact of climate change on hydroelectric generation and adapting hydropower production to withstand extended drought conditions is essential. It’s urgent to incorporate climatic projections into investment and decision-making processes for the planning, design, and operational management of hydropower schemes. There is a need to increase awareness, improve capacity, manage siltation, and recognize associated risks. Successfully addressing these aspects will help South Africa maximise its hydropower capacity, leading to sustainable energy, reduced carbon emissions, and economic growth. However, managing siltation in dams is a critical challenge that should be addressed to fully realise this potential. With strategic siltation management practices and robust capacity building, South Africa can enhance its hydropower infrastructure, ensuring reliable energy production while also protecting water resources and ecosystems.

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Lesego Gaegane is a sustainability professional with 16 years of experience across all sectors of the Industrial Policy Action Plan. She holds a degree in Chemical Engineering and has been instrumental in the successful implementation of numerous projects focused on energy management, water efficiency, and water resource management over the past 15 years. In her role, Lesego has been a catalyst for policy change within private companies, facilitating their transition to sustainable development principles and practices. Her expertise has been pivotal in driving the adoption of sustainable methodologies, ensuring that businesses not only comply with environmental regulations but also thrive through enhanced efficiency and productivity. She is an active member of the Institution of Chemical Engineers (IChemE), the International Water Association (IWA), and the Society for Ecological Restoration. Additionally, she is part of the Global Women’s Network for the Energy Transition’s Women in Energy Expert Platform and a member of the Circular Economy Club. Lesego’s commitment to energy management is further demonstrated by her 15-year membership with the Southern African Energy Efficiency Confederation (SAEEC), where she currently serves as a board member. she has contributed to advancing energy efficiency standards and practices within South Africa. Lesego’s leadership extends to her role as the South African Lead of the Lesotho/South Africa NatSilt/ICM committee, where she oversees joint water security projects. Her work in this area is crucial for ensuring sustainable water management and security in a region facing significant environmental challenges. Lesego is dedicated to the development of young professionals in the environmental sustainability sector. She actively engages in mentorship programmes, sharing her knowledge and experience to foster the next generation of sustainability leaders.

Lesego Gaegane’s career is marked by her unwavering commitment to sustainable development, her strategic influence on policy and practice, and her dedication to mentoring future professionals.

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