MINT & BRIC | capacity of around 50GW, hydropower is the Reference
2024 World Hydropower Outlook – International Hydropower Association
second-largest source of electricity in the country. Russia is actively modernising its aging hydropower infrastructure and exploring new projects in remote regions to enhance energy security and integrate with neighboring markets. The government has prioritized climate resilience measures, ensuring that hydropower plants can withstand extreme weather events. Russia is also increasing cross-border energy cooperation with China and European nations, leveraging its extensive river networks to create international energy corridors. Russia recently approved the construction of the Evenkia Hydropower Complex, a 12GW project designed to provide stable power to industrial regions. Additionally, the country is developing smaller hydro plants in the Arctic to ensure energy security in remote communities.
Hydropower development in MINT
Countries The MINT countries have considerable hydropower potential, but development has been uneven due to economic, political, and environmental factors. Mexico has a well-established hydropower sector, contributing about 17% of its electricity generation. However, recent policy shifts favoring fossil fuels over renewables have slowed investment in new hydropower projects. The government is focusing more on modernising existing plants rather than developing new large-scale projects. Mexico is also exploring hybrid energy projects, where hydropower stations are supplemented with floating solar panels to maximize energy output from reservoir areas. Indonesia possesses abundant hydropower
Below: The Kashimbila Multipurpose Dam in Nigeria. Image courtesy Geosense
resources, particularly in Sumatra, Java, and Kalimantan. Despite having an estimated potential of over 75GW, only a fraction has been developed due to infrastructure challenges and complex regulatory processes. The government is prioritising small and medium-sized hydropower plants to electrify rural
areas and reduce dependency on coal. Indonesia is also strengthening its regulatory framework to attract foreign investment, particularly in sustainable hydropower initiatives that meet international environmental standards. A significant step forward is Indonesia’s Batang Toru Hydropower Project, which will add 510MW to the grid upon completion in 2025. Nigeria, despite its significant river systems, has underutilised its hydropower capacity. The country has an installed capacity of around 2GW, far below its potential of over 14GW. Chronic underinvestment, political instability, and poor grid infrastructure have hindered development. However, Nigeria has recently commissioned the Kashimbila Multipurpose Dam to improve flood protection and energy access. Turkey stands out as the most advanced MINT country in hydropower development. With over 3GW of installed capacity, hydropower accounts for nearly 20% of its electricity mix. The country has pursued new projects, including pumped storage, to enhance grid stability and reduce reliance on imported fossil fuels. Turkey’s strategic location allows it to integrate hydropower with other renewables and export electricity to neighbouring countries.
Conclusion Hydropower remains a key pillar of renewable energy
strategies in both MINT and BRIC countries, though their development trajectories differ. BRIC nations, particularly China and Brazil, have established themselves as global hydropower leaders, while MINT countries are still in the process of realizing their full potential. Addressing policy, financial, and environmental challenges will be crucial for these emerging economies to harness hydropower for sustainable energy transitions. By implementing innovative technologies, fostering international cooperation, and ensuring regulatory stability, these countries can maximize their hydropower potential while supporting global climate goals.
12 | March 2025 |
www.waterpowermagazine.com
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