Hydroelectric Dams

‘Sticking plaster fixes’ such as geoengineering could have unwanted side effects

The huge hydroelectric project is part of South African foreign policy, even though it makes little economic or environmental sense

As workers fled the outbreak in West Africa, China International Water and Electric employees stayed put to finish the Kaleta dam in Guinea.

Quietly and in incremental steps an energy megaproject is taking shape in one of Africa’s least-developed countries, the Democratic Republic of Congo.

The proposed Mphanda Nkuwa dam will affect the livelihoods of 200 000 Mozambicans and force 1 400 households to relocate, writes James Morrissey.

Dams on the Salween River could damage ecosystems, displace people and lead to potentially catastrophic seismic events, warn environmental groups.