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The new era of contested hydropower development: A systematic review from 2000 to 2022

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  • Mills-Novoa, Megan
  • Borgias, Sophia

Abstract

Since 2000, there has been a surge in hydropower development globally. This contemporary hydropower boom is distinguished from earlier periods by four key dynamics: 1) an increase in small-scale, run-of-river, and other alternative forms of hydropower, 2) the growing urgency for decarbonization, 3) a rise in bilateral and public–private finance, and 4) the existence of international standards for minimizing the socio-environmental impacts of hydropower development. Despite these shifts, hydropower development continues to spark fierce social resistance. We conducted a systematic review of 116 peer-reviewed articles and 180 Environmental Justice Atlas profiles to better understand the nature of contested hydropower development and the dynamics of social resistance to it.

Suggested Citation

  • Mills-Novoa, Megan & Borgias, Sophia, 2025. "The new era of contested hydropower development: A systematic review from 2000 to 2022," World Development, Elsevier, vol. 196(C).
    • Handle: RePEc:eee:wdevel:v:196:y:2025:i:c:s0305750x25002487
    DOI: 10.1016/j.worlddev.2025.107162
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    References listed on IDEAS

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