The Political Economy of Hydropower Dependant Nations

This book aims to inform better energy policy in hydropower dependent countries which are vulnerable to climate shocks. It focuses on the impact of increasing energy insecurity as global warming affects a fifth of the world population living in hydropower dependent countries facing drought. It uses Zambia as a case study.

The book offers supply-side and demand-side recommendations at the national, continental, and global level and contains original data collected to highlight the impact of power outages on manufacturing firms. 

“Imad Ahmed's deep dive into the story of Zambia's development of and dependency on hydropower provides a timely input into how countries with hydro resources should think about their energy transitions to zero-net emissions systems that provide reliable, affordable, and clean energy for all. Like many other countries, Zambia relies on an aging hydropower stock, developed when the speed and the full force of climate impacts seemed either unlikely or far into the future. For countries like Zambia, how can hydro play an optimized role in a diversified energy system, efficiently, serving the environment, people, and industry, as regional weather patterns change? How will they be financed with levels of indebtedness climbing past prudent limits in Zambia and across the region? What is hydropower's role in the energy systems of the future? This book is an excellent place to look back to move forward.” (Rachel Kyte, Dean, The Fletcher School, Tufts University, USA; former UN SG Special Representative for Sustainable Energy; former World Bank Group Vice President and Special Envoy for Climate Change) 

“Imad Ahmed has written a fascinating and meticulously researched book on Zambia, which details the various challenges posed by hydroelectric power. This book is a must-read for all interested in Zambia and energy policy in the developing world.” (Pradeep Chhibber, Professor of Political Science, University of California, Berkeley, USA)

“One of the many devastating effects of climate change is that it exposes a fifth of humanity to energy insecurity. Through this brilliant analysis of the country of Zambia and the challenges ahead for its hydropower sector, Imad Ahmed shines a bright light on this emerging crisis and what must be done about it. This book is a must-read for anyone interested in getting beneath the headlines of the effects of climate shocks and taking meaningful action.” (–Bhaskar Chakravorti, Dean of Global Business, The Fletcher School, Tufts University, USA)

“Which comes first in developing economies, economic growth or environmental sustainability?  Imad Ahmed’s deep dive into Zambian hydropower successfully pulls together many diverse and important themes.  This book provides a refreshing look at where traditional responses to hydropower can have adverse effects.  Ahmed’s conclusions might help developing countries ‘leapfrog’ towards environmental sustainability in emerging markets while providing the power for growth and standards of living that their citizens deserve.” (Michael Mainelli, Professor, Alderman & Sheriff of the City of London, Executive Chairman, Z/Yen Group, UK)

Imaduddin Ahmed holds a PhD in Infrastructure Economics and Finance from University College London, where he is a Research Fellow. Previously as a Transactions Advisor at the Rwanda Development Board, he helped the Rwandan energy utility execute thermal and renewable Power Purchase Agreements.