Climate adaptation solutions in which hydropower systems are given primary consideration are the focus of this paper. Hydropower is historically a significant green energy source. Because of notable environmental impacts resulting from damming river systems, hydropower systems can receive negative consideration as green energy solutions. There are no perfect solutions in the “energy” solution spectrum. According to the IPCC, hydropower offers significant potential for the reduction of green house gases (GHG) emissions. By the end of 2008, hydropower contributed about 16% of worldwide electricity supply. Further, hydropower remains the single largest source of renewable energy in the electricity sector and deserves increasing attention as solutions are sought. Since solutions are imperfect, the judicious implementation of any proposed solution is required. The re-examination of hydropower as a viable and “clean” energy solution in the context of climate adaptation is presented. Non-powered dams (NPD) have been identified in the US in a previous work. The NPDs are further cataloged for their potential for generating hydropower (and as energy storage systems), any environmental concerns, and other factors. Implementation of the methods proposed in developing areas, particularly, in Africa, is explored.
