Hydro developments, generation options and the environment in Latin America

Abstract

This paper provides a concise outlook of the hydro developments, generation options and the environment in Latin America. Various public debates have occurred in recent decades in industrialized economies over the energy supply future. Much greater attention is now being paid to these issues in developing economies. The debates are generally about the comparative economic, environmental and social trade-offs, and public acceptability of the various nuclear, thermal, hydro, and alternative generation options; and increasingly, about the potential role and contribution of demand management options. Panelists that have been deeply involved in this debate in their countries will discuss topics such as the main trends and issues for different electricity supply options in Latin America considering their social and environment implications, and sustainable development practices.