The World Bank has launched the Thirsty Energy initiative to help developing countries better manage water resources while developing energy projects. Announcing the campaign at the World Future Energy Summit in Abu Dhabi on 20 January, World Bank climate change envoy Rachel Kyte said: “The world’s energy and water are inextricably linked. With demand rising for both resources and increasing challenges from climate change, water scarcity can threaten the long-term viability of energy projects.”
Water shortages last year shut down power plants in India, reduced generation in the US and threatened hydropower output in many countries. “The problem is expected to get worse,” the bank says. “By 2035 the world’s energy consumption will increase by 35%, which in turn will increase water consumption by 85%, according to the IEA.” The initiative will help governments identify synergies and trade-offs between energy plans and water use and plan for sustainability. Work is under way in South Africa, while Morocco is among countries in talks with the Bank. (CONTINUED - 276 WORDS)
