Up close, it gets worse: Comparison of hydropower perceptions between impacted populations in the Amazon and those of the Brazilian population as a whole

Author(s)

Johansen, Igor Cavallini ; Mayer, Adam P. ; Moran, Emilio F.

• Document type: Journal article
• Source: ENERGY RESEARCH & SOCIAL SCIENCE; v. 110, p. 11-pg., 2024-02-08.

Abstract

In the context of the Sustainable Development Goals, addressing the global demand for affordable and clean energy is paramount. While hydropower is often perceived as meeting both criteria, its true merits are subject to debate. This paper delves into energy preferences within Brazil, with a specific focus on hydropower, the nation's predominant energy source. It takes on a unique challenge previously unexplored in the literature by investigating how a population living near a major hydropower dam perceives this energy source in contrast to the broader national population. We conducted two comprehensive surveys, one covering the entire nation of Brazil and the other concentrated in Altamira, an urban area in the Amazon profoundly impacted by the construction of the Belo Monte dam, the second largest in the country. Our research findings indicate that people living near a large dam hold a less favorable view of hydropower's social and environmental impacts when compared to the national population. However, it is noteworthy that over 60 % of Altamira's residents still express support for hydropower, believing they are a "sacrifice zone" for the greater national good. We recommend that decisionmaking regarding energy investments in the Global South involve a dialogue with national preferences, particularly with directly impacted populations. This process should carefully consider the pros and cons of each energy source. For regions most affected by the construction of new energy plants, we advocate directing targeted benefits that address impacts and enhance energy affordability. (AU)

• FAPESP's process: 19/17113-9 - After hydropower dams: social and environmental processes that occur after the construction of Belo Monte, Jirau and Santo Antônio in Brazilian Amazon
• Grantee: Emilio Federico Moran
• Support Opportunities: Research Projects - SPEC Program
• FAPESP's process: 20/16378-6 - After hydropower dams: social and environmental processes that occur after the construction of Belo Monte, Jirau and Santo Antonio in the Brazilian Amazon
• Grantee: Igor Cavallini Johansen
• Support Opportunities: Scholarships in Brazil - Post-Doctoral