Selene Diaz

MA
Political Science

Ecuador’s growing reliance on hydropower has positioned it as a regional leader in renewable energy development. However, recent droughts have exposed the vulnerability of this energy model in the face of climate change. In 2024, widespread blackouts underscored the risks of overdependence on hydroelectricity in a country. Despite past droughts and projections of future variability, the government continues to prioritize hydropower projects through significant public debt. This research examines the political drivers behind Ecuador’s persistent investment in hydropower and it seeks to understand who are the communities most affected by energy and water insecurity.