Hydropower generation potential and prospective scenarios for sustainable electricity supply for the period 2022–2042: A case study of the NIN zone of Cameroon

Hydropower is the sole renewable energy source on grid in Cameroon, accounting for approximately 62% of this supply as 2019. So far, hydropower most attractive electricity country, with a technically exploitable capability around 115 TWh per year. However, actual output (943 kW) quite low, corresponding to about 7% country’s potential. The South Interconnected Network (SIN) zone, home potential 83 year, produces 98.00% hydroelectricity, while North (NIN) zone generates remainder. Nevertheless, its 7.5 NIN has alleviate poverty population and forecast sustainable energy-consuming projects (SECP), including export (EE) neighboring Chad Nigeria. present study aimed at exploring short, median high scenarios based projected Average Annual Growth Rate (AAGR) national real Gross Domestic Product (GDP), which are translated into demand (ED) expected over 20-year period (2022–2042). High scenario an optimistic status that displays AAGR GDP 6.40%, equivalent ED (PED) 6.61%, more conservative status, realistic assumptions aligned anticipated 5.0%, PED 5.79%. Low scenario, likely aftermath COVID-19 pandemic, pessimistic 3.60% matching 3.60%. To achieve objective study, comprehensive review economically (EEHP) sites performed, under construction hydroelectric plants ones highlighted. Finally, intended special contribution research shed light hydrologic energetic parameters prioritized match PED, best-case SECP by end zone.