Drought Anomaly In Winter, Portugal Restricts Use Of Hydroelectric Power

Illustration of hydropower in Portugal. (Wikimedia Commons/Gerry Labrijn)

JAKARTA - Portuguese authorities have restricted the use of some reservoirs for hydroelectric power (PLTA) and irrigation, amid an unusual winter drought anomaly.

Earlier this month, Portuguese authorities temporarily restricted the use of water at several hydroelectric dams, to prioritize human consumption.

The Portuguese Meteorological Institute (IPMA) said the whole of Portugal was experiencing some degree of drought, due to relatively low rainfall since November.

The IPMA added that the situation had now deteriorated, with at least 45 percent of the country's territory experiencing 'severe' or 'extreme' drought.

Five hydroelectric dams in central Portugal will almost be completely closed, while another in the southern Algarve region will stop irrigation, the Environment Ministry said in a statement.

Minister João Pedro Matos Fernandes explained that this step was necessary to ensure drinking water supply for at least the next two years.

"The drought situation is worrying. If the forecast becomes any grimmer, we will have to go beyond these measures," he explained.

To note, Portugal has about 60 hydropower reservoirs of various sizes, which together generate 30 percent of the country's annual electricity consumption.

"However, Portugal has other reservoirs that are full enough to cover the shortfall due to restrictions," said Matos Fernandes.

With February expected to produce some rain, the restrictions will remain in place until March 1 when they will be reviewed.

Meanwhile, Portuguese farmers have raised concerns, saying the drought could "severely" affect their crops and livestock.