Applying a climate information distillation framework to support a climate resilient hydropower sector in Nepal

This study applies the Climate Information Distillation Framework (CIDF) to the Nepal hydropower sector. Focusing on present day uncertainties and projected future changes to extreme rainfall, the authors show that a CIDF can be applied in situations where opportunities for co-production are limited but where there is a need to consider diverse perspectives and objectives.

The benefits and challenges of using this framework are discussed, highlighting that while climate information rarely dominates in adaptation decision-making processes, appropriate framing, synthesis, transparency and communication of uncertain climate information can valuably support adaptation decisions and policy. Providing the case study of hydropower development in Nepal, within a complex economic and development context, we find that applying the theoretical framework must be done with humility and flexibility to support real-world decision-making.