Given the uncertainty around future hydroclimate conditions, hydropower development decisions carry risk of 'regrets'  when a different climate than was expected materialises. 'Robust adaptation' refers to an adaptation strategy that balances risks across different climate scenarios . Development bank lending principles require consideration of the regional picture and interactions with other developments along a river when they determine the social and environmental impacts of the proposed hydropower project. However, these principles often do not explicitly consider climate change, so the risk of recurring drought-induced hydropower shortages could be missed .
IPCC
Climate Change 2022: Impacts, Adaptation and Vulnerability
IPCC Report