On April 22 and 23, the picturesque town of Juan-les-Pins Antibes hosted SOLAR-HYDRO 2024, an event dedicated to exploring the global potential and progress in solar-hydro power. The conference focused on critical areas such as safety, new technology, environmental aspects, and finance, attracting industry leaders and experts from around the world.

ETIP HYDROPOWER, represented by our esteemed member Jean-Jaques FRY made a significant impact at the event, presenting three key strategies to enhance Floating Solar PV (FPV) deployment in Europe:

1. 1. Strategic Research Innovation Agenda: Encouraging organizations to identify essential research and innovation actions for both the Strategic Research Innovation Agenda of ETIP PV and ETIP HYDROPOWER.
   2. HORIZON R&I Framework Program: Highlighting opportunities to propose projects on floating solar PV under the European HORIZON R&I framework, aimed at scaling up sustainable FPV deployment across Europe.
   3. Collaborative Research and Innovation: Promoting the implementation of FPV research and innovation projects through direct stakeholder collaboration and in-kind contributions.

During the event, several topics requiring further research and innovation were identified:

• • Defining the maximum reservoir surface area that FPV can cover.
  • Enhancing social and environmental acceptability of projects.
  • Mitigating risks through pilot project knowledge.
  • Improving monitoring support for investors and authorities.
  • Adopting AI for FPV in mature markets.
  • Critically assessing design and construction aspects for anchors, mooring systems, and floater fatigue.
  • Increasing PV panel efficiency.
  • Conducting economic analyses on CAPEX and OPEX.
  • Establishing international standards for materials, grid codes, and environmental aspects.

To support the final point, the Swiss Federal Office of Energy announced the formation of a working group to develop directives for FPV projects in Switzerland.

For a detailed summary of the presentations and discussions, refer to Alison Bartle's article in the International Journal on Hydropower & Dams, Volume 31, Issue 3, pages 76-89.

Anton Schleiss, a key member of the ETIP HYDROPOWER Coordination team, was invited to deliver a one-hour keynote lecture at the 12th East Asian Dam Conference (EADC). This event was part of the International Symposium on Sustainable Development and Management of Dams and Reservoirs for Future Generations, held on June 3rd, 2024, in Nagoya, Japan. More information about the event can be found here.

In his keynote address, titled "The Sustainable Use and Extension of Hydropower Reservoirs is Vital to Ensure the Energy Transition," Schleiss emphasized the critical role that hydropower reservoirs play in Europe. In the second part of his lecture, he highlighted how these reservoirs and dams are essential in mitigating the ongoing energy crisis and how they act as catalysts and enablers for the European Green Deal.

Schleiss presented the outcomes of HYDROPOWER EUROPE, showcasing the project's contributions to advancing sustainable hydropower solutions. Additionally, he discussed the ongoing activities of ETIP HYDROPOWER, underscoring the initiative's efforts to promote innovation and collaboration within the hydropower sector. His presentation underscored the necessity of sustainable hydropower development to support the energy transition and ensure a resilient and environmentally friendly energy future for Europe and beyond.

ETIP HYDROPOWER participated in the European Sustainable Energy Week ( EUSEW) 2024. The event, which took place at the Charlemagne building, brought together experts, policymakers, and industry stakeholders to discuss and showcase innovations driving Europe’s transition toward sustainable energy sources.

At their stand (C-24), ETIP HYDROPOWER collaborated with other influential organizations, including the International Hydropower Association (IHA), ETIPsFORUM, ETIPSNET, and BRIDGE. Together, they highlighted the latest advancements in hydropower technology, policy, and research.

Visitors engaged with an interactive Fishing Game, where participants had the opportunity to win prizes while learning about the benefits of the different ETIP's inside #ETIPsForum. ETIP HYDROPOWER expressed gratitude to all attendees and emphasized the importance of collective efforts in advocating for a sustainable and energy-efficient Europe.

As the world continues to address climate change and seek cleaner energy alternatives, events like EUSEW play a crucial role in fostering collaboration and knowledge exchange. ETIP HYDROPOWER remains committed to driving positive change and contributing to a greener future for Europe and beyond.

Thank you to everyone who visited our stand and joined us in advocating for a sustainable and energy-efficient Europe.

Let's continue to drive the change towards a greener future!

#EUSEW2024 #WaterWiseEU #EnergyTransition #SustainableFuture #Hydropower #Innovation #GreenEnergy #Collaboration #EuropeEnergy

ETIP HYDROPOWER is pleased to announce the launch of the Virtual Postcard Summer Edition, inviting all stakeholders to participate in a photography initiative celebrating the synergy between hydropower facilities and their natural environments. This edition focuses on capturing the beauty, power, and sustainability of hydropower as it integrates seamlessly with the landscapes, highlighting the theme of summer.

Participants are encouraged to submit stunning images that reflect the essence of hydropower within its natural surroundings. These photographs will be used to convey summer greetings to all ETIP HYDROPOWER stakeholders and will be featured across all ETIP HYDROPOWER communication channels.

By showcasing the harmony between technology and nature, we hope to inspire greater appreciation and support for renewable energy solutions. We look forward to your contributions and to celebrating the vibrant spirit of summer through the lens of hydropower.

All entries must be received by 28 June 2024 no later than 11:59 PM CET

For more details on participation and submission guidelines, please click here

The Swiss Federal Government oversees the construction and modification of large water retaining facilities (WRFA, SR 721.101). Any changes to these facilities, including dams, reservoirs, and safety-relevant auxiliary installations, require planning approval to ensure technical safety (WRFA art. 6). This extends to modifications from appurtenant installations like floating photovoltaic platforms, heliports, wind turbines, etc. The Swiss Federal Office of Energy (SFOE), specifically its Dam Supervision Section (TS), is responsible for the technical safety assessment of large dams.

The SFOE is calling for expert applications to develop a directive (Part F) on the safety of water retaining facilities with appurtenant installations. This directive will outline the minimum safety recommendations needed. The working group will draft the directive in three phases:

• Structure and Criteria Development: Establish the directive's structure, identify hazards, and determine classification and monitoring criteria.
• Technical Content Drafting: Detail the technical content, including legal bases, roles, risk definitions, safety objectives, and minimum safety requirements.
• Finalization: Revise and finalize the draft for review.

Experts are sought in areas such as anchoring, dam design, floating structures, geology, instrumentation, civil engineering, meteorology, natural hazards, and risk management. The working group will include 10-15 experts and involve three face-to-face sessions, three online sessions, and eleven and a half days of work, totaling sixteen days by March 2026.

Applications, including CVs and fixed daily rates, must be submitted by June 30, 2024, to Thomas Menouillard at the SFOE.

Contact:

Thomas Menouillard

Swiss Federal Office of Energy, SFOE

Pulverstrasse 13, 3063 Ittigen

Email: thomas.menouillard@bfe.admin.ch

Read more about the application by clicking here

The countdown begins for one of the most anticipated events in the sustainable energy sector, the European Sustainable Energy Week #EUSEW2024 Energy Fair. Set to take place from June 11th to the 13th, the fair will open its doors at the Charlemagne building and you could find ETIP HYDROPOWER at the ground floor, stand C-24.

This year’s theme, ‘Collaborative Energy Transition for Europe’s Future,’ aims to foster discussions and collaborations that will shape a sustainable future for all. At the booth we will share the space together with organizations such as the International Hydropower Association (IHA), ETIPsFORUM, ETIPSNET, and BRIDGE, who will also be sharing insights and innovations in renewable energy.

Visitors are invited to engage with industry leaders and contribute to the dialogue on advancing clean energy solutions. 

For more information on the EUSEW 2024 Energy Fair and to participate in shaping a sustainable future:

• Visit the official website
• Connect on social media

#EUSEW2024 #CleanEnergyEU #EnergyTransition #SustainableFuture #ETIPsForum #ETIPSNET #Hydropower #BridgeH2020 #IHA #RenewableEnergy #EUInnovation #GreenTech

The "75 Most Influential People in Hydropower" list has been released by International Water Power & Dam Construction. This list recognizes individuals who have made significant contributions to hydropower development, and from ETIP HYDROPOWER we want to acknowledge the work of all those featured on the list.

The list includes Denis Aelbrecht, Head of Technology at EDF Hydro Engineering Center, whose leadership roles within the Comité Français des Barrages et Réservoirs (CFBR) and as Chair of the ETIP HYDROPOWER Governing Board demonstrate his impact on the industry.

Anton J. Schleiss, with his extensive career in hydraulic engineering and dam construction, is also recognized. His role as the technical coordinator of ETIP HYDROPOWER highlights his continued involvement in the hydropower sector.

The individuals featured on this list represent the collaborative and innovative spirit that drives the hydropower industry. Their work contributes to the advancement of sustainable energy solutions and resilience.

Read the full article here

#Hydropower #Innovation #Sustainability #ETIPHYDROPOWER #HydropowerExcellence

ETIP HYDROPOWER actively engaged at the recent #EUGreenWeek Conference. As a key figure in the hydropower sector and a proud contributor to the #WaterWiseEU campaign, we recognize the critical role hydropower can play in tackling pressing water challenges like floods and water scarcity. From the session "Water resilient EU – Key challenges, definition and vision", we could highlight the following key takeaways:

• A call for unified action: Maroš Šefčovič emphasized the need for joint efforts and broader stakeholder dialogue to achieve water resilience by 2050.
• Addressing water extremes: Lidia Brito highlighted the dual threats of water scarcity and excess, urging immediate action to prioritize water for environmental and human well-being.
• Strengthening legal frameworks: Alain Maron stressed the importance of robust legal frameworks across Europe to ensure equitable water distribution and water cycle restoration.
• Sharing knowledge and best practices: Anikó Raisz underlined the significance of inter-sectoral collaboration and knowledge sharing.
• Water for a competitive future: Pietro Francesco De Lotto discussed the centrality of water for industrial competitiveness and advocated for a renewed European water policy agenda.

ETIP HYDROPOWER, through our commitment to innovation and deep industry knowledge, is positioned to contribute significantly to more effective water resource management, flood mitigation, and ensuring a stable water supply for all.

Our focus areas include linked to the Brussels Conference 2024 are the followings:

1. Enhancing and disseminating research and innovation in hydropower.
2. Aligning industry strategies with EU climate and energy policies.
3. Collaborating with stakeholders to foster understanding and overcome innovation barriers.

By working together, we can build a water-resilient Europe. Let's keep innovating and collaborating for a sustainable future!

#ETIPHydropower #Hydropower #WaterResilience #Sustainability #Innovation #ClimateAction #EUGreenWeek #WaterWiseEU

ETIP HYDROPOWER hosted a webinar, "Boosting Hydropower with Good Practices for Research," showcasing advancements in the hydropower field. The event brought together key players and highlighted promising initiatives leveraging digital solutions to enhance hydropower efficiency and sustainability.

Emanuele Quaranta from the European Commission provided an overview of current hydropower research activities, mentioning that the European Union allocates an average of €10 million annually to EU-based hydropower projects. Therefore, Anton Schleiss emphasized ETIP HYDROPOWER's role in unifying the sector and presenting a single voice on key issues.

The webinar featured presentations from three key projects focused on digitalization within the hydropower sector:

• D-HYDROFLEX: Presented by Katerina Drivakou, this project aims to improve sustainability performance and flexibility of hydropower assets using IoT, digital twin technologies, AI-based techniques, and novel sensor-based modeling. The project also focuses on reducing the impact on fish migratory species and enhancing cybersecurity.
• Di-Hydro: Presented by Alkiviadis Tromaras, this project focuses on the digitalization of operations and maintenance for hydropower plants. It includes real-time system management, remote monitoring, AI-based techniques, and advanced sensors to improve efficiency and sustainability.
• iAMP-Hydro: Presented by Aonghus McNabola, this project co-develops and validates novel condition monitoring and predictive maintenance solutions, advanced sensors for biodiversity monitoring, and enhanced weather and flow forecasting models. It aims to improve the ecological and socio-economic sustainability of existing plants.

These initiatives represent significant steps forward in unlocking hydropower's full potential as a clean and reliable renewable energy source for the EU. By harnessing digital technologies, these projects aim to propel efficiency, optimize resource utilization, and pave the way for a sustainable energy future for Europe.

Thank you to our amazing community and stay updated with more exciting developments coming soon!

For more information: 

Speaker slides: ETIP HYDROPOWER, Emanuele Quaranta (EC), Katerina Drivakou, Alkiviadis Tromaras, Aonghus McNabola

Webinar recording here

#Hydropower #Sustainability #RenewableEnergy #Innovation #CleanEnergy #GreenTech #ClimateAction #EUFunding #EnergyTransition #WaterPower