In response to the European Commission’s Calls for enhanced flexibility, storage, and environmental sustainability, ETIP Hydropower is paving the way for the transformation of the energy landscape

For more than a century, hydropower has served as a reliable and clean energy provider, harnessing the power of water to generate electricity. Its historical significance and proven results make it a crucial element in the global pursuit of more sustainable energy alternatives. The European Commission (EC) is aware of this role and has placed in the spotlight this renewable source.

The EC acknowledges the ability of hydropower in enhancing flexibility, storage capacity and sustainability. The Calls for proposals in these areas reflect the need for adaptation to changing energy demands that require improved grid stability. The European Technology and Innovation Platform (ETIP) Hydropower emerges as an ally in this quest as its main objective is to gather all the stakeholders in the hydropower value chain and guide them towards the innovations required to align with the European vision.

Harnessing Research in the hydropower sector

ETIPs collaboration with EC Research and Innovation initiatives becomes essential in shaping the future of energy. These projects act as catalysts for development as they create the base for exploration and implementation of future solutions. In this setting, every ETIP establishes a strategic roadmap for stakeholders from research communities and beyond.

In relation to hydropower, efficiency, sustainability, flexibility, and storage emerge as the keywords of the EC’s vision for the sector in the coming years, providing a clear structure to navigate the research scene.

• • Efficiency:

This means to enhance hydropower efficiency for energy output. The projects in this category are usually infrastructure based, for example, they could tackle the modernisation of turbines or improvement of plants’ performance.

• • Sustainability:

Addressing historical environmental concerns, sustainability in hydropower is on the quest of improved models that can only be reached through investments in research and innovation. Actions in this research line include monitoring restoration sites, establishing biological databases, identifying reservoir services for biodiversity, researching environmental indicators, fostering eco-design collaboration, and exploring innovative societal approaches, among others.

• • Flexibility:

The ability of hydropower to adapt to fluctuating energy demands is one of the biggest assets, since it is essential to grid stability. Projects addressing flexibility mostly concentrate on the implementation of digital solutions, such as smart grid integration or smart storage systems.

• • Storage:

Storage is one of the biggest challenges across all energy transition efforts. It is essential to address the intermittent nature of renewable energy sources and to adapt to the demand. Research projects tackling storage revolve around developments in pumped storage and other technologies to store the excess of energy during periods of low demand. Large hydropower reservoirs are also vital to mitigate climate change effects and thus contribute to the WEF NEXUS and achievement of the SDGs of the United Nations.

By strategically associating these keywords (efficiency, sustainability, flexibility and storage) with EU research initiatives, stakeholders gain a powerful tool to navigate the research needs of the sector. This targeted approach ensures the alignment with the broader vision for energy that has been set up by the European Commission, making hydropower as not only resilient, but also an environmentally friendly and technologically advanced source.

As we embrace the challenges of energy transition, the synergy between research and innovation and policy emerges as a locomotive behind the progress of hydropower. The cooperation between the EC and ETIP Hydropower is more than just a connection. It could be an opportunity to steer hydropower as the pivot to catalyse energy transition in Europe.

Image: Dam in Madrid. Wirestock from Freepik

Mark your calendars for April 16^th and don't miss out on this pivotal event in Brussels!

Join us for the Brussels Hydropower Day 2024, a hybrid conference taking place both in-person at the Bluepoint Brussels and virtually via live stream. The Brussels Hydropower Day 2024 is your gateway to engaging with stakeholders and decision-makers shaping the future of the hydropower sector in Europe. This conference serves as a crucial platform for discussing the challenges and opportunities surrounding hydropower deployment amidst the energy transition.

There are many reasons why you shouldn't skip out on this event:

• Gain insights into the pivotal role of hydropower and energy storage in navigating uncertainties such as economic fluctuations, market dynamics, and climate change.
• Learn from industry leaders about best practices in hydropower deployment, including strategies for electricity market design, flexibility enhancements, and meeting social and environmental standards.
• Participate in discussions on collaboration across sectors within the SET Plan, exploring pathways for seamless energy system integration and ensuring a resilient and adaptable energy supply.
• Stay updated on the latest initiatives of ETIP HYDROPOWER, driving towards a unified voice for hydropower across Europe.

Co-hosted by European Hydropower Alliance. 

Event Details:

Date: April 16^th, 2024
Time: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Location: Bluepoint Brussels (In-person) and Online (via live stream)

Register now to secure your spot!

Download agenda here.

For more information, visit our website

Last 31 January 2024 energy leaders convened in Laussane (Switzerland) for the XFLEX HYDRO conference, unveiling groundbreaking technological upgrades to hydropower plants across Europe. The initiative, backed by a 4-year, EUR-18m investment, signifies a significant leap in our understanding of hydropower's potential in supporting the global energy transition and ensuring power grid stability.

The XFLEX HYDRO project showcases the fusion of international expertise, revealing that through advanced software solutions and modest technological enhancements, existing hydropower plants can offer extended flexibility. This marks a departure from traditional hardware-centric approaches, emphasizing digital upgrades to harness new value and deliver crucial grid stability services.

Hydropower, a stalwart in renewable energy for over 150 years, has taken center stage once again as the world accelerates its pursuit of clean energy. The event  in Lausanne proposed various upgrades, such as about hydropower turbine and battery hybrids, variable speed turbines, and optimized operational modes. With 250 participants engaged in discussions, the event served as a melting pot for industry professionals, policymakers, and energy influencers, exploring topics ranging from preparing for the energy transition to maximizing hydropower assets.

Antonella Frigerio, Vice-Chair of the ETIP HYDROPOWER Governing Board, contributed to the panel discussion titled "Going further with hydropower: research and innovation perspectives," alongside Atle Harby and Emanuel Quaranta, both members of the Scientific Advisory Board of ETIP HYDROPOWER. The presence of ETIP HYDROPOWER at the XFLEX HYDRO Official Result Launch underscores the collaborative effort to shape the Future of Hydro. For more details, visit https://www.xflexhydro.com/news 

ETIP HYDROPOWER Representations from left Peter Stettner (Andritz-Hydro), Vice Chair Governing Board; Denis Aelbrecht (EDF-Hydro), Chair Governing Board; Antonella Frigerio (RSE); Anton Schleiss (Secretariat ETIP HYDROPOWER)

The European Technology and Innovation Platform on Hydropower (ETIP Hydropower) has recently made significant strides in the energy sector, participating in high-profile events and advancing its governance structure. This summary highlights the key developments in the Governing Board elections, the project's involvement in Enlit Europe, collaboration with the Global Renewables Alliance (GRA), and the outcomes of the inaugural "Brussels Hydropower Day."

Brussels Hydropower Day:

ETIP Hydropower successfully organized the first edition of the "Brussels Hydropower Day" on April 25, 2023. The event brought together stakeholders to discuss opportunities and barriers in the deployment of hydropower amidst challenges like the energy transition and changing market conditions. Keynote speakers highlighted the role of hydropower in the energy landscape, emphasizing the need for sustainable solutions.

Establishment of the Governing Board:

ETIP Hydropower is actively working towards establishing a robust governance structure. The Governing Board, crucial for shaping the future of the hydropower sector in Europe, has been successfully established and held its first official meeting on 23 November 2023. The Board is composed of 25 stakeholders representing all relevant hydropower sub-sectors, e.g. industry, operators, R&D&I, environment & civil society. They will collectively provide strategic advice to the SET Plan, addressing topics such as market analysis, research funding, biodiversity protection, and ecological continuity with the support of ETIP Hydropower project in the secretariat role. The Governing Board is led by a chairperson and two co-chairs, who have been elected in December 2023 for a 3-year term. In Q1 2024, the Governing Board is planning to discuss launching of the first thematic Working Groups. The secretariat will also proceed with the establishment of the Scientific Advisory Board, composed of relevant R&D stakeholders and stakeholder fora representatives, e.g. DG JRC, IEA Task 9, EURELECTRIC and others.

World Hydropower Congress 2023:

The World Hydropower Congress in Bali, organized by partner IHA, is anticipated to bridge the gap between climate ambition and actionable solutions. This global event, scheduled for October 31 to November 2, aims to bring together decision-makers, innovators, and experts to shape the future of sustainable hydropower and contribute to the world's clean energy transition.

Enlit Europe Participation:

ETIP Hydropower has participated in the recent Enlit Europe forum, where it featured in the ETIPs Forum session on renewable energy sources. The event, hosting 12,000 energy professionals, aimed to foster collaboration, showcase industry developments, and engage with EU-funded projects. ETIP Hydropower was also present at the Zabala Innovation booth during the three-day event, providing a platform to discuss and showcase its innovative strategies for the future of hydropower.

Conference HYDRO 2023:

Anton Schleiss from the ETIP Hydropower Management Team chaired a session at the HYDRO 2023 conference, emphasizing the importance of reliable hydropower as a catalyst for Europe's clean and safe energy transition. The outcomes of this session are slated for publication in the Journal on Hydropower & Dams in 2023.

Global Renewables Alliance Formation:

In a significant global development, over 40 nations and influential organizations have united under the banner of the Global Renewables Alliance (GRA). The International Hydroelectric Association (IHA) has joined forces with GRA, emphasizing a comprehensive approach to drive the transformation of the energy sector through collaborative action.

As ETIP Hydropower actively engages in global forums, governance structure development, and collaborative initiatives, it continues to play a crucial role in shaping the future of the hydropower sector. The project's commitment to innovation, collaboration, and sustainability positions it as a key player in the ongoing energy transition. Stay tuned for further updates and insights as ETIP Hydropower progresses in its mission to redefine the landscape of hydropower research, innovation, and industry collaboration.

Anton Schleiss, Jean-Jacques Fry, and Mark Morris from the ETIP HYDROPOWER Management Team published a paper entitled “The energy crisis in Europa reveals the importance of reliable hydropower as a catalyst and enabler for the clean and safe energy transition” which gives an overview of the results of HYDROPOWER EUROPE project as well as the goals and outcomes of the ETIP HYDROPOWER project.

Access the publication HERE.

ETIP HYDROPOWER project participates in this year’s edition of Enlit Europe, the in-person event that brings together the energy community to discuss, collaborate and shape the future of the industry.

We are delighted to announce that ETIP HYDROPOWER will be participating in the upcoming Enlit Europe forum. The project will take part on the ETIPs Forum - Reshaping energy landscapes: The key role of research and innovation for renewable energy sources session that will be held on the 29th of November. In addition, it will be present during the three days of the event at the Zabala Innovation booth, the lead beneficiary of the Communication, Dissemination, and Exploitation Workpackage. 

Enlit Details:

Date: November 28-30, 2023

Location: Paris Expo Porte de Versailles, Paris, France

Session: 29th Nov 14:45-15:30 |EU Projects Zone Hub - Theatre 1 (Hall 7.2)

Stand: 7.2.H80-08

Why Enlit Europe:

Enlit Europe, a premier energy event, will host 12,000 energy professionals, 700 exhibitors, and 500 speakers in Paris. Attendees will explore the latest industry developments, connect with start-ups and entrepreneurs driving the energy transition, and engage with EU-funded projects at the forefront of the energy transition acceleration. Enlit is a dynamic and inclusive forum that addresses every aspect of the energy agenda, fostering collaboration and innovation year-round.

The ETIP Hydropower project will be featured at the highly renowned Enlit Forum in Paris. This project, dedicated to fostering innovation and collaboration in the hydropower sector, is committed to showcase its visionary strategies for the future. 

This is not just an event; it is a milestone for ETIP Hydropower to connect with industry leaders, researchers, and policymakers. Visit our booth to delve into discussions, meet our experts, and understand how this project is charting the course for the future of hydropower innovation.

Stay tuned for exclusive updates and insights as ETIP Hydropower and Enlit converge to redefine the landscape of hydropower research, innovation, and industry collaboration.

Find all the information here: ETIP HYDROPOWER | Enlit World 

Anton Schleiss from the ETIP HYDROPOWER Management Team was invited to chair the Session 1 on Hydro Planning and Potential. He presented an introductory talk entitled “Importance of reliable hydropower as a catalyst and enabler for the clean and safe energy transition in Europe”. The talk addressed in detail the purpose, activities and outcomes of the ETIP HYDROPOWER project. The summary of the outcomes of the session will be published in Journal on Hydropower & Dams, Issue 5, 2023.

Anton Schleiss was also the co-organizer and a speaker of the Seminar on  Pumped Storage which was hold on October 15 in the framework of HYDRO 2023.

More information: https://www.hydropower-dams.com/hydro-2023/ 

A recent report confirms the European Union's (EU) position in hydropower, emphasizing its prowess in research and development (R&D), scientific research, technological innovation, and sustainable solutions. The EU hosts more than a quarter of the world's pumped-hydropower-storage capacity, solidifying its role in supporting renewable energy integration, energy storage, and grid stability.

Hydropower plays a vital part in addressing climate change and water demand, but it also poses environmental challenges, highlighting its complexity within the Water-Energy-Food-Ecosystem nexus.

Current EU hydropower trends focus on unlocking hidden potential in existing facilities, enhancing resilience to climate change, and incorporating digital solutions. New reservoirs are designed with versatility in mind to serve multiple purposes.

Key Points from the Report:

• Pumped-Hydropower Prowess: The EU holds over 25% of global pumped-hydropower-storage capacity, a key player in energy storage.
• Climate Resilience: Modernizing infrastructure for better climate adaptability is a priority.
• Environmental Responsibility: Sustainable practices are promoted to minimize environmental impacts.
• Multi-Use Reservoirs: New reservoirs are designed to offer multiple services.

For the full report, please visit this website.

The Hydro21 association organised the 8th edition of its Rencontres Business Hydro on 9 and 10 October 2023 in Grenoble, on the theme of the storage and flexibility of hydroelectricity, in the midst of the development and integration of intermittent renewable energies and the security of the electricity grid. This event is the business meeting place for the hydropower industry in France. Roland Lescure, Minister Delegate for Industry and Emmanuelle Verger-Chabot, Director of EDF Hydro.

This year's event attracted more than 1,500 participants, over 150 exhibitors, 6 round tables, doctoral student pitches, keynotes from leading industrial, institutional and political figures, participants from Switzerland and Italy, and disseminated the publication of the White Paper - Volume 4, including a paper on ETIP Hydropower. J-J Fry from ETIP Hydropower took part in a round table discussion on innovation and highlighted the advantages of ETIP Hydropower for developing and financing research and innovation in the hydropower sector.

Access the publication HERE.