Modernisation
The challenge
As the hydropower sector prepares for the future, a growing number of facilities are due for modernisation.
By 2030 over half of the world’s existing hydropower plants will have undergone, or will be due to undergo, upgrading and modernisation, according to IHA’s hydropower database.
By 2050, all current hydropower facilities are predicted to require modernisation.
To ensure that existing assets are retained and available to meet the future role of hydropower in energy systems, traditional modernisation practices will need to consider more than just ‘business as usual’ replacements.
Major refurbishment projects will look at both improved performance and innovative technologies. For example, fast response capability and optimised operating modes can ensure that hydropower assets have the flexibility to support higher penetrations of variable renewables.
A successful modernisation programme will bring the best technologies from the next generation of hydropower projects to an existing facility.
Our strategy and action
IHA is supporting the exchange of industry experiences and innovation in modernisation programmes.
We are working closely with our members to explore the range of investment strategies for improving and extending the lives of existing hydropower assets.
Our modernisation work programme is gaining insights into how organisations are improving equipment design to provide greater functionality and flexibility within the changing energy system, enhance grid support, reduce operating costs and build resilience to climate change.
IHA members will benefit from briefings and webinars on accepted good practice from leading organisations in the hydropower sector.
Join the network
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Members can exchange experiences and learn from industry experts on successful modernisation programmes by joining IHA’s Asset Management Knowledge Network.
Hydropower Pro
IHA members can access the knowledge network in Hydropower Pro, our online member community.
In the online group, network members can connect with each other, exchange experiences and access essential resources, briefings and case studies.
For any questions, please contact IHA analyst David Samuel at david.samuel@hydropower.org
Latest associated content
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Study identifies need for investment in Asian hydropower modernisation
31 August 2020
Type:News postDate:31 August 2020 -
Blog: Hydro modernisation in South America requires better financing and regulation
Blog by Arturo Alarcón, Senior Energy Specialist at IDB and Maria Ubierna, Hydropower Specialist at IHA
Type:Blog postDate:28 July 2020 -
Blog: Hydropower for the 21st century in Latin America and the Caribbean
The modernisation of the hydropower fleet in Latin America and the Caribbean needs to go beyond 'business as usual', write Arturo Alarcón, Senior Energy Specialist at the Inter-American Bank (IDB) and Maria Ubierna, Hydropower S
Type:Blog postDate:28 May 2020 -
Hydropower associations unite to set Covid-19 recovery pathway
18 May 2020
Type:News postDate:18 May 2020 -
Hydropower assessment tools aligned with World Bank standards
Sustainability assessment tools have been enhanced to better align with ESG requirements set by international financial institutions such as IFC and the World Bank.
Type:News postDate:7 May 2020
