Focus on hydropower: November highlights
November was an engaging month in the gripping world of hydropower for SuperGrid Institute. We delivered an insightful webinar on hydropower hybridisation with The International Hydropower Association (IHA). We took an active part in Hydro 2024, a major and inspiring event for the hydropower industry where we could reflect on ideas and visions to overcome the challenges ahead. And because we like to share, here’s what we’ve learnt!
Maximising potential with hydropower hybridisation webinar
Gathering a great panel of industry leaders, SuperGrid Institute led an engaging online event in partnership with the International Hydropower Association and supported by ETIP Hydropower. This webinar explored the great potential of integrating advanced technologies into hydropower plants, addressing key concerns for hydropower actors such as:
- How can we boost revenue from hydropower assets?
- What are the best strategies to extend equipment lifespan?
- How do we preserve water resources while maximising energy efficiency?
From defining hybridisation to showcasing four real-world use cases across the globe, experts from Inter-American Development Bank (IDB), Greenko and SuperGrid Institute captivated the audience. They demonstrated the benefits of hybrid solutions, sparking lively discussions and raising sensible questions.
Why choose pumped storage hydropower for isolated networks?
Still wondering how and where such innovation could be implemented? Let’s see how hybrid pumped storage can be a game-changer for island Energy Grids!
Isolated power grids, like those on islands, often struggle with stability due to low inertia and reliance on intermittent renewables. Pumped Storage Plants (PSPs) offer a sustainable solution, especially when enhanced with hybrid technologies.
In Martinique, Meridiam launched a greenfield project to construct a pumped storage plant in Saint Pierre with a turbine capacity of 7 MW and a pumping capacity of 4.6 MW to supply electricity during 4-hour cycles and enhance the reliability of Martinique’s electricity network.
But Meridiam’s PSP project faced stringent grid requirements, including a two-second Fast Frequency Response (FFR).
SuperGrid Institute tackled this challenge with an innovative hybrid design. Our main objectives to unblock the project were to: enhance the PSP design to meet its revenue objectives and make the business model sustainable by studying different possibilities of how to meet the grid code requirement.
Hydro 24 International Conference
Held in Austria, in the vibrant city of Graz, the Hydro 24 International Conference offered another platform to meet with leading players and share knowledge on actionable strategies to ensure the resilience of hydropower. Under the theme “Secure Technology for Turbulent Times”, the event showcased the state of hydropower, its hot topics and latest studies.
What we saw: global trends and local insights
Our team observed an industry buzzing with optimism, backed by innovation and promising projects. Here are the highlights:
- New horizons in hybridisation
The hybridisation of hydropower plants, particularly in Africa, emerged as a focal point. Projects combining hydropower with solar, wind and battery storage are developing, addressing energy intermittency and enhancing grid stability. This trend underscores the critical role of hydropower as the backbone of renewable energy systems. - Upgrading power for renovation projects
Across the globe, power plant renovation projects are gaining momentum. Many facilities are being retrofitted with advanced turbines and systems, resulting in increased generation capacities while maintaining their proven operational designs. - Pumped storage: the silent workhorse
New pumped-storage projects are being planned and constructed to meet the surging demand for energy storage. These projects, including innovative underground and seawater applications, demonstrate the versatility of this time-tested technology. - Addressing machine reliability and maintenance
Equipment durability remains a key concern, with ongoing research into minimising cavitation and machine damage. Predictive maintenance powered by Artificial Intelligence is now at the forefront, enabling operators to identify faults before they escalate. This shift to smart monitoring systems enhances operational reliability. - Strengthening Security Amid Global Turbulence
The impact of geopolitical instability, such as infrastructure damages in Ukraine, is sharpening the focus on energy security and independence. Simultaneously, climate change and decarbonisation efforts are driving countries to enhance and expand hydropower infrastructure.
Bridging tradition and innovation
The industry remains steadfast in its commitment to proven hydraulic machinery, while simultaneously embracing modernisation. From compact turbine designs to hybrid electrical solutions, hydropower is evolving to meet the demands of the future without losing sight of its foundational strengths.
This year’s conference keeps revealing hydropower’s potential to adapt and lead in a rapidly changing world.
As you can see, the discussions, innovations and connections built over the last month are promising. We are inspired and ready to contribute to this ongoing transformation!
