Energy generation is responsible for approximately a third of the increase in the greenhouse gas concentration in the atmosphere. As a result, a global climate change becomes more and more visible. An important element in combating climate change is the increased use of renewable energies. Mini and micro hydropower is one of the most attractive technologies for mitigating climate change. In addition, it can also play a significant role in the field of decentralized electricity generation and it is a key element in the strategy to accelerate rural access to power supply. There is a vast untapped potential for developing small hydropower plants around the world. Many of these sites can be exploited in an economically viable, socially acceptable and ecologically compatible way.
Our specialists support the small hydropower developer in all phases of the project as an engineering consultant and project manager. We provide the following services:
- Conceptual studies for small hydropower development
- Feasibility studies (new sites, upgrading or rehabilitation of existing plants)
- Assessment and evaluation of existing small hydropower plants
- Consultation with water authorities and environmental groups
- Advising developers on organisational and financing issues
- Tender design and detailed design including energy output optimisation, hydraulic and river engineering (flood frequency analysis, sediment transport, water hammer), foundation engineering and geotechnical analysis, structural analysis and safety evaluation
- Site supervision, environmental monitoring, plant commissioning
- Operation and maintenance concepts, optimisation of O&M procedures
- Interdisciplinary project management
- Inspection and monitoring of dams, weirs and fish passes
- Environmental certification of small hydropower plants