Development of hydropower equipment for improving techno-economic efficiency and equipment resilience in refurbishment situations

Development of hydropower equipment for improving techno-economic efficiency and equipment resilience in refurbishment situations of existing hydropower plants, which are outdated in respect of efficiency, power market interfacing, climate change adaptation and environmental sustainability, in particular also in respect of biodiversity. In scope are novel technologies, which improve the efficiency and economic parameters of existing hydropower plants during refurbishment without requiring substantial modification of the hydraulic system and by implementing circularity by design, e.g. low-friction and resistant materials and technical solutions that can minimize tear and wear in future operation modes. Solution should positively affect CAPEX and OPEX per kWh and also be compliant with improving the water quality of the underlying water body and in particular positively affect biodiversity. Socio-economic and environmental sustainability including SDGs, circular economy, social, economic and environmental aspects should be addressed on a life cycle basis.