SE-HYDRO is a Horizon Europe project developing innovative solutions to make hydropower more flexible, environmentally sustainable, and socially inclusive. As hydropower currently provides nearly 30% of the European Union's renewable electricity and plays a vital role in balancing variable energy sources such as wind and solar, it is essential for Europe's transition to a carbon-neutral energy system. At the same time, hydropower operations can impact river ecosystems, biodiversity, and local communities, creating a need for solutions that balance energy production with environmental protection and societal acceptance.
Over the next 3.5 years, SE-HYDRO will develop and validate new approaches that combine artificial intelligence, digital twins, advanced hydropower management, environmental assessment, and stakeholder engagement to enable eco-flexible hydropower operation. The project will demonstrate these solutions at four pilot sites in Greece, France, Portugal, and Serbia, representing a wide range of hydropower technologies and river basin conditions.
NORSUS will do both environmental LCA and social LCA in this project. The assessment will give important input for documenting and assessing both the social and environmental impacts of the operation solutions developed in the project.
A unique feature of SE-HYDRO is its strong focus on societal readiness. By involving hydropower operators, policymakers, local communities, NGOs, and other river users throughout the project, SE-HYDRO aims to ensure that future hydropower solutions are developed with society as well as for society. The project will also establish a European Community of Practice to promote knowledge sharing and support the wider uptake of sustainable hydropower solutions.
By integrating technological innovation with environmental stewardship and participatory governance, SE-HYDRO will help ensure that hydropower continues to play a key role in Europe's renewable energy future while protecting ecosystems and strengthening public trust.
Follow the project’s progress on https://www.se-hydro.eu/ or LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/company/se-hydro/
