Session 2: Environmental and Biodiversity Focus

On September 22, PEN@Hydropower and EERA JP Hydropower are hosting the Knowledge Symposium on Hydropower Research Gaps, bringing together leading experts to discuss where research can most effectively support hydropower’s role in the clean energy transition.

After opening with Session 1: Flexibility and Storage, the symposium will turn its attention to a second crucial theme: the environmental and biodiversity impacts of hydropower.

Session 2: Focus on Environmental / Biodiversity

Hydropower is an essential renewable energy source, but it also shapes river ecosystems in complex ways. This session will highlight research on how hydropower can coexist with thriving aquatic environments, exploring mitigation measures, restoration strategies, and innovative engineering solutions.

Confirmed speakers:

• Ludwig KUHN
  Mitigation of Total Dissolved Gas Supersaturation downstream of Hydropower Plants using Ultrasonic Degassing: Laboratory Experiments and Field Tests

• Serhat KUCUKALI
  Optimum Bypass Passage for Downstream Fish Migration at Run-of-River Hydropower Plants: A Win-Win Solution

• Frida NIEMI
  Evaluating Locations for Fish Habitat Restoration with Hydraulic Modelling and Bedload Transport in a Hydropeaking River

• Liv Randi HULTGREEN
  Executive Director at RenewHydro – Norway

Why this matters

As Europe accelerates the deployment of renewable energy, hydropower’s ability to provide flexible, reliable electricity must be balanced with environmental stewardship. Research into fish migration, dissolved gas mitigation, and habitat restoration is vital to ensure that hydropower contributes to both climate and biodiversity goals.

Join the discussion

📅 Date: September 22
🔗 Register here: https://luma.com/9t8gxxhx

Be part of the conversation on how hydropower can innovate to meet environmental challenges and support resilient ecosystems alongside renewable energy production.