Research Publications

The development of energy prices over time has depended on several factors. Difficulties and disruptions in local and global energy markets caused by climate change, pandemics and wars have accelerated the transition to clean energy. The overview of electricity generation in four countries (e.g. Lithuania, Italy, Iceland and Austria) is examined. The energy policy outlined in the REPowerEU program focuses on saving energy, producing clean energy and diversifying the energy supply at EU level and in the member states. However, more electricity production from non-dispatchable renewable energy sources has introduced a phenomenon of negative electricity prices, highlighting importance of energy storage. This paper focuses on the contribution that hydropower can bring to the energy market. Two contributions of hydropower assets are crucial in the European energy market for the regulation of the power grid. The flexibility and storage capabilities of reservoir and pumped storage power plants are unmatched by any other technology. These contributions of the hydropower sector to the energy market and the new challenges in the operation of hydropower plants are discussed involving critical analysis of four countries.

Publication can be found here.

The six Western Balkan countries (WB6), which include Albania, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Kosovo, Montenegro, North Macedonia, and Serbia, are in a critical phase of their development and face various economic, political and environmental challenges. Political uncertainties, economic imbalances, and institutional weaknesses have hindered their progress in achieving sustainable development goals. Among these challenges, the energy sector stands out as a priority due to its signiicant impact on economic growth, climate change, and environmental sustainability. The energy landscape in the region is dominated by conventional and non-renewable energy sources, leading to concerns about energy security and environmental degradation. Dependence on fossil fuels exposes these countries to volatile energy prices and increases their contribution to greenhouse gas emissions. There is an urgent need to develop cleaner and sustainable energy sources to promote economic growth while mitigating the harmful effects of climate change. Hydropower capacity in the WB6 countries is estimated to be signiicant and offers the opportunity to generate clean energy. A comprehensive overview of the hydropower potential in the WB6 countries considers factors such as river systems, water availability, topography, and technical capabilities. The promotion of renewable energy, especially sustainable hydropower, is central to achieving a sustainable future in the WB6 countries. By harnessing their hydropower potential and addressing environmental and social concerns, these countries can boost their economic growth, combat climate change, and improve their energy security for a prosperous and sustainable future.

Publication can be found here.

This study examines recent energy transition policies and the conceptual framework of energy justice, emphasising the role of hydropower, in ensuring the equitable distribution of energy services and burdens. The analysis focuses on the EU's energy mix, highlighting the capacity of hydropower and its impact on energy justice, and examines the relationship between migration and energy poverty in countries such as Poland, the Czech Republic and Turkey. In addition to their role as a source of renewable energy, hydropower offer a range of other benefits, including irrigation, flood control, water supply and fisheries. Despite these benefits, the construction of dams can also give rise to several social impacts, including environmental degradation, displacement of local communities and disruption to traditional livelihoods. The study concludes that hydropower remains critical to the EU's transition to a sustainable and equitable energy system and supports social justice through improved energy access and security.

Link to the paper here.