Rehabilitation, Upgrades, and Optimization

Hydropower is a Clean Energy Technology with an Energy Efficiency Component.  National energy plans around the globe demonstrate a strong commitment to hydropower.  New or greenfield projects, and modernization of existing facilities are the two major areas in which private investment is expected.  Vast amounts of small and medium sized hydropower project opportunities exist for U.S. hydropower investors. In addition, many of the existing facilities could optimize their energy output by an added 20-40% by using upgrade, modernization or rehabilitation technologies which U.S. companies are well placed to provide.  In fact, many of the almost 656,000 installed megawatts of hydropower could through energy efficiency improvements and investment in improvements in power generation provide additional energy without involving additional sites.  

Hydropower will be a critical component in an overall strategy to address global climate change concerns.  The responsible balance of modernized hydro sites combined with greenfield projects financed by the private sector will help to mitigate the need for costly imported fuels, and will maximize sustainable energy options for the future.  In Mexico alone, it is estimated that more than 1400 existing project sites require such modernization, representing a substantial carbon offset at minimal investment.