Reconstruction and improvements of the tunnel system for upgrading of hydropower plants to peaking or pumped storage plants

Research institute: HydroCen

Pure water is incredibly important in hydropower. Sediments like rock, gravel, sand and clay wear down the steel in turbines and other components and lead to heavy maintenance costs.

In Norway, we have hard rock and clean water, but in many other countries it is important to consider sediment-leading rivers both when it comes to power plants and the environment. Those who research sediment management thus address a global problem for economics, environment and sustainability.

In 2017 a cooperation with, among others, researchers in Nepal and India has been established to investigate these issues. It is likely that there will also be increased activity in this area in HydroCen in the coming year.