The hydropower sector in Switzerland is currently facing numerous challenges. Energy Strategy 2050 aims to increase the share of hydroelectricity generated in Switzerland. At the same time, Swiss water protection legislation stipulates in the ecological situation of the country’s waterways with respect to residual water, fluctuation of water levels, fish migration and bed load transport. In addition, adaptations are necessary to keep pace with changing hydrological conditions and other effects of climate change. Restructuring electricity production requires greater flexibility and additional storage capacity, especially for storage power plants.
The overall objective of the Hydropower research programme is to exploit Switzerland’s hydropower potential from a holistic perspective. Priority is to be given to research projects that aim to open up further potential or continue to exploit known potential or improve the economic or ecological conditions of Switzerland’s waterways.
The following research priorities can be applied in large-scale or small hydropower plants since in many instances the existing capacity is of secondary importance.