Hydropower and pumped storage hydropower (PSH) are the foundations of a secure, fair, and sustainable energy transition. Through the publication of the World Hydropower Outlook, the International Hydropower Association (IHA) tracks the annual progress of these technologies on a global scale. This session will explore market trends at both global and European levels, examine the current pipeline of projects, and discuss the key policies—both regional and global—that are essential to driving the sector forward and unlocking its full potential.

In Austria, hydropower accounts for more than 60% of total electricity generation, making it the backbone of the country’s electricity system. Aligned with its commitment to achieving climate neutrality by 2040, Austria plans to further expand its renewable generation
capacities, focusing not only on hydropower but also on more variable sources like wind and PV. However, integrating these variable technologies requires a coordinated enhancements of flexibility and storage capacities to maintain a reliable and efficient electricity supply. To address the growing demand for flexibility and storage capacities, several large-scale pumped storage hydropower projects are currently under development, designed to provide crucial cross-border services.

While hydropower provides significant benefits, it is undeniable that it can significantly impact ecosystems, alter natural river dynamics, habitats and continuity. Comprehensive measures to improve the ecological status of water bodies are essential and include fish migration
facilities to restore connectivity, habitat restoration, increased ecological flow and measures to mitigate the effects of hydropeaking. To ensure consistent implementation of these measures, robust legal frameworks and green standards , applicable both for existing hydropower facilities and for new projects approvals are necessary. The Austrian Ministry for Water Management is responsible for overseeing the implementation of these measures and coordinating the collaborative process among all stakeholders.

It is essential to collaboratively develop sustainable solutions that contribute to climate change mitigation and biodiversity restoration. Achieving this goal necessitates enhanced communication and cooperation among authorities, industry stakeholders, and the scientific community. A scientifically informed, adaptive approach to developing broadly supported strategies and guidelines represents a promising path for effective implementation.

Austrian hydropower operators exemplify this integrated approach through comprehensive projects that contribute to the European Water Framework Directive’s restoration goals.
These efforts are visualized on a recently launched digital, interactive map, which currently highlights approximately 170 initiatives. Encompassing fish migration facilities, adjustments to residual water flows, and habitat restoration, these projects represent an investment of over 300 million euros dedicated to enhancing aquatic ecology throughout Austria. The map will be regularly updated to track progress.
Further information about Austrian water bodies, ecological status, and ongoing restoration
efforts can be found on the website of the Federal Ministry for Water Management (BMLUK).