FUTURE DEVELOPMENTS
A new era in sustainable hydro-turbine lubrication
Zach Hunt, Martin Greaves, Jeff DiMaio, Ben Bergmann, VBASE Oil Company Zach Hunt Martin Greaves Jeff DiMaio Ben Bergmann Hydropower’s
sustainability credentials are well established, but lubricant choice is becoming an increasingly important part of the equation. Focusing on
environmentally acceptable turbine oils, this feature highlights advances in ester-based chemistry and real-world trials, showing how operators can balance performance, reliability and environmental responsibility in modern hydroelectric systems.
Hydropower is one of the most reliable and widely utilised renewable energy sources, playing a critical role in the global transition away from fossil fuels. While its low-carbon benefits are well established, the environmental footprint of hydroelectric operations extends beyond electricity generation. Central to turbine performance are lubricants, which reduce friction, control temperature, and ensure long-term reliability. Petroleum-based turbine oils have long been the industry standard, valued for their proven performance and ability to deliver extended service life under demanding conditions. However, when leaks or accidental discharges occur, these oils can persist in aquatic environments, posing risks to water quality and surrounding ecosystems.
As sustainability expectations rise, our industry is assessing the potential of environmentally acceptable hydro turbine oils as a safer alternative to conventional petroleum-based turbine oils.
8 LUBE MAGAZINE NO.193 JUNE 2026
These advanced fluids are designed to deliver the performance required for demanding turbine applications while offering a significantly improved environmental profile. Formulated to meet stringent criteria for biodegradability, low toxicity, and minimal bio-accumulation, and aligned with frameworks such as the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the EU Ecolabel, they provide a more responsible option in the event of leaks or discharges. Beyond compliance, their adoption can help operators reduce environmental risk, potentially lower remediation costs, and strengthen the overall sustainability and public perception of hydropower operations.
In response to these evolving requirements, VBASE® Oil Company has developed a high-performance environmentally acceptable hydro turbine oil - VBASE® Hydro T-EL. Field performance insights are presented here to give turbine operators the confidence to safely and reliably transition to this technology.
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