From the Editor’s Desk |
Refurbishment in a changing world
H 4 | April 2025 |
www.waterpowermagazine.com
ydropower has long been a cornerstone of global energy infrastructure, providing reliable and renewable electricity while contributing to water management and flood control. However, much of the
world’s hydropower and dam infrastructure is aging, and refurbishment is becoming a critical priority. As highlighted in the 2025 Infrastructure Report Card by the American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE), infrastructure investment plays a pivotal role in maintaining resilience, reliability, and efficiency in energy systems The ASCE report underscores that many US dams
are past their intended lifespan, with the average dam over 60 years old and nearly 70% expected to reach this milestone by 2025 The situation is similar worldwide, with thousands of dams and hydropower stations facing significant deterioration. Without refurbishment, aging structures risk failure, inefficiencies, and environmental degradation, threatening energy security and public safety.
Rather than decommissioning aging plants or constructing entirely new facilities, refurbishment offers a cost-effective and sustainable alternative. Modernising turbines, generators, and control systems can enhance efficiency and output while extending the life of existing facilities. Investing in upgrades also supports sustainability goals by integrating digital monitoring, improving fish passage solutions, and incorporating sediment management practices. The ASCE report emphasizes the growing risk of climate-related disasters, which affect all infrastructure,
including hydropower. Upgrading dams and power stations with resilience-focused designs can help them withstand extreme weather events such as floods, droughts, and hurricanes. Furthermore, refurbishing hydropower plants aligns with global energy security goals, reducing dependence on fossil fuels and enhancing grid stability.
Recent federal investments in infrastructure are starting to make an impact. However, sustained investment is required to ensure long-term improvements. Similar policies worldwide are driving refurbishment efforts, but funding gaps remain a challenge. Private sector involvement and public- private partnerships can help bridge these gaps and accelerate modernisation efforts. Hydropower refurbishment is not just about maintaining the past – it’s about shaping the future. As energy demand rises and the need for sustainable solutions intensifies, modernising existing hydropower infrastructure is a necessary step toward a more resilient, efficient, and climate-adaptive energy system. Governments, industry leaders, and policymakers must prioritize long-term investment to secure the future of hydropower as a vital renewable energy source.
Carrieann Stocks
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