| Contents regulars Cover Story


Kühtai 2 project expands Austria's energy, utilizing advanced Volvo construction equipment for challenging terrain work


5 World News


Global Alliance for Pumped Storage launched at COP29 to boost energy security EIB approves €300 million loan for Salto de Chira project


features 10 12 18 10 Spotlight


US energy transition faces fragmented policies, complex regulations, and state conflicts, slowing carbon-free goals writes Stephen O Simmons


Classified


40 42


Contacts


22


Australasia 12


Insights from ANCOLD Chair


Angus Swindon provides insight into his current role and previous experience.


14 24


Facing up to the change The impact of climate change in Australia and New Zealand


Design 18


Inspection tools &


technologies 24


How AI enhances inspections


As energy demand rises, AI improves hydropower and dam inspection by enhancing efficiency, safety, sustainability, and predictive maintenance


26


Climate redesign Designing flood control infrastructure with a focus on climate-resilience


Multi-purpose projects 22


36


Drones transform plant inspections


In Sweden, a hydro station is being mapped by drones


28 Revolutionizing disaster response


Full of purpose The value of converting single purpose reservoirs into multi- use ones is being investigated in the US. There is also major potential for storage-fed irrigation at hydroelectric dams


During hurricanes Helene and Milton, Satelytics used AI and satellite imagery to assist Duke Energy in rapid disaster response. Founded by Sean Donegan, Satelytics provides proactive solutions across industries, from detecting infrastructure issues to supporting sustainability. Their technology helps ensure efficiency and minimizing environmental impact


Construction 32


Machines help fuel green power


The Kühtai 2 project in Austria expands TIWAG’s Sellrain-Silz power plants, adding a third reservoir and pumped storage facility. Utilizing advanced Volvo machinery, it exemplifies sustainable construction and strategic partnerships in high- altitude conditions


Refurbishment 35


Expert team powers turbine overhaul


Collaboration, experience and expertise were at the heart of the Unit 1 turbine generator overhaul at Maentwrog hydroelectric power station in North Wales


Floating solar 36


Going with the flow The potential of floating solar projects is being studied worldwide


Next issue Finance initiatives; digital twins for dam operations; tunnelling technologies; environmental monitoring at dams; sustainable hydropower projects @waterpowermag


©Business Trade Media International ISSN 0306-400X


www.waterpowermagazine.com | December 2024 | 3


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