Integrating hydropower sustainability through system level planning

This session will explore the intersection of energy and river system planning on the one hand, and project-level assessment through the lens of the Hydropower Sustainability Standard on the other hand.

By taking a system-scale approach, planning can evaluate a range of alternative options for hydropower development in order to minimise negative cumulative impacts on river ecosystems and achieve a better balance between stakeholders’ objectives. This should provide a strong foundation for identifying individual hydropower projects that meet the rigorous sustainability criteria outlined in the preparation stage of the Standard.

In this session, we will explore practical applications of a holistic system and project approach, such as recent hydropower masterplans, cumulative and strategic impact assessments, and hydropower-by-design exercises, and discuss the lessons learned for future applications. 

Speakers:

• Joerg Hartmann, Accredited Lead Assessor, Principal Consultant Sustainable Water and Energy LLC (Moderator)
• Jeff Opperman, Global Lead Scientist for Freshwater, World Wildlife Fund (WWF)
• Jahanzeb Murad, ESG Advisor, International Finance Corporation (IFC)
• Hu Weizhong, Vice President, CISPDR Corporation
• Paul Sauvé, Senior Advisor, Environment, Health and Safety Integration, Hydro Quebec
• Munyaradzi C. Munodawafa, Chief Executive, Zambezi River Authority
• Kamia Handayani, EVP Energy Transition and Sustainability, PLN