Shared waters, shared futures: Indigenous partnerships in hydropower

Hydropower projects are uniquely embedded in the landscapes, livelihoods, and cultural identities of local and Indigenous communities. Yet, building trust and securing sustained support remains one of the most complex and consequential challenges facing the sector. Too often, insufficient engagement, misaligned expectations, or failure to recognise Indigenous rights and knowledge systems can lead to delays, reputational risks, or project failure.

This session will explore how hydropower projects can move beyond consultation toward genuine, long-term partnerships with Indigenous Peoples. Drawing on the principles and best practices embedded in the Hydropower Sustainability Standard (HSS), the discussion will unpack common social and cultural barriers encountered across the project lifecycle, from early siting decisions through to operation.

Through real-world case studies and practitioner insights, the session will highlight practical approaches to navigating complex community dynamics, integrating Indigenous knowledge into project design and management, and aligning project objectives with local priorities. The focus will be on fostering trust, enabling meaningful participation, and achieving durable social license to operate.

Session objectives

• Identify challenges and opportunities in engaging Indigenous communities across the hydropower lifecycle and understand their implications for project delivery and social license.  
• Highlight practical approaches and best practices, aligned with the Hydropower Sustainability Standard, to move from consultation toward meaningful, long-term partnerships.  
• Share lessons from real-world experiences to support projects in strengthening trust, aligning project and community priorities, and delivering mutually beneficial outcomes.

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