In the wake of a global financial crisis, with the additional concerns of environmental protection, possible climate change, and power shortages hampering socio-economic development in some parts of the world, hydropower development has many solutions to offer. The hydro profession is responding to the needs of a changing world, with innovations in planning methods, environmental assessments, technological innovation, approaches to financing strategies, and optimized use of existing assets. Our conference next year in Lisbon, Portugal, will review progress and achievements, as well as needs and future challenges.
The development of new hydro schemes, and project upgrades, are major priorities for the Portuguese power sector. Portugal’s most important electricity producer EDP, our co-host for HYDRO 2010, has an existing portfolio of 74 hydro plants, totalling more than 4700 MW. The company plans to commission at least 22 new hydro generating units by 2018. This will increase capacity by about 3000 MW. Portugal will therefore have much to show, and to discuss, during HYDRO 2010. Study tours will showcase some of the multipurpose hydro and pumped-storage schemes in various parts of the country.
As usual, the Conference will focus strongly on the needs, priorities and plans of the developing countries of Africa, Asia and Latin America, and the conference will focus on technical, economic, commercial and environmental/social aspects. A major Technical Exhibition will run alongside the Conference.
The capital of Portugal since its conquest from the Moors in 1147, Lisbon is a legendary city with more than 20 centuries of history. In its golden age, the city gained a reputation as the eighth wonder of the world. As one of the greatest maritime centres in history, the Portuguese capital imported exotic wares from the distant parts of its empire, marking a new era in world trade.
The city offers a mix of traditional and modern architecture: Many medieval facades and old palaces have been restored, 19th-century Art Nouveau buildings can still be found and there are also modern museums and galleries. The majestic Vasco de Gama Bridge across the Tagus is an outstanding landmark. The Congress Centre is on the bank of the Tagus, close to the charming old quarter named Belem.
A Call for Papers will be issued shortly. Meanwhile, if you would be interested to receive more details of HYDRO 2010, please use the form overleaf to contact us.