CEO Statement

Welcome to the British Hydropower Association website.                      

The BHA is the only organisation fully representing the UK Hydropower Sector. Our members range from hydro developers and generators, investors, consulting engineers to manufacturers and suppliers of equipment. We work within the UK and overseas supporting and promoting the whole of the hydropower industry.   

Whenever “Renewables” are mentioned, hydropower is rarely considered. This is because it is a well-established technology and, taken purely as a source of generated electricity, it could be argued that it has not much more to offer in the UK. However, this is a long way from the truth. The main problem the UK hydropower sector has is dealing with its success over the past 150 years.

It is a proven technology – yes, the first water turbines were built in the mid 1800’s but they have been developing ever since. Turbine efficiencies are rarely below 80% which is about double that of a steam turbine. Constant and continuing design improvements have brought efficiencies of over 90%! Research and development continues into providing new and more cost-effective solutions and improvements to the design and engineering of new schemes.

Most of the hydropower in the UK has been developed – yes again, but resource studies have indicated that as much again of undeveloped potential is viable. At present 30% to 40% of the UK’s renewable generation is provided by hydropower!

Globally, 17% of energy is supplied – and will continue to be supplied - from hydropower sources. The UK has been involved with the export of equipment and services for about 150 years – we still have the expertise and it is still involved in business worldwide.

It is a time of change and growth for the hydropower industry and the BHA has some interesting and challenging work ahead:

·       Continuing dialogue and involvement with the implementation of the European Water Framework Directive and water the streamlining.

·       Ensuring hydropower development, in all its forms, is considered and supported by the UK Government’s renewable energy polices.

·       Streamlining licensing procedures to implement new and refurbished hydropower schemes.

·       Implementing a programme of meetings, seminars, workshops and conferences around the UK based on current issues, providing fora for discussion and networking opportunities.

·       Supporting the industry’s export drive by coordinating UK hydro participation in conferences, exhibitions and seminars worldwide and continuing our work with UK Trade & Investment and the overseas Posts at British Embassies and High Commissions.

·       Developing more and deeper relationships with Ministers and government departments, taking advantage of relevant support mechanisms in order to maintain and improve the status of hydropower as a major renewable energy source.

Please contact us – we will be delighted to help.

 

David Williams, CEO

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