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Flexibility and sustainability in an alpine environment

Flexibility and sustainability in an alpine environment

Better predict the behaviour of components under extreme conditions
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To strengthen the contribution of Alpine hydropower to the stability and security of supply of the Swiss energy system.

The Hydro Alps Lab is studying the strategic role of Alpine hydropower in the Swiss energy system and how it can be adapted to the growing need for flexibility.

Issues and objectives

To strengthen the contribution of Alpine hydropower to the stability and security of supply of the Swiss energy system.
Stability of the electricity network Stability of the electricity grid in a context of high penetration of intermittent renewable energies.
Increased winter production and modulation capacity Increased winter production and modulation capacity to meet seasonal needs.
Sustainable management of alpine water resources Sustainable management of alpine water resources in the face of the effects of climate change.

Our scientific approach

Our aim is to predict the behaviour of hydroelectric components under flexible and off-nominal operating conditions. To do this, we combine advanced numerical simulations with experimental measurements in the laboratory and on site to characterise the hydraulic and mechanical stresses induced by these variable regimes. This work also enables us to identify the relevant variables to be monitored and to define the instrumentation strategies best suited to flexibly operated power plants.
Numerical simulations in off-design mode

Numerical simulations in off-design mode to analyse unsteady flows and dynamic stresses on components.

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Experimental laboratory measurements and in situ measurement campaigns

Experimental measurements in the laboratory and in situ measurement campaigns to validate the models and characterise the actual behaviour of the machines in flexible operation.

 

ApplicationsExp_HES
Definition and deployment of targeted instrumentation strategies

Definition and deployment of targeted instrumentation strategies (choice of sensors, positioning, quantities monitored) adapted to variable regimes.

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Meet the team

Our researchers and engineers are the driving force behind the excellence of the Hydro Alps Lab, combining scientific expertise with a passion for hydropower.