
Climate, Natural Resources and Environment
LIFE VIABLE
The LIFE VIABLE project aims to improve the sustainability and the environmental impact of epoxy resins manufacture by lowering the...
Hydropower
New solutions for hydropower plants to enhance operational range, performance and improve enviromental impact.
Project dates
2024-2028
Website
Role of Zabala
Partner
Project led by
IBERDROLA GENERACIÓN S.A.
7
Partners
4
Countries
3.8 M€
Total Budget
42
Months
Hydropower is crucial for clean energy, but hydraulic turbines often face efficiency and damage issues due to fluctuating demands and environmental flow constraints. Operating outside their optimal range increases maintenance costs and risks component damage. SHERPA addresses these challenges by focusing on improving turbine performance, durability, and water quality, while also positively impacting biodiversity through advanced design, modeling, and sensor tools to optimize operations across various flow conditions.
SHERPA aims to develop technologies to refurbish hydropower plants, including: 1) AM metallic patches for damage reduction, 2) adaptive rotational speed strategies, 3) air injection systems for improved water quality, and 4) new runner designs for E-flows. Through modeling, simulation, and monitoring, SHERPA will assess these solutions for energy output, flexibility, cost-effectiveness, and biodiversity impact, aiming to expand operational capacity without compromising plant lifespan, economic viability, or environmental and social impact.
The project results will stive to maintain the availability of the existing hydropower fleet as a flexible power supplier in future markets, boost Europe’s leadership and competitiveness in hydropower technology, reduce costs while improving the efficiency of refurbished installations, and enhance sustainability by balancing circular economy, social, economic, and environmental factors. This aligns with the European Green Deal priorities, addressing energy, climate targets, and biodiversity concerns.
This project has received funding from the European Union’s Horizon Europeresearch and innovation programme under grant agreement No 101172849.
“SHERPA will develop innovative technologies to improve endurance and performance beyond the operational design range of hydropower plants, delivering sustainable and efficient energy solutions.”
Janire García
Leader of the Dissemination and Communication of European Projects area
SHERPA, New Horizon Europe-funded project Kicks off in Brussels
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News
INTERVIEW
We interview Natxo de Marco, leader of Zabala Innovation's Energy Area
Opinion
BIOECONOMY
SHERPA
Publication
CLIMATE CHANGE
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