Advancing digitalisation in hydropower with D-HYDROFLEX

The D-HYDROFLEX project is spearheading the potential of hydropower in the energy transformation by advancing digital solutions tailored to modern power markets.

Hydropower holds untapped potential in enabling a decarbonised, flexible and sustainable energy future.

Key innovations

The project’s three pillars – digitalisation, flexibility and sustainability – serve as the foundation for its breakthrough technologies:
● Digital twins: Virtual replicas of hydroelectric systems to enhance efficiency and reduce downtime.
● Hybrid energy models: Seamless integration of hydropower with hydrogen storage systems for market flexibility.
● Environmental monitoring: Tools to assess and minimise the impact on biodiversity and river ecosystems.

Expected outcomes

Over three years, D-HYDROFLEX aims to develop a comprehensive toolkit that ensures hydropower remains a cornerstone of Europe’s renewable energy portfolio.

Expected benefits include:
● Enhanced energy system resilience through improved grid services.
● Cost-efficient operations via predictive analytics and smart maintenance.
● Positive environmental contributions, with biodiversity metrics integrated into plant operations.

Connecting the dots

D-HYDROFLEX’s efforts are catalysing Europe’s transition to a sustainable energy system, making hydropower plants not just power generators but also key enablers of a resilient, low carbon future.

Stay updated on the project’s groundbreaking work at d-hydroflex.eu.

About the author

Eleni Tsironi is Project Manager at UBITECH. She holds an integrated Master's in Electrical and Computer Engineering, specialising in electric power systems. Actively involved in European R&D projects since 2013, she coordinated the H2020 projects FARCROSS and BEYOND and currently leads the Horizon Europe projects D-HYDROFLEX and DIGITISE, driving innovation in sustainable technologies and trust enhancing digital solutions.