Di-Hydro

Europe possesses significant hydrodynamic potential due to its diverse altitude landscape and surrounding seas. However, only a small fraction (13.8%) of the EU's net electricity generation comes from hydropower plants (HPP). This low utilisation is primarily attributed to inadequate digital management, handling, and maintenance of HPPs compared to other energy generation methods.

To fully harness this potential and bolster renewable energy production for a climate-neutral economy, Di-Hydro aims to digitise HPPs by developing smart devices and data acquisition techniques to predict and control operations and maintenance. Digital Twins (DTs) will facilitate real-time data exchange, alongside an intelligent decision-making tool for optimal coordination of power generation considering societal, weather, water flow, environmental and biodiversity data.

To better support HPPs and their performance, Di-Hydro is also aiming at creating a Decision-Making platform to help HP managers to understand the plant’s conditions, so that they are able to schedule necessary maintenance action strategically. Addressing existing disparities in digital offerings among technologically advanced and non-digitised HP plants, the project focuses on developing a DT platform for HP entities within the same country, forming clusters for collaboration in operation and maintenance (O&M) and information exchange. The DH Decision-Making platform will support HP personnel on when and how to schedule maintenance, while keeping in mind efficiency and power supply demand.

The use of innovative sensors and data technologies is instrumental for structural health and condition monitoring of infrastructure or machinery, weather forecasting, and environmental parameter measurements. Applications of unmanned underwater inspection systems and prevention of biofouling will also be included. Data collected will optimise HP energy production, reduce maintenance costs, and improve environmental sustainability.

Di-Hydro has three Use Cases to test its methodology and solutions: these Use Cases are HP plants located in Greece, Italy and Serbia. Specifically, the Di-Hydro Use Cases will involve the Ilarionas, Pournari and Thisavros HPPs in Greece, Novarza Dam, Sauris Lake and Verzegnis Lake in Italy, and the Međuvršje plant in Serbia.

Project duration: 1 October 2023 – 30 September 2026

Funded By: Horizon Europe (G.A. 101122311)