Downing, a leading renewable energy investment manager, has partnered with HYDROGRID to enhance the efficiency and sustainability of its hydropower operations in Sweden. This strategic collaboration will focus on optimizing Downing’s portfolio of 32 hydropower plants, utilizing advanced technology to improve performance and automate operations.
Together, Downing and HYDROGRID will implement a variety of solutions, from full cascade optimization to connecting individual plants with basic inflow management. The initiative is set to launch in September 2024.
From Pilot to Full Portfolio Rollout
“HYDROGRID’s technology is a cornerstone of our digitalisation journey, making our small-scale cascades future- ready,” said Ulf Wennilsjo, Portfolio Manager and GM of Downing Sweden. “Our collaboration will leverage HYDROGRID Insight to optimise a 45MW fleet comprising 32 power plants, including the Norsälven Cascade, which served as a proof of concept over the past year.”
“Starting with Norsälven Cascade, and moving forward to the full portfolio, Downing has renewed and amplified trust in our collaboration, focusing on automation and digitalisation across their hydro fleet,” said Janice Goodenough, CEO of HYDROGRID. “We are honoured to support Downing reach this goal and look forward to celebrating each milestone along the way.”
The enhanced water management platform is also expected to facilitate the participation of the first Downing hydropower plant in the capacity market under FCR-N and FCR-D. Downing will collaborate with OneNordic for operations and maintenance, ensuring robust data connectivity and operational excellence.
This development is especially relevant to the European energy market, where flexible hydropower production is increasingly vital. By digitizing and automating small-scale hydropower, operators can gain a competitive edge across diverse energy markets.
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