Shakimardan was a busy place between the 24th of March and the 4th of April. Project partners from various research groups stayed in the exclave to conduct impact assessment studies of the vertical slot fish pass and downstream bypass. In addition, various stretches of the rivers Koksu, Aksu and Shakimardan were electro fished to get a better understanding of the fish density and population structure in the river basin, which will be compared when the hydropower is operational, resulting in a residual flow between the hydropower intake and the power house. The five research groups visiting the site were SJE (Germany), BOKU (Austria), TU-Dresden (Germany), TIIAME (Uzbekistan), IGF Jena (Germany) and EVINBO (Belgium).

During the stay, EVINBO focused on the impact assessment of the passability of the hydropower weirs. To do so, they installed antennas to detect fish tagged with passive integrated transponders (PIT), which is a kind of microchip. They installed three antennas in the vertical slot fish pass (one at the entrance, one in the middle and one at the outlet) and one antenna downstream of the weirs. This allows to quantify how many fish reach the weirs and what proportion effectively finds the fish pass and uses it. Finally, a fifth antenna on the downstream bypass next to the trash rack was installed to study the downstream passage. In parallel, a part of the EVINBO team was fishing together with scientists from BOKU and TIIAME to catch and tag as many fish as possible with PIT tags. As we already assumed, there were not that many fish in the River Koksu in March and also not in the River Shakimardan. Instead, the largest catches were done in the River Aksu, likely as fish were either coming from, or still going to, the upstream spawning grounds. Even more, during electrofishing, we found rearing habitat of juvenile snowtrout with fish ranging from less than half a centimetre to a few centimetres, suggesting that spawning likely started a few weeks or even months ago in winter for at least a part of the population. Consequently, the pieces of the puzzle about the snowtrout’s life cycle are coming together. In total, 206 fish were tagged: 160 snowtrouts and 46 loaches.

SJE’s involvement in the OptiPass research project with the partners TUD Dresden University of Technology and IGF Jena Institute of Freshwater Ecology and Fisheries Biology resulted in a collaboration between Hydro4U and the OptiPass consortium, which was searching for a field site to study fish responses to high spatial velocity gradients (SVG) in bypasses for downstream migration of fish. Due to the conditions, the Shakimardan site is ideally suited for the OptiPass field study. To exploit synergies between the two projects, the OptiPass team traveled together with the Hydro4U group and started the site works with the set up and commission of an infrared-camera system at the bypass adjacent to the plant-intake. Snowtrouts caught and tagged by EVINBO, BOKU and TIIAME were carefully placed near the bypass entrance to study if they pass downstream without strong delay and avoidance behavior. The resulting one-week video footage from the first study campaign will allow an analysis of the effects of hydraulic conditions on the downstream migration behaviour of snow trout. The results will be compared with the results from ethohydraulic experiments carried out earlier in the TUD laboratory to gain an understanding of general behavior patterns in bypass-typical flow conditions.

The preliminary assessment of fish behavior indicates that the initial design of the bypass was implemented with construction deficiencies preventing a fish passage without delays. A minor but obvious optimization is needed. These will be realized before the end of the Hydro4U project.

Author: Pieterjan Verhelst, EVINBO

Picture Credits: Hydro4U

Central Asia has huge hydropower potential, especially in the upstream regions, but outdated infrastructure and water scarcity, exacerbated by climate change, are hampering the development. The Hydro4U project addresses these challenges by introducing modular, innovative small hydropower technologies tailored for remote areas. These solutions, which are cost-effective, sustainable, and comply with EU environmental standards, aim to transform hydropower in the region.

The progress highlights are the following:

1. Key Technologies:

• Francis Container Power Solution (FCPS): Deployed in Shakimardan, Uzbekistan, to ensure green energy for the enclave.
• Hydroshaft Power Solution (HSPS): Under development in At-Bashy, Kyrgyzstan, to harness hydropower in a high-altitude, challenging environment.

2. Milestones Achieved:

• Completion of equipment procurement and installation for FCPS, with complete commissioning scheduled soon. The monitoring of the performance is already in place. The fish-migration monitoring will start soon.
• Progress in HSPS construction despite extreme conditions, with completion targeted for summer 2025.
• Socio-Economic Impact: Hydro4U is engaging local communities, and fostering partnerships with regional stakeholders.
  • In Shakimardan, the FCPS plant will improve energy reliability, reducing dependence on unstable grids.
  • In At-Bashy, the project supports market analysis and business model development for future scalability.
• Progress on advanced planning tools, such as the sustainable hydropower planning and a monitoring system for the water-energy-food-climate nexus.
• Progress in feasibility studies at further identified planning sites.

Next outcomes in 2025:

Hydro4U aims to complete both demonstration sites and expand its impact for identified additional locations for replicating its innovative hydropower solutions. Furthermore, the monitoring phase for environmental impact and power performance will be in place.

Author: Charlotte Schlicke, Steinbeis Europa Zentrum

Partner description: Steinbeis Europa Zentrum
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The side event on “Cooperative Strategies for Central Asian Transboundary Water Management” was organized on June 11, 2024, in Dushanbe, Tajikistan, under the NEXUS Gains, Hydro4U, and WE-ACT projects, led by the International Water Management Institute (IWMI) in cooperation with the Tajik Agrarian University named Shirinsho Shotemur (TAU). This event brought together policymakers, researchers, development practitioners, and water resource managers to explore practical solutions for promoting inclusive and cooperative transboundary water management in Central Asia. The discussions focused on addressing key challenges, fostering knowledge exchange, and identifying pathways for sustainable water management. The event emphasized the use of science-based solutions, evidence-driven policy frameworks, and capacity-building initiatives to support long-term cooperation and stability in the region.

Event objectives

The primary objective of the event was to strengthen cooperation and promote inclusive strategies for managing transboundary water resources in Central Asia. The event aimed to identify key barriers to cooperation, including institutional, technical, and political challenges, and to propose concrete solutions to overcome them. By focusing on the broader implications of water cooperation for economic growth, environmental sustainability, and regional stability, the event sought to support the development of more resilient and adaptive water governance systems. It also emphasized the role of scientific research and evidence-based policy development in driving long-term, sustainable cooperation. Discussions explored how development projects and national initiatives could be better aligned to achieve a cohesive approach to transboundary water management.

Regional Impact and Beneficiaries

The event served as a platform for a wide range of stakeholders, including government officials, water resource managers, development partners, academic researchers, and representatives of regional and international organizations. By promoting collaboration and dialogue among these stakeholders, the event aimed to foster a shared vision for sustainable water management across the region. The outcomes of this event are expected to have a significant impact on the region’s water governance, economic development, and climate resilience. Enhanced cooperation on transboundary water resources contributes to improved livelihoods, equitable water distribution, and greater regional stability. It also strengthens the capacity of institutions and communities to manage water-related risks, such as floods, droughts, and water scarcity.

Expert Insights and Key Discussions

The event featured insightful discussions and expert contributions on the most pressing issues surrounding transboundary water management in Central Asia. The first session focused on cooperative mechanisms and challenges, offering a comprehensive analysis of existing institutional frameworks and highlighting key gaps that hinder effective collaboration. Experts emphasized the need to strengthen bilateral and multilateral agreements, particularly for the management of small transboundary tributaries (STTs), which often lack formal cooperative frameworks. Attention was drawn to the role of irrigated agriculture as a major water user and the impact of aging infrastructure and climate change on water availability. Policy recommendations included enhancing joint decision-making processes, increasing stakeholder participation, and ensuring a more transparent and inclusive water allocation system.

The role and modernization of Basin Water Organizations (BWOs) emerged as a central theme of the event. These organizations are essential for ensuring fair water allocation, managing shared infrastructure, and facilitating dialogue among riparian states. However, BWOs in Central Asia face technical, financial, and operational constraints that limit their effectiveness. Experts discussed the critical need for modernization, including the adoption of automated water monitoring systems, digital decision-support platforms, and enhanced operational capacity. The integration of advanced technologies, such as Earth observation and satellite-based water monitoring, was seen as a transformative approach to improving transparency and accountability in water allocation.

The third session focused on education, capacity building, and workforce development in the water sector. Experts highlighted the importance of investing in higher education and vocational training to create a skilled and technically proficient workforce capable of addressing the region’s water management challenges. Educational institutions in Tajikistan, Uzbekistan, and Kyrgyzstan have made strides in offering specialized courses on water management, but there is a growing need to integrate advanced technologies, such as hydrological modeling, satellite-based monitoring, and climate risk analysis, into their curricula. Discussions underscored the importance of establishing stronger linkages between academic institutions, water resource agencies, and development organizations to create a pipeline of well-trained water professionals equipped to address emerging challenges.

Key Discussion Themes

The discussions during the event touched on several important themes. Institutional and technical challenges were at the heart of the debate, with participants emphasizing the importance of political will in driving cooperation and advancing cross-border water management initiatives. The limited enforcement of agreements and fragmented decision-making processes were seen as major hurdles that must be addressed to improve cooperation. Another prominent issue was the need to strengthen education and capacity-building programs, especially those aimed at training young professionals in modern water management techniques and the use of digital tools.

The integration of modern technology into water management processes also featured prominently in the discussions. Advances in real-time water monitoring, Earth observation, and decision-support systems have the potential to significantly enhance data-driven decision-making in transboundary water allocation. Experts called for stronger data-sharing protocols and the use of these digital tools to promote transparency and accountability in cross-border water management. Climate change was another recurring theme, as rising temperatures, shrinking glaciers, and altered precipitation patterns place additional pressure on water availability. The need for adaptive strategies to manage water scarcity, floods, and other climate-related challenges was widely acknowledged.

Recommendations and the Way Forward

The event concluded with a series of forward-looking recommendations for fostering more inclusive and cooperative transboundary water management in Central Asia. Strengthening regional cooperation was identified as a priority, with participants calling for the establishment of joint commissions and platforms for dialogue between riparian states. The importance of modernizing water management infrastructure was emphasized, particularly through the use of automated water flow monitoring systems and decision-support tools. These technological upgrades will improve water allocation, increase operational efficiency, and support real-time decision-making.

Another key recommendation was the need to enhance capacity-building efforts through education and professional development programs. Equipping young professionals with the skills to use advanced digital tools, satellite-based monitoring, and evidence-based modeling techniques will support the next generation of water resource managers. This approach will enable the region to create a skilled workforce capable of addressing complex water challenges in the future. The event also emphasized the need for evidence-based policy development, calling for the integration of scientific research and analytical tools into policy processes. Development projects should be used as platforms for testing and scaling innovative solutions, while partnerships with development organizations and regional institutions can help facilitate the sharing of best practices and lessons learned.

Participants highlighted the importance of adopting climate-resilient water management approaches, given the growing impact of climate change on water resources in the region. Adaptive water allocation strategies and flexible policy frameworks are essential to address the growing unpredictability of water availability. Finally, the event called for stronger commitments to data sharing and transparency among stakeholders, as these measures are essential for trust-building and improving cooperation. By facilitating access to timely and reliable data, stakeholders can make better-informed decisions on water allocation and risk management.

Conclusion
The side event on “Cooperative Strategies for Central Asian Transboundary Water Management” demonstrated the critical need for stronger collaboration, capacity development, and evidence-based decision-making to manage shared water resources in Central Asia. Organized under the NEXUS Gains, Hydro4U, and WE-ACT projects by the International Water Management Institute (IWMI) in partnership with Tajik Agrarian University (TAU), the event showcased a range of innovative approaches and actionable recommendations. By promoting dialogue and knowledge exchange, the event laid the foundation for improved cooperation on water management and emphasized the role of education, capacity development, and technical modernization. As climate change, demographic pressures, and economic demands continue to challenge water availability, transboundary cooperation remains essential for ensuring equitable water access and long-term sustainability. The adoption of adaptive, evidence-based, and technology-driven solutions can support more efficient, transparent, and cooperative water management practices. This event marks a crucial step toward strengthening partnerships, modernizing water governance, and promoting sustainable development in Central Asia. By aligning development projects with national strategies and enhancing institutional capacity, the region can better prepare for future challenges while promoting economic growth, environmental protection, and regional stability.

This article was originally published on the Nexus Gains project website and submitted to the Nexus Resource Platform on 04.10.2024 by the Central Asia International Water Management Institute. It was originally written by Zafar Gafurov, Bunyod Holmatov, and Shavkat Kenjabaev.

Funded by the European Union, ReHydro aims to demonstrate how European hydropower can be refurbished and modernized to play a leading role in the future energy system, while adhering to sustainability requirements and societal needs in the context of climate change.

The project began with its official Kick-off meeting in Brussels in May 2024 and is expected to run until April 2028, supported by a total of 22 partners from 7 European countries. Within the framework of the project, several solutions such as a new, fish-friendly turbine design and monitoring tools will be tested on five main demonstration sites. Four more sites will showcase specific project activities. ReHydro’s exploitable results are expected to create 800 – 1,150 new jobs in the manufacturing industry, leading to an increase of 275 mil. Euros in the global market.

Since its official start, ReHydro has established its main communication platforms: The official LinkedIn account, which serves as the primary space to share progress as it happens and inform about upcoming events, and the official ReHydro website, where interested parties are able to find all information about the project’s background as well as research publications and articles. In addition, the ReHydro newsletter provides focused information on the project’s most important advancements.

One of these advancements was the start of data collection in Norway in September. The rivers Brattlandsdalsåi and Roalkvamsåi are part of the larger refurbishment projects, and thus it is vital to monitor their water temperature, flow, and habitat conditions to ensure sustainable and environmentally friendly planning. Innovative technologies such as eDNA to map biodiversity are also being used.

ReHydro’s next big step is the roll-out of an external modernization survey in early 2025, which pertains directly to the realization of one of the project’s deliverables and goals. This survey will gather additional data on the current modernization efforts of European hydropower to deepen understanding of the sector’s needs.

Author: ReHydro project

On 15 November 2024, WE-ACT brought together key stakeholders for a full-day workshop at the “Silk Road” conference hall in Tashkent, Uzbekistan. The event focused on transboundary water allocation simulation and irrigation water tariffs in Kyrgyzstan and Uzbekistan. The day fostered collaboration, mutual learning, and actionable outcomes for water resource management in the Syr Darya river basin.

What WE-ACT Did

1. Transboundary Water Allocation Simulation
Using the innovative simulation tool Together We Flow, WE-ACT created an interactive environment where decision-makers from the Syr Darya basin engaged in practical exercises to explore trade-offs in water allocation. Participants balanced economic, environmental, and socio-cultural values in decision-making scenarios, gaining insights into the complexities of managing shared water resources.

• Who attended: Decision-makers, government officials, and researchers.
• Outcome: Strengthened understanding of cooperative water management, enriched perspectives on stakeholder values, and provided valuable data for ongoing research led by the University of Twente.

2. Water Tariffs Workshop
In the afternoon, discussions shifted to the current legal and institutional frameworks of irrigation water tariffs in Kyrgyzstan and Uzbekistan. Participants explored how pricing affects agricultural productivity, equity, and sustainability. Comparative analysis and group discussions led to recommendations for refining water governance.

• Who attended: Policy experts, water user associations, and practitioners.
• Outcome: Clearer understanding of existing challenges, actionable recommendations for improving tariff structures, and enhanced dialogue on best practices between the two countries.

The workshop was more than just an academic exercise; it was a forum for open dialogue and shared learning. Simulation was “eye-opening” for understanding others’ perspectives, and the tariff discussions sparked meaningful debates about practical solutions for water governance.

Why It Matters

This workshop exemplifies WE-ACT’s commitment to fostering resilience and equity in water resource management.

For further information: https://weact-project.eu/building-bridges-for-water-governance-we-act-hosts-water-allocation-simulation-and-tariffs-in-central-asia-workshop/

Author: WE-ACT project

The Di-Hydro project has made 1 year, being launched in October 2023 with the goal of advancing the digital transformation of hydropower plants (HPPs). Through innovative technologies, cutting-edge sensors, and advanced digital twins, Di-Hydro aims to enhance operational efficiency, environmental sustainability, and decision-making processes within the hydropower sector. As we mark the conclusion of the project’s first year, here is an overview of the significant progress.

Laying the Foundation for Digital Transformation

The team focused on gathering and analysing critical data from HPPs managed by project partners PPC, A2A, and EPS. This included characteristic of the hydropower plants participating in the pilot activities, weather data, flow measurements, and biodiversity metrics.

Key results in Digital Transformation of the HP Sector and Requirement of HPPs were completed. These findings outline the digital transformation goals for each pilot HPP, the specifications for novel sensors, and their optimal placement.

In addition, the team defined use cases and the digitisation levels each HPP can achieve, paving the way for developing Di-Hydro’s digital twins and decision-making platform. And finally, best practices and barriers for digitisation of operation and maintenance of hydropower plants were also identified.

Advancing Sensor Technologies

To digitalise the HPPs, the Di-Hydro team also focused on selecting and specifying innovative sensors. These sensors will monitor structural health of machinery or infrastructure, biofouling, biodiversity, environmental factors, and water flow, while also supporting underwater inspections.

Moreover, the partners at IMT addressed methodologies for sensor data processing, storage, and exchange. Lead by INOSENS, several activities are ongoing and planned in validating these methods under laboratory conditions, ensuring their reliability and applicability to real-world HPP environments.

Developing Digital Models for Enhanced Operations and Maintenance (O&M)

The team also dedicates a great deal of attention into creating the digital infrastructure required for optimal O&M at HPPs. This year, the team made insightful progress in developing secure-by-design architecture and implementing forecasting techniques for meteorological and water flow data.

Environmental and biodiversity monitoring models are being established using diverse data sources, while Machine Learning and Artificial Intelligence algorithms are analysing sample data from laboratory setups. Efforts are underway to integrate virtual models of the assets into the Di-Hydro’s digital twin (DT) framework, utilising real-world pilot data.

The ultimate goal here is to deliver an advanced visualisation tool integrated within the digital twin, enabling predictive analytics for weather, water flow, biodiversity, and structural health of the HP into the Di-Hydro Decision-Making Platform, which will not only optimise O&M, but also facilitate online handling of HPP operations in real case scenarios.

Looking Ahead to 2025

As Di-Hydro enters its second year, the project will continue building on these achievements. 2025 promises to be a milestone year, with numerous events and sessions planned in collaboration with other hydropower initiatives.

Stay connected with Di-Hydro with our Newsletter and keep updated on the transformative impact of Di-Hydro innovations on the hydropower sector.

Author: Di-Hydro project

The International Water Management Institute (IWMI), in collaboration with the Hydro4U project’s regional consortium partners TIIAME and KSTU, is actively involved in developing and disseminating open-source educational materials based on the project’s lessons learned and outcomes. While the Hydro4U project has produced numerous tools and assessments, ensuring their long-term utility requires effective dissemination and integration into broader applications.

To achieve this, IWMI has been engaging with key stakeholders, including representatives from KSTU and TIIAME, to define the scope and focus of these educational materials. Simultaneously, IWMI is organising meetings with further relevant academic institutions and industries — such as organisations involved in water, food, and energy management — to identify skill gaps and explore how tailored teaching materials can address these needs.

For example: one notable event took place on October 28–29, 2024 in Andijan, Uzbekistan, in partnership with the Andijan Institute of Agriculture and Agrotechnologies. This gathering brought together over 70 participants from diverse sectors, including academia, executive bodies of the Interstate Commission for Water Coordination, provincial basin organizations, local water management entities in the Ferghana Valley, farmers, and the general public. The event focused on addressing Water-Energy-Food-Ecosystems (WEFE) Nexus challenges, exploring practical implementation strategies, and sharing regional experiences from Nexus-related interventions.

During this event, Jakhongir Mirzakabulov from TIIAME presented a draft WEFE Nexus-oriented curriculum structure, receiving valuable feedback from the participants. On the second day, a group discussion session facilitated brainstorming among mixed groups of participants, including industry and academic representatives. The discussions focussed on identifying capacity gaps between graduates’ skills and industry expectations and exploring strategies to bridge these gaps effectively.

In the coming months, IWMI will continue working with TIIAME, KSTU, and regional partners to finalise a set of educational materials. These resources aim to meet regional demands by empowering future WFEC Nexus leaders through targeted capacity-building initiatives, provided as open-source educational materials.

Author and picture credits: Bunyod Holmatov (IWMI)

On June 12, 2024, Dushanbe, Tajikistan, IWMI organized a pivotal side event titled “Strengthening Benefit Sharing in Central Asia: Role of Water-Energy-Food-Ecosystem (WEFE) Nexus Approach”. This event, held as part of the Third International High-Level Conference on “Water for Sustainable Development” (2018-2028), provided an essential platform for fostering dialogue on integrated resource management in Central Asia, with a particular focus on addressing pressing climate challenges and enhancing transboundary cooperation through the Water-Energy-Food-Ecosystem (WEFE) nexus approach under NEXUS Gains, WE-ACT and Hydro4U projects.

Event Overview and Objectives

Central Asia’s reliance on shared water resources creates an intricate web connecting agriculture, hydropower, and ecosystems. As the region faces growing water scarcity and increasing demand, integrated management of these resources has become crucial to achieving sustainable development. The “Strengthening Benefit Sharing in Central Asia” event underscored the need for enhanced regional collaboration to ensure climate resilience and equitable resource distribution. Organized by the International Water Management Institute (IWMI) and the Institute of Water Problems, Hydropower, and Ecology of the National Academy of Sciences of Tajikistan (IWPHE), the side event explored how WEFE-based strategies can foster cooperation across sectors and borders. The event brought together a diverse group of stakeholders, researchers, and practitioners to discuss the complex interdependencies of water, energy, food, and ecosystems in Central Asia, emphasizing the importance of collaborative approaches for addressing regional challenges.

A Cornerstone for Regional Cooperation

The event served as a cornerstone for strengthening regional cooperation, offering a collaborative space for aligning strategies, sharing innovations, and exploring joint initiatives. It highlighted the significance of partnerships and collective action across the Central Asian countries—Uzbekistan, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, and Tajikistan—in tackling shared water, energy, and food security issues. By showcasing the potential of integrated resource management, the event set a new momentum for regional cooperation in Central Asia, which is increasingly seen as vital for addressing the complexities posed by climate change and resource scarcity. Participants agreed that a more cohesive, multi-stakeholder approach is essential to advancing the region’s sustainable development agenda.

Key Presentations and Discussions

Water Sector Reforms in Central Asia: Gaps and Opportunities One of the key presentations provided an in-depth review of water sector reforms in Central Asia, from the 1980s to the present. The analysis examined the drivers behind these reforms—ranging from political to economic and climate-related concerns—and identified key gaps in the region’s water governance frameworks. Despite significant progress, the review noted that current financing mechanisms cover only about half of the sector’s needs, and highlighted the crucial role of water agencies in shaping the outcomes of these reforms. This presentation called for future research into improving water sector financing and governance in the context of growing water scarcity.

The NEXUS Gains: Advancing WEFE Integration

A central theme of the event was the presentation of the NEXUS Gains project, which focuses on integrating Water-Energy-Food-Environment (WEFE) systems to enhance sustainability and resilience in transboundary river basins. This initiative brings together various stakeholders across Central Asia, Asia and Africa, showcasing successful projects like WE-ACT, which focuses on decision support for water allocation in Central Asia, and Hydro4U, which demonstrates small-scale hydropower solutions. Using advanced modeling tools like Pywr and SWAT+, these projects aim to optimize resource allocation and climate-resilient investments while fostering cross-sector collaboration.

Transboundary Groundwater Management: A Collaborative Approach

Another presentation explored the development of a scientific numerical model for the Pri-Tashkent aquifer shared by Uzbekistan and Kazakhstan. This activity aims to improve mutual trust and cooperative groundwater management through data sharing, training, and capacity building. The presentation emphasized the disparities in groundwater extraction and the need for sustainable usage practices, advocating for collaborative solutions to safeguard these critical resources.

Water-Energy Cooperation: Lessons from the Past and Future Prospects

The side event also delved into the history and evolution of water-energy cooperation in Central Asia, focusing on the transition from Soviet-era coordination mechanisms to modern frameworks under the Interstate Commission for Water Coordination (ICWC). The discussions covered financial support and investment strategies for water and energy infrastructure, highlighting the need for new financial mechanisms to support low-carbon, climate-resilient transformations in the region’s water-energy sector. Best practices from global experiences, such as the Columbia River Basin and Indus River agreements, were also shared.

Water Conservation in Agriculture: Sustainable Irrigation Solutions

The Kazakh Scientific Research Institute of Water Management presented findings on water conservation in agriculture, with a particular emphasis on improving irrigation efficiency in the face of increasing demand. The presentation discussed modernizing irrigation systems, implementing water-saving technologies like drip irrigation, and promoting the use of underground water resources. It also emphasized the economic benefits of water-saving practices, such as increased crop yields and improved water conservation, and set forth guidelines for expanding these technologies across Kazakhstan by 2030.

Looking Ahead: Collaborative Action for a Sustainable Future

The discussions at the side event clearly demonstrated that strengthening cooperation through the WEFE nexus approach is key to addressing the growing challenges of water scarcity, climate change, and sustainable development in Central Asia. By bringing together a wide range of stakeholders, the event showcased how integrated resource management, cross-sector collaboration, and innovative solutions can pave the way for more sustainable and resilient water, energy, and food systems in the region.

As the world moves towards the goals set under the International Decade for Action on “Water for Sustainable Development” (2018-2028), the momentum built during this conference will help shape the future of resource management in Central Asia. Continued engagement and partnership across borders will be crucial for ensuring the equitable and sustainable use of the region’s precious water resources, benefiting both current and future generations.

The Dushanbe side event marked an important step forward in fostering a new era of regional cooperation and dialogue, offering a roadmap for the future of water, energy, food,and ecosystem management in Central Asia.

This article was originally published here and submitted to the Nexus Resource Platform on 04.12.2024 by the Central Asia International Water Management Institute. It was originally written by Zafar Gafurov, Bunyod Holmatov and Shavkat Kenjabaev.

IWMI is leading Hydro4U project activities related to accountability and benefits sharing in the context of the Water-Food-Energy-Climate (WFEC) nexus in Central Asia. While several important milestones have already been achieved, our ongoing activity related to the co-development of integrated cross-border policies for sustainable benefits sharing at tributary level in Central Asia may be of interest to a very broad audience.

Since the dissolution of the Soviet Union, much focus in Central Asia has been placed on developing and strengthening institutional setup at the full basin level. Small tributaries, however, key places for introducing small hydropower (SHP) solutions, continue to receive less attention. Through stakeholder interviews and review of literature, IWMI researchers have determined that only a handful of small transboundary tributaries (STTs) are covered by cross-border agreements while the majority are not. Moreover, even stakeholders in STTs that are covered by agreements think that the agreements can be strengthened or updated. The reason for that being that existing STT level agreements are not sufficient to address changing water supply and demand dynamics between the Kyrgyz Republic and Uzbekistan. For instance, Shakhimardansai which is selected as one of the demonstration sites under Hydro4U is covered by a Soviet-era agreement: Protocol on decadal water allocation in Sokh, Shakhimardan, and Isfayram between the Uzbek and Kyrgyz SSR from June 14, 1981, which specifies decadal, percentage-based water allocation for the vegetation period and is considered a follow up to the Protocol on the Interstate Allocation of Ferghana Valley’s Small Rivers’ Flows from the 1980. Both agreements have a narrow scope and are no longer adequate to capture increasing uncertainty of water supply and demand, making new interventions, such as the introduction of SHPs, risky.

To develop a template or a checklist that can help stakeholders to implement sound legal practices in future consultations on transboundary water agreements in Central Asia, IWMI is analyzing climate resilience of legal frameworks covering STTs while also assessing resilience of select number of STTs, like Shakhimardansai, to future climate change-induced water variability. The methods and results of this activity are discussed with key stakeholders to gather their feedback. This collaborative approach ensures that the resulting template or a checklist will be both practical and resilient.

Picture: Meeting and discussing water management challenges in Ferghana Valley with a representative from the Syrdarya-Sokh Basin Irrigation System Authority.
Photo credit: Bunyod Holmatov (IWMI).

Author: Bunyod Holmatov (IWMI)

Website: International Water Management Institute (IWMI)

D-HYDROFLEX will employ demonstration activities on six real hydroelectric power plants (HPP) across five European countries. This will ensure the replicability of the developed solutions in different geographical and market set ups testing variety use cases.

#1 Polish demo

Demo site: Wały Śląskie hydroelectric power plant

Country: Poland

Location: Brzeg Dolny

Capacity [MW] : 10

Hydro System:  4 Kaplan turbines

Type: Run-of-river

Demo outcomes: As part of the D-Hydroflex project, the Wały Śląskie Water Power Plant will implement a “turbine digital twin” supported by hydrological modelling and CFD simulations. This comprehensive digital twin will also incorporate a predictive maintenance tool, aimed at improving the turbine’s reliability. This initiative sets a precedent for modernizing hydroelectric plants with advanced digital solutions.

Demo impact: The introduction of these technologies is expected to bring numerous benefits. The digital twin and predictive maintenance tool will enable real-time monitoring and data-driven decision-making, improving the overall efficiency and sustainability of the plant. Additionally, the enhanced modelling capabilities will provide deeper insights into hydrological patterns, contributing to more effective water management and energy production strategies. These advancements will bolster the plant’s output and serve as a model for similar facilities looking to adopt modern digital solutions.

Involved Partners:

TAURON: Demo HPP owner

PWR: University

#2 Romanian Demo

Demo site: Bratia Hydroelectric Power Plant

Country: Romania

Location: Albeștii de Muscel

Capacity [MW] : 1,56MW

Hydro System:  2 Pelton turbines

Type: Run-of-river

Demo outcomes of the Romanian demo will be focused on:

• Fault detection and predictive maintenance based on advanced SCADA data processing.
• Energy production forecasting, based on available data related to the power station operation
• Hybridization of HPP for increased flexibility by facilitating connection to other renewable energy sources via local smart grids and/or VPP.

Demo impact of the Romanian demo will be focused on:

• Increase smart readiness of the HPP for operation and preventive maintenance purposes
• Readiness for hybrid future connection with other RES sources and/or VPP
• Readiness for integration & operation into local smart grids

Involved Partners:

IDEA Technology provider

INTEX Demo HPP owner

CARTIF Research Institute

#3 Spanish Demo

Demo site: Salto de Touro Hybrid Hydroelectric Power Plant

Country: Spain

Location: Ulla River

Capacity [MW]: 12

Hydro System:  2 Kaplan turbines

Type:    Run-of-river

Demo outcomes: The Spanish demo aims to revolutionize run-of-river hydro power plants by integrating a hybrid model for enhanced flexibility, cost-effectiveness, and environmental sustainability. This involves generating hydrogen on-site through an electrolysis plant with 0.4 MW of installed capacity, contributing to a substantial reduction of emissions compared to conventional technologies. Other key outcomes include advancements in hybrid power plant knowledge, algorithms for optimal operation, and comprehensive environmental parameter monitoring.

Demo impact: This demo not only fosters sustainable practices but also facilitates the integration of hydrogen technology in small hydro power plants, aligning with energy targets and enhancing economic and environmental sustainability within the hydro power sector.

Description of Technology implemented: Two multi-parameter probes will be installed, whose data will feed the algorithms that predict the production capacity of Green Hydrogen as a function of water quality.

Expected impact: The objective is to obtain an accurate understanding of the capacity of inland waters for use in the production of green hydrogen by determining the hybridisation possibilities of the extensive network of hydropower facilities in Europe.

Involved Partners:

TASGA Demo HPP owner

ENERGYLAB Research and Technology Institute

CARTIF Research and Technology Institute

#4 French Demo

Demo site:  Mauzac Hydroelectric Power Plant

Country: France

Location: Dordogne River & Selune River

Capacity [MW]: 13.2

Hydro System:  1 Kaplan & 5 Francis turbines

Type: Run-of-river

Demo outcomes

The main expected outcomes of the French demonstrators are:

• Increasing the HPP performance regarding hydropower production while lowering its environmental impact, especially on fish passage.
• Providing information on the migration dynamic fish species, such as salmon, eel, shad etc.
• Optimization of the protection measure or devices, such as turbine management, installation of temporary scientific devices (additional bypass or trap and truck)
• Increasing the knowledges on the dynamics of the fish migration (i.e., migration season, environmental triggers of the migration)

Demo impact

These efforts align with the goals of increasing hydropower production while minimizing the environmental impact. The French demonstrator showcases a commitment to sustainable energy practices and effective fish conservation strategies.

Involved Partners:

EDF Demo HPP owner

# 5 Greek Demo

Country: Greece

Regions: Kremasta  & Ilarion

Location: Acheloos & Aliakmon Rivers

Capacity: [MW] 437 & 153

Hydro system    4 Francis turbines & 2 Francis turbines

Type: Earth Fill

Demo outcomes: The technologies implemented and demonstrated within the Greek demo include:

• An asset management platform that will integrate geometric, non-geometric and management information data.
• The automatic generation of the geometric digital twin model for the HPPs.
• A federated learning intrusion detection system, for early detecting cyberattacks against the OT and automation systems of the dams.

Demo Impact: The Greek demo aims to enhance hydroelectric power plant resilience by early detecting intrusions and malicious activities. Moreover, the demo aims to suggest data standards for efficient digital dam management in operations and maintenance.

Involved Partners:

MINDS Technology provider

PPC Demo HPP owner

UCL University

UOC University

Author: D-Hydroflex

Information on the demonstrators: https://d-hydroflex.eu/demonstrators/

Website: www.d-hydroflex.eu

LinkedIn: d-hydroflex

Twitter: @d-hydroflex