Addressing Data Gaps in Hydropower Planning

As part of the EU-funded Hydro4U project, a new web-based Decision Support System (DSS) – HydroPlan-CA – has been developed by the Hydro4U partner BOKU to support sustainable and evidence-based hydropower planning in Central Asia. The tool addresses a long-standing challenge in the region: limited availability of reliable and harmonised data for informed decision-making. By integrating diverse datasets into a single platform, HydroPlan-CA provides a structured and transparent foundation for early-stage planning and analysis.

Integrated Data for Informed Decisions

The DSS combines hydrological, technical and environmental data within an interactive Geographic Information System (GIS), offering users a comprehensive overview of hydropower potential alongside ecological and infrastructural considerations. It is designed as a screening tool, enabling users to assess river segments, analyse environmental sensitivities, and explore key aspects of the Water–Energy–Food–Climate Nexus that shape hydropower development in the region.

Accessible and User-Friendly Platform

One of the key benefits of HydroPlan-CA lies in its accessibility. The tool is publicly available via a standard web browser, requires no installation, and can be used without registration. This lowers barriers to entry and ensures broad access to critical planning information. By presenting complex datasets in an interactive and user-friendly format, the DSS facilitates more transparent and informed decision-making processes.

From Context to Site-Specific Analysis

The system is structured around two main components: an interactive StoryMap that introduces the thematic context, and the GIS-based HydroPlan-CA tool for detailed analysis. Together, they allow users to move from general understanding to site-specific assessment. This makes the DSS particularly valuable for identifying suitable hydropower locations, conducting environmental screening, and supporting strategic planning of freshwater resources.

Supporting Diverse Stakeholders

HydroPlan-CA is designed to serve a wide range of stakeholder groups, including policymakers, planners, technical experts, project developers and researchers. It also supports broader project communication and replication activities by making key results and data accessible to a wider audience. Ultimately, the DSS strengthens the basis for sustainable hydropower development in Central Asia—both during and beyond the lifetime of the Hydro4U project.

Link to an interactive StoryMap

Link to the Hydro4U_HydroPlan-CA Tool

Author: Jan De Keyser, BOKU

More information about the Hydro4U Tools: Hydro4U Support Tools – Hydro4U