Sustainable Water Resource Management

Renovation of hydraulic engineering structures

Clean Energy and Sustainability 

Hydropower is one of the largest and most promising sources of renewable energy. Gruner is at the forefront of this sector, offering solutions for hydropower plants that ensure efficiency, sustainability and minimal environmental impact.  Explore in depth our expertise in hydropower drainage, focusing on crucial aspects such as residual flow, lockage, bedload regime, and fish migration.

Residual Flow: Preserving the Aquatic Ecosystem

One of the major challenges of hydropower drainage is to preserve the aquatic ecosystem by guaranteeing an adequate residual flow. Gruner assesses and quantifies this flow and designs systems that maintain minimum flows in streams downstream of hydroelectric power plants. These residual flows are essential for preserving aquatic wildlife, maintaining water quality and sustaining riparian ecosystems.

Hydropeaking: controlling water flow

Hydropeaking is an essential component of hydropower plants. They control the flow of water and regulate electricity production according to demand. Gruner designs solutions to minimize the impact of hydropeaking on ecosystems downstream of hydroelectric installations.

Sediment regime: managing sediments

Sediment management is a crucial aspect of hydropower drainage. Hydropower plants generate sediments that can clog equipment and disrupt downstream ecosystems. Gruner develops strategies for maintaining the bedload regime downstream of hydroelectric facilities, in order to preserve the river's morphodynamic equilibrium.

Fish migration: promoting fish circulation

Fish migration is a major concern in rivers near hydroelectric power plants. Dams and power plants can hinder the movement of migratory fish, with potentially harmful consequences for populations. Gruner is committed to promoting fish migration by designing bypass systems, fishways or any other structure that allows fish to pass through and provides fish with the best possible living and breeding conditions (spawning grounds, resting areas, etc.).

Gruner is an undisputed leader in the field of hydraulic power drainage. Our expertise in residual flow, hydropeaking, bedload regime and fish migration makes us the partner of choice for hydroelectric plants seeking to optimize their efficiency while preserving the environment. We look forward to working with you to develop tailor-made solutions to meet your specific drainage needs. To find out more about how Gruner can contribute to your project, please contact us. We're here to help you harness hydropower responsibly and sustainably.

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