Electricity generation from hydropower

Substantial Contribution to Climate Change Mitigation

The activity generates electricity from hydropower. The facility meets one of the following criteria: (a) the power plant is a run-of-river plant without an artificial reservoir; (b) the power density of the power plant is above 5 W/m2 of reservoir surface; (c) life-cycle GHG emissions from electricity generation are lower than 100 gCO2e/kWh, calculated using Recommendation 2013/179/EU, ISO 14067:2018, or ISO 14064-1:2018.

For power plants with reservoirs, biogenic emissions from the reservoir are assessed in the life-cycle analysis. The power density threshold of 5 W/m2 ensures that large reservoir surfaces with low generation capacity, which can result in significant methane emissions, are excluded. Life-cycle emissions are verified by an independent third party.

DNSH: Climate Change Adaptation

The activity complies with the criteria set out in Appendix A of the Delegated Act. Climate risk and vulnerability assessments account for changes in precipitation patterns, glacial melt, and extreme hydrological events over the expected lifetime of the facility.

DNSH: Water and Marine Resources

The activity complies with Directive 2000/60/EC (Water Framework Directive). Ecological flow requirements are maintained, and fish passage facilities (upstream and downstream) are installed where appropriate. The facility operates in a way that does not deteriorate the ecological status of affected water bodies and supports achievement of good ecological status or potential.

DNSH: Circular Economy

The activity assesses the availability of and, where feasible, adopts techniques that support reuse and recycling of components. A waste management plan covers construction, operational, and decommissioning phases with high material recovery targets.

DNSH: Pollution Prevention

The activity does not involve the use of substances listed in Annex I or II of Regulation (EU) 2019/1021. Measures prevent sediment contamination and oil or lubricant leaks into water bodies. Turbine lubricants are biodegradable where technically feasible.

DNSH: Biodiversity and Ecosystems

An Environmental Impact Assessment has been completed in accordance with Directive 2011/92/EU. The facility implements mitigation measures for aquatic ecosystems, including fish migration corridors, sediment transport continuity, and minimum ecological flow. For facilities in or near Natura 2000 sites, an appropriate assessment under Article 6(3) of Directive 92/43/EEC demonstrates no adverse effects on site integrity.