Hydropower plants are facilities that use the kinetic and potential energy of water to generate electrical energy. In Austria, one of the leading countries in the use of hydropower, over 60% of the electricity generated comes from this renewable energy source. The geographical conditions, in particular the large number of rivers and mountains, make the country ideal for the construction of hydropower plants.

There are various types of hydropower plants, which differ in terms of how they work and how they are used. Run-of-river power plants are the most commonly used form, utilizing the natural flow velocity of rivers. These plants generate electricity constantly as long as sufficient water is available. Storage power plants, on the other hand, store water in a reservoir and can provide electricity quickly when needed, especially during peak times. Thanks to this flexibility, they can be used both for base load supply and to cover peak loads.

Another type is pumped storage power plants, which use surplus energy to pump water to higher elevations. When energy demand is high, the water is released again to generate electricity. This type of hydropower plant plays an important role in the energy market as it helps to stabilize the electricity grid and supports the integration of other renewable energy sources such as wind and solar energy.

The importance of hydropower plants in Austria is not only reflected in their electricity production, but also in their ability to provide environmentally friendly energy. Compared to fossil fuels, hydropower plants cause significantly fewer greenhouse gas emissions and thus contribute to reducing CO₂ emissions. These aspects are particularly relevant as Austria has set itself the goal of becoming climate-neutral by 2040.

However, the ecological impact of hydropower plants must also be taken into account. The construction of dams and reservoirs can have a significant impact on aquatic ecosystems and biodiversity. Careful planning and environmental impact assessments are therefore essential to minimize the negative effects. Many Austrian hydropower plants have now implemented measures to improve fish migration aids and protect animal habitats.

In recent years, hydropower technology has advanced to increase the efficiency of existing plants and reduce their environmental impact. With innovative approaches, such as the use of small hydropower plants, electricity can also be generated at locations with lower water flows, further diversifying the use of hydropower.

In summary, it can be said that hydropower plants play a key role in the energy transition, not only in Austria but also at European level. They offer a sustainable and reliable source of energy that contributes to both achieving climate targets and ensuring energy supply. In view of the increasing demand for renewable energies, the expansion and modernization of hydropower plants is essential in order to successfully shape the energy transition.