“Global hydropower leaders to gather in Sydney to advance clean energy solutions and accelerate the path to net zero.”

Paris 9 September 2025 – The International Hydropower Association (IHA) today announced that Sydney, Australia, will host the 2027 World Hydropower Congress, on 6-8 April 2027, following a successful bid led by Business Events Sydney (BESydney). The announcement was made at the International Forum on Pumped Storage Hydropower, held this week at UNESCO Headquarters in Paris.

The World Hydropower Congress is the flagship global gathering for the hydropower sector. Convening leaders from governments, industry, finance, and civil society, the Congress drives forward policies, commitments and solutions to unlock sustainable hydropower growth and accelerate progress towards net zero.

Australia’s selection underscores its growing leadership in clean energy and hydropower development. The Congress will be particularly significant for New South Wales (NSW), aligning with Investment NSW’s Trade and Investment Strategy – Net Zero & Energy Transition and the NSW Electricity Infrastructure Roadmap, which is transforming the state’s energy system to deliver affordable, clean and reliable power.

NSW is already home to ambitious renewable energy projects. Snowy 2.0, the largest renewable energy and pumped storage project in the southern hemisphere, is scheduled for delivery in 2027 – the same year Sydney welcomes the world to the Congress.

Amanda Lampe, Chief Executive Officer, BESydney stated:

“Hydropower, and landmark projects like Snowy 2.0, highlight Australia’s commitment to renewable energy, innovation and economic growth. We look forward to welcoming global hydropower leaders and international delegates to Sydney for the Global Hydropower Congress in 2027.

“Business events are powerful platforms for collaboration, and this conference will not only shape the future of hydropower but also deliver enduring benefits for the local community and the NSW economy.”

BESydney anticipates the Congress will attract more than 700 delegates from across the globe, generating an estimated AUD$2.7 million in direct expenditure for the local economy.

Malcolm Turnbull, President of the International Hydropower Association (IHA) and former Prime Minister of Australia, has been a driving force in advancing pumped storage hydropower. His leadership helped spark a new wave of development across the country, leaving a lasting legacy for Australia’s clean energy future.

Malcolm Turnbull, President of IHA and former Prime Minister of Australia, said:

“I am delighted that Australia will host the World Hydropower Congress. Our nation has long been at the forefront of the global clean energy transition, and this Congress will showcase how hydropower – and particularly pumped storage – is vital to delivering reliable, affordable and sustainable electricity worldwide.”

The 2027 World Hydropower Congress will shine an international spotlight on Australia’s innovation, expertise, and commitment to a renewable future – and provide a unique opportunity to advance the global hydropower agenda at a pivotal moment for the energy transition.