Regional interconnections
The challenge
To reach new markets and customers, clean electricity requires long-distance transmission, often across national boundaries.
Hydropower offers sustainable, affordable energy for local communities. For many projects to become economically viable, however, they must be interconnected to a central grid and markets in neighbouring countries.
Regional interconnections involve joining up separate power systems and building cross-border grid infrastructure. They can result in lower electricity costs, greater flexibility and improved system reliability for trading partners.
Additional benefits include access to clean energy systems and energy storage, but they can be hindered by a lack of institutional capacity when navigating the cost and complexity of a transmission infrastructure project.
Projects can in some cases be burdened by regulatory structures which are not harmonised or coordinated, and disagreements over how benefits are shared and risks are allocated can delay or even halt new developments.
Our strategy and action
IHA is promoting the benefits and lessons learned from regional energy interconnections.
The growth in regional energy networks globally has created new opportunities to widen access to clean electricity and water services. This is essential for many countries to meet their renewable energy targets, reduce poverty and boost national development.
Hydropower development and regional interconnections often go hand-in-hand. In particular, long distance transmission can provide export routes for remote hydropower sites, while giving distant markets access to a low cost and flexible power supply.
We continue to explore the opportunities and challenges stemming from the growth of cross border energy grids and share knowledge with our members, partners and stakeholders.
Throughout 2019, we will be publishing a compendium of case studies, produced through collaboration with members and partners, to promote the mutual benefits of and lessons learned from regional interconnections involving hydropower.
Recent activities
Hydropower Pro
IHA members can access the knowledge network in Hydropower Pro, our online member community.
In the online group, network members can connect with each other, exchange experiences and access essential resources, briefings and case studies.
For any questions, please contact IHA analyst David Samuel at david.samuel@hydropower.org
Latest associated content
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CEO interview: Eric Martel, Hydro-Québec
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IHA expands knowledge networks initiative
23 August 2016
The International Hydropower Association is expanding its knowledge networks initiative to include eight topics identified as the most challenging for the sector.
Type:News postDate:23 August 2016 -
A view from Myanmar: exploring system-scale hydropower planning
Myanmar’s rivers provide a reliable source of water for navigation and irrigation, and support food production and livelihoods.
Type:Blog postDate:8 June 2016 -
2017 World Hydropower Congress to be hosted in Addis Ababa
The International Hydropower Association (IHA) announces that the 2017 World Hydropower Congress will take place in Addis Ababa on 9–11 May 2017.
Type:News postDate:7 June 2016 -
What role can hydropower play in new energy markets and growing economies?
Hydropower projects can bring significant benefits to developing and emerging economies, providing essential services such as electricity generation, freshwater management and climate adaptation.
Type:Blog postDate:18 April 2016
