Press Release
The hydropower sector took a crucial step forward with the launch of the Hydropower Sustainability Alliance (HSA) at the World Hydropower Congress.
A multistakeholder non-profit organization governed by a combination of public and private sectors, the HSA enhances transparency in the sector through its rigorous sustainability assessment and certification system and a robust capacity building program.
Dr Ashok Khosla, president of the HSA, was at the launch to recognize this milestone in renewable energy: “Hydropower has a major role to play in helping countries to achieve sustainable development, meet renewables targets and address climate change. I am excited to be part of taking the next step as president of the HSA. The Alliance will bring greater attention to the need for credible systems to incentivize the best projects. Providing communities, governments and investors greater confidence in their net benefits and how impacts on the local environment can be mitigated.”
Dr Khosla was joined at the event by representatives from recently certified hydropower owners: Hydro-Québec (Eastmain-1 Development), Jirau Energia (Jirau Hydropower Plant), Pamir Energy (Sebzor Hydropower Project), and Urja Developers (Mai Beni project). Each of these projects was awarded the first-ever Gold certifications in their respective regions – North America, South America, Central Asia and South Asia.
“As the primary source of electricity in Brazil, hydropower is essential to meet the country’s energy demands,” remarked Edson Silva, CEO of Jirau Energia. “We recognize and advocate for the importance of hydroelectricity generation that actively minimizes any potential adverse social and environmental effects. We hope that Jirau can set an example for other hydropower projects across the world, encouraging them to continuously improve and demonstrate their sustainability practices.”
Joao Costa, newly appointed Executive Director for the HSA commented: “The Hydropower Sustainability Alliance is committed to scaling up the adoption of sustainability principles in hydropower by embedding the HS Standard in financial and corporate mechanisms, civil society expectations, and government regulations. The first movers in the private sector have already obtained certification this year, and many more are preparing to meet our rigorous ESG criteria and publicly showcase their commitment to sustainability.”