Retrofitting dams for energy generation: Recycling old infrastructure to produce old forms of energy in new ways

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  Quantumrun Foresight
• July 8, 2022

Insight summary

Repurposing large dams for hydropower offers a clean energy solution. While this boosts renewable energy, it's important to note these initiatives are just a fraction of solar and wind capacity. However, beyond energy, retrofitted dams can create jobs, strengthens grids, and promotes sustainability and cooperation in the face of climate challenges.

Retrofitting dams for electricity context

Large dams, which can have negative environmental impacts comparable to fossil fuels, can undergo reengineering for more positive purposes as the world embraces new renewable energy sources. One notable example is the Red Rock project in Iowa, initiated in 2011. This project represents a part of a larger trend, with 36 dams in the US converted for hydropower generation since 2000.

The converted Red Rock facility can now produce up to 500 megawatts of renewable energy. However, it's essential to note that this output is a fraction of the 33,000 megawatts of solar and wind energy capacity added in the US in 2020. The era of constructing major dams in the US may be waning, but retrofitting old dams for hydropower not only breathes new life into the industry but is poised to become the nation's dominant source of hydropower.

As the US sets ambitious targets for decarbonizing its energy grid by 2035, the interests of hydropower and environmental activists are increasingly aligned in repurposing existing infrastructure for renewable energy generation. A 2016 analysis highlights that upgrading existing dams could potentially add up to 12,000 megawatts of generation capacity to the US electricity grid. However, it's important to acknowledge that only 4,800 megawatts, enough to power over two million households, may be economically viable to develop by 2050.

While many dams worldwide can be retrofitted for hydropower, there are concerns, particularly in regions like West Africa and South America, where some retrofits may inadvertently lead to higher carbon emissions compared to fossil fuel power facilities. 

Disruptive impact

Transforming old dams into hydropower plants can boost a country's renewable energy output. By repurposing these dams, nations can substantially increase their electricity generation from renewable sources. This, in turn, may allow for the reduction or even closure of specific fossil fuel power plants, leading to decreased greenhouse gas emissions and a gradual shift towards cleaner energy. Additionally, it can deter the construction of new fossil fuel power plants, aligning with global efforts to combat climate change and transition to greener energy alternatives. 

Moreover, the transformation of old dams into hydropower facilities is expected to create new opportunities for organizations specializing in dam assessment and retrofitting. As interest in this trend grows, these firms are likely to see an increase in business inquiries from various stakeholders eager to leverage existing dam infrastructure for renewable energy generation. Simultaneously, countries with aspirations to expand their renewable energy capacity may find it easier to secure financing for future dam-building projects.

Finally, these converted dams could play a crucial role in pumped hydro storage projects, a vital component of the evolving energy landscape. In the face of rising global temperatures and unpredictable weather patterns, the ability to store energy and conserve water becomes increasingly vital. Dams, integrated into such storage projects, offer a reliable means of addressing the challenges posed by climate change. This multifaceted approach not only enhances renewable energy generation but also contributes to resilience in the face of climate-related uncertainties.

Implications of retrofitting dams to provide hydropower

Wider implications of retrofitting old dams to provide new sources of hydropower may include:

• Greater adoption of renewable energy through dam retrofitting, resulting in reduced energy expenses for consumers and a notable decrease in carbon emissions.
• Improved stability of electricity grids, especially when integrated with pumped hydro storage projects, ensuring a reliable energy supply and minimizing the risk of power shortages.
• Creation of high-paying job opportunities in construction and engineering sectors, benefiting regions seeking to enhance blue-collar employment opportunities.
• Increased governmental funding allocation, as dam retrofitting initiatives often align with broader infrastructure renewal projects at both state and national levels.
• A shift towards more sustainable consumption and production patterns, driven by the integration of hydropower into existing dams, promoting circular economy principles and environmentally responsible energy generation.
• Enhanced energy affordability, particularly in regions with high reliance on fossil fuels, contributing to greater financial stability for households.
• Strengthened energy security and reduced dependence on fossil fuels, reducing vulnerability to supply disruptions and geopolitical uncertainties.
• Potential for improved international cooperation on renewable energy projects, fostering diplomatic ties and reducing conflicts related to energy resources.
• Enhanced environmental conservation efforts through the integration of dams into pumped hydro storage projects, aiding in water conservation amidst changing weather patterns.

Questions to consider

• Do you think the drive to retrofit dams to become hydropower plants may lead to other forms of existing infrastructure being repurposed to produce renewable energy?
• Do you believe hydropower will play a growing or shrinking role in the world’s future energy mix?