The first topic area seeks to stimulate innovative facility designs for small, low-head hydropower plants that incorporate a combination of foundation, passage, and generation modules. Modules are defined as individual standardized units that can be used to construct a more complex structure. Transformational innovation is desired specifically in the foundation modules, which anchor passage and generation modules to the streambed and banks. Applicants should propose novel methods of designing and installing foundation modules using low-cost geotechnical approaches. Examples of innovative geotechnical approaches include methods that minimize dewatering during construction, avoid the use of cofferdams, and enable construction and access from a single abutment (i.e., left or right stream bank).
The second topic area is targeting applications for new use-cases that address key barriers and suggest opportunities for successful deployment of pumped-storage hydropower. Concepts of interest include configurations, layouts, and technical designs that can markedly reduce costs of deployment and operation (e.g., time to commissioning) and expand siting opportunities through non-traditional applications.
More information and application guidelines..........