1 October 2026
Continued Support for Research on Sustainable Hydropower
Research on sustainable, safe and efficient hydropower will receive continued support as the Swedish Centre for Sustainable Hydropower (SVC) is extended through 2031. Luleå University of Technology will continue as the host university for the initiative.
SVC brings together researchers, companies, public authorities and universities to develop the hydropower of the future. The continued initiative will enable further research in areas including environment and society, hydraulic engineering, and turbines and generators.
“We are pleased to have the opportunity to continue developing and leading the centre. Over the past four years, we have strengthened knowledge within our three work packages, and we look forward to continuing this important and useful work,” says Staffan Lundström, Professor and Director of SVC at Luleå University of Technology.
Staffan Lundström, professor and director of the SVC at Luleå University of Technology.
Important for the energy transition
Hydropower plays a central role in the Swedish energy system. As the share of wind and solar power increases, the ability of hydropower to balance the electricity grid becomes increasingly important. At the same time, hydropower needs to evolve to meet growing demands for safety, flexibility and consideration for the environment and biodiversity.
SVC conducts research aimed at addressing these challenges through close collaboration between academia, industry and the public sector.
In its decision to extend the initiative, the Swedish Energy Agency highlights that the centre has established a strong research and collaboration environment, producing scientific results, graduating doctoral students and developing solutions that have been put into practical use.
Bringing Together Research and the Industry
Luleå University of Technology is the host university for SVC, which brings together seven universities as well as public authorities and a large part of the Swedish hydropower industry. The centre addresses issues ranging from dam safety and hydraulic engineering to environmental impact and efficient energy production.
The new phase will allow the research to continue developing while new doctoral students and researchers are recruited and knowledge is shared with industry, public authorities and other stakeholders.
“Hydropower is a well-established technology, but continued research is needed for it to develop in response to new demands. Through SVC’s collaboration between industry, academia and public authorities, research is translated into practical benefits,” says Hans Bjerhag, Fortum and Chair of the SVC Programme Council.
Contact
Staffan Lundström
- Professor and Head of Subject
- 0920-492392
- staffan.lundstrom@ltu.se
- Staffan Lundström
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