Hydropower Research

NLR experts conduct hydropower research, hydroelectric power research, and pumped storage hydropower technologies research to enhance future grid development.

Overview of NLR's Hydropower Program

Learn about NLR's hydropower efforts to reduce energy costs, drive efficiency, and support system integration.

As the amount of energy on our nation's grid increases, so does the system's need for increased flexibility. Moreover, this requirement is expected to accelerate as states strive to meet their energy goals. Hydropower, with its high capacity and ability to provide medium- and long-term storage, is one of the few grid technologies well-positioned to meet these needs.

To learn more about what hydropower is and how it works, explore NLR's Hydropower Basics or tour REDi Island, a virtual world fueled by energy technologies and home to more than a dozen water-based exploration points.

NLR works in multiple hydropower research areas to make sure that both existing and new facilities are able to maximize their ongoing utility.