A new analysis shows how renewable energy sources like solar, wind and hydropower respond to climate patterns, and how utilities can use this data to save money and invest in energy storage.
A new digital twin platform can help hydropower dam operators by providing accurate and predictive models of physical turbines that improve facilities and enhance reliability.
Although climate change may bring increased precipitation to many parts of the United States, some areas may face drier conditions and lower streamflow, resulting in decreased hydropower generation.
PNNL and collaborators developed new models—recently approved by the U.S. Western Electricity Coordinating Council (WECC)—to help utilities understand how new grid-forming inverter technology will enhance grid stability.
New methodological approach demonstrates how to assess the economic value, including non-traditional value streams, of converting non-powered dams to hydroelectric facilities.
A PNNL study developed a water management module for Xanthos that distinguishes between the operational characteristics of hydropower, irrigation, and flood control reservoirs.
Pacific Northwest National Laboratory launches the Training Outreach and Recruitment for Cybersecurity Hydropower program at the University of Texas at El Paso.
Understanding the risk of compound energy droughts—times when the sun doesn’t shine and the wind doesn’t blow—will help grid planners understand where energy storage is needed most.
PNNL led one of five Pathway Summer School programs nationwide, with a specific focus on engaging students from Native American or Indigenous backgrounds.
Fish biologist Brenda Pracheil has been named chair of the Low Impact Hydropower Institute focused on reduction of impacts of hydropower dams on the environment.
PNNL researchers developed a new model to help power system operators and planners better evaluate how grid-forming, inverter-based resources could affect the system stability.
Recognizing how innovation and clean technologies at the very edge of the grid can work together to transition the electricity system, PNNL takes a multidisciplinary approach to advancing and integrating renewable energy solutions.
A new PNNL study quantifies hydropower's contribution to grid stability. When other power sources go out, hydropower can ramp up, recoup shortfalls, and stabilize the grid nearly instantaneously.
