SNOWPOWER
Climate Forecast for Hydropower Generation
Background
SnowPower is a SaaS solution, developed by Amigo. It is the first commercial climate service of its kind, combining a satellite based snow water equivalent with climate data to estimate and predict the energy generated by hydropower plants up to six months in advance. SnowPower consists of three components (snow, melt and hydropower generation) that work in sequence, combining the use of data and AI/ML algorithms with the aim of providing a reliable and accurate forecast of hydropower generation in the short (7 days) and medium term (1 to 6 months).
Challenge
Accurate estimation of snow water content could allow energy producers to better manage natural resources and make renewable energy production more efficient.
EOSC services used
Snowpower used C-SCALE’s FedEarthData service.
Federated Earth System Simulation and Data Processing Platform, as well as a Workflow Solution for on-demand seasonal river discharge forecasting.
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Results
A methodological improvement inlcuded a revision of the criteria to determine catchment areas. New variables related to the energy market were identified. A detailed business plan to guide future operations was developed.
Impact
The TRL was upgraded from TRL7 to TRL9. The Business Strategy and Operational Processes were advanced, and the market expansion and competitiveness testing can help Amigo to be more competitive in existing and potential markets. During the pilot, the project developed several user-friendly solutions that take into account the different characteristics of hydropower plants.
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