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The company said that a hydropower renaissance is under way across Indonesia, Malaysia, Myanmar and the Philippines. Countries in the region are looking at new ways to harness the oldest and most established renewable energy source.
“A common misconception is that hydropower is limited to schemes that include large-scale dam development,” said Charles Feild, Asia Pacific hydropower director, Black & Veatch. “Governments and the investment community are exploring alternatives. Small and mid-scale run-of-river projects can be successfully developed with lower capital start-up costs and, by connecting remote areas to the grid, deliver additional socio-economic benefits for rural communities.”
Mini, small and mid-scale hydropower have emerged as viable options to help meet growing demands for electricity.
“The power of water remains untapped in many parts of the region. Extensive efforts and plans are under way in Indonesia, Malaysia, Myanmar and the Philippines to increase electric generating capacity, and hydropower will make-up a significant portion of the overall capacity increase in the years ahead,” said Feild.
The opening of the new centre has been welcomed by the executive director of Singapore Economic Development Board. “Singapore is regarded as the leading Asian infrastructure hub to develop, finance and implement projects in the region,” said Goh Chee Kiong. “Companies can leverage Singapore’s strong talent availability, ease of financing and regional connectivity to address opportunities in segments such as renewable energy, water and transport. We warmly welcome Black & Veatch’s decision to set up its Hydropower Centre of Excellence in Singapore, which builds on the strengths of its existing Water business here.”
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