The British Hydropower Association (BHA) is the leading trade membership association solely representing the interests of the UK hydropower industry (from micro to large scale) and its associated stakeholders in the wider community, both in the UK and overseas.

Our Mission Statement is translated into clear objectives, enabling specific outcomes in line with our vision. They are to be a vehicle for:

Effective lobbying of government and other agencies/NGOs
Liaison with and monitoring of government and other agencies
Co-ordination of events and creation of marketing an networking opportunities
Developing export opportunities for the industry
Providing a technical, regulatory and political information source
Promoting hydropower – increasing awareness of its quality and scope both at home and overseas

“The BHA is the only organisation that solely represents the UK Hydropower sector. Our members range from all-scale hydro developers and generators, investors, consulting engineers to manufacturers and suppliers of equipment. The BHA works mainly in the UK and overseas supporting and promoting the hydropower industry. Hydropower is a well-established and proven technology. The first water turbines were built in the mid 1800’s and they have been developing ever since. Turbine efficiencies are rarely below 80% which is about double that of a steam turbine. Constant and continuing design improvements can bring significant efficiencies.

Research and development continues into providing new and more cost-effective solutions and improvements to the design and engineering of new hydropower schemes. Most of the hydropower in the UK has been developed, but resource studies have indicated that as much again of undeveloped potential is viable. At present 30% to 40% of the UK’s renewable generation is provided by hydropower. Globally, 17% of energy is supplied – and will continue to be supplied – from hydropower sources. The UK has been involved with the export of equipment and services for about 150 years – we still have the expertise and remain involved in business worldwide. It is a time of change and challenge for the hydropower sector and the BHA has some significant and challenging work ahead.”

“I am very pleased that the BHA has appointed me as Chairman for the next two years. This is a challenging time for the hydropower industry but there is also a great opportunity in the development of, storage of energy both above and below the intake and also in the growth of marine energy, including tidal range, tidal stream and barrage technology. I am confident that the BHA can foster an innovative industry which is uniquely positioned to respond to the requirement for flexible renewable energy production.

Despite being the world’s oldest energy technology hydropower still has a great deal to offer providing the only long life and environmentally friendly energy resource. I will work with the BHA membership, board and staff to get this message to the UK and devolved Governments to help develop a far reaching vision for hydropower development.”

The BHA board consists of 11 non – executive directors and 1 executive director in the chief executive officer. There is also a BHA Northern Ireland Representative and an Events and Conference contractor. There are 2 administrative assistants – one responsible for Finance and Accounts and another for Events and Membership. The work of the board covers a wide range of issues including, business, consenting, regulatory, commercial, Micro Hydro and National and devolved governments.