Final policy guidelines on small hydropower projects (SHPP) was published by the Energy Community (EnC) Secretariat.
The document outlines guidance on the requirements to be met by small hydropower projects in relation to the Energy Community acquis in order to avoid or at least minimize their negative impacts on the environment. The policy guidelines also aim to respond to the growing public opposition and complaints to the Energy Community Secretariat.
The main focus of the document is on ensuring compliance with environmental assessment processes. Other relevant issues such as the effect of support schemes and State aid implications are also assessed. The policy guidelines are intended for use by project developers, competent national authorities and the general public. Developers should take the requirements and recommendations into account from an early stage of project development, preferably already at pre-feasibility level.
