Downing to Digitalise 32 Hydropower Plants Across Sweden

2/9/24
5 min
Renewable energy
News

Investment manager Downing, a key player in the renewable energy sector, and HYDROGRID, announce their collaboration to enhance the operational efficiency and sustainability of Downing's hydropower operations in Sweden. This strategic partnership aims to optimise Downing's portfolio of 32 hydropower plants, integrating cutting-edge technology to enhance performance and automation.

Together with HYDROGRID, Downing will focus on implementing a mix of modules, ranging from full cascade optimisation to plant connection with basic inflow integration. The project is set to kick off in September 2024.

From pilot plant to full portfolio roll-out

Ulf Wennilsjo, Portfolio Manager and GM of Downing Sweden, said: "HYDROGRID's technology is a cornerstone of our digitalisation journey, making our small-scale cascades future-ready. Our collaboration will leverage HYDROGRID Insight to optimise a 45MW fleet comprising of 32 power plants, including the Norsälven Cascade, which served as a proof of concept over the past year."
Janice Goodenough, CEO of HYDROGRID, said: "Starting with Norsälven Cascade, and moving forward to the full portfolio, Downing has renewed and amplified trust in our collaboration, focusing on automation and digitalisation across their hydro fleet. We are honoured to support Downing reach this goal and look forward to celebrating each milestone along the way.”

The advanced water management platform is set to complement the acceptance of the first Downing HPP into the capacity market under FCR-N and FCR-D. Additionally, Downing will work closely with OneNordic for operations and maintenance, ensuring seamless data communication and operational excellence.

The development is particularly relevant for the European energy market landscape, as increasing flexibility of hydropower production and dispatch has never been more critical. The optimisation of small hydropower through digitalisation and automation represents a significant shift in how hydropower operators can gain a competitive advantage across all energy markets.

Find out more about our Energy and Infrastructure team here.

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Investment manager Downing, a key player in the renewable energy sector, and HYDROGRID, announce their collaboration to enhance the operational efficiency and sustainability of Downing's hydropower operations in Sweden. This strategic partnership aims to optimise Downing's portfolio of 32 hydropower plants, integrating cutting-edge technology to enhance performance and automation.

Together with HYDROGRID, Downing will focus on implementing a mix of modules, ranging from full cascade optimisation to plant connection with basic inflow integration. The project is set to kick off in September 2024.

From pilot plant to full portfolio roll-out

Ulf Wennilsjo, Portfolio Manager and GM of Downing Sweden, said: "HYDROGRID's technology is a cornerstone of our digitalisation journey, making our small-scale cascades future-ready. Our collaboration will leverage HYDROGRID Insight to optimise a 45MW fleet comprising of 32 power plants, including the Norsälven Cascade, which served as a proof of concept over the past year."
Janice Goodenough, CEO of HYDROGRID, said: "Starting with Norsälven Cascade, and moving forward to the full portfolio, Downing has renewed and amplified trust in our collaboration, focusing on automation and digitalisation across their hydro fleet. We are honoured to support Downing reach this goal and look forward to celebrating each milestone along the way.”

The advanced water management platform is set to complement the acceptance of the first Downing HPP into the capacity market under FCR-N and FCR-D. Additionally, Downing will work closely with OneNordic for operations and maintenance, ensuring seamless data communication and operational excellence.

The development is particularly relevant for the European energy market landscape, as increasing flexibility of hydropower production and dispatch has never been more critical. The optimisation of small hydropower through digitalisation and automation represents a significant shift in how hydropower operators can gain a competitive advantage across all energy markets.

Find out more about our Energy and Infrastructure team here.

We are delighted to announce that Mark Gross, Partner and Head of Development Capital, has been named Equity Investor of the year at the HealthInvestor Power List 2024 Awards.

Following Mark’s achievement last year when he won the “Leading Investor” award at HealthInvestor’s Power50, this year’s win further highlights his continued success and expertise in investing across the healthcare sector. 

The judges praised Mark for finding success both in value and volume this year, delivering good returns and growth. They were impressed by how Mark has continued to strengthen a strong track record with further growth in the team and new funds securing further backing. We extend our thanks to Mark and the Downing Development Capital team for their continued dedication and support in expanding our healthcare investment activities with a focus on quality, performance and reputation. 

Congratulations Mark!

Development Capital  

Downing Development Capital is an award-winning investor focused on investment opportunities into asset-backed operating businesses with downside protection. Typical sectors they invest in include healthcare, specialist education, hospitality, leisure and IT infrastructure.

Learn more about our Development Capital team

Investment manager Downing, a key player in the renewable energy sector, and HYDROGRID, announce their collaboration to enhance the operational efficiency and sustainability of Downing's hydropower operations in Sweden. This strategic partnership aims to optimise Downing's portfolio of 32 hydropower plants, integrating cutting-edge technology to enhance performance and automation.

Together with HYDROGRID, Downing will focus on implementing a mix of modules, ranging from full cascade optimisation to plant connection with basic inflow integration. The project is set to kick off in September 2024.

From pilot plant to full portfolio roll-out

Ulf Wennilsjo, Portfolio Manager and GM of Downing Sweden, said: "HYDROGRID's technology is a cornerstone of our digitalisation journey, making our small-scale cascades future-ready. Our collaboration will leverage HYDROGRID Insight to optimise a 45MW fleet comprising of 32 power plants, including the Norsälven Cascade, which served as a proof of concept over the past year."
Janice Goodenough, CEO of HYDROGRID, said: "Starting with Norsälven Cascade, and moving forward to the full portfolio, Downing has renewed and amplified trust in our collaboration, focusing on automation and digitalisation across their hydro fleet. We are honoured to support Downing reach this goal and look forward to celebrating each milestone along the way.”

The advanced water management platform is set to complement the acceptance of the first Downing HPP into the capacity market under FCR-N and FCR-D. Additionally, Downing will work closely with OneNordic for operations and maintenance, ensuring seamless data communication and operational excellence.

The development is particularly relevant for the European energy market landscape, as increasing flexibility of hydropower production and dispatch has never been more critical. The optimisation of small hydropower through digitalisation and automation represents a significant shift in how hydropower operators can gain a competitive advantage across all energy markets.

Find out more about our Energy and Infrastructure team here.

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Torsten Mack, Investment Director at Downing, said:

"We are proud to support this exceptional management team, whose strong track record positions them well to build a new business in dementia care. This needs-based sector is underpinned by a lack of quality supply and we are investing in Fortava Healthcare to set and deliver high standards, and to help make a difference."

Johann van Zyl, CEO at Fortava, added:

"I’m thrilled to be working with Jamie, as we share the same values. We plan to grow Fortava into a leading provider of dementia care over the next five to seven years. But growth isn’t our primary focus—our goal is to deliver outstanding care and foster a joyful, supportive environment for both residents and staff. We’re delighted to be partnering with Downing who also share our values and we look forward to this journey with them."

Jamie Stuart, CFO at Fortava, commented:

“For me, it's about being more than just another care home provider. While dementia care in the UK is generally of a good standard, we want to set ourselves apart with a fresh approach. That’s why, after over 25 years in banking, I chose to partner with Johann and Downing on this venture.”

Investment manager Downing, a key player in the renewable energy sector, and HYDROGRID, announce their collaboration to enhance the operational efficiency and sustainability of Downing's hydropower operations in Sweden. This strategic partnership aims to optimise Downing's portfolio of 32 hydropower plants, integrating cutting-edge technology to enhance performance and automation.

Together with HYDROGRID, Downing will focus on implementing a mix of modules, ranging from full cascade optimisation to plant connection with basic inflow integration. The project is set to kick off in September 2024.

From pilot plant to full portfolio roll-out

Ulf Wennilsjo, Portfolio Manager and GM of Downing Sweden, said: "HYDROGRID's technology is a cornerstone of our digitalisation journey, making our small-scale cascades future-ready. Our collaboration will leverage HYDROGRID Insight to optimise a 45MW fleet comprising of 32 power plants, including the Norsälven Cascade, which served as a proof of concept over the past year."
Janice Goodenough, CEO of HYDROGRID, said: "Starting with Norsälven Cascade, and moving forward to the full portfolio, Downing has renewed and amplified trust in our collaboration, focusing on automation and digitalisation across their hydro fleet. We are honoured to support Downing reach this goal and look forward to celebrating each milestone along the way.”

The advanced water management platform is set to complement the acceptance of the first Downing HPP into the capacity market under FCR-N and FCR-D. Additionally, Downing will work closely with OneNordic for operations and maintenance, ensuring seamless data communication and operational excellence.

The development is particularly relevant for the European energy market landscape, as increasing flexibility of hydropower production and dispatch has never been more critical. The optimisation of small hydropower through digitalisation and automation represents a significant shift in how hydropower operators can gain a competitive advantage across all energy markets.

Find out more about our Energy and Infrastructure team here.

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