Hydropower Infrastructure: Reliable, Resilient & High-Performing Solutions

Hydropower is central to a cleaner, more reliable energy future. Yet outdated infrastructure and complex regulations pose challenges.

GFT empowers clients to meet these demands with confidence through tailored, innovative hydropower solutions that optimize operations, enhance safety, and deliver lasting performance.

Navigating Complex Regulations with Confidence

Comprehensive expertise to achieve Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC), North American Electric Reliability Corporation (NERC), and environmental compliance while safeguarding communities, ecosystems, and operational continuity.

FERC Dam Safety Guidelines
From leading one of the first FERC risk projects to driving compliance with FERC Part 12D Independent Consultant Comprehensive Assessments and Periodic Inspections, we protect communities. Our experts proactively identify dam safety concerns, working with owners to safeguard lives, property, and the environment.
We follow FERC’s Risk-Informed Decision-Making guidelines, conducting Level 1 Screening and Level 2 Periodic, Level 3 Semi-Quantitative, and Level 4 Quantitative Risk Analyses. We examine loading, dam fragility, and the consequences of failure. Understanding the potential issues, we work with clients to design and implement solutions that reduce and mitigate these risks.
FERC Licensing/Relicensing
FERC licensing is critical to achieving environmental, safety, and operational compliance. Navigating the intricacies of the FERC licensing process while balancing operational flexibility and stakeholder interests requires experience, creativity, and professional insight. We help our clients achieve their goals and keep their projects operational and profitable while complying with new requirements.

NERC Compliance
NERC reliability standards and Critical Infrastructure Protection (CIP) requirements increase system reliability, performance, cybersecurity, and emergency preparedness. Our electrical utility and safety professionals partner with clients to comply with standards and implement holistic cybersecurity measures to protect critical infrastructure.
Environmental
Comprehensive compliance programs must also address environmental considerations. We prioritize and support stewardship by providing watershed management, stream restoration, NEPA compliance, and environmental impact assessments. We routinely develop strategies for water supply and quality, sedimentation, wildlife habitats, fish passage, and more, including dam decommissioning.

Tailored Expertise for Every Phase of Hydropower Development

End-to-end solutions that maximize efficiency and safety in hydropower infrastructure.

Dam Safety and Rehabilitation
We recognize that dam safety is paramount for hydropower dams, forming the backbone of reliable power generation.
GFT has led some of the industry’s earliest and most complex Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) risk projects and drives full compliance with Part 12D Independent Consultant Comprehensive Assessments and Periodic Inspections to protect communities. By applying FERC’s Risk-Informed Decision-Making guidelines, including Level 1 through Level 4 risk analyses, we work with dam owners to identify hazards, understand potential consequences, and implement solutions that safeguard lives, property, and the environment.
We bring extensive experience in water management infrastructure, specializing in advanced geotechnical engineering, hydrology and hydraulics, seismic analysis, and risk assessment. Our comprehensive and award-winning dam safety expertise includes inspecting, designing, maintaining, and constructing dams along with their appurtenant structures, powerhouses, and roadways.
Electrical and Mechanical Hydropower Generation
Regardless of how facilities produce electricity, generating power safely and reliably requires specialized expertise. Our electrical and mechanical engineering services enhance the operational excellence of hydropower facilities with a team that brings deep technical acumen in a range of critical areas, from turbine design and generator upgrades to the integration of state-of-the-art electrical control systems. We specialize in engineering turbines and optimizing their performance and efficiency, and our generator services extend from routine maintenance to full-scale refurbishment, extending lifespan and maximizing output.
Balance of Plant
We understand that a hydropower plant’s efficiency and dependability extend beyond the powerhouse. Our balance of plant services optimize critical supporting infrastructure for your facility’s overall performance. With proven experience enhancing ancillary systems, such as water management, control systems, and electrical infrastructure, we make every component function seamlessly and efficiently. Our holistic approach spans initial assessments, design, construction management, and ongoing maintenance to keep your hydropower plant operating at peak efficiency, boosting resiliency and profitability.
Maintenance Planning
Operation and maintenance (O&M) are the lifeblood of power generation. Without a diligent O&M program, even the best-designed power plants will falter. The challenge lies not in recognizing the need for maintenance but in designing, implementing, and continuously improving the maintenance programs that underpin reliable operation. Our strategy encompasses routine inspections, preventative measures, and predictive maintenance. Leveraging advanced diagnostic tools and data analytics, we identify potential issues and develop mitigation plans, resulting in customized maintenance schedules that align with operational demands, improve facility reliability, and maximize return on investment.

Transmission, Switchyards & Substations
We offer specialized expertise in high-voltage and medium-voltage transmission, switchyards, and substations. Our transmission and distribution services include foundation and tower design, geotechnical analysis, cable design, and feasibility studies, and our switchyard and substation services include circuit breakers, potential and current transformers, capacitive couples, lightning protection, and grounding studies.
We have extensive experience designing and upgrading transmission lines and associated infrastructure to handle increasing power demands and interconnection complexities. Our switchyard and substation designs meet facility requirements and incorporate advanced technologies for improved reliability and performance. Our solutions optimize connectivity, minimize energy losses, and support full compliance with the latest safety and regulatory standards.
Grant Writing
We understand the complexities and nuances of securing funding for hydropower projects. Our expert team guides clients through the grant application landscape with services tailored to the hydropower industry’s unique needs. With a deep understanding of federal, state, and local funding programs, we assist in identifying the right opportunities, crafting compelling applications, and navigating the submission process with ease. Whether you’re pursuing funding for new facilities, upgrades, or resiliency initiatives, our proven track record strengthens your project’s chances of securing the financial support it needs. Let us help turn your hydroelectric vision into a reality through expertly written grant applications that deliver results.
Public Safety and Security
Public safety and security are essential in hydropower facilities. Recognizing the unique safety requirements of these facilities, our tailored physical security solutions range from high-risk dams to those classified as low hazard. Our experts apply risk management principles at the individual asset level to optimize trade-offs between cost, performance, and risk, helping clients meet their safety and security goals and regulatory mandates, including FERC Security and NERC CIP guidelines.
Ratemaking and Valuation
We provide ratemaking and valuation services to most major electric utilities across North America. We are recognized as leading experts in depreciation studies, estimating the expected useful lives of assets and their cost recovery to determine revenue requirements and customer rates. Our decommissioning services consider useful life and end-of-life cost determination, factoring in facility dismantling and site restoration.