Hydropower Sustainability Standard

Developers and operators

• ✓Secure capital fasterDeliver verified ESG disclosures that help accelerate credit approval and build confidence with insurers.
• ✓Cut appraisal timeProvide audit-ready evidence aligned with IFC Performance Standards, helping lenders and DFIs reduce duplication during ESG due diligence.
• ✓Protect your timelineIdentify and address ESG risks early, avoiding delays in permitting, procurement and project delivery.
• ✓Access RE100 and PPA buyersShowcase verified sustainability data that satisfies RE100 requirements and gives corporate buyers the documentation trail they need.
• ✓Unlock Climate Bonds and premium marketsUse certification as a trusted assurance layer that I-REC buyers and Climate Bond investors require.
• ✓Build credibilityStrengthen your standing with sector peers, investors, governments and civil society.
• ✓Prepare your teamEquip your staff with tailored training to manage assessments effectively and build long-term capacity.

Communities

• ✓Verified community benefitsDemonstrate credible evidence of ESG outcomes, strengthening impact reporting and stakeholder engagement.
• ✓Better local outcomesEncourage stronger engagement with local communities and better consideration of local priorities.
• ✓Protect natural resourcesHelp protect local ecosystems and reduce environmental impacts.
• ✓Infrastructure for your communityImprove visibility over project contributions to local infrastructure and essential services through investments in roads, schools, and healthcare facilities.
• ✓Jobs and skillsCreate local employment and skill-building opportunities, driving long-term economic growth.

Financial institutions

• ✓Faster credit decisionsIndependently verified governance and impact data satisfies your ESG due diligence requirements and supports insurer expectations.
• ✓Streamline due diligenceRely on pre-packaged, audit-ready evidence aligned with IFC Performance Standards, helping reduce duplication during ESG appraisal.
• ✓Access sustainability-linked capitalIndependent verification opens the door to REC buyers and Climate Bond investors seeking credible hydropower assets.
• ✓Invest with confidenceBack your portfolio with independently assured ESG performance, verified against internationally recognised standards.
• ✓Reduce ESG riskIdentify and address material issues early, protecting your portfolio from financial and reputational exposure.
• ✓Protect long-term valueSupport projects that sustain the social and environmental foundations that underpin long-term project viability.

Governments and regulators

• ✓Credible ESG signallingUse independent assessment procedures to give regulators, investors and the public a clear record of progress on carbon transition goals.
• ✓Set the benchmarkUse an internationally recognised standard to set and communicate hydropower performance requirements in your jurisdiction.
• ✓Enforce accountabilityMonitor and enforce adherence to internationally accepted ESG practices across your project portfolio.
• ✓Build public trustSignal your commitment to responsible development and strengthen your social licence through independent certification.
• ✓Balance energy and sustainabilityAdvance hydropower development that meets your energy needs while protecting environmental and social values.

Civil society organisations

• ✓Evidence-backed accountabilityUse documented, verified project data as a reliable foundation for dialogue, monitoring and impact reporting.
• ✓Strengthen your advocacyEngage with projects aligned with global sustainability norms, giving your advocacy internationally recognised credibility.
• ✓Track performance transparentlyUse published assessment reports to monitor project performance against established ESG indicators.
• ✓Shape project outcomesParticipate in multi-stakeholder processes designed to ensure your perspectives are reflected in project decisions.
• ✓Drive lasting changeSupport projects verified to respect human rights and protect ecosystems.

Academia and research institutions

• ✓Standardised ESG dataAccess a consistent body of independently verified ESG data for research and comparative analysis.
• ✓Real-world case studiesUse projects assessed against internationally recognised criteria as practical examples in curriculum development and applied research.
• ✓Collaborate on innovationWork alongside certified projects to advance sustainability science, policy and technology in the hydropower sector.
• ✓Shape the HS StandardContribute your expertise to the ongoing development of the international benchmark for responsible hydropower.