Risk assessment and management in Civil Engineering aspects of hydropower projects

Hydropower projects, though vital for sustainable energy generation, are highly complex undertakings that involve extensive civil engineering efforts and are inherently exposed to various risks throughout their lifecycle. These risks, if unmitigated, can cause significant delays, cost overruns, safety hazards, and environmental damage. This paper reviews the spectrum of risks associated with civil engineering in hydropower project development and operation, including geological, structural, hydrological, environmental, and socio-economic risks. Emphasis is placed on identifying risk sources, assessing their likelihood and impacts, and employing appropriate risk management strategies. Additionally, the integration of modern risk assessment tools, such as probabilistic analysis, geotechnical modeling, and software-based risk mapping, are explored in the context of enhancing decision-making in project planning, construction, and maintenance.