4th International Conference on
Sustainability in
Hydropower
Lisbon, Portugal | 22-25 June 2027
FlowForward: Rethinking Hydropower to Safeguard Rivers and People in a Changing World
We warmly invite you to the 4th International Conference on Sustainability in Hydropower (SUSHP 2027), to be held at Instituto Superior Técnico, Universidade de Lisboa, Portugal, from 22–25 June 2027.
Building on the success of previous SUSHP conferences in Sweden (2019), Trondheim (2023), and Vienna (2025), this edition will focus on “Flow-Forward: Sustainable Hydropower for Healthy Rivers, Empowered Communities, and Protected Ecosystems.”
The conference will bring together researchers, practitioners, policymakers, industry representatives, river basin managers, NGOs, and other stakeholders working at the interface of hydropower, ecology, and society. Plenary and thematic sessions, field visits, and workshops will provide opportunities to share research, best-practice case studies, and innovative tools to improve hydropower sustainability while safeguarding freshwater ecosystems and the communities that depend on them.
We look forward to welcoming you to Lisbon for SUSHP 2027!
Venue
The conference will take place at Instituto Superior Técnico (IST), University of Lisbon, one of Portugal’s leading engineering schools. Located in the heart of Lisbon, IST provides modern conference facilities and an inspiring academic environment. Participants will enjoy a vibrant campus atmosphere while being within easy reach of Lisbon’s historic neighborhoods, and the Tagus riverfront.
Plenary lectures
SUSHP 2027 will feature a series of plenary lectures delivered by internationally recognized experts in hydropower, river science, and sustainability. These keynote talks will explore the conference theme “FlowForward: Rethinking Hydropower to Safeguard Rivers and People in a Changing World”, highlighting innovative research, policy perspectives, and practical solutions for balancing renewable energy production with ecosystem protection.
Field trips
Participants will have the opportunity to join optional field excursions to explore hydropower and river management in Portugal. Planned trips include visits to the Douro UNESCO World Heritage valley, showcasing the interaction between hydropower and cultural landscapes; the Coimbra region, with examples of river restoration; and the Alentejo, where large reservoirs illustrate the role of water and energy systems in Mediterranean environments.
Key dates
Open Abstract Submission | 1 August 2026
Deadline for Abstract Submission | 31 October 2026
Notification of Abstract Acceptance | 10 January 2027
Early Bird Registration Open | 1 January 2027
Early Bird Registration Close | 10 March 2027
Standard Registration Close | 15 May 2027
Lisbon
Lisbon, Portugal’s vibrant capital, offers a unique blend of history, culture, and innovation. Situated along the Tagus River and facing the Atlantic Ocean, the city is known for its historic neighborhoods, scenic viewpoints, and welcoming atmosphere. Conference participants will enjoy exploring Lisbon’s rich heritage, lively culinary scene, and nearby natural landscapes while connecting with colleagues from around the world.
