Hydropeaking: Processes, Effects, and Mitigation

Abstract This chapter provides a holistic overview of the science and management of rapid artificial flow fluctuations caused by peak-operating hydropower. Using a process-based framework, this chapter illustrates the links between hydropeaking drivers and associated pressures on river ecosystem structure, function and integrity, and summarizes the role and effects of mitigation measures. In detail, this chapter highlights how hydropeaking causes abiotic (physical) alterations, which facilitate direct and indirect adverse ecological processes and ecosystem changes. As a response to these effects, different hydrological, morphological and emerging or complementary measures are presented and discussed from a river- and energy-grid-specific perspective and exemplified by case studies. Overall, this chapter provides a concise insight into this controversial topic, and presents possible solutions towards a more sustainable management of hydropeaked rivers.