Hydropower outlook for Europe 2025
The Hydropower outlook for Europe 2025 reveals how weather patterns, water availability, and regional conditions will shape Europe’s hydropower landscape this year. From surpluses in the Nordic region, to deficits in the Alps, this report offers key insights into the dynamics driving power production, prices, and energy security across the continent.
Our free E-book, Hydropower outlook for Europe, provides you with a comprehensive view of the biggest issues affecting hydropower production this year.
Learn how the continent’s reliance on hydropower will be tested by regional variability and weather uncertainty, emphasising the need for agile energy management and inter-regional coordination.
Hydropower plays a critical role in Europe’s transition to sustainable energy. It provides a flexible, low-carbon source of electricity that supports grid stability and complements intermittent renewables like wind and solar. However, variations in water availability across regions can affect supply reliability, market prices, and energy strategies.
Key topics covered:
Nordic hydropower surge: a tale of two extremes
The northern Nordic region is experiencing a major surplus of 20 TWh due to heavy snow and high reservoir levels, while the south faces a 7 TWh deficit. This north-south disparity highlights the complexity of managing regional resources even within a single energy market.
Alpine decline: from surplus to deficit
Once enjoying an 11 TWh surplus, the Alpine region now faces a 9 TWh shortfall. Reduced snow and groundwater levels mean production in France, Switzerland, and Italy could fall by 5–7 GW, underscoring climate sensitivity in this region.
Iberian stability with weather risks
Spain and Portugal's current balance is stable at 4 TWh, supported by above-average reservoir levels. However, historical volatility and high evaporation during hot summers leave the region vulnerable to rapid shifts if Q2 turns dry.
Southeast Europe: resilient but fragile
With a hydrological balance of -2 TWh, SEE mirrors last year’s performance but remains sensitive to dry summer conditions. Countries like Serbia and Romania depend heavily on weather, making them susceptible to energy shortfalls during heatwaves.
Weather: the ultimate wildcard
Across all regions, precipitation and temperature trends in Q2 will determine energy security. Whether deficits deepen or surpluses overflow will rely entirely on how the weather behaves — making meteorological monitoring a central tool for energy planners.
Get the insights you need to plan ahead
Whether you’re an energy producer, investor, trader, or policymaker, this report gives you the data and analysis to make informed decisions. From understanding hydrological trends to assessing the impact on power prices and grid operations, the Hydropower outlook for Europe 2025 equips you with a comprehensive view of the market.