Production Planning – roundtable dialogue

This session is dedicated to the future of hydropower production planning and the technologies transforming its potential. As hydropower assets face increasing demands for flexibility and responsiveness, new opportunities are emerging through the integration of lithium-ion battery energy storage. These hybrid systems allow hydropower stations to deliver short-term storage and fast dispatch, enhancing their role in balancing the grid and responding to market signals.

Advanced production planning software is becoming essential to fully realize the benefits of these hybrid configurations. These tools enable operators to forecast demand, optimize dispatch schedules, and make real-time decisions that improve efficiency and profitability across diverse energy portfolios. And while batteries offer speed and agility, we’ll also explore the largest “batteries” of all—pumped-storage hydro. As a proven long-duration storage solution, pumped storage provides bulk energy shifting and grid stability, making it a critical asset in a system increasingly powered by variable renewables.

Conversation starters in the room will share insights on integrating these technologies into a cohesive, optimized energy system.

Whether you're focused on generation planning, system operations, or innovation, this is a conversation you won’t want to miss.

Bruno Benedetti

Facilitator and Discussion Lead

Director, Generation and Optimization at Brookfield Renewable Energy Group (US)

James Everett

Facilitator and Discussion Lead

General Manager, TVA River Management at Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA)

Tyler Covich

Conversation Starter

Manager, Water Management at Pacific Gas and Electric Company (PG&E)

Brent Fountain

Conversation Starter

Engineering Manager at San Diego County Water Authority

Xu Ma

Conversation Starter

Electrical Engineer at Pacific Northwest National Laboratory (PNNL), U.S. Department of Energy

Justine Penix

Conversation Starter

Plant Support Specialist, Indiana Michigan Power at American Electric Power

Catherine Percival

Conversation Starter

Senior Hydrologist at SR Diversified, LLC

Mark Stearns

Conversation Starter

Manager, Power Generation, Program Managerment at Seattle City Light