New Global Dataset Tracks Hydropower Availability Trends
The HydroSMADE project maps availability at over 125,000 sites through 2100 to guide future energy infrastructure investments.
Updated on Oct. 31, 2026 in Energy
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Researchers have released the HydroSMADE dataset, a new global resource detailing monthly hydropower availability across 125,926 sites. The dataset, now available for research, tracks site performance from 1950 through 2100 across 30 distinct future climate scenarios.
Why it matters
This comprehensive modeling effort provides the granular data necessary for long-term grid planning and energy security. It enables researchers and policymakers to evaluate how shifting hydrological patterns will impact both existing dams and potential future infrastructure.
The dataset maps 125,926 sites, comprising 1,593 existing and 124,333 potential facilities, across 30 distinct climate scenarios. It leverages the Xanthos global hydrologic model using bias-corrected meteorological inputs to simulate site-level hydropower availability.
The details
The dataset utilizes the Xanthos global hydrologic model, a computational framework designed to simulate land-water interactions, to estimate power output at specific coordinates. By applying bias-corrected meteorological inputs—weather data adjusted to remove systematic inaccuracies—the model generates site-level availability projections that account for both storage and diversion infrastructure. This architecture allows for the systematic assessment of how different climates influence water supply and, consequently, electrical generating capacity.
Timeline
1950-2100: The historical and projected timeframe covered by the hydropower availability dataset.
The Tech Race
This release marks a significant scaling of global hydropower analysis, moving beyond regional studies to a comprehensive site-level dataset. It provides a standardized foundation that allows researchers to compare the viability of future energy infrastructure against the performance of existing assets.
Energy analysts and grid planners can now utilize this data to conduct site-specific viability studies for future hydropower developments. The dataset is currently available for researchers to inform long-term energy transition and resource planning strategies.
The takeaway
The HydroSMADE dataset provides a critical benchmark for evaluating how climate scenarios through 2100 will alter global energy production. Stakeholders should track how regional grid operators incorporate these specific site projections into upcoming long-term infrastructure investment plans.
Further reading
For broader trends in power system modeling and sustainable infrastructure, visit the Energy section.
More information
Access the complete dataset and methodology in the scientific data publication link.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Nature.
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