Course description

The Certified User Training covers the Hydropower Sustainability Standard and how it can be used to improve the sustainability performance of hydropower projects. This training course is designed for professionals from all backgrounds interested in increasing their knowledge of hydropower sustainability.

The course will be delivered as a blend of lessons, activities, quizzes and homework exercises. Participants will need to complete an exam to be accredited as Certified Users of the Hydropower Sustainability Standard.


Registration details

The next Certified User Training course will take place in-person on 6-8 November after the World Hydropower Congress in Bali, Indonesia. 

The standard rate for the training course is £1,500 +VAT per participant. Congress participants are eligible for a 10% discount. If you are eligible for the discount, please email us for a voucher code to use at the checkout.

Registration is only confirmed upon payment. For more information, please email us at [email protected].

Course outcomes

  • Increased sustainability knowledge

    Participants will have a thorough understanding of the history, structure, content and value of the Hydropower Sustainability Standard

  • Heightened confidence in hydropower decision-making

    Participants will gain the necessary skills to make informed choices when planning, constructing or operating hydropower projects

  • Improved ability to assess project performance

    Participant will acquire the sustainability know-how and competences to support and manage HS Standard assessments

Course curriculum

    1. Meet your trainers

    2. Course outline, objectives and structure

    3. Opening survey

    1. Lesson 1: Overview and value (live)

    2. Lesson 2: HS certification documents

    3. Activity 2.1: Minimum requirements

    4. Lesson 3: How to interpret assessment results

    5. Activity 3.1: Interpret assessment results

    6. Quiz 1: Fundamentals of the Hydropower Sustainability Standard

    1. Lesson 4: Assessment Process

    2. Activity 4.1: Typical assessment phases and activities

    3. Activity 4.2: Roles and responsibilities

    4. Lesson 5: Preparing an assessment and determining significance (live)

    5. Lesson 6: Useful information for assessments

    6. Activity 6.1: Interview flaws

    7. Activity 6.2: Categorising evidence

    8. Activity 6.3: Assess a topic

    9. Activity 6.4: Assess a project for Standard Certification

    10. Quiz 2: Assessment process

    1. Lesson 7: Unlocking funding opportunities

    2. Lesson 8: Developing an action plan (live)

    1. Course summary

    2. Closing survey

Frequently asked questions

  • Is this course right for me?

    This course offers a dynamic and thorough look into hydropower sustainability. You will learn how to apply an internationally recognised framework to elevate hydropower development around the world.

  • Am I right for this course?

    Yes! We encourage applications from professionals with all levels of knowledge and experience.

  • Will I receive a certificate?

    Yes. Participants who successfully complete the exam will receive an official certificate from the International Hydropower Association and will be accredited as Certified Users of the Hydropower Sustainability Standard.

  • What happens if I fail the exam?

    Not to worry, if you fail your first attempt at the exam, you will be able to resit the exam at a later date.

  • How much does this course cost?

    The cost of this training is £1,500 + VAT per participant. Congress participants are eligible for a 10% discount. UK based participants: please contact [email protected] to arrange payment.

  • What is the difference between a Certified User and an Accredited Assessor Training?

    Certified User training enables you to undertake unofficial assessments within your organisation. You can also prepare an organisation for an official assessment to be conducted by an independent Accredited Assessor, as well as lead on assessment follow up activities. Accredited Assessor training enables you to provide commercial services using the Hydropower Sustainability Standard, most notably conducting official assessments for external organisations. The decision on which course is right for you will often depend on the organisation you work for and your career path. If you need to discuss which course is best for you please contact our training team.