Course description

The Certified User Training covers the Hydropower Sustainability Standard and how it can be used to improve sustainability performance of hydropower projects in Africa and unlock funding opportunities. 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 Certified User Training course will take place from 13-15 May 
in the Palms Hotel, Abuja, Nigeria. 

The standard rate for the training course is
NGN 1,773,000.00+VAT (EUR 1,200+VAT) per participant.

Attendees of the HydroPOWER Africa and IHA members are eligible for a 10% discount.

Registration is only confirmed upon payment.
For more information please see this CU Training Flyer_Abuja.pdf or feel free to
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

    1. Hydropower benefits and statistics

    2. Principles of sustainable hydropower

    3. Introduction to the Hydropower Sustainability Standard

    4. Application of the HS Standard

    5. Business value and unlocking funding opportunities

    6. Structure and reporting templates

    7. Performance requirements

    8. Sustainability issues for projects in Africa

    1. Assessment Process

    2. Roles and responsibilities

    3. Assessment phases and activities

    4. View, Review, Interview

    5. Interview skills

    6. Scoring process and judging gap significance

    7. Assessing project performance using the HS Standard

    1. Developing an action plan

    2. Course review

    3. Exam

    4. Reflection and feedback

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 Hydropower Sustainability Alliance 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 EUR 1,200 + VAT per participant. Attendees of the HydroPOWER Africa are eligible for 10% discount. Members of IHA and HSA are also eligible for a 10% discount. Please email us at [email protected] for the coupon code.

  • 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.