Representatives from a number of companies and organizations associated with the hydroelectric industry have completed training in the International Hydropower Association's Hydropower Sustainability Assessment Protocol.

The protocol covers three pillars of sustainability defined by IHA as the "social, economic and environmental" effects of a project, amongst numerous other factors. IHA says the protocol is the culmination of the efforts of more than 1,900 people in 28 countries.

Taking part in IHA's latest round of training were staff from Alstom Hydro, Agence Francaise de Development, Coyne et Bellier, Artelia Eau & Environment, COFACE, Hydropower Equipment Association, BNP Pariba, Credit Agricole, Societe Generale, Natixis and Direction Generale de l'Energie et du Climate.

IHA says its "Sustainability Partners" are companies and organizations that have agreed to implement the protocol in at least one of their hydropower projects.