Horizon H-HOPE by Unipd: Achievements and Future Goals
12.02.2026
The Horizon H-HOPE project, led by the Department of Industrial Engineering at the University of Padua, aims to harness hidden hydroelectric energy within water and sewer networks to power IoT sensors, thus reducing dependency on external energy sources. Launched in 2022 and funded by the European Union, the project involves 14 partners from 9 European countries.
The project has developed mini cylindrical hydroelectric devices that generate energy from the water flow within pipes and channels. This energy powers IoT sensors that monitor the condition of water infrastructures, providing real-time data and improving the management of emergencies such as floods or leaks.
In 2025, H-HOPE achieved significant technological milestones, with energy recovery efficiencies ranging between 25% and 40%. The team developed advanced models to optimize the design of the devices and successfully tested prototypes in the laboratory. Pilot sites in various European countries have been identified for further development.
The project also launched a Data Hub on GitHub for sharing codes and resources, promoting a "do-it-yourself" approach. H-HOPE integrated the research into university courses and initiated doctoral programs to train future leaders in the energy sector.
Looking ahead, the project focuses on finalizing pilot analyses and mapping energy recovery opportunities for the European Union's water sector.
