Safaa (Sophie) Alrhieh
Regional Manager, Ontario Hydropower & Dams, Hatch
Global engineering firm Hatch is leading the way in hydropower thanks to its continued commitment to innovation and cutting-edge problem solving.
Investment in renewable energy is at an all-time high, and the need for clean, affordable, and sustainable energy solutions is greater than ever. Hydropower has great potential to lower carbon and create a climate-resilient future, and Hatch is leading the way in providing innovative, sustainable approaches and solutions in the industry. Hatch is a global engineering, project management, construction management, and professional services firm known for its work in energy, mining, and infrastructure.
Creating smarter solutions and advanced technologies in hydropower
“What we do is pretty cool,” says Sophie Alrhieh, Regional Manager of Ontario Hydropower and Dams at Hatch. “We grab the power of flowing water and turn it into clean energy. Our work encompasses the entire lifecycle of hydropower projects, from pre-feasibility to design, construction management, and operational support.”
We want to show that we can meet the world’s energy needs without harming the environment; with smart solutions and the latest technologies, we’re making it happen one project at a time.
From small set-ups for local communities to giant dams that power thousands of homes, Hatch’s projects run the gamut, showcasing the company’s versatility and expertise. Advances in technology and digitalization are propelling its work forward — making small hydro more cost-efficient and refurbishing existing facilities more feasible. Hatch thrives on tackling the toughest challenges, unifying stakeholders, and devising agile solutions across the Power industry.
“Our big dream is to enable a cleaner energy future with hydropower,” says Alrhieh. “We want to show that we can meet the world’s energy needs without harming the environment; with smart solutions and the latest technologies, we’re making it happen one project at a time.”
Celebrating 100 years of hydropower
This year, Hatch celebrates a 100-year milestone in hydropower, demonstrating its long-term commitment to advancing clean energy. While the team celebrates its past achievements, it’s also future-focused — ambitiously driving for continuous improvement toward a sustainable future. “This milestone is a reminder for us to keep pushing the envelope, finding new ways to be even better at what we do,” says Alrhieh.
Innovation and continuous improvement are ingrained within the core of the Hatch team’s ethos. This is the reason why Hatch brings hydropower experts together annually to learn, connect, and work toward providing smarter solutions. The annual Hatch H. G. Acres Symposium, now in its 55th year, unites industry experts to explore sustainable power generation, ways to lower carbon, and social responsibility. The symposium aims to foster collaboration among professionals and thought leaders, shaping the future of power production. This year’s topics include hydro development with First Nations leadership, unlocking potential with inclusive designs, mobilizing the workforce, and more!
“I’d like to invite everyone to dive deep into the renewable energy and sustainability discussion,” says Alrhieh. “It’s going to take all our ideas and voices to shape the future of clean energy. Together, we have an incredible chance to push boundaries, to innovate and truly to make a difference — to create positive change.”
Email [email protected] if you are interested in attending this year’s hydropower symposium.
