Foundation level
Certified User
The Certified User Learning Pathway is a structured online programme designed for hydropower professionals who want to confidently apply the Hydropower Sustainability Standard (HSS) in real projects.
This pathway bundles three core courses, guiding you from foundations to practical application — and leading to formal recognition as a Certified User of the HSS.
15–20 hours
3 courses
Certification
exam included
exam included
Digital certification
included
included
€497 if bought separately
€399
Save €98 + exam free
Your learning journey
1
2
3
4
HSS Fundamentals
Build a strong foundation in hydropower sustainability and the core concepts, structure and principles of the HSS.
HSS Assessment Planning
Learn how HSS assessments are planned, scoped, and prepared — including roles, timelines, evidence requirements and assessment pathways.
Applying the HSS in Practice
Develop practical skills to apply the HSS to real-world hydropower projects, interpret gaps and support sustainability improvement.
Certified User Exam
Demonstrate your understanding and application of the HSS through a formal online exam.
| Course | Individual price | In bundle |
|---|---|---|
|
HSS Fundamentals Course 1 of 3 |
€99 | ✓ |
|
HSS Assessment planning Course 2 of 3 |
€199 | ✓ |
|
Applying the HSS in practice Course 3 of 3 |
€199 | ✓ |
|
CU Certification exam Included in pathway only |
n/a — pathway only | ✓ Included |
| Courses purchased separately (no exam) | €497 | — |
|
HSS Certified User pathway bundle + exam included |
€399 | All 3 courses + exam |
Save €98 vs buying courses individually — and the exam is included free
Discounts available
IHA / Council members — 20% off
Students — 50% off
Developing countries — 25% off
Referral — 10% off
What you will achieve?
Master international sustainability practices
Gain expert knowledge in sustainability practices that are reshaping the hydropower industry. Equip yourself with the cutting-edge skills and knowledge of the Standard for environmental, social and governance (ESG) issues in hydropower.
Enhance your decision-making skills
Acquire the ability to strategically plan projects with a sustainability-first approach, ensuring long-term viability and reduced environmental impact. Understand how to incorporate sustainability into every phase of your project, from construction to operation, minimising risks and enhancing efficiency.
Conduct comprehensive internal assessments
Develop the skills to perform thorough internal assessments on ESG issues, enabling your organisation to self-monitor and adapt swiftly to regulatory changes. Learn how to identify potential issues before they become problematic, ensuring compliance with international standards and improving overall project performance.
What you gain as a Certified User?
By completing the pathway and passing the exam, you demonstrate your ability to apply the HSS in practice
— a valuable credential for professionals working across hydropower development, ESG, and sustainability.
Professional recognition
Earn the title of Certified User of the Hydropower Sustainability Standard (HSS).
Shareable credentials
Receive a printable certificate and digital badge for LinkedIn and email signatures.
Career and industry value
Strengthen your profile in sustainability and ESG, increasing your value to employers and project teams.
Long-term progression
Your certification remains valid for five years, supporting ongoing professional development.
Who should attend?
Project managers
looking to integrate sustainability practices into their hydropower project lifecycle.
Environmental Consultants
eager to deepen their expertise in hydropower-specific sustainability issues and offer additional services to their clients.
Regulatory Compliance Officers
who would like to align national regulations and policies with international best practices.
Investors and Financial Analysts
interested in adopting the Standard in their investment risk framework and due diligence processes.
What's included?
Here are all the products that are included in this pathway:
-
All courses, Certified User courses
HSS Fundamentals
CourseLearn how to improve sustainability performance of hydropower projects using the HS Standard.
€100
-
All courses, Certified User courses
HSS Assessment Planning
CourseOnline course exclusively for projects undergoing the HSS assessment process.
-
All courses, Certified User courses
Applying the HSS in Practice
CourseLearn how to improve sustainability performance of hydropower projects using the HS Standard.
€199
-
All courses, Certified User courses
Certified User Exam
CourseFree
Take a sneak peek of this course 👀
Ready to get started?
Take the first step towards understanding and applying sustainability in hydropower.
Start your sustainability journey today with our flexible learning options.