With the return of hydroelectric concessions, the granting municipalities are faced with crucial choices regarding the future of their water resources. The Caravel project is committed to tackling the complex challenge of quantifying the true value of these resources in a context that encompasses the return of hydroelectric concessions and the challenges associated with climate change.

In collaboration with the municipality of Ayent, the project is developing an innovative tool for multifunctional management and assessment of the economic profitability of water resources. This online tool will enable municipalities to make informed decisions about the future use of their water resources, taking into account technical, economic, and environmental aspects.

The tool will provide a comprehensive assessment of different water use options, such as hydroelectric power generation, drinking water supply, irrigation, biodiversity conservation, and snowmaking for ski slopes. By drawing on historical data and anticipating future challenges by proposing scenarios based on climate variations and energy market fluctuations, it will determine the economic value of each use and establish an economic balance sheet for each scenario considered.

The project will begin with the creation of a functional prototype dedicated to the municipality of Ayent, then aim to develop a broader, generic platform for all municipalities in Valais. The ultimate goal is to provide municipalities with a powerful tool to help them make decisions regarding the return of hydroelectric concessions and the sustainable management of their water resources.

Essential data on existing water-related infrastructure, including storage facilities, river intakes, and treatment plants, has been collected in collaboration with the municipality of Ayent. This information forms the crucial basis of the platform, enabling the creation of accurate and customized simulations. The prototype is currently being developed, with the technical team working on creating an online platform that will allow users to calculate the future economic profitability of various water use options.