Design Orientations for Knowledge, Representation, and Enhancement of Hydrosocial Landscapes

In the contemporary context of the energy transition, the landscape transformation emerges as a “global challenge” in achieving climate-neutral goals and, simultaneously, as a “local opportunity” for enhancing landscapes while preserving their identity. This study aims to explore the concept of “hydrosocial landscapes” in the light of hydropower plants. Understood as complex systems, these landscapes are characterized by a man-made environment, where human-environment relations are developed around the water element and its management. Large hydropower diversions are emblematic examples of this concept, integrating a natural environment rich in water resources, a built environment characterized by the presence of hydraulic infrastructure, and resulting social dynamics. The interrelationships among these components delineate the complexity of the system, configuring a natural, engineering and cultural heritage to be studied, conserved and enhanced. The main objective, achieved through a systemic and interdisciplinary approach applied to a real case study, is to provide design guidelines for dealing with complexity in the process of modernising a hydroelectric plant. The research aims to target energy production objectives and investigate existing methodologies to develop operational tools that support creative processes, integrating technical, environmental, and social values for sustainable territorial development. This approach entails a parallel analysis of the most suitable and practical tools for representing such a system.