Having been founded in 2009 by Wrocław University of Science and Technology alumni, Michał and Tomasz Twardziszewski, Hydro Energy has evolved into one of Europe’s leading manufacturers of autonomous cleaning systems for hydropower facilities.
Revolutionizing Trash Rack Maintenance
Hydropower plants depend on clean intake screens to maintain water flow and protect turbines from destructive debris. Hydro Energy’s Trash Rack Cleaning Machine addresses this critical need with advanced technology and high-rise operational versatility.
The machine features a 270° rotating mechanism for complete freedom in container placement, optimizing efficiency and ensuring smooth, precise debris removal.
Another breakthrough is the underwater 3D scanning technology, enabling the robot to locate debris precisely on the trash rack. This smart capability streamlines operations by targeting only contaminated areas, not requiring full surface cleaning—significantly reducing energy usage, mechanical wear, and operating costs.
Advanced Capabilities and Versatility
The TRCM is engineered for reliability in all environments. Its heated track system prevents cable guide freezing—even in extremely low temperatures—ensuring uninterrupted operations.
Integral to its design is a multifunctional hydraulic grab system capable of:
- Bottom dredging—removing sand, silt, and debris buried beneath the screen.
- Floating obstructions removal, such as logs, via a wireless controller for emergency operations.
- Handling sluice gates weighing up to 2 metric tons, both manually and semi-automatically.
A side-by-side feature comparison emphasizes the advantages of Hydro Energy’s robotic system over traditional cable cleaners:
- Bottom-dredging,
- Removal of floating logs,
- Operation under full water flow,
- Uniform container filling (X and Y axes),
- Higher grab capacity (over 1 ton),
- Easy access to hydraulic and automation systems,
- Digital axis measurements via encoders,
- Expandable software and custom functions,
- 24/7 service and remote technical support by Hydro Energy s.c
Fully Configurable Operation Modes
Hydro Energy’s TRCM supports four distinct operating modes:
- Autonomous – fully self-operating with programmed cycles.
- Automatic – semi-guided, with system-driven execution.
- Manual – operator-controlled via wireless console.
- Time-driven – scheduled operation based on timing logic.
Optional enhancements add further utility and customization:
- LED lighting for low-light work,
- Over-water camera on the arm for enhanced visibility,
- Ultrasonic sensors to detect large objects,
- Heated rails for freezing conditions,
- Durable igus® cable guides,
- Three-phase hydraulic drive (4–11 kW) with soft-start feature,
- Light and sound indicators for operational status, and limit/position sensors for safety.
Benefits for Hydropower Operators
Hydro Energy’s TRCM provides numerous advantages:
- Enhanced efficiency — clear mesh screens restore water flow and maximize turbine productivity.
- Reduced downtime — efficient cleaning cycles eliminate delays and lower maintenance costs.
- Eco-friendly performance — safeguarding aquatic ecosystems by minimizing debris entrapment and invasive species risk.
- Durability in all conditions — rugged design and optional features ensure consistent function under harsh operational scenarios.
- High Return on Investment — long-term savings through reduced human labouur, safer operations, and extended infrastructure longevity.
About Hydro Energy s.c.
From its headquarters in Jelenia Gora (ul. Graniczna 23), Hydro Energy s.c. designs and manufactures cutting-edge automation and robotics solutions for the renewable energy sector, including Kaplan turbines and Pelton turbines and trash rack cleaning machines. Founded in 2009 by two engineering graduates, the company has earned a reputation as a forward-thinking partner in hydropower optimization across Europe.
Contact and Next Steps
Operators planning new hydropower projects—or aiming to modernize existing operations—are invited to explore how Hydro Energy’s TRCM and turbine solutions can improve performance, sustainability, and ROI. Their expert engineering team collaboratively guides clients through turbine selection, automation integration, and custom trash rack cleaning implementation.
For project inquiries, quotes, or technical details:
- Contact Person: Tomasz Twardziszewski
- Phone: +48 500 400 905
- Email: office@hydroenergy.pro
- Address: ul. Graniczna 23, 58-560 Jelenia Góra, Poland
- Website: https://hydroenergy.pro
- Social Media: Facebook
Press Inquiries Contact: Hydro Energy s.c. – office@hydroenergy.pro (or via main contact avenues above).
Media Contact
Company Name: Hydro Energy s.c.
Contact Person: Tomasz
Country: Poland
Website: https://hydroenergy.pro/
