A recent conference in London, UK looked at the latest developments in uprating and refurbishment of hydroelectric power plant, and experience and projects undertaken at a number of UK stations. As hydropower matures and deregulation and privatisation becomes more widespread in the western work, there is increasing pressure on owners to improve reliability and operate plants more efficiently. Papers presented addressed Scottish and Southern Energy's policy considerations and decision to undertake extensive replacement of 30 of its main hydropower stations, current developments and improvements in the performance of seals for valves and gates, and refurbishment works at the Dinorwig hydroplant in Wales which involved the installation of new plate fin heat exchangers.