Risks in the Construction of Hydropower Projects: Unforeseen Ground Conditions under FIDIC

The construction of hydropower projects is highly dependent on the ground conditions, for both the design and for the construction of dams, tunnels and power stations. But the unique site-specific characteristics of each hydropower project means that unforeseeable ground conditions are common. Mother Nature has a habit of playing tricks and serving up the unexpected. No matter how many bore holes an employer sinks pre-tender, it is inevitable that there will be some ground information missing. How can this risk be mitigated and distributed in a cost-effective way?

This article considers the approaches of the FIDIC standard forms, including the FIDIC Emerald Book (2019) - the Contract for Underground Works – in advance of the launch of the FIDIC Emerald Book Guide and Reprint later this month.

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