The IEA Technology Collaboration Programme (TCP) on Hydropower

Legal Framework

Technology Cooperation Programmes have a standard legal structure defining the commitments and rights of Contracting Parties. IEA Member countries participate in Technology Cooperation Programmes (TCP’s) on a voluntary, case-by-case basis. Contracting Parties undertake Tasks identified in Annexes to the TCP. The Annexes usually specify arrangements for handling and protection of information and intellectual property, and record arrangements for commercial exploitation and distribution of benefits. Contracting Parties designate one Operating Agent for each Task who is responsible for management of the collaboration and provides infrastructure as needed.

While all Contracting Parties are signatories to the Technology Cooperation Programmes and its general provisions apply to each, participation in the Tasks under Annexes may vary according to the parties’ wishes and additional Task Annexes may be added as the the Technology Cooperation Programme proceeds. While most participants are government organisations or semi-public entities, Technology Cooperation Programmes are open to private organisations formally designated as participants by their national governments. To enhance interaction with industry and other users of results of the collaboration, options exist to involve expert groups from multilateral organisations and industry, where they can make a substantial contribution to the programmes. International inter-governmental organisations may participate as Contracting Parties and industry bodies not directly nominated by governments may participate as Sponsors with the approval of the TCP Executive Committee.

Participating in the Technology Collaboration Programme on Hydropower (IEA Hydro)