If you want to drive the turbines of a hydroelectric power plant using motive water, you can take this motive water from a nearby surface water body and discharge it again. To do this, you need a permit or authorization under water law from the competent authority. You will normally receive a permit. In justified exceptional cases, you can also apply for a permit instead.

A permit grants you the right to use the water. Unlike a permit, an authorization cannot be revoked by the authority at any time, but only to a limited extent. In addition, a permit protects you from third-party claims under civil law.

A permit can only be granted if you cannot reasonably be expected to carry out your project economically without this stronger legal protection.

In your application for a permit, you must provide the following information, among other things:

• Reasons why a secure legal status is necessary for your project
• Explanation of the purpose and plan of your project

You also submit various documents with your application, for example a needs analysis, parcel maps and site plans. You can clarify in advance with the authority which documents are required in your case.

The permit specifies the type and extent of use and is limited in time. It may be linked to conditions and ancillary provisions.