A US Department of Energy competition run by the Hydropower and Hydrokinetic Office, inviting interdisciplinary teams of postsecondary, undergraduate and graduate students to tackle complex hydropower challenges. The 2027 theme covers converting non-powered dams to hydroelectric generation, adding pumped storage hydropower to existing reservoirs, and in-conduit hydropower. A record 45 student teams were selected across the Hydropower and Marine Energy Collegiate Competitions for 2027, with HCC teams presenting their work at a final event in late April or May 2027.