U.S. Rep. Cathy McMorris Rodgers (R-WA) on March 3 sponsored legislation to modernize America’s hydropower licensing process and to promote next-generation hydropower projects.
“In order to address climate change, we must prioritize the continued development of hydropower resources and promote free-market technological innovation,” the congresswoman said. “This legislation supports these important goals.”
Rep. McMorris Rodgers introduced the Hydropower Clean Energy Future Act, H.R. 1588, with four Republican cosponsors, including U.S. Reps. Dan Newhouse (R-WA) and Larry Bucshon (R-IN), to help the United States “develop the next-generation hydro technology needed to increase clean energy production, further decrease environmental impact, and allow America to lead on sustainability,” she said.
H.R. 1588 would update federal renewable purchase requirements to include hydropower, according to a bill summary provided by Rep. McMorris Rodgers’ office, and would designate the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission as the lead agency to handle all federal authorizations, as well as compliance with any required state or local environmental reviews.
Additionally, the legislation would improve coordination among permitting agencies by setting schedules, clarifying responsibilities, and establishing mechanisms to resolve disputes among licensing participants, and provide special licensing terms for small hydropower projects, among other provisions outlined in the bill summary.
“Hydropower is the largest renewable energy source, and it provides clean, reliable and affordable energy to families in eastern Washington,” said Rep. McMorris Rodgers. “In fact, hydropower accounts for roughly 70 percent of our clean energy across all of Washington State.”
In his district, Rep. Newhouse noted that central Washington is a prime example of how hydroelectric dams and the clean, renewable energy they produce can transform the economy.
“Scientists throughout our region continue to conduct world-class research to improve our dams and responsibly harness the power of our natural resources into a baseload energy resource,” said Rep. Newhouse. “Supporting hydropower technology will not only increase the efficiency of power generation, but it will create good-paying jobs and ensure that we can continue to transition into a clean energy future.”
Passing H.R. 1588, he added, “would strongly signal what we know to be true: Hydropower is an essential component of our nation’s energy portfolio, and we must continue to promote hydropower development.”
ClearPath Action, Citizens for Responsible Energy Solutions, the American Conservation Coalition, the National Hydropower Association, and the Northwest Public Power Association, among others, endorsed the bill.