As Congress deliberates on budget adjustment bills that may influence the nation’s energy direction, it’s crucial not to overlook hydropower, a longstanding and dependable source of baseload electricity.
My company has proudly been part of this industry for over 40 years. Unfortunately, much of the budget adjustment discussions in Washington seem to overlook hydropower. The recent House Passed Bill misses a significant opportunity to bolster this technology. Without ongoing investment in hydroelectric infrastructure, we could face severe repercussions.
Currently, there’s a push to boost domestic energy production, encourage technological innovation, and create jobs. Hydropower presents a compelling, though often undervalued, option. It’s essential for maintaining emission-free grids, spurring economic development, and ensuring energy independence.
Unlike other renewable energy sources, hydroelectric power can deliver energy consistently, making it a key player in baseload power. Without the stability provided by hydroelectric power, maintaining a balanced grid becomes much more challenging and costly, and these rising costs will eventually be felt on consumers’ energy bills.
Moreover, hydropower’s flexibility allows it to respond swiftly to surges in demand, often complementing intermittent sources like wind and solar. It is one of the few energy sources that can quickly adjust to the needs of the grid, playing a crucial role in meeting diverse energy requirements.
Beyond its grid advantages, hydroelectricity significantly benefits local economies. Hydropower facilities frequently create jobs, provide lucrative technical positions, and pave the way for long-term career opportunities for community members.
Many hydroelectric projects also help maintain reservoirs and channels that provide flood protection, support agriculture, and enhance recreational spaces. They contribute millions to local economies each year. In our experience, these benefits foster prosperity for many generations.
Historically, despite its proven reliability, hydropower hasn’t garnered the same federal attention as other energy sources. This needs to be addressed. Through the reconciliation process, Congress has a critical chance to right this imbalance and invest in one of our most dependable energy sources.
While some progress has been made, like a recent Senate release, there are still crucial needs—such as extending tax credits for dam safety, environmental upgrades, and simplifying licensing processes.
The aging American hydroelectric fleet poses a challenge—most facilities are over 65 years old. While this age showcases the durability of hydroelectric power, it also underscores the pressing need for reinvestment. We witness the issues firsthand as we repair crumbling dam structures.
These facilities could serve their communities for decades, but modernization is essential. This means updated tax incentives, faster licensing procedures, and policies that recognize the vital role of hydropower in our energy landscape.
If neglected, the burden will shift directly to consumers through increased fees and diminished services. We need to act decisively.
We find ourselves at a pivotal moment. The next four years in Washington will greatly impact the future of hydropower. A significant portion of non-federal fleets face license expirations in the next decade, and without necessary support, many facilities may choose to shut down.
If hydropower doesn’t receive proper acknowledgment, our communities will suffer, facing higher bills, fewer job opportunities, and less reliable grids. We urge lawmakers in Washington, D.C. to advocate for hydropower in the current budget discussions and future legislative actions. Investing in hydropower is essentially an investment in the future well-being of American communities.
Walter Rabe leads Schnabel Engineering, a national civil engineering firm focused on dam safety, geotechnology, and underground engineering.
