Two US senators, Steve Daines and Maria Cantwell, have introduced a new bill called the “Community and Hydropower Improvement Act” to strengthen hydropower production in Montana, Washington and throughout the US. Hydropower accounts for nearly 30% of the share of renewable energy generated in the US.
The new bill aims to streamline the permitting and licensing process, increase tribal engagement and oversight, expedite low-impact projects, promote healthy habitat and coordinate federal decision-making.
Daines highlights the importance of hydropower in Montana, stating that “nearly 40% of our electricity is generated by hydropower. Hydropower provides good-paying jobs and energy that is safe, reliable, affordable and renewable.” Cantwell also stresses the significance of hydropower, explaining that “clean, affordable, and reliable hydropower has been the backbone of the State of Washington’s economy for decades.”
The bill has received broad support from a range of stakeholders, including former FERC Chair Neil Chatterjee who describes hydropower as “essential to a 24/7, reliable, clean energy grid”. Shannon Heim, general counsel for NorthWestern Energy, has also shown support, stating that the bill “will help us in this pursuit by improving the licensing process under the Federal Power Act.”
This legislation is a crucial step in ensuring American energy security and expanding hydropower production. By promoting healthy habitats, increasing tribal engagement and streamlining the permitting process, the senators hope to quickly and safely relicense existing hydropower facilities and bring new hydropower projects online.
The Community and Hydropower Improvement Act will also support local economies, providing reliable, affordable energy and creating good-paying jobs for communities in Montana, Washington and across the US.
