Keaton PetersIn a major push to modernize America’s hydropower infrastructure, the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) is announcing a $430 million investment spread across 293 projects in 33 states. This funding seeks to breathe new life into the nation’s hydroelectric facilities, some of which have been in operation for nearly eight decades.
Although hydropower is often overshadowed by other renewable energy sources like wind and solar, it remains a critical component of the U.S. energy mix. Currently, hydropower accounts for 27% of the country’s renewable electricity generation, with the bonus that it does not depend on real-time weather conditions to produce electricity. But as facilities have aged, the need for repairs and upgrades has increased.
Funds are being administered by the Department of Energy’s Grid Deployment Office (GDO), which was established in 2022 to expand access to affordable, reliable and clean electricity. With over $22 billion in federal funding under its management, the $430 million for the Maintaining and Enhancing Hydroelectricity Incentives program is just one piece of the GDO’s broader $750 million initiative to rejuvenate U.S. hydroelectric facilities.
The program focuses on improving grid reliability, enhancing safety features at hydroelectric dams and making improvements that will benefit the environment and recreational opportunities near dams.
The funding will support a diverse array of projects across the country. California emerges as the clear frontrunner, securing the lion’s share with 29 projects and over $60 million. Not far behind, New York has 23 projects, with a total funding of $25.4 million, reflecting the varying scales and needs of different hydroelectric facilities.
Other states are also making significant strides in hydropower rejuvenation. Maine, despite its smaller size, has secured funds for 14 projects totaling nearly $29 million. Michigan matches Maine in project count but with a slightly lower funding total of $21.6 million. Alabama rounds out the top five, with five projects amounting to $22.9 million. A full list of project selections is available through the DOE website.
Some of the planned improvements include replacing turbines and generators, upgrading control systems, and even installing fish ladders to help aquatic species navigate dams. The program also seeks to protect 6,000 existing jobs at hydropower facilities, providing a boost to local economies.
A second round of funding is anticipated in 2025.
Photo by Dr Purna Sreeramaneni on Unsplash
