National Hydropower Association Emphasizes Hydropower's Importance

National Hydropower Association Celebrates Hydropower Day

The National Hydropower Association, America’s leading trade association for the U.S. water power industry, is proudly celebrating National Hydropower Day. The annual observance honors the water power industry and the American workers who support this vital, renewable resource. This year’s theme is “Hydro Powers,” which acknowledges the many ways water power benefits Americans through cleaner communities, job creation, and reliable energy solutions.

Recognizing Hydropower's Essential Role

“I’m incredibly honored to wish everyone a very happy National Hydropower Day,” said NHA’s President and CEO, Malcolm Woolf. “Hydropower is the flexible renewable energy source. It complements wind and solar by providing carbon-free electricity when it is needed the most. As our nation works towards meeting increasing electricity demands while cleaning our grid, it is vital to share the foundational role of hydropower with energy stakeholders nationwide.”

Hydropower Highlights Across the Nation

This year, NHA has kicked things off early, highlighting hydropower in regions across the country in the week leading up to National Hydropower Day. The association expresses gratitude to supporters who have actively joined the celebration, illustrating that water power is not just an industry but a community sharing a vision for a clean energy future.

Impact of Hydropower on the Energy Landscape

For over 140 years, hydropower has been a significant source of renewable energy in America. Currently, hydropower accounts for around 6% of all electricity generated in the United States and nearly 30% of renewable energy generation. Technologies such as Pumped Storage Hydropower (PSH) contribute significantly to energy storage, making up about 96% of utility-scale energy storage capacity. The marine energy sector also holds vast potential, aiming to generate clean power from waves and tides.

Challenges Facing Hydropower Facilities

Despite their critical importance, many hydropower facilities face threats of decommissioning. Licenses for nearly 450 hydro facilities could expire by 2035, posing a risk to approximately 16 GW of electricity generation at a time when the nation is striving to meet ambitious energy and climate objectives. Due to lengthy and costly relicensing processes, industry surveys indicate that over a third of asset owners are contemplating decommissioning facilities, which could negatively affect grid reliability amidst extreme weather challenges.

Advocating for Regulatory Reforms

To secure a clean energy future, it is essential to maximize the use of all renewable resources. “We have an opportunity to preserve and strengthen water power across America, but we can only succeed if we tell our story,” added Woolf. “Commemorations like National Hydropower Day are significant, and NHA continues to advocate for our sector at the highest levels of government. Hydro powers America, and it’s important to celebrate its achievements and ongoing potential.”

Frequently Asked Questions

What is National Hydropower Day?

National Hydropower Day is an annual event celebrating the contributions of hydropower to renewable energy and the vital support it provides to the American workforce.

Who is the National Hydropower Association?

The National Hydropower Association (NHA) is the leading trade association for the U.S. water power industry, advocating for hydropower and related technologies.

What themes are honored during National Hydropower Day?

This year’s theme is “Hydro Powers,” recognizing the role of water power in creating cleaner communities and supporting job creation and a reliable energy grid.

How much electricity does hydropower generate in the U.S.?

Hydropower generates approximately 6% of all electricity in the United States and nearly 30% of all renewable energy generation.

What challenges does the hydropower industry face?

The industry faces challenges such as impending license expirations for many facilities, lengthy and costly relicensing processes, and the risk of decommissioning vital energy resources.

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