Northwest Hydropower Issues and Future Outlook
Explore the evolving challenges and opportunities facing hydropower in the Northwest region, discussing key issues such as regulatory changes, market dynamics, technological shifts, and environmental impacts. Learn about the shifting landscape of hydropower from historic perspectives to present-day challenges and future uncertainties.
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Presentation Transcript
A Convergence of Issues for Northwest Hydropower Then, Now and What s Coming Next
What is the purpose of todays discussion? Inform Despite recent policy and market successes, hydro is facing headwinds Our traditionally good news messages are being countered Pending policies could threaten hydropower s regulatory status, and market position Fast-moving initiatives and agency policies could be a net positive/net negative for hydropower creating uncertainty and opportunity Changes are converging in the Northwest, particularly with the federal hydropower system s lower Snake River Dams The treatment of the LSRD is a bellwether issue for hydropower across the country Prepare NHA to respond when appropriate Discuss No decisions/actions today
Now: Affordability is less important than other policy goals Then: Hydropower is affordable
Now: Build new technologies and new transmission Then: Build on existing infrastructure
Then: Mitigation programs where fish and hydro coexist Now: Dam removal, unattainable WQ standards
Now: Hydro is threatened by drought Then: Hydro is Reliable
Now: Hydro has reservoir emissions Then: Hydro is carbon free
Positive for Hydro Opportunity/Risk Likely Negative Energy, capacity and attribute markets Relicensing Federal mediation process Permitting reform Lower Snake River Dam Removal Clean Energy Transformation Act (CETA), Washington Uncommon Dialogue EPA reservoir emissions to UN Hydro incentives IIJA Federal funding for dam removal Unattainable water quality standards Hydro incentives (Tax) Columbia River Treaty Mandatory prescriptions BPA F&W Program Environmental Justice Reintroduction FERC Office of Public Participation Federal funding for habitat conservation, related programs Scope of 401 (unknown legal) Tribal Indigenous Knowledge, general changes around tribal participation NEPA climate guidance
