Congressman Nick Begich (R-AK) and Congresswoman Suzanne Bonamici (D-OR) have introduced H.R. 7129, known as the Water Power Research and Development Reauthorization Act. The bipartisan bill aims to enhance water power technologies in the United States and update federal research efforts that are important for grid reliability, energy security, and technological innovation.
“Hydropower has long been a proven part of America’s baseload energy mix,” said Congressman Begich. “This legislation will support the development of next-generation hydropower and marine energy technologies that can provide long-duration storage and critical grid services. By continuing to invest in innovation and performance validation, we’re ensuring water power remains a dependable solution that works for Alaska and helps build a more reliable energy grid nationwide. I’m proud to work across the aisle to advance energy policies that make sense for Alaska and for the nation.”
Congresswoman Bonamici highlighted her previous leadership on reauthorizing these programs in 2020 with bipartisan support. “Water power technologies have tremendous potential to provide cheaper, cleaner, and more resilient energy,” said Congresswoman Suzanne Bonamici. “This legislation will spur innovation to leverage the power of waves, tides, and currents to create opportunities for more Oregonians and Americans to benefit from this promising energy source.”
The Water Power Research and Development Reauthorization Act would continue funding for Department of Energy programs focused on research, development, demonstration, and commercialization related to water power. This includes support for advances in hydropower systems as well as pumped storage solutions and marine energy such as wave, tidal, and current-based technologies.
In the Senate, companion legislation S. 3684 is being led by Senator Lisa Murkowski (R-AK) and Senator Ron Wyden (D-OR).