Hydropower

Hydropower Bills Open Gates Of Bipartisanship In Congress

Jessica Robinson — Thu, 09 May 2013 15:48:34 +0000

An effort to streamline the regulatory process for small hydropower dams is generating a rare moment of bipartisanship in Congress. Two bills sailed through a Senate committee Wednesday. They've already passed the House. Correspondent Jessica Robinson has more.

Wright To Retire From BPA

Rob Manning — Tue, 19 Jun 2012 22:55:17 +0000

The Bonneville Power Administration’s long-serving chief is stepping down. Steve Wright was the acting BPA administrator in 2000, when the western U.S. was struggling with an energy crisis. He served as permanent head for a decade and now says he’s retiring in January.

Energy Developers Eye New Grid-Stabilizing Hydro Projects

Tom Banse — Tue, 01 May 2012 12:59:45 +0000

If you thought the great dam building era of the Northwest was long over, you might be mistaken. But we're not talking about damming rivers here. This is about building long earthen dams to make new off-stream hydropower reservoirs. They're being designed to act as giant batteries and shock absorbers for the electric grid. Correspondent Tom Banse explains.

Here's an odd thought that relates to keeping your lights burning steady and bright. Someday a small portion of your electricity bill could go toward pumping water in a loop. Lots of water.

Sun Setting On Sunset Falls?

Ashley Ahearn — Wed, 15 Feb 2012 14:43:13 +0000

SKYKOMISH RIVER, Wash. -- The Skykomish is one of the only major rivers in Washington that has not been dammed for hydropower. The river runs from the Cascade Mountains and empties into Northern Puget Sound. It’s a hot spot for wildlife and outdoor recreation. It could also be a hotspot for hydropower. Ashley Ahearn reports.