Pumped Storage Hydropower Development: New Rules and Tribal Rights Protection.
This act facilitates the construction of pumped storage hydropower facilities using existing reservoirs, potentially increasing energy availability. Concurrently, it establishes strict requirements for consultation with Native American tribes and protection of their rights, including compensation for potential negative economic and environmental impacts. This aims to ensure that energy development does not infringe upon the traditional rights and livelihoods of local communities.
Key points
Authorizes pumped storage hydropower development, potentially impacting energy supply stability.
Mandates agreements and consultations with Native American tribes (Confederated Tribes of the Colville Reservation and Spokane Tribe of Indians) before project approval.
Ensures protection of tribal hunting, fishing, and boating rights, and requires compensation for adverse economic effects of projects.
Outlines dispute resolution procedures between developers and tribes during project planning and implementation.
Expired
Additional Information
Print number: 117_S_1246
Sponsor: Sen. Cantwell, Maria [D-WA]
Process start date: 2021-04-20