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Northwest Energy Security: Protecting Hydropower Generation and River Navigation

This law aims to maintain the current operation of federal hydroelectric dams on the Columbia River to ensure stable electricity supply in the region. The most significant change is that no actions restricting power generation at these dams or limiting navigation on the Snake River can proceed without explicit authorization from Congress. This provides greater certainty regarding future hydropower availability and protects commercial transportation routes.
Key points
Block on restricting power generation: No structural changes or engineering plans that would reduce electricity generation at the dams can be implemented without a new Act of Congress.
Protection of navigation: Restrictions on navigation on the Snake River are also blocked unless explicitly approved by Congress.
Operational stability: The hydropower system must operate according to the 2020 plan, with amendments allowed only if necessary for public safety or grid reliability.
article Official text account_balance Process page
Introduced
Citizen Poll
No votes cast
Additional Information
Print number: 119_S_182
Sponsor: Sen. Risch, James E. [R-ID]
Process start date: 2025-01-22