SC Nebraska News

Reps. Adrian Smith, Suzan DelBene, Brian Fitzpatrick, Kim Schrier, Claudia Tenney, and Maggie Goodlander have introduced the Maintaining and Enhancing Hydroelectricity and River Restoration Act. This bipartisan legislation seeks to extend a 30 percent investment tax credit for American hydroelectric investments through 2031. The bill aims to improve power production, provide environmental benefits, or remove outdated dam infrastructure.

Rep. Smith emphasized the economic benefits of harnessing hydropower for Nebraska and other regions: “To meet growing energy demands for the future, we must capitalize on the benefit of sustainable, affordable, and reliable energy sources like hydroelectricity.” Rep. DelBene noted Washington's leadership in clean energy: “This legislation builds on that progress by creating new incentives to improve dam safety, protect fish habitats, and enhance grid resilience.”

Rep. Fitzpatrick highlighted hydropower's role in bridging past and future energy needs: "This bipartisan bill ensures we maximize its potential—investing in modern infrastructure." Rep. Schrier stressed the importance of investing in Washington state's largest electricity source: “It’s important we invest in the safety of this reliable, affordable resource.” Rep. Goodlander commented on hydropower's role in reducing energy costs and advancing clean energy.

Currently, the ITC only applies to marginal increases in power generation from hydropower investments. The new act would expand eligibility to include vital environmental and maintenance investments such as fish passage enhancements and structural upgrades that do not result in increased power output.

The legislation also supports local efforts to remove non-power-producing river barriers with a federal tax incentive available to private groups seeking to demolish obsolete structures.

Industry leaders expressed support for the bill. Kyle Shepherd from Central Nebraska Public Power praised its potential impact on Lake McConaughy infrastructure maintenance. Malcolm Woolf of the National Hydropower Association supported it as essential for preserving critical resources needed for America’s prosperity.

Jeff Kupfer of ConservAmerica linked the bill with former President Trump's emphasis on clean water: "Rivers are the lifeblood of our nation...Hydropower plays a special role." Thomas O’Keefe from American Whitewater supported incentives for dam removal while promoting necessary river health improvements.

Tom Kiernan of American Rivers acknowledged bipartisan efforts behind the legislation: "We look forward to working with Congress to get this critical legislation across the finish line." Shannon Ames from Low Impact Hydropower Institute appreciated its focus on public safety and environmental stewardship.

Rep. Smith initially introduced this act in December 2023 as part of his ongoing support since 2007 for renewable energy development.