SC Alaska News

U.S. Senators Lisa Murkowski and Maria Cantwell have reintroduced a bill known as the Maintaining and Enhancing Hydroelectricity and River Restoration Act. This bill aims to support hydroelectric infrastructure by offering a federal tax incentive to improve the security and capacity of existing dams. Senator Murkowski recently also co-sponsored legislation introduced by Senator Steve Daines to extend approvals for hydropower projects licensed before 2020, addressing challenges like supply chain shortages and construction delays.

Senator Murkowski emphasized the benefits of hydropower, mentioning that "hydropower provides clean, reliable, and affordable baseload energy around Alaska." The legislation aims to enhance grid resiliency, improve dam safety, and bolster fish habitats.

Crystal Enkvist, Executive Director of the Alaska Power Association, underlined the importance of the legislation for Alaska's hydropower development, stating that "the ‘approved remote dam’ and the ‘interconnection property’ provisions are especially beneficial for Alaska." She highlighted the 30% investment tax credit (ITC) as significant support for new hydropower construction and improvements to existing facilities.

Joel Groves, President of the Alaska Independent Power Producers Association, supported the bill, commending Senator Murkowski's leadership. He noted, "this legislation will move our Nation and our State towards enhanced energy security by supporting responsible hydropower development and enhancement."

Clay Koplin, CEO of the Cordova Electric Cooperative, remarked on the importance of federal support, saying, "Federal support is critical to assist with the initial high capital costs of developing hydropower."

Key elements of the Maintaining and Enhancing Hydroelectricity and River Restoration Act include a 30% federal tax incentive to enhance existing dams and a federal cost-share for removing obsolete obstructions that affect river ecosystems.

The bill is co-sponsored by several senators, including Dan Sullivan, Susan Collins, Kristen Gillibrand, Angus King, Patty Murray, Gary Peters, and Jeanne Shaheen.