House to pass hydropower bills next week

The House next week will consider two bills aimed expanding hydropower production in the United States.

Members will take up the Hydropower Regulatory Efficiency Act, H.R. 267, which would ease federal regulations for the purpose of allowing more hydropower generation along rivers across the country.

"While there are a vast array of renewable energies — including solar, wind, and nuclear power — in my opinion, the facts are clear: the future of American energy independence depends on the development of an 'all of the above' energy approach — including hydro," said Rep. Cathy McMorris Rodgers (R-Wash.), who introduced the bill along with Rep. Diana DeGette (D-Colo.). "That's why Congresswoman DeGette and I have been working to expand hydropower production."

The House approved a similar bill last year in a unanimous 372-0 vote, but the Senate never considered it.

Members will also vote on the Collinsville Renewable Energy Promotion Act, H.R. 316. This will would give federal licenses to the town of Canton, Conn., to use dams on the Farmington River to generate hydropower.

Both bills are being considered under a suspension of House rules, which will require a two-thirds majority vote for passage.

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