The Department of Energy (DOE) has unveiled a comprehensive report that recommends strategic measures to fortify the U.S. hydropower supply chain. This initiative is aligned with the national goal of achieving a carbon-free electricity grid by 2035. Hydropower is particularly significant as it constitutes over 25% of the renewable energy in the United States, making it a cornerstone for maintaining grid stability, especially with the increasing reliance on variable renewable sources like solar and wind. Jeff Marootian of DOE’s Office of Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy has underscored hydropower’s critical role in reliability.
The United States is home to approximately 1,500 hydropower plants, many of which average an age of 70 years. This infrastructure requires periodic and frequently expensive maintenance, leading to inconsistent demand for components and subsequent supply chain challenges. The DOE report has identified five major gaps within the hydropower industry’s supply chain and proposes solutions to tackle these issues. These suggestions aim at creating a more resilient and efficient infrastructure capable of sustaining hydropower’s pivotal role in the nation’s renewable energy landscape.
The overarching trend is to enhance renewable energy infrastructure to meet climate goals while addressing the historical challenges posed by aging facilities and supply inconsistencies. The findings in the DOE’s report reflect a clear intent to modernize the sector, positioning hydropower as a reliable and sustainable energy source adaptable to future energy demands. By focusing on these critical areas, the DOE aims to strengthen the hydropower supply chain, ensuring it can effectively support the evolving needs of the nation’s electricity grid.
