Senate Introduces Measures to Enhance Hydropower and Marine Energy in the U.S.
Senators Lisa Murkowski and Angus King introduced the Fair Licensing for Operations of Water Structures (FLOWS) Act and the Water Power Research and Development Act to enhance hydropower and marine energy. The FLOWS Act aims to reduce administrative burdens and expedite federal licensing for micro hydrokinetic projects with under five megawatts of capacity, establishing a two-year timeline for project approvals.
The bill also requires a report on the environmental and economic impacts of licensed projects. The Water Power Research and Development Act seeks to modernize Energy Department programs, improve waterpower efficiency, and support U.S.-based manufacturing through collaboration. Both measures are designed to boost energy reliability and affordability while promoting innovation in the hydropower sector.
