Arizona Lawmaker’s Hydropower Expansion Bill Surges to Presidential Approval

By Staff Reporter |

A significant step toward hydropower expansion in Arizona hinges on President Joe Biden’s approval of HR 1607, a bill introduced by Congressman David Schweikert. This legislation aims to transfer National Forest System land near the Salt River to the Bureau of Reclamation, facilitating increased hydropower generation within the Salt River Federal Reclamation Project.

During a previous address to the House, Schweikert highlighted the importance of pumped storage hydroelectricity in bolstering the state’s energy resources. “It’s environmentally sound, and it allows us to manage our unique solar power output effectively in the desert southwest,” he remarked.

Pumped storage hydroelectricity operates by moving water between two reservoirs based on energy demand. When demand is low, water is pumped to the upper reservoir; during high demand, it flows back down through turbines, offering 10 to 12 hours of reliable energy production.

Schweikert emphasized that this initiative underscores Arizona’s role as a leader in energy production and efficiency. “The near unanimous support for this legislation shows that America is ready to embrace long-term energy storage technologies for affordable, reliable energy,” he stated.

He also expressed gratitude to Congressman Greg Stanton for his bipartisan support. “I’m incredibly thankful for my friend and colleague, Rep. Stanton, who’s been crucial to this process of embracing innovation,” Schweikert added, anticipating the benefits of this technology for Arizona.

Stanton echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the timely nature of the pumped storage expansion. “These projects enhance flexibility and reliability in our energy grid while reducing utility costs for families and businesses,” he said. The bill passed the House last year with overwhelming support and is now on its way to becoming law.

The legislation benefited from a bipartisan coalition that facilitated its passage through various committees. Introduced in March, the bill cleared the House in November, embarking on a lengthy review process before the Senate’s approval this past Tuesday. Arizona Senators Mark Kelly and Kyrsten Sinema also contributed to this effort through companion legislation, SB 739, which has reached Biden’s desk.

Kelly remarked that the expansion would significantly strengthen the state’s energy grid. “This is about using technology to enhance the reliability and affordability of our energy,” he asserted.