The Department of Energy has released three funding opportunity announcements to support research and development projects that aim to advance the development of hydropower technology.
DOE said Friday the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law has allocated a total of $28 million in funding to expand the hydropower industry in the U.S. and promote engagements with stakeholders on key issues related to the sector.
Most of the funding, or $14.5 million, will be used to retrofit dams that do not produce power and develop new technologies designed to advance pumped storage hydropower deployment.
The Biden administration is also investing $10 million in the construction and commissioning of new pumped storage hydropower facilities to enable long-duration storage of intermittent renewable energy.
The remaining $4 million will be used to encourage discussions on the modernization of the U.S. hydropower fleet and the sustainability and environmental impact of hydropower facilities.
“Hydropower has long provided Americans with significant, reliable energy, which will now play a crucial role in achieving energy independence and protecting the climate,” said Energy Secretary Jennifer Granholm.
