As rivers run low, how will the West fill its hydroelectric power gap?

In Washington, the Columbia River is home to a dozen dams that play a crucial role in generating hydroelectric energy for the Western United States. The Pacific Northwest, including Oregon and Idaho, holds a significant share of the country’s dam-derived electricity. When a drought hit the region in 2023, U.S. hydroelectric power plummeted to its lowest level in 22 years due to low summer flows caused by abnormal weather patterns. As climate change continues to impact the region, uncertainties arise regarding future precipitation patterns in Washington and Oregon. However, experts predict an increase in total annual hydroelectric power, with variations in wet and dry years expected. Despite the challenges posed by droughts, the dams in the region remain a reliable source of energy. To ensure a resilient energy grid, utilities in states like California, Washington, and Oregon are exploring new renewable energy sources to complement hydropower and meet clean energy goals. Although wind and solar energy are crucial for reducing emissions, hydropower remains a dependable option to stabilize the grid during times of fluctuating renewable energy output. As the region continues to navigate the impacts of climate change, the role of dams in providing sustainable energy will remain essential for a carbon-free future.