Hydropower is one of the nation’s most dependable renewable resources. Its ability to provide flexible, on-demand generation helps maintain grid reliability while supporting efforts to reduce emissions. While many people associate hydroelectric power with iconic facilities like the Hoover Dam, water power infrastructure exists in many sizes across the country. In fact, nearly every state in the nation uses hydropower as part of its energy mix.
Hydropower in Competitive Power Markets
In competitive wholesale power markets across the country, EPSA member companies have invested in and operate hydropower facilities that deliver clean electricity to the grid, while supporting local economies and promoting environmental stewardship.
- Conowingo Dam: Located on the lower Susquehanna River in Maryland, Conowingo has served as the state’s largest source of renewable energy since it began operating in 1928. The Constellation-owned dam’s hydroelectric station produces roughly 1.6 million megawatt-hours of electricity each year, enough to power more than 159,000 homes annually. Conowingo also plays an important reliability role for the regional electric grid by generating electricity around the clock and responding quickly to changes in demand.
- Muddy Run: This pumped storage facility adds another layer of reliability to the grid. Operating since 1966, the plant’s eight generating units can produce up to 1,070 megawatts (MW) of power. Pumped storage facilities like Muddy Run act as large-scale energy storage resources, helping balance electricity supply and demand across the grid.
- LS Power expanded its role in hydropower by acquiring more than 40 run-of-river hydro facilities across 11 states, totaling more than 300 MW of generating capacity. These geographically diverse assets strengthen grid reliability in competitive power markets across the country while supporting broader efforts to transition to a cleaner energy system.
Hydropower Benefits Past and Present
Hydropower facilities can supply electricity to the grid within minutes when needed. That’s why in the event of a large-scale blackout, hydropower is among the first resources called upon to help restart the regional transmission system.
Investments have helped improve water quality, enhance fish passage, and protect aquatic habitats throughout the Chesapeake Bay watershed. Additionally, many hydropower installations provide some public access to the reservoir so the public can participate in recreational activities such as fishing, boating, and swimming.
Looking Ahead
As electricity demand continues to grow, hydropower will remain an essential part of a diverse generation mix that ensures reliability while advancing environmental goals. Because hydropower is a dispatchable resource, it can play a critical role in providing low-cost, always on power to the grid during peak demand.
EPSA celebrates the contributions of its members and the dedicated hydropower workforce that keeps these facilities running safely and efficiently. By continuing to invest in hydropower and other innovative energy technologies, EPSA members are helping ensure the United States maintains a resilient, reliable, and increasingly clean energy system.
