The last day of 2009 saw seven hydropower projects filing their application for certification with the Low Impact Hydropower Institute. In 2009 alone, the Institute issued certifications for nine projects throughout the country. So far, there are 46 LIHI certified projects in 24 states.

The Snohomish County PUD No. 1 in Washington has further advanced in its intent to build and operate a tidal energy project in the Admirarty Inlet. Earlier this week, the PUD filed its draft license application with FERC.

On August 4, 2009, Hemlock Dam was removed on Washington's Trout Creek, a tributary of the Wind River and the Columbia.

Avista Corporation has received a new 50-year license to operate its Spokane River hydroelectric projects (P-2545) that includes projects in Idaho and Washington.

The end of Washington's 2009 legislative session saw constituent based Initiative 937 protected and still in effect -- but not without almost daily changes to both energy and river impacts.  

Spokane Falls to Flow Full-Time

Hydropower and Washington’s Renewable
Energy Goals

In support of Washington's citizen based Initiative 937 (promoting development of renewable energy and the new jobs, investment, science and economy this would mean for the state), the Hydropower Reform Coalition developed this Hydropower FAQ to offset the call to build new dams and to allow these dams to be eligible to review renewable energy credits. 

FERC has issued a 43-year license to the Chelan County PUD in Washington for continued operation of the Rocky Reach Hydroelectric Project.

Finavera Renewables, the first licensee for a wave energy project, has surrendered its license before the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission.

Following litigation at the DC Circuit Court in 2006, Tacoma Power, Skokomish Tribe, agencies and other stakeholders have signed a settlement agreement that will govern the operations of the Cushman Hydroelectric project on the Skokomish River.