In what seems like a progress from conventional ways of looking at hydropower, federal agencies that own and operate hydropower projects around the country are collaborating to find ways to increase hydropower generation while at the same time protecting the non-power interests of the basin.

Citing a Swiss study, a recent AP article warns that the rapid melting of glaciers due to climate change poses short-term opportunities and long-term risks for hydropower, thereby stressing the need for improving efficiency in existing hydro projects.

On June 12, House Subcommittee on Water and Power held a hearing to discuss the future of hydropower.