§10365 Hydroelectric Power Assessment

Summary

The Secretary of Energy must study how global climate change affects the water used to make hydroelectric power at each federal water project that serves a Federal Power Marketing Administration. To do that, the Secretary must work with the United States Geological Survey, the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, the program, and state water agencies to get the best science. For the Bonneville and Western Area Power Administrations, the Secretary must also consult with the Commissioner and may use data the Commissioner has collected. By March 30, 2011 (two years after March 30, 2009) and then every 5 years, the Secretary must send Congress a report describing the climate risks to water for hydropower and to power sold by each Federal Power Marketing Administration under long-term contracts, contingent capacity contracts, and short-term sales. The report must include each Administrator’s recommendations for changing operations or contracting, including buying power to meet long-term commitments. The Secretary may use contracts, grants, or agreements to do this. Costs the Secretary spends are nonreimbursable. Each Power Marketing Administration will pay costs only if the Secretary provides funds. Funding of whatever amount is needed is authorized for fiscal years 2009 through 2023 and remains available until spent.