A recent report has unveiled promising recommendations to address five key gaps in the domestic hydropower supply chain, setting the stage for a more robust and sustainable energy future. Hydropower, which currently accounts for approximately 27% of renewable electricity generation in the United States, is pivotal in the nation’s quest to achieve a 100% clean electricity sector by 2035. A strong domestic supply chain is essential for the new construction, upgrades, refurbishments, and relicensing activities at existing hydropower facilities. The comprehensive report, titled Hydropower Supply Chain Gap Analysis, provides an in-depth examination of various sectors of the hydropower supply chain, from mining and extraction to installation and construction.
As more variable renewable energy sources like solar and wind are integrated into the U.S. electricity grid, hydropower’s role in maintaining grid reliability and stability becomes increasingly vital. The newly identified recommendations are designed to strengthen the domestic supply chain, thereby enhancing the nation’s hydropower capabilities.
Through extensive industry feedback, researchers have identified five major gaps: unpredictable and variable demand for materials and components, limited domestic suppliers, federal contracting procedures and domestic content laws, foreign competition and trade policies, and a shortage of skilled workers.
To bridge these gaps, the report suggests several proactive measures. Utilizing the federal fleet to create a consistent demand signal can significantly stimulate the domestic supply chain. Increasing awareness of domestic suppliers through comprehensive databases and predictive tools will further support both federal and private sectors. Collaboration with other industries to generate a steady demand for common materials can foster the development of a robust domestic industry. Additionally, ongoing workforce development through educational programs and experiential opportunities will ensure a steady pipeline of skilled workers.
These forward-thinking recommendations, which reflect the insights of industry stakeholders, will guide strategies to reinforce the domestic hydropower supply chain. By gaining a thorough understanding of current and required domestic manufacturing capabilities, more targeted policies, incentives, and technology investments can be developed. Furthermore, addressing these gaps and implementing strategic workforce development efforts will be crucial in sustaining the domestic hydropower supply chain.
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