The Subcommittee on Water, Wildlife and Fisheries convened today for an oversight hearing on the Biden administration's recent efforts to eliminate the Lower Snake River dams. Subcommittee Chairman Cliff Bentz (R-Ore.) expressed his concerns about the administration's actions, stating, "Today's Congressional hearing called out the Biden Administration for engaging in secret discussions to breach the four lower Snake River dams, to impose upon the people of the northwest billions in costs to replace thousands of megawatts of clean reliable power generated by these dams, and, if that was not enough, to force the people of the northwest to inequitably pay billions in higher utility rates under the guise of building fish runs to levels not seen in centuries."
The Biden administration's approach to dismantling the Lower Snake River dams has raised questions about its impact on the Pacific Northwest. The administration's use of "sue and settle" tactics, selective use of science, and failure to defend the interests of the region have drawn criticism. A leaked draft mediation document from November 27, 2023, revealed the administration's plans to breach the dams and drive up energy costs, potentially jeopardizing the entire Federal Columbia River Power System.
However, the Lower Snake River dams have been proven to provide both environmental and economic benefits. These dams contribute carbon-free baseload energy and ensure the reliability of the Northwest power system, especially during periods of high demand. Additionally, the dams play a crucial role in reducing emissions by transporting millions of tons of cargo through the river system annually, eliminating the need for thousands of trucks or rail cars.
Despite the proven advantages of the Lower Snake River dams, activist groups continue to advocate for their removal. The Bonneville Power Administration (BPA) estimated in 2016 that replacing the dams would result in an annual increase in power costs of $274 million to $372 million. A recent study commissioned by BPA projected even higher costs, ranging from $415 million to $860 million per year through 2045.
Recognizing the importance of the Lower Snake River dams to river commerce and reliable power, committee members visited Richland, Wash., earlier this year and conducted a field hearing. The findings highlighted the critical role these dams play in supporting clean energy and the local economy.
As the Biden administration faces backlash for its attempts to dismantle clean energy infrastructure in the Pacific Northwest, members of Congress are fighting back. The Subcommittee on Water, Wildlife and Fisheries held an oversight hearing to address the concerns raised by Chairman Bentz and others. The debate centers around the potential costs of replacing the Lower Snake River dams and the impact on energy prices for the region.
The Biden administration's approach has been criticized for its disregard for the economic and environmental benefits offered by the dams. However, activists continue to push for their removal, raising questions about the administration's commitment to clean energy and the interests of the Pacific Northwest.
The outcome of this ongoing debate will have significant implications for the region's energy landscape and the future of clean energy infrastructure. As members of Congress and the Biden administration continue to clash over the fate of the Lower Snake River dams, the voices of those affected by these decisions will play a crucial role in shaping the outcome.
To find out more, go to this link: https://naturalresources.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=415341
