Congressman Brett Guthrie, Chairman of the House Committee on Energy and Commerce, announced on Apr. 21 that the House has passed S.1020, a bill designed to ensure continued access to hydropower for communities throughout the United States.
The passage of this legislation is significant as it aims to support reliable and affordable electricity through hydropower by providing essential permitting reforms. The bill allows the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) to extend construction deadlines for key hydropower projects.
"As we work to secure our grid and unleash American energy, hydropower can deliver affordable and reliable electricity to American families," Guthrie said. "Today’s passage of the ‘Build More Hydro’ bill provides the essential permitting reform needed to ensure that the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) can extend construction deadlines for critical hydropower projects in communities across the country."
Chairman Latta also commented on the importance of hydropower, saying, "Hydropower remains one of the cornerstones of America’s energy system, delivering reliable baseload power to roughly 30 million homes and businesses and providing nearly 40 percent of our black start capacity." Latta added that passing S.1020 is a step forward in giving FERC flexibility for projects delayed by pandemic-era supply chain disruptions.
S.1020 was introduced by Senator Steve Daines and passed unanimously in July 2025 in the Senate before advancing through the House. The legislation specifically requires FERC to extend timelines for certain licensees beginning construction on qualified hydropower projects.
The House Energy and Commerce Committee oversees legislation related to energy, health care, environmental protection, telecommunications, and consumer issues according to its official website. It has played a role in shaping policy areas such as energy innovation, broadband deployment, and pharmaceutical pricing according to its official website. As one of Congress's oldest standing committees according to its official website, it traces its origins back to 1795 when it began as the Committee on Commerce and Manufactures according to its official website.
Looking ahead, supporters say extending these construction deadlines will help maintain momentum for expanding U.S.-based renewable energy infrastructure.
