Resource

The Future Role of Hydropower in the Northeastern United States

Resource Type
Reports
Reference Title
The Future Role of Hydropower in the Northeastern United States
Author/Presenter
Miller, Nicholas W.
Simonelli, John M.
Organization/Agency
National Renewable Engery Laboratory
U.S. Department of Energy
Year
2022
Date
April 2022
Abstract/Additional Information

This paper explores the future role of hydropower in the Northeastern US and beyond. The intent is to provide experience-based insights into how hydropower can best support the reliable and economic evolution of the New England power system and, more broadly, all US grids. Many of the challenges facing New England are driven by the potential integration of 10s of GWs of variable energy resources. Hydro can assist in remediating several issues, and the paper explores how Hydro might hit above its weight in a future low carbon New England system. Hydro can assist in handling periods of over generation, reduce the risk of curtailment of zero carbon resources, improve market efficiency, and provide valuable essential reliability services.

URL(s)
https://www.nrel.gov/docs/fy22osti/80168.pdf