Interim study of pumped hydropower generation
If enacted, HJ19 would lead to the establishment of an interim committee or appropriate staff resource team under the Legislative Council to evaluate various aspects of pumped storage hydropower. This study will focus on identifying regulatory changes needed to facilitate the construction and operation of pumped storage facilities, analyzing locational criteria for development, and addressing any barriers that might impede progress. The findings from this study are expected to be completed by September 15, 2024, and will be reported to the 69th Legislature.
House Joint Resolution 19 (HJ19) proposes an interim study regarding pumped storage hydropower in Montana. The resolution acknowledges the growing renewable energy sector within the state, emphasizing the need for effective energy storage solutions to manage the variability associated with renewable resources like wind and solar power. HJ19 aims to assess feasible energy storage strategies that can stabilize the power grid by utilizing surplus power to pump water, which can later be released to generate electricity when demand spikes.
The bill reflects both enthusiasm for renewable energy solutions and concerns about regulatory hurdles that may prevent harnessing potential hydropower resources in the state. Some stakeholders worry that the process of studying and subsequently developing pumped storage hydropower could be delayed by legislative red tape, which may affect the state's ability to fully capitalize on its renewable resources. Moreover, potential economic implications, including the costs associated with public sector financing for these projects, may lead to ongoing debates among lawmakers and energy advocates.