Kelly’s Bipartisan Bill to Expand Affordable, Reliable Hydropower in Arizona Clears Committee

Today, Arizona Senators Mark Kelly and Kyrsten Sinema’s bipartisan legislation to expand affordable and reliable hydropower in Arizona was passed by the Senate Committee on Energy and Natural Resources and is now eligible to receive a vote on the Senate floor.  

The legislation would enable the exploration of additional pumped-storage hydropower facilities within the Salt River system, near the Roosevelt Dam. This innovative technology uses surplus electricity during periods of low demand to pump water to a higher elevation reservoir, creating a stored energy source that can generate electricity during times of high demand, ensuring grid stability and lowering energy costs for Arizona families.  

The House version was introduced by Representatives David Schweikert (R-AZ-01 and Greg Stanton (D-AZ-04).  

“This legislation is about delivering affordable, reliable energy for Arizona while supporting innovative solutions to meet our state’s growing needs,” said Kelly. “Expanding hydropower storage will strengthen our renewable energy capacity, stabilize the grid, and keep energy costs affordable for Arizonans. I’ll continue working with my colleagues to get this over the finish line.” 

“Through affordable, cleaner energy storage, our bill lowers energy costs for Arizonans,” said Sinema. 

“I’m glad to see the Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee advance our bipartisan bill to help facilitate the innovative development of additional pumped-storage hydropower along the Salt River. Not only do pumped storage projects provide greater flexibility and improve reliability in our energy grid, they cut utility costs for Arizona families and businesses,” said Stanton. “This critical legislation passed the House with an overwhelming majority, and today it’s one step closer to becoming law. I greatly appreciate Congressman Schweikert and Senators Kelly and Sinema for their partnership.”