Solar Growth Cushions Colorado River Hydropower Declines
Hydropower output at Hoover Dam has decreased by about half since 2000 due to drought, with Lakes Mead and Powell approaching critical thresholds.
Utilities that receive federal hydropower from Colorado River dams are turning to solar power as a result.
Utilities are turning to solar power as hydropower generation would be severely curtailed or cease.
- Lakes Mead and Powell are approaching critical thresholds.
- Hydropower output at Hoover Dam is down by about half since 2000.
In Arizona, officials are assessing water policies under rising temperatures, with the state considering an extension of its drought emergency declaration.
Autor's summary: Solar power helps declining hydropower.