Rural Hydropower Development Bill

Official: Rural Jobs and Hydropower Expansion Act

IntroducedFebruary 11, 2026

Why This Matters

The Rural Jobs and Hydropower Expansion Act aims to boost hydropower projects by allowing non-Federal companies to use Bureau of Reclamation facilities. This could lead to more jobs and renewable energy in rural areas.

If you live in a rural area, this bill could create new jobs and increase access to clean energy.

Affects: Rural communities and workers in the hydropower industry could benefit from this bill.

What changes is this bill making?

1. This bill encourages the development of hydropower projects by non-Federal entities. 2. It allows the use of all Bureau of Reclamation facilities for hydropower generation. 3. The bill clarifies rules for contracts related to municipal water supply and hydropower. 4. It ensures that authorizations for projects remain valid until they become inactive. 5. The bill defines terms related to the operation and maintenance of hydropower facilities.

Who is affected?

Rural communities and workers in the hydropower industry could benefit from this bill.