Begich, Bonamici Introduce Bipartisan Legislation to Strengthen Water Power Innovation

WASHINGTON, D.C. - Feb. 2, 2026 - Congressman Nick Begich (R-AK) and Congresswoman Suzanne Bonamici (D-OR) introduced H.R. 7129, the Water Power Research and Development Reauthorization Act, bipartisan legislation to strengthen America's water power technologies and modernize federal research efforts critical to grid reliability, energy security, and innovation.

"Hydropower has long been a proven part of America's baseload energy mix," said Congressman Begich. "This legislation will support the development of next-generation hydropower and marine energy technologies that can provide long-duration storage and critical grid services. By continuing to invest in innovation and performance validation, we're ensuring water power remains a dependable solution that works for Alaska and helps build a more reliable energy grid nationwide. I'm proud to work across the aisle to advance energy policies that make sense for Alaska and for the nation."

Congresswoman Bonamici previously led the most recent reauthorization of these programs in 2020, which was signed into law with bipartisan support.

"Water power technologies have tremendous potential to provide cheaper, cleaner, and more resilient energy," said Congresswoman Suzanne Bonamici. "This legislation will spur innovation to leverage the power of waves, tides, and currents to create opportunities for more Oregonians and Americans to benefit from this promising energy source."

BACKGROUND:

The Water Power Research and Development Reauthorization Act would reauthorize and modernize the Department of Energy's (DOE) water power research, development, demonstration, and commercialization programs. The legislation supports advancements in hydropower, pumped storage, and marine energy technologies, including wave, tidal, and current-based power systems.

Companion legislation, S. 3684, is led in the U.S. Senate by Senator Lisa Murkowski (R-AK) and Senator Ron Wyden (D-OR).

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