Hydropower plants use the hydrologic cycle to convert potential energy from flowing water into electrical energy. In addition to being environmentally conscious and sustainable, hydropower is able to swiftly accommodate rapid changes in demand, making it a flexible generation source. It also works in conjunction with other renewable resources, such as wind power.
Through year-end 2023, approximately 9% of Berkshire Hathaway Energy’s owned and contracted renewable generation capacity came from hydroelectric projects. In addition to powering households and businesses, these facilities provide public recreation opportunities for visitors to enjoy.
At BHE Renewables’ Wailuku run-of-river hydro project, a 60-inch pipeline located 2,000 feet above sea level carries water nearly three miles, transporting it from the Wailuku River diversion all the way to the powerhouse.
PacifiCorp owns 30 hydropower facilities, which collectively generate 971 megawatts of emission-free hydroelectric energy in Washington, Oregon, Idaho, Utah, Montana and California.