Public support for hydropower remains high across the Pacific Northwest, according to new community research commissioned by Northwest RiverPartners.
The October 2024 survey, administered by research firm DHM, found that three in four Pacific Northwest residents support hydropower produced by dams across Oregon, Washington, Idaho and Montana. Residents say they consider hydropower the most important source of electrical energy in the region.
Notably, affordability overtook climate change as the most serious issue in 2024. With rising cost of living, inflation and increased energy demands, residents say they are feeling the pinch when it comes to electricity costs.
“For generations, hydropower has consistently kept electricity affordable, reliable and clean for families and businesses in the region,” says Clark Mather, Executive Director of Northwest RiverPartners. “Our hydropower system is the beating heart of the Pacific Northwest and we look forward to working with communities and policymakers to ensure that invaluable system continues to serve millions of people every day,” adds Mather.
As both costs and demand for energy dramatically increase, hydropower stands out among surveyed residents as the best resource to meet the current and future needs of Pacific Northwest residents, Northwest RiverPartners said.
Additional information about the research is available on the Northwest RiverPartners’ website.
