Celebrating National Hydropower Day with Seattle City Light

August 24 is National Hydropower Day! For over a century, hydropower has been a vital energy source for the Pacific Northwest and beyond. In fact, Washington is the leading producer of hydropower in the country.

At Seattle City Light, we're proud to manage an impressive hydroelectric system. Today, let's explore the importance of hydropower and how it continues to shape our community's energy landscape.

Understanding hydropower

Hydroelectricity, a renewable energy source, has been the backbone of the Pacific Northwest's power system for years. Since 1902, City Light has proudly embraced hydropower, becoming the first municipal utility in the U.S. to own and operate a hydroelectric plant at Cedar Falls.

Hydroelectric power is created by using the energy of flowing water. It offers a sustainable and efficient way to meet our energy needs by turning the movement of water into electricity. This approach not only lessens our dependence on fossil fuels but also lessens environmental impact. It's a simple and effective solution for a greener future.

At the heart of our commitment to hydropower is our dedication to caring for the environment. We partner with local, state, and federal agencies and Tribes to ensure our operations respect and protect natural resources. Responsible management of river basins and watershed ecosystems is key to our mission. These efforts benefit not only our customers but also the entire community.

The backbone of renewable energy

City Light's hydroelectric projects supply more than half the power needs for our customers. These projects have played a crucial role in transforming Seattle's energy landscape. What's more, our reliance on hydropower has enabled us to achieve and maintain carbon neutrality since 2005.

Seattle City Light's Energy Resources:

[Link]*City Light does not have coal or natural gas resources in its power supply portfolio. It does make market purchases to balance or match its loads and resources. These purchases, along with market purchases made by Bonneville Power Administration (BPA), may incidentally include coal or natural gas resources, which are assigned to the utility. Any emissions associated with unspecified market purchases are offset through our greenhouse gas (GHG) neutrality policy.
**This fuel represents a portion of the power purchased from BPA.

Hydropower works well with other renewables like solar and wind, helping to create a strong and flexible energy system that's eco-friendly. Together, these energy sources build a resilient system ready to meet future needs.

Reliable and flexible power for a stable grid

Unlike solar and wind, which rely on the weather, hydropower consistently produces electricity. When the sun isn't out and the wind isn't blowing, hydropower is there to meet energy needs. During peak times or unexpected situations, we can quickly boost hydropower output to serve our customers efficiently.

City Light's hydroelectric system is crucial for keeping the regional grid stable. We go beyond our service area to support the broader Pacific Northwest's hydropower system. Hydropower is key in balancing the grid and meeting the rising demand for electricity. As we aim for a more electrified society, having reliable and flexible energy sources becomes increasingly important.

Challenges during low rainfall and snowpack conditions

Hydropower is a reliable energy source, but it can be affected by drought, low rainfall and reduced snowpack. City Light addresses these situations by carefully managing reservoir levels and optimizing power generation. Even with these efforts, moderate droughts can affect water availability and hydropower efficiency.

When water flow is low, generating electricity becomes a bit tougher. We use careful planning and strategic adjustments to keep the power flowing. By using advanced forecasting tools and adaptive management, we tackle these challenges and ensure our hydropower resources stay reliable.

Celebrating hydropower's legacy

Hydropower's legacy comes from the vision and investments of those before us. Today, we honor their work by fulfilling our responsibilities with dedication. We prioritize safety and embrace new energy solutions, staying committed to preserving and enhancing our hydroelectric system.

Hydropower's flexibility is becoming even more important as we face more extreme weather and temperature changes. Think of our reservoirs as a giant battery: they store potential energy as water when demand is low and ramp up power production when demand peaks. This adaptability helps us efficiently meet the energy needs of all our customers.

National Hydropower Day is a chance to celebrate the amazing benefits of this renewable energy source. At Seattle City Light, we're proud to lead in hydropower innovation and environmental care. By using the power of water, we're creating a cleaner, more sustainable future for everyone.

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