Hydroelectric & Renewable Power Generation in the US

Industry Gets Green Light

Firms engaged in generating hydroelectricity and electricity from renewables are expected to enjoy favorable market conditions over the outlook period, particularly 2010 onwards, buoyed by growth in the demand for electricity and an ongoing focus on 'green' electricity. Many State Governments have set targets from renewable sources. The number of states setting targets is increasing, while the targets themselves are also becoming more ambitious.

This industry comprises establishments primarily engaged in operating hydroelectric and renewable powered electric power generation facilities. Renewable energy sources comprise: wood and wood waste, black liquor, biogenic municipal solid waste, landfill gas, sludge waste, biomass and other agriculture byproducts, geothermal, solar and wind. Firms in this industry may also produce small amounts of electricity using other power sources, including: non-biogenic municipal solid waste, batteries, chemicals, hydrogen, pitch, purchased steam, sulfur and used tires. While water and wind are used to directly power turbines that generate electricity, other facilities typically utilize their fuel to generate steam, which is then used to power turbines and generate electric power. The establishments in this industry produce electric energy and provide electricity to transmission systems or to electric power distribution systems.