Niagara Power Project Golden Anniversary

The following is a statement from National Hydropower Association Executive Director Linda Church Ciocci celebrating the contributions and benefits provided by the Niagara Power Project, owned and operated by the New York Power Authority (NYPA):

“The 50th anniversary of NYPA’s Niagara Power Project is an opportunity to recognize the remarkable impact of this crucial hydropower facility. Since 1961, the Niagara project has served Western New York businesses and helped support tens of thousands of jobs by providing some of the lowest-cost [and clean] * electricity in the country. The 2,441-megawatt project has also given the region unparalleled reliability in challenging times. It was Niagara and other NYPA hydropower projects that served as the springboard for restoring power to millions of customers following the Northeast Blackout of 2003.

“Niagara continues to be a powerful example of the hydropower industry’s capacity to stimulate local investment and create jobs. Over the past few years, companies like 3M, Yahoo! and GEICO have been lured to or have expanded operations in Western New York because of access to Niagara’s affordable power. NYPA has rededicated its efforts to maximize economic growth and support community improvements in recent years.

“The federal relicensing of the Niagara project in 2007 gives NYPA the opportunity to provide another 50 years of benefits from this exceptional facility. NYPA is committed to providing more than $1 billion in financial support and other regional benefits, including environmental and recreational improvements.

“As the Niagara project demonstrates, hydropower can improve the quality of life in area communities, especially during these trying economic times. Available, reliable and affordable hydropower resources are helping America meet its energy, economic, and environmental goals. The hydropower industry is committed to expanding this contribution through growth opportunities in every region of the country.

“National Hydropower Association commends the New York Power Authority and all of those who have kept the Niagara Power Project – and hydropower – working for America for 50 years.”

*Note: The photo, the word emphasis and the insert "[and clean]" were added by David

For more information about the Niagara Power Project, visit the NYPA website.