Labrador Statement in Support of Hydroelectric Power Generation

Statement

Today Idaho First Congressional District Rep. Raúl R. Labrador, speaking in the Natural Resources subcommittee on Water and Power, voiced his strong support for maintaining the integrity and capacity of the Pacific Northwest hydroelectric energy generation system.

Speaking before assembled witnesses representing diverse interests in the region, including the Northwest Power and Conservation Council, Labrador said, "The importance of clean, reliable and affordable hydroelectric power to the citizens of Idaho and the Pacific Northwest has become even more critical during these tough economic times."

Labrador continued, "This renewable resource remains an integral factor in the slow but continued economic recovery of our region. In my state, over 200,000 Idahoans receive the majority of their power through rural electric cooperatives and municipal power companies -- actually 98 percent of that power is provided through the federal hydro system."

Noting the diverse interests represented by the subcommittee panel, Labrador concluded, "I look forward to listening to the input our distinguished panel has to offer and I believe we can continue to work together in the Northwest to maintain this clean and valuable resource."

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