State Sen. Mark Schoesler issued this statement following this morning’s announcement by the U.S. Department of Energy that it will provide $1 billion to Washington, Oregon and Montana to establish eight hydrogen production sites across the three states:

“This would not happen without hydropower. Our state has a strong and reliable hydropower system that provides inexpensive electric power and allows water to be stored behind dams – with water being needed for producing hydrogen.  I hope the people advocating for this new hydrogen production project in our state will recognize and respect the role that our dams and hydropower system played in Washington being part of this regional hydrogen hub.”

Schoesler, R-Ritzville, serves the 9th Legislative District, which includes the four lower Snake River dams between Clarkston and the Tri-Cities.