Maintaining and Enhancing Hydroelectricity and River Restoration Act

This bill, known as the "Maintaining and Enhancing Hydroelectricity and River Restoration Act," amends the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to establish a new 30 percent investment tax credit. This credit, designated as Section 48F, is designed to support upgrades and improvements at existing hydroelectric facilities across the United States. The credit applies to "hydropower improvement property," which includes projects such as adding or improving fish passage , maintaining or enhancing water quality , and promoting downstream sediment transport . It also covers upgrades for dam safety and security , improvements to public access, and the removal of obsolete river obstructions . Furthermore, placing an "approved remote dam" into service, defined as a small hydroelectric dam serving isolated communities, also qualifies for the credit. To be eligible, projects must receive written approval from the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission or relevant state/local officials prior to January 1, 2032. The bill also makes this new credit eligible for elective payment (direct pay) and transferability , broadening access for various entities. These provisions collectively aim to increase clean energy production, enhance grid reliability, and improve river ecosystems by modernizing existing hydroelectric infrastructure and supporting environmental restoration efforts.