Hydroelectic power plays an important part of the energy generation in the West, particularly in Idaho. For example, Idaho Power Company serves 360,000 customersin Idaho, eastern Oregon, and northern Nevada. About 60% of that power comes from hydroelectric generation in an average year. Idaho Power Company operates 17 hydroelectric plants on the Snake River and its tributaries with a non-coincident operating capacity of 2,000 megawatts.

Hydro electric power constitutes 11-12% of the nation's energy mix. It is the most efficient form of energy, converting over 90% of the potential energy into electricity. This compares to a typical coal-fired plant which is only approximately 35% efficient. Hydroelectric dams play a valuable role--especially in the arid West where many create usable reservoirs for recreation, flood control, irrigation and municipal water supplies. Hydroelectricity is a clean, renewable energy source.