The 2025 Infrastructure Report Card from the American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE) has highlighted ongoing challenges in the US hydropower sector, which is largely represented under the category of dams. While recent federal investments have helped improve infrastructure across multiple sectors, the nation’s dams – many of which play a critical role in hydropower generation – received a concerning grade of D+, signalling the need for substantial upgrades and modernization.

According to the report, more than 92,000 dams exist across the United States, providing essential functions such as flood control, drinking water supply, and hydroelectric power generation. However, a growing number of these structures are aging, with nearly 70% expected to be over 50 years old by 2025. This raises concerns over their ability to meet modern safety standards and withstand increasing climate-related threats.

Investment and funding gap

The passage of the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA) in 2021 allocated approximately $3 billion to dam safety and rehabilitation, including upgrades to hydropower infrastructure. However, ASCE notes that $364 million of that funding was redirected for other purposes, and overall appropriations for federal dam safety programs remain below the necessary levels.

The estimated cost to bring the nation’s dams to a state of good repair continues to rise, highlighting an ongoing funding gap that could pose risks to energy security and grid reliability. Hydropower facilities, which account for 6.2% of total US electricity generation, are particularly vulnerable, as aging infrastructure can reduce energy output and increase operational hazards.

Climate and resilience remains a pressing concern

Another key takeaway from the report is the impact of climate change on hydropower facilities. Increased flooding, extreme weather events, and shifting precipitation patterns threaten both dam safety and the long-term viability of hydroelectric plants. The report emphasizes the need for modernized dam designs that incorporate climate resilience measures, such as improved spillway capacity and enhanced monitoring systems.

Additionally, there is a push for greater innovation in the sector, including the use of pumped storage hydropower (PSH) to provide grid stability amid the rising adoption of intermittent renewable energy sources like wind and solar.

Calls for policy action

ASCE’s report underscores the need for sustained federal investment, along with stronger state and local initiatives, to ensure the continued safety and efficiency of the nation’s hydropower infrastructure. Recommendations include:

  • Increased federal funding for dam rehabilitation and hydropower upgrades.
  • Implementation of resilience-focused designs to withstand climate-related challenges.
  • Improved data collection on dam conditions to facilitate proactive maintenance.
  • Public-private partnerships to attract additional investment into hydropower modernization.

Despite some progress, the hydropower sector remains at a crossroads. With over 17,000 dams classified as high-hazard potential, the report warns that failing to address these infrastructure gaps could have severe consequences for both public safety and the nation’s renewable energy future.

For policymakers, the message is clear: continued investment and modernization efforts are crucial to securing the role of hydropower in the clean energy transition and safeguarding communities that depend on these vital infrastructure assets.