“Strong partnerships drive innovation, and innovation strengthens America’s energy future,” said U.S. Energy Secretary Chris Wright in a statement announcing the extension. “Hydropower is a tremendous resource—one that supports reliable, affordable power across the country and holds vast potential to bolster America’s grid.”

The partnership between the DOE and Norway’s hydropower experts has already yielded promising results. Since 2020, researchers from DOE’s Water Power Technologies Office and Norway’s Research Centre for Hydropower Technology have worked together to improve the design, efficiency, and reliability of water power systems. Now, with marine energy in the mix, they’re looking to unlock new frontiers in clean energy innovation.

Lou Hrkman, Principal Deputy Assistant Secretary for Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy, pointed to the benefits this collaboration could offer. “Our work with Norway—another country that’s rich in water power resources—is helping us scale up generation, modernize existing facilities, and build the technical know-how needed to take full advantage of these opportunities.”

What makes this partnership particularly notable is its emphasis on shared learning. The two countries will continue to exchange foundational information, research tools, and technologies aimed at accelerating the development of next-gen water and marine energy systems. In practical terms, that means reducing barriers to testing, deployment, and commercialization—key steps toward making these energy sources more viable in real-world settings.

For both the U.S. and Norway, the collaboration underscores the value of international partnerships in tackling global energy challenges. As the world pivots toward a more sustainable future, tapping into renewable sources like water power isn’t just smart—it’s essential.