Climate Effects on Water and Energy in the Western U.S

This work addresses two main topics:

(1) Climate impacts on drought, covering (a) the use of climate forecasts for drought preparedness and mitigation, (b) the assessment of drought vulnerability and potential economic impacts (e.g., in Washington), (c) the evaluation of agricultural impacts (e.g., in Eastern Washington, Idaho, and California), and (d) the integration of climate science/forecasts into NIDIS (National Integrated Drought Information System).

Collaborators include the Washington Department of Ecology, Washington Community Trade and Economic Development, Washington State University, Western Governors’ Association, and other stakeholders in the Western U.S.

(2) Climate impacts on energy – concerning gas and electricity (in addition to hydropower) and covering topics such as (a) the relationships between ENSO/PDO and interannual energy supplies/demands, (b) the use of climate forecast information for energy planning and management, and (c) the economic benefits of that information.

Collaborators include Western Electricity Coordinating Council (WECC), California Energy Commission (CEC), California Department of Water Resources (which also provides and purchases energy), and PacifiCorp (energy provider for the PNW), among other energy industries and agencies.

Funded by the Climate Impacts Group, University of Washington

Anne C. Steinemann, PI

Above: the Touchet River, June 30, 2005 (16 cfs) Below: July 21, 2005 (4 cfs)
Photos: Washington Dept. of Fish and Wildlife