Zolaikha Strong Joins NHA to Promote Flexible, Carbon Free Hydropower

Zolaikha Strong Joins NHA to Promote Flexible, Carbon Free Hydropower

Washington, D.C. (March 18, 2021) – The National Hydropower Association (NHA), the leading voice for the nation’s hydropower and marine energy industry, announced today the hire of Zolaikha Strong to the position of Vice President of Government Affairs. In this position, Strong will spearhead NHA’s federal and state legislative policy program, as well as advocate on behalf of the industry to ensure that hydropower is recognized as an essential part of America’s clean energy future.

Prior to coming to NHA, Zolaikha was the Director of Energy Policy and Clean Energy Markets at the Copper Development Association, leading the North American Clean Energy Office for the global copper alliance. In this capacity, she initiated legislative efforts advocating for policies and regulations among key decision makers in energy, environment, and sustainability, collaborating with manufacturers on the development of new technologies, and building partnerships with clean energy advocates. Previously, she worked at the Edison Electric Institute and the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission.

“NHA is growing and charting a new course, and we are thrilled to have Zolaikha leading NHA’s government affairs team,” said Malcolm Woolf, NHA President & CEO. “Hydropower is an affordable, reliable source of clean electricity, and with Zolaikha’s deep working knowledge of Congress, we look forward to enhancing its role in the decarbonization of America’s grid.”

“Hydropower is the nation’s first renewable, and I am excited to join an industry that is an essential part of any climate solution,” said Strong. “I appreciate the opportunity to help shape NHA’s legislative agenda and unlock the industry’s significant potential for new, environmentally responsible hydropower resources.”

The hydropower industry provides 36 percent of the nation’s renewable generation and 6 percent of overall electricity generation. In addition, pumped storage projects provide 93 percent of energy storage in the United States, making hydropower a critical resource to integrate increasing amounts of variable energy sources into America’s electricity system.

The National Hydropower Association (NHA) is a nonprofit association dedicated exclusively to promoting the growth of clean, renewable hydropower and marine energy.

###