Central Oregon Irrigation District (COID) is a public agency located in the heart of Central Oregon in the United States. The district was established in 1918 to provide irrigation water to farmers in the region. Over the years, COID has evolved to become a leader in the development of renewable energy projects, particularly in the small hydro sector.

Small hydro refers to hydroelectric power plants with a capacity of less than 10 megawatts (MW). These projects typically utilize the flow of water in small rivers or streams to generate electricity. Small hydro projects are considered to be a form of clean, renewable energy, as they do not produce greenhouse gas emissions or other pollutants.

COID has been involved in the development of small hydro projects for over a decade. The district's first project, the Opal Springs Hydroelectric Project, was completed in 2009. The project is located on the Crooked River, a tributary of the Deschutes River, and has a capacity of 7.8 MW. The Opal Springs project was the first hydroelectric project built in Oregon in over 20 years, and it has been recognized as a model for small hydro development in the United States.

Since the completion of the Opal Springs project, COID has continued to develop small hydro projects in the region. The district's most recent project, the Swalley Hydroelectric Project, was completed in 2019. The Swalley project is located on the Swalley Irrigation District's canal system and has a capacity of 2.5 MW. The project is expected to generate enough electricity to power approximately 1,800 homes.

COID's small hydro projects have been successful for several reasons. First, the district has been able to leverage its existing infrastructure, including canals and pipelines, to generate electricity. Second, the district has been able to work closely with local communities to ensure that the projects are designed and operated in a way that is compatible with the local environment. Finally, COID has been able to secure financing for its projects through a variety of sources, including grants, loans, and power purchase agreements.

In addition to its small hydro projects, COID has also been involved in the development of other renewable energy projects in the region. The district has installed solar panels on several of its facilities, including its headquarters and maintenance buildings. COID has also partnered with local businesses and organizations to promote energy efficiency and renewable energy in the community.

COID's commitment to renewable energy has been driven by several factors. First, the district recognizes the importance of reducing greenhouse gas emissions and addressing climate change. Second, the district sees renewable energy as a way to diversify its revenue streams and reduce its dependence on traditional sources of funding, such as property taxes. Finally, COID believes that renewable energy can help to create jobs and stimulate economic development in the region.

Despite the success of its renewable energy projects, COID faces several challenges. One of the biggest challenges is securing financing for new projects. While grants and loans are available from a variety of sources, including the federal government and private foundations, competition for these funds is fierce. Additionally, the district must navigate complex regulatory frameworks at the state and federal levels, which can be time-consuming and expensive.

Another challenge facing COID is the need to balance its renewable energy goals with its core mission of providing irrigation water to farmers in the region. While the district's small hydro projects have been successful in generating revenue, they represent only a small portion of the district's overall budget. As such, COID must carefully consider the costs and benefits of each renewable energy project it pursues.

Despite these challenges, COID remains committed to developing renewable energy projects in the region. The district sees renewable energy as a way to promote sustainability, reduce greenhouse gas emissions, and stimulate economic development in the community. With its track record of success in the small hydro sector, COID is well-positioned to continue to lead the way in renewable energy development in Central Oregon and beyond.