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In October, staff from the Bureau of Reclamation and the Bonneville Power Administration gathered at Grand Coulee Dam, Washington, to celebrate the long-awaited transfer of three switchyards.

The transfer includes the 500-kilovolt, 230-kilovolt, and 115-kilovolt switchyards, along with associated equipment. This process is expected to take approximately five years. Once completed, BPA will own and maintain the switchyards, while Reclamation will continue to operate the 500-kilovolt switchyard.

“We recognize this process has been challenging, but through ongoing communication and collaboration, I am confident we can successfully navigate the five-year transition period and continue advancing this project forward,” said Jennifer Carrington, Reclamation’s Columbia–Pacific Northwest Regional Director. “Most important to me, our Reclamation family remains whole, and all of our employees will retain their positions at Grand Coulee Dam.”

This collaboration allows Reclamation to focus on managing and delivering water resources in the region, while BPA ensures reliable and affordable power for its customers. During the transition phase, the switchyards will be modernized to address safety and reliability concerns.

According to John Hairston, BPA’s CEO and administrator, the timing is opportune, given the significant cost savings this transfer will enable.

“This transfer marks a new chapter in our partnership and illustrates a shared commitment to fulfilling our respective missions in a fiscally sound manner,” Hairston said. “Taking advantage of BPA’s authority to borrow from the U.S. Treasury, this asset swap opens the door to efficiencies, eliminates financial hurdles, and reduces expenses associated with interagency coordination.”

Thank you to the dedicated staff who worked tirelessly to bring this project to fruition. Their commitment and hard work made the transfer possible.