News Release Archive

Draft Environmental Assessment released for the proposed modernization of the Third Power Plant, Generating Units 19–21 at Grand Coulee Dam

Media Contact: Lynne Brougher, (509) 633-9503, lbrougher@usbr.gov
Erika Lopez, ealopez@usbr.gov

For Release: December 10, 2018

Grand Coulee Third Power Plant and Dam.
Grand Coulee Third Power Plant and Dam.GRAND COULEE, Wash. — The Bureau of Reclamation is seeking comments on the draft Environmental Assessment (EA) for the proposed modernization project for generating units 19–21 (G19–G21) in the Third Power Plant at Grand Coulee Dam.

The proposed modernization project will provide continued, reliable hydropower production for 40 years or more and will ensure that Reclamation meets its contractual obligations for power generation.

In this draft EA, analysis is underway on a proposed action and no action alternative for any potential environmental impacts:


• Proposed Action: Third Power Plant Units G19–21 modernization with potential for full replacement of major unit systems. The proposed action includes a design-build option for the contractor to provide up to a full component replacement of each generating unit if necessary.

• No Action Alternative: Reclamation continues to operate G19–G21 with no system improvements. Maintenance is performed on an as-needed basis.

The draft EA is available at https://www.usbr.gov/pn/programs/ea/wash/tpp/. Please send written comments no later than Dec. 24, 2018, to Mr. Brian Clark, GCPO-11-2, Bureau of Reclamation, P.O. Box 620, Grand Coulee, WA 99133. Comments also may be submitted via email at bdclark@usbr.gov.

# # #

The Bureau of Reclamation is a federal agency under the U.S. Department of the Interior and is the nation's largest wholesale water supplier and second largest producer of hydroelectric power. Our facilities also provide substantial flood control, recreation opportunities, and environmental benefits. Visit our website at https://www.usbr.gov and follow us on Twitter @USBR; Facebook @bureau.of.reclamation; LinkedIn @Bureau of Reclamation; Instagram @bureau_of_reclamation; and YouTube @reclamation.

Relevant Link:

https://www.usbr.gov/pn/programs/ea/wash/tpp/