Federal Energy Regulatory Commission Issues Partial Authorization for Construction of Round Butte Spillway Aerator

Strategic Insights -

The Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) has issued a delegated order allowing Portland General Electric to begin construction of the staging area for the Round Butte Spillway Aerator Project at the Pelton Round Butte Project. This decision follows a review of documents submitted by the company, including spillway aerator issue for construction drawings and a quality control inspection program plan. The project is necessary to ensure the safety and functionality of the dam.

Key Takeaways:

  • The FERC has granted partial authorization for construction of the staging area for the Round Butte Spillway Aerator Project, subject to certain conditions.
  • Portland General Electric is required to ensure that construction practices conform to the requirements of the Project License and applicable permits, and to minimize erosion and other environmental impacts.
  • The company must also file any revised plans and specifications with the FERC in advance, and obtain separate authorization for any changes that affect the operation of the project.
  • Portland General Electric is reminded to update and file any affected exhibit drawings with the Secretary of the Commission in a timely manner following the completion of construction.
  • The project is expected to contribute to the safety and functionality of the Pelton Round Butte Project, a hydroelectric dam located on the Deschutes River in Oregon.

Statistics:

  • The Round Butte Spillway Aerator Project is located on the Pelton Round Butte Project, a hydroelectric dam with a capacity of 508 megawatts (MW).
  • The project is owned and operated by Portland General Electric (PGE), a utility company based in Portland, Oregon.
  • The FERC is responsible for regulating and overseeing the construction and operation of hydroelectric dams, including the Pelton Round Butte Project.

Sources:

  • FERC Delegated Order P-2030-000 (August 10, 2023)
  • Portland General Electric, Letter to FERC transmitting documents for review (June 6, 2023)
  • Quality Control Inspection Program (QCIP) Plan, submitted by Portland General Electric to FERC (July 31, 2023)