FERC Issues Positive Dam Safety Inspection Report for Heidelberg Hydroelectric Project

Strategic Insights -

The Federal Energy Regulatory Commission's (FERC) Chicago Regional Office has conducted a dam safety inspection for the Heidelberg Hydroelectric Project, and found no deficiencies that require immediate remedial action. The inspection, conducted by Mr. Chad Blackney, confirmed that the project's structures were in good condition and met safety standards. The report also reviewed the 2024 Dam Safety Surveillance and Monitoring Report (DSSMR) and monthly construction reports, which documented progress on the project's powerhouse construction.

Key Takeaways:

  • The dam safety inspection of the Heidelberg Hydroelectric Project (FERC No. 13213) was conducted on June 10, 2025, by Mr. Chad Blackney of FERC's Chicago Regional Office.
  • No deficiencies were observed that would require immediate remedial action, confirming that the project's structures are in good condition.
  • The 2024 Dam Safety Surveillance and Monitoring Report (DSSMR) was submitted on December 11, 2024, and indicated that no dam safety concerns were identified from routine visual and instrumentation monitoring.
  • The DSSMR confirmed that the dam is safe for continued operation and fulfilled the annual requirement under Chapter 14 - Appendix K of FERC's Engineering Guidelines.
  • Monthly Construction Reports from September 2024 through May 2025 documented progress on powerhouse construction, with Phase 3A substantially complete and Phase 3B nearly complete.
  • Project construction is on track to be completed and operational by the end of September 2025.

Statistics:

  • 2025 dam safety inspection conducted on June 10, 2025.
  • No deficiencies observed that would require immediate remedial action.
  • 2024 Dam Safety Surveillance and Monitoring Report (DSSMR) submitted on December 11, 2024.
  • DSSMR confirmed no dam safety concerns were identified and the dam is safe for continued operation.
  • Phases 3A and 3B of powerhouse construction are substantially and nearly complete, respectively.
  • Project construction expected to be completed and operational by the end of September 2025.

Sources:

  • Federal Energy Regulatory Commission, Office of Energy Projects, Division of Dam Safety and Inspections, Chicago Regional Office. (2025, June 18). Letter to Mr. David B. Kinloch, President/CEO Lock 14 Hydro Partners, LLC, regarding 2025 Dam Safety Inspection Follow-up. Document Accession #: 20250618-3110 Filed Date: 06/18/2025
  • Kentucky River Authority, Executive Director Jennie Wolfe (jenniem.wolfe@ky.gov)
  • Heidelberg Hydroelectric Project, FERC No. 13213