WW Op Zone Fund 1, LLC Seeks Preliminary Permit for Lower Crompton Dam Hydroelectric Project in Rhode Island

Strategic Insights -

Washington-based WW Op Zone Fund 1, LLC has submitted an application to the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) for a preliminary permit to develop the proposed Lower Crompton Dam Hydroelectric Project on the South Branch Pawtuxet River in West Warwick, Rhode Island. The project aims to harness the river's energy potential and generate approximately 0.6-0.8 GWh of clean electricity annually. The proposed 160 kW hydroelectric facility will utilize two siphon turbine-generator units operating in run-of-river mode on the existing dam, with no new dam construction or alteration of river flow regimes.

Key Takeaways:

  • The applicant proposes a 160 kW hydroelectric facility to be installed at the existing Lower Crompton Dam on the South Branch Pawtuxet River in West Warwick, Rhode Island.
  • The project aims to generate approximately 0.6-0.8 GWh of clean electricity annually by harnessing river flows that currently spill unused over the dam.
  • The project will utilize two siphon turbine-generator units operating in run-of-river mode on the existing dam, with no new dam construction or alteration of river flow regimes.
  • The applicant proposes to refurbish the existing canal and add generation equipment, including a new intake and canal, turbines, powerhouse, draft tube/tailrace, electrical and interconnection systems.
  • The project will enhance public access by creating a small river access trail and canoe portage around the dam and provide educational and historical interpretation opportunities at the old mill site.
  • The applicant plans to secure necessary land and water rights for project development and negotiate and finalize an interconnection agreement with the local electric utility to allow the project's power output to interconnect to the grid.
  • The preliminary permit will allow the applicant to pursue project studies, design, and stakeholder engagement in an organized timeframe, while preserving their exclusive right to seek a license for the Lower Crompton Dam site.

Statistics:

  • The proposed project will generate approximately 0.6-0.8 GWh of clean electricity annually.
  • The project will utilize two siphon turbine-generator units operating in run-of-river mode on the existing dam.
  • The estimated gross head at Lower Crompton is ~18 feet.
  • The turbines will be automated to operate as flow is available, and will shut off when river flow is below their minimum hydraulic capacities.
  • The project will require approximately 60 days after the joint meeting for agencies and tribes to submit any comments on the Pre-Application Document and requests for studies.
  • The permit term is proposed for 36 months, with the applicant expecting to complete the license application and submit it to FERC by winter 2027.

Sources:

  • WW Op Zone Fund 1, LLC. (2025, May 18). Application for Preliminary Permit - Lower Crompton Dam Hydroelectric Project, South Branch Pawtuxet River, Rhode Island. Federal Energy Regulatory Commission.