Xcel Energy Submits Design Basis Report for Chippewa Falls Project Tainter Gate Replacement

Strategic Insights -

Xcel Energy, a leading electricity and natural gas company, has submitted a design basis report and Quality Control and Inspection Program (QCIP) to the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) for the replacement of the remaining seven tainter gates at the Chippewa Falls Project. This project is a continuation of the previous phase, where six gates were replaced in 2023, and the new design incorporates minor changes to comply with updated US Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) guidelines. The installation of the gates is expected to begin in June 2026.

Key Takeaways:

  • Xcel Energy has submitted a design basis report and QCIP for the replacement of the remaining seven tainter gates at the Chippewa Falls Project, which is a continuation of the previous phase where six gates were replaced in 2023.
  • The new design differs from the 2023 installation in minor ways to accommodate updated USACE guidelines as outlined in EM 1110-2-2107.
  • The installation of the gates is expected to begin in June 2026.
  • Xcel Energy has reviewed and concurred with the design basis report and QCIP.
  • The replacement of the gates is part of Xcel Energy's commitment to maintaining the safety and reliability of the Chippewa Falls Project.
  • The company has a dedicated team working on the project, including engineers and inspectors.

Statistics:

  • 7: The number of tainter gates that need to be replaced at the Chippewa Falls Project.
  • 6: The number of gates that were replaced in 2023 as part of the first phase of the project.
  • 2023: The year in which the first phase of the project was completed.
  • 2026: The year in which the installation of the remaining gates is expected to begin.
  • 1: The new design is similar to the first phase with minor changes.

Sources:

  • Mr. Kevin Griebenow Filed Electronically Regional Engineer Federal Energy Regulatory Commission Chicago Regional Office 230 South Dearborn Street, Suite 3130 Chicago, IL 60604
  • Letter from Dean S. Steines, Chief Dam Safety Engineer, Xcel Energy, to Mr. Kevin Griebenow, Regional Engineer, FERC.
  • US Army Corps of Engineers (USACE), EM 1110-2-2107.