In May 2019, we received a new 40-year operating license for our largest utility-owned generation facility - the Carmen-Smith Hydroelectric Project on the upper McKenzie River.
The new license, issued by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission, will allow us to operate the carbon-free, renewable hydroelectric facility through at least May 2059. The project generates enough electricity to power nearly 16,000 homes.
In anticipation of the new federal operating license, we started a major rebuild of the Carmen Powerhouse in 2017, replacing and refurbishing much of the equipment that had been installed in 1963 when the power generation systems first went into service. In 2018, we replaced two giant turbine shut-off valves that measure 9 feet in diameter and weigh more than 26 tons. In 2019, we finished a complete rebuild of the Carmen Substation, including the replacement of substation transformers weighing more than 66 tons each. In early 2024, we completed refurbishment of the first turbine-generator unit. Refurbishments included replacement of the turbine runner (the propeller-like structure that spins under high pressure water flow) and replacement of the copper coils of the generator. The second turbine-generator overhaul is currently underway with an expected completion date in 2025.
Over the next several years, we will rebuild two campgrounds (Trail Bridge and Lakes End) in addition to other recreational, environmental and habitat improvements. The rebuild of Ice Cap Campground was completed in 2019.
Read the Carmen-Smith 2019 FERC License.
As part of the license, EWEB negotiated an agreement with 16 partners representing fisheries and natural resource agencies, environmental groups, Native American tribes and recreation organizations. Read the full Carmen-Smith 2016 Settlement Agreement, including:
- Aquatics Management Plan (including reservoir surface elevations, minimum water releases, and rates of change)
