In Natrona County, Wyoming, a proposed $3 billion hydroelectric project at Seminoe Reservoir is under scrutiny as developers adjust plans in response to environmental concerns. The project, spearheaded by Utah-based rPlus Hydro, aims to create a pumped storage facility that would act as a water-powered battery, providing long-duration energy to the regional power grid.
Project Details and Adjustments
rPlus Hydro recently presented updated plans to Wyoming’s Legislature’s Travel, Recreation, Wildlife, and Cultural Resources Committee. The revised design slightly increases the generating capacity to 972 megawatts and adjusts the upper reservoir’s surface area and water capacity. The facility is designed to pump water to a new reservoir during periods of surplus power, storing it until demand peaks, at which point the water would be released to generate electricity.
In response to concerns about the impact on local wildlife, particularly the Ferris-Seminoe bighorn sheep herd, rPlus Hydro has reduced the construction footprint and proposed a conservation easement or wildlife fund. These changes aim to mitigate the project’s impact on the environment and local wildlife habitats.
Environmental Concerns and Economic Impact
Despite these adjustments, local residents and conservationists have raised concerns about potential impacts on the North Platte River ecosystem and the Miracle Mile trout fishery. They warn that daily water transfers could alter the reservoir’s thermal cline, affecting water temperatures and potentially harming aquatic life.
Developers argue that water quality modeling suggests minimal temperature changes, but local opposition remains strong. The project promises economic benefits, including an estimated $9 million in annual property taxes and the creation of 300–500 jobs during construction, with up to 35 permanent positions once operational.
Regulatory and Legislative Actions
The Federal Energy Regulatory Commission is currently reviewing the project’s environmental impact. A draft statement suggests the project’s benefits outweigh its impacts, but state lawmakers have expressed concerns over transparency and the potential for power to be exported out of state. A memorandum of concern has been sent to federal regulators, highlighting public opposition and transparency issues.
The final environmental impact statement is expected soon, with a federal decision anticipated by September. As the debate continues, the project remains a focal point for discussions on balancing economic development with environmental stewardship in Wyoming.
Original reporting: Oil City News (Casper WY) — read the source article.
