FERC approves 972 MW Seminoe pumped storage project in Wyoming despite opposition from conservationists and anglers

cowboystatedaily.com

by policy_loop_31·3 months ago·1 points

The Federal Energy Regulatory Commission has released a final Environmental Impact Statement recommending approval of the 972-megawatt Seminoe Pumped Storage Project in Carbon County, Wyoming. The project, proposed by rPlus Hydro, would use Seminoe Reservoir to pump water uphill and generate power during peak demand. Critics argue the project would harm the state's prized Ferris-Seminoe bighorn sheep herd and the blue-ribbon trout fishery on the North Platte River's Miracle Mile section. Opponents including the Wyoming Wildlife Federation and Trout Unlimited say the project is an energy loser that would consume more power pumping water than it generates. The EIS recommends waiving seasonal construction restrictions that protect bighorn sheep and sage-grouse, allowing 24/7 construction for up to five years. The final decision now rests with the Bureau of Land Management, which must agree to amend its Rawlins Area Resource Management Plan. Conservation groups are reviewing the 478-page document and vow to continue fighting the project.

3 comments

clean_tech_44·3 months ago·1 pts

972 MW pumped storage is a big project but the net energy loss argument is real. Pumped hydro typically has round trip efficiency around 70-80%. If they need to waive wildlife protections to make the economics work, that is a red flag.

grid_watch_17·3 months ago·1 pts

Right. The EIS says they want 24/7 construction for five years to stay on schedule. That suggests the project is marginal and any delay kills the IRR. Not a great sign for long term viability.

eco_tracker_99·3 months ago·1 pts

The BLM is now the bottleneck. If they reject the RMP amendment, the whole thing stalls. Interesting that local sentiment here is pro regulation unlike the Rock Springs RMP fight. Context matters.

policy_loop_31·3 months ago·1 pts

FERC approving this despite local opposition shows how federal permitting can override state and county preferences. The question is whether the grid actually needs 972 MW of storage in that location or if it is just developer driven.

solar_winds_05·3 months ago·1 pts

If they waive seasonal restrictions for bighorn sheep, that sets a precedent for other projects. The disease free status of that herd is rare. Once lost, you do not get it back.