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Grand Coulee Line Replacement Project
Bonneville Power Administration (BPA) has been asked by the Bureau of Reclamation (Reclamation) to design and construct six new 500-kV transmission lines at Grand Coulee Dam.
These proposed new overhead lines would replace six existing underground lines. The existing lines consist of eighteen aging, oil-filled cables between Grand Coulee's third powerhouse and the 500-kV spreading yard, both of which are operated and maintained by Reclamation. In the current underground configuration, the cables are more susceptible to threats like fire, which would likely lead to multiple line failures. The proposed overhead solution is less likely to experience multiple line failures, which helps ensure safe and reliable transmission of power from Grand Coulee Dam. The new lines would transfer power that is generated at the third powerhouse, across the Columbia River to the visitor center area, and then proceed uphill where they will connect to existing lines that transfer power from this area into the Regional power grid.
To understand the potential environmental impacts of this proposal, BPA and Reclamation will prepare an Environmental Assessment (EA). In the EA, we will study potential impacts on the natural and built environment caused by the proposed project and any alternatives, including the no-action alternative. The EA will also describe any mitigation measures that we can incorporate into the proposed project to minimize impacts. During this process, BPA and Reclamation will seek public input and comments.
More information and project documents
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Transmission Services
