FERC accepts preliminary permit application for Red Lake Pumped Storage Project

KINGMAN — The Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) has accepted a preliminary permit application for the Red Lake Pumped Storage Project, a 3,000-megawatt closed-loop pumped storage hydroelectric initiative in Mohave County, Arizona. Located about 35 miles northeast of Kingman on federal land managed by the Bureau of Land Management, this project is designed to enhance energy storage capabilities and improve grid stability in the region.
The Red Lake Pumped Storage Project involves constructing two upper dams to create a 275-acre reservoir and a lower dam to create a 273-acre reservoir, each with a storage capacity of 26,000 acre-feet of water. Additional infrastructure includes penstocks, turbine-generators with a total rated capacity of 3,000 MW, transmission lines, and ancillary facilities. The project is expected to generate 13,140 gigawatt hours of power annually, positioning it as a significant contributor to the region’s renewable energy infrastructure.
Pumped storage hydropower operates by moving water between two reservoirs at different elevations, functioning as a massive battery that stores and releases energy. During periods of low electricity demand, water is pumped from the lower to the upper reservoir. When demand is high, the water is released back into the lower reservoir, generating electricity through turbine-generators. This system helps balance supply and demand, stabilizes the grid, and supports the integration of intermittent renewable energy sources like wind and solar power.
The project promises to create substantial employment opportunities during its construction and operational phases, stimulating the local economy through increased demand for goods, services, and infrastructure development. The influx of jobs and economic activity is particularly significant for Mohave County, which could see boosts in local business revenues and community growth.
However, the project has not been without controversy. Some residents of Mohave County have voiced concerns about the potential depletion of water resources in an area already known for its water scarcity. These concerns have led to the filing of comments and objections, highlighting the need for careful consideration of environmental impacts.
To address these concerns, the Red Lake Pumped Storage Project will undergo a comprehensive Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA). This assessment will evaluate the potential effects on local ecosystems, water resources, and wildlife habitats. The EIA process ensures that the project adheres to stringent environmental protection standards and mitigates any negative impacts on the surrounding environment.
The development of the Red Lake project is set to follow a multi-phase timeline. The feasibility study phase, running from 2023 to 2025, will explore the project’s technical, environmental, and economic viability. Following this, the regulatory and permitting phase from 2025 to 2027 will involve obtaining the necessary approvals from various federal, state, and local agencies. The pre-construction phase, scheduled for 2027 to 2028, will involve detailed planning and preparation. Construction is expected to take place from 2028 to 2031, with testing and commissioning in 2031 and commercial operation commencing in 2032.
Substantial capital investment will be required to bring the Red Lake project to fruition. Potential funding sources include private investment, government grants and incentives, public-private partnerships, and green bonds. The project’s financing strategy will likely involve a combination of these sources to secure the necessary capital while minimizing financial risk.
If successfully implemented, the Red Lake project could play a crucial role in Arizona’s renewable energy landscape. It would enhance the state’s ability to integrate renewable energy sources into the grid, reduce reliance on fossil fuels, and contribute to meeting state and national renewable energy targets. The project aligns with broader efforts to transition to a more sustainable and resilient energy system, supporting both environmental and economic objectives.
As of recent updates, the Red Lake project remains in the feasibility study phase, with ongoing environmental and technical evaluations. A final decision from FERC is anticipated in the coming years. If the project receives approval, construction could begin as early as 2025, with the aim of achieving commercial operation by 2032.
The Red Lake Pumped Storage Project is part of a broader trend of pumped hydro storage initiatives being developed in Arizona to support the state’s growing renewable energy sector. These projects are essential for addressing the challenges associated with integrating variable renewable energy sources into the grid. By providing reliable and flexible energy storage, pumped hydro projects like Red Lake can help ensure grid stability and energy security.
— Stephan Lightman