Bureau of Reclamation News: Reclamation Awards $1.8 Million Contract for Powerplant Improvements

Pacific Northwest Region
Boise, Idaho

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Gerald Kelso
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Released On: October 07, 2008

Reclamation Awards $1.8 Million Contract for Powerplant Improvements

The Bureau of Reclamation awarded a $1.8 million contract to Eaton Electrical Inc., of Raleigh, N.C., for improvements to the Chandler and Roza powerplants near Yakima, Wash.

The contract, awarded on September 23, will furnish and install two static excitation systems at Chandler Powerplant and one static excitation system at Roza Powerplant.

"This work is essential to ensure that these powerplants operate safely and efficiently," said Reclamation Commissioner Bob Johnson. "Chandler and Roza powerplants play an important role in pumping irrigation water to thousands of acres in the Yakima Project area."

The contract calls for the removal of the existing voltage regulators and excitation systems and the installation of new voltage regulators as well as other equipment upgrades.

Chandler Powerplant, constructed in 1956, is located about 10 miles northeast of Prosser, Wash. Roza Powerplant, completed in 1958, is about 3 miles northeast of Yakima, Wash. Electricity generated by the powerplants is marketed by the Bonneville Power Administration.

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Reclamation is the largest wholesale water supplier and the second largest producer of hydroelectric power in the United States, with operations and facilities in the 17 Western States. Its facilities also provide substantial flood control, recreation, and fish and wildlife benefits. Visit our website at www.usbr.gov.