Grand Coulee Dam: Third Powerplant Overhaul Project

Introduction

The six generating units in the Third Powerplant (TPP) have been in service since the mid-1970s. Age-related wear is beginning to create problems problems which have resulted in increased power outages and reduced reliability. The overhaul project will ensure continued operation of the powerplant and allow Reclamation to provide a reliable source of hydroelectric power to the region.

Reclamation is preparing for the overhaul outages by identifying specific repair needs, performing detailed analysis, performing design work, and seeking contracts for work to be completed prior to overhaul. A considerable amount of the Planning and Design work is being accomplished in partnership with Architect-Engineering companies under contract with Reclamation.

These efforts will result in improved reliability of equipment that is needed to support the overhaul, will identify ways to minimize outage durations, and will reduce the likelihood and magnitude of increases to outage time.

Project Update

Third Power Plant Status Report – September 22, 2009

TPP Overhaul: Review of the 90% procurement package for the overhaul contract has been completed.   The Architect-Engineer firm “MWH Americas” was hired to study key overhaul efforts and make recommendations to reduce risks associated with them.  We will receive their 90% product in October and role that information into the final procurement package.  We are on track to advertise this spring. 
A General Engineer was hired for the project.

Material Storage Building (MSB):  Reclamation is preparing for the EA. Three alternatives will be included in the EA.  Reclamation’s preferred alternative is for a separate MSB and no extension of the TPP.

NEPA for MSB and TPP Overhaul:   A draft EA is scheduled to be issued for public review on Oct. 6, 2009.

TPP Cranes: A preliminary design was completed.  65% design review will be September 26, 2009.

Fixed Wheel Gate Chamber Modifications: Tribal comment on historical impacts has been requested.  Comments are due by October 13, 2009. 

TPP Elevators: An award for preliminary design (phase 1); and, completion of both the design and the procurement package (phase 2) was awarded. The initial contractor completed phase 1, but is unable to deliver on phase 2.   CH2MHill will provide new design and complete phase 2.

Excitation System: Solicitation for contract complete. Contract is expected to be awarded in November 2009.

Governor Upgrades: In contracting awaiting funding approval. 

Transformer Replacement (G19 & G20): Solicitation for contract complete. Contract is expected to be awarded in November 2009.

500 KV Cable:  EA comment period ended September 15, 2009. Comments are being evaluated.  BPA will complete LIDAR topography flight before October 5, 2009.  NEPA and design continue.

Shaft Seals: Solicitation went out on September 11, 2009.

News Releases

Reclamation Prepares EA on Proposed Grand Coulee Third Powerplant Overhaul

Contacts

Last Update: November 4, 2009 3:50 PM