Barrasso Questions FERC Commissioners on Wyoming’s Seminoe Pumped Storage Project

WASHINGTON, D.C. - Today, U.S. Senator John Barrasso (R-Wyo.) questioned Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) commissioners about electricity markets and the Seminoe Pumped Storage Project, a proposed hydropower project located in central Wyoming.

Barrasso specifically urged the commissioners to take into account the State of Wyoming's concerns about how the Seminoe project could impact one of the most legendary trout fisheries in Wyoming, and other local wildlife.

All five FERC commissioners testified during today's Senate Energy and Natural Resources oversight hearing.

On Seminoe Pumped Storage Project State Input:

"What I want to talk about is the Seminoe Pumped Storage Project - which is in the State of Wyoming.

"On June 12, FERC staff issued their recommended Final Environmental Impact Statement for the Seminoe Pumped Storage Project.

"This is a private project, and it would create water pumped storage infrastructure above Seminoe Reservoir - which is in Central Wyoming.

"Functionally, the project works as a battery with about a capacity of efficiency of about 70%.

"It uses power to pump water into storage, and then it sells power at a profit when the grid needs electricity.

"Wyoming constituents that I've heard from have concerns.

"They worry that the project harms the only disease-free Big Horn Sheep herd in the state, and critical Mule Deer, Pronghorn, and Sage Grouse habitat.

"They also worry that it harms one of the most legendary trout fisheries in Wyoming and the world. It's known as 'The Miracle Mile.'

"But it's over 5 miles; it's a stretch of the North Platte River between the Seminoe Reservoir and the Pathfinder Reservoir.

"This is an area that must be protected.

"The project received its water quality permit from the state - their concerns about wildlife that haven't yet been resolved in the recommended Environmental Impact Statement.

"The State submitted comments on the project, which I have here and would, Mr. Chairman, like to enter into the hearing record without objection.

"It's critically important that Wyoming's concerns are thoughtfully and carefully considered in this process.

"So, Madam Chairman, I would ask others and you to commit to taking a renewed look at the State's comments and consider their incorporation into your final decision?"

Follow-up:

"Thank you. Anyone else want to weigh in on this?"

On Electricity Market Governance:

"Western electricity markets - they are evolving rapidly, as you all know.

"This comes from the implementation of new day-ahead markets.

"It comes from the new Regional Organization for Western Energy, and Southwest Power Pool's expansion to the west.

"The goal is unified and coordinated electricity transmission.

"While participation in this new model can be a good thing, states like Wyoming need a meaningful voice in governance.

"Wyoming is the number one electricity exporter in the western interconnection.

"We have the highest net exports of energy per capita.

"That makes Wyoming the backbone of the grid.

"So, what steps are FERC planning to take to ensure meaningful state participation as the Extended Day Ahead Market and Western Energy Imbalance Markets evolve?"

Follow-up:

"Great. Anyone else want to respond on that?"

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