Notice of Decision: Ecology issues Section 401 Water Quality Certification
The Department of Ecology has issued a water quality certification for the proposed Goldendale Energy Storage Project.
Based on the information we received and the conditions within the water quality certification, we determined the project can be constructed and operated in a manner that meets water quality requirements. This decision can be appealed within 30 days of being issued.
This is just one of many approvals needed, so issuing it does not mean the project will immediately move forward. Ecology and other government agencies still need to review additional approvals. FERC released its draft environmental review of the project on April 6 and is accepting public comments through June 6.
In December 2022, Ecology released its environmental review of the proposed project. The document analyzes impacts to the environment, including water quality, and to Tribal and cultural resources. Under federal regulations, Ecology could only consider water quality issues as it determined whether to issue the water quality certification. Future Ecology permits and other agencies’ approvals may consider all the impacts identified in the environmental review.
More information about the project is on Ecology’s Goldendale Project webpage.
Project Background: Developed by Free Flow Power Project 101, LLC, the proposed project would be a pump water storage system along the Columbia River near Goldendale, WA. Rye Development, on behalf of FFP Project, first requested the water quality certification on June 29, 2020. On June 22, 2021, Ecology denied the request because there was not enough information to make a decision. Rye submitted a second request on May 23, 2022, which Ecology is responding to today with the issuance of this Water Quality Certification with conditions.
To request ADA accommodation for disabilities, or printed materials in a format for the visually impaired, contact Ecology at 425-681-6236 or ecyadaco...@ecy.wa.gov. Persons with impaired hearing may call Washington Relay Service at 711.
Persons with a speech disability may call TTY at 800-833-6384. If you need this document in another language, please contact the Federal Permit Unit at ecyrefe...@ecy.wa.gov or 360-407-6076.
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