Dams and Hydropower

On March 6th and 7th , a significant leak was found at the PG&E Spaulding Powerhouse. About two weeks later, the community learned that there was significant additional damage — columns in the powerhouse had crumbled.  Pipes that divert water to the South Yuba and Bear River were also damaged in an earlier storm, leading to a significant cut-off to water flow.  These events have raised concerns about the reliability of this aging infrastructure and highlighted the urgent need to address these vulnerabilities. 
In the wake of the damage to the Drum Spaulding Powerhouse and the ALJ recommendation, the CPUC is poised to make a final ruling regarding PG&E’s asset transfer.  As the CPUC deliberates, the public has a chance to weigh in. With a deadline for a final CPUC decision set for September 2024, there are four opportunities for a Commission vote to accept and finalize the ALJ decision at regularly scheduled voting meetings, the next being on April 18th.  

PG&E proposes to transfer all its hydroelectric assets to a new company – Pacific Generation (PacGen) This is the biggest and first-ever transfer of hydropower assets in California.  SYRCL believes that this transfer would benefit PG&E shareholders at the expense of California ratepayers, the Yuba River, dam safety, and the public interest.