Annual Report
2024
ENERGY
Annual Report
2024
The Placer County Water Agency (PCWA) plays a vital role in renewable energy production through our Middle Fork Project. This system includes multiple reservoirs, powerhouses, and dams that generate clean, reliable hydroelectric power while supporting regional water supply management. The project contributes to California's renewable energy goals, provides revenue to fund local water and power initiatives, and ensures environmental stewardship by balancing energy production with ecosystem preservation.
Funding Authority for Power Projects
Middle Fork Project Finance Authority
PCWA operates the Middle Fork Project (MFP), California's eighth-largest public power project, which provides both clean energy and a reliable water supply for Placer County. Built in the 1960s with local funding—without state or federal investment—the MFP was a bold and entrepreneurial endeavor that continues to benefit the region today.
The project includes five hydroelectric power plants, two major reservoirs (French Meadows and Hell Hole), and 24 miles of tunnels. These reservoirs store up to 340,000 acre-feet of water, ensuring year-round water availability for municipal, industrial, and agricultural needs.
Beyond power generation, the MFP is a multi-purpose water supply project, supporting recreation, environmental stewardship, and economic stability for Placer County. Its reliable water supply comes at a competitive cost, contrasting with the challenges and higher expenses faced elsewhere in the state. Additionally, revenue from power generation helps fund project maintenance and keep customer rates low—ensuring long-term sustainability for both water and power resources.
COST
$1.5M
FUNDING SOURCE
MFPFA Appropriation
PROJECT TYPE
Power Plant
PURPOSE
As part of expanded operating requirements for minimum in stream, pulse, and ramp down flows called out in PCWA's new FERC operating license, the Interbay Dam Stream Maintenance Valve and Pipe Project replaced the existing stream maintenance valve and associated piping with larger diameter pipes and valves. The new equipment is sized to pass required flows as stipulated in the new license.
FACTS & STATISTICS
COST
$25M
FUNDING SOURCE
MFPFA Appropriation
PROJECT TYPE
Power Plant
PURPOSE
PCWA completed its first season of upgrades at the Duncan Creek Diversion Dam to meet modern environmental standards and enhance operational efficiency as required in their new FERC operating license. The project includes new crest gates for sediment transport, fish screens, and advanced flow-control structures to support downstream fish passage and maintain ecological flows. By improving sediment transport and enabling fish to access critical habitats, the project restores natural stream functions and aquatic ecosystems. Powered by a hybrid energy system, the upgrades align with PCWA's commitment to sustainable infrastructure and meet Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) licensing requirements, demonstrating innovative solutions for managing water and environmental resources effectively.
COST
$2.3M
FUNDING SOURCE
MFPFA Appropriation
PROJECT TYPE
Environmental
PURPOSE
The Indian Bar River Access Improvements Project enhances the popular river access site on the Middle Fork American River. Located just downstream of Ralston Afterbay Dam, the site serves as a key put-in location for whitewater rafters. Planned upgrades included earthwork for better access and parking, new raft staging areas, and a low railing to assist with safe raft transport. Additional vault toilets, signage, and facility upgrades were installed to meet Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) requirements and will be complete prior to the beginning of the 2025 recreational rafting season. These improvements reflect PCWA's commitment to responsible stewardship and recreational access under the Middle Fork American River Project.
FACTS & STATISTICS
COST
$500K
FUNDING SOURCE
MFPFA Appropriation
PROJECT TYPE
Power Plant
PURPOSE
This project was an unexpected 2024 project and the result of a rockfall that damaged MFP infrastructure at Interbay Dam. The project required scaling of loose rock, drilling of rock anchors, installation of steel slope protection drapes, and tie in of the new protection system to an existing adjoining system. This unplanned project reflects some of the challenges in maintaining and operating a system located in the rugged terrain of the Middle Fork American River watershed.
COST
$1.1M
FUNDING SOURCE
MFPFA Appropriation
PROJECT TYPE
Environmental
PURPOSE
A new vertical well was installed along with updated infrastructure at the Middle Meadows Group Campground, ensuring reliable water supply at this recreation facility. This upgrade, part of the Middle Fork Project, reflects PCWA's dual focus on operational excellence and community benefits. The new water system supports the campground's recreational use, improving visitor experiences while meeting environmental and regulatory standards. By integrating sustainable water solutions into its power project operations, PCWA continues to serve both people and the environment effectively.
FACTS & STATISTICS
Campground visitors in 2025 can expect to have a reliable source of potable water at the campground by mid-summer.
Cost Approx.
$300K
FUNDING SOURCE
MFPFA Appropriation
PROJECT TYPE
Power Plant
PURPOSE
This project replaced the legacy Remote Telemetry Unit (RTU) with a modern, current technology RTU necessary to permit remote monitoring of critical operating parameters of the Oxbow Powerhouse generator and ancillary systems.
