The water and power control center for the Colorado-Big Thompson Project`s reservoirs, powerplants, and transmission lines in Wyoming, Colorado, and western Nebraska is at the Western Area Power Administration facility in Loveland, Colorado.
First construction funds were provided by the Interior Department Appropriation Act of August 9, 1937 (50 Stat. 595). The President approved the Secretary`s finding of feasibility on December 21, 1937.
The Colorado-Big Thompson Project is one of the largest and most complex natural resource developments undertaken by Reclamation. It consists of over 100 structures integrated into a transmountain water diversion system through which multiple benefits are provided to the people.
Plan
Hydroelectric power is generated for the project. Water is taken from Flatiron Reservoir, passed through Big Thompson Powerplant, and returned to the Big Thompson River, as needed. The water and power control center for the Colorado-Big Thompson Project`s reservoirs, powerplants, and transmission lines in Wyoming, Colorado, and western Nebraska is at the Western Area Power Administration facility in Loveland, Colorado. Projects include a new plant fire alarm system, unit excitation system replacement, a new access bridge, and repairs to the Dille Diversion structure. Plant remote control (RTU SCADA and fiber communication) upgrades are planned to be completed in FY 2010. An upgrade to the governor is planned for FY 2013. Installation of online condition monitoring is planned for FY 2013. Turbine runner and wear ring replacement and a unit overhaul are scheduled to start in FY 2014. Plant is only used on a seasonal basis, primarily during spring runoff. Maintenance Costs show an increase in FY-2001 because of the Station Service Battery replacement, the Automation for Trifurcation Gates, and Conclusion of the ROM items. Western Electricity Coordinating Council, Rocky Mountain Power Area Western Area Power Administration, Rocky Mountain Region Conventional Above Ground Francis 4,500 kW 4,500 kW 1959 54 years 1,779,800 kWh 2007 180 ft The plant operates under an effective head of 180 feet and has a generating capacity of 4,500 kilowatts.
General
NERC Region
Western Electricity Coordinating Council, Rocky Mountain Power Area
PMA Service Area
Western Area Power Administration, Rocky Mountain Region
Plant Type
Conventional
Powerhouse Type
Above Ground
Turbine Type
Francis
Original Nameplate Capacity
4,500 kW
Installed Capacity
4,500 kW
Year of Initial Operation
1959
Age
54 years
(Fiscal Year)
2007
Rated Head
180 ft
Plant Factor
4.8 percent (seasonal)
Production Mode
Intermediate
Remotely Operated
Yes
River
Colorado River and Big Thompson River
Contact
Contact
Title: Supervisor II Phone: 970-724-3538
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