In a concerted effort to meet its state-mandated clean-energy goals and stabilize energy rates, Grant Public Utility District (PUD) in Ephrata is preparing to review two major energy contracts. The first proposed contract involves purchasing 80 megawatts of solar power from Goose Prairie Solar, LLC, based in Moxee, near Yakima. Set for a period of five years, from January 8, 2025, to January 8, 2030, this initiative aims to meet rising energy demands while ensuring compliance with Washington’s stringent clean energy standards. According to Rich Flanigan, Grant PUD’s Senior Manager, the solar power deal is pivotal not only for meeting regulatory requirements but also for ensuring a reliable and stable supply of electricity. This proposal emerged as a front-runner from a pool of 82 submissions, which included various renewable energy options such as wind power and biodiesel.
The second contract under review is a three-year agreement with Brookfield Renewables Trading and Marketing. Under this arrangement, Brookfield would be allowed to purchase 10% of Grant PUD’s hydropower generated at the Priest Rapids and Wanapum dams, starting on January 1, 2025, and running through December 31, 2027. This deal is poised to replace an expiring contract with Avangrid Renewables. By selling a portion of its hydropower, Grant PUD aims to create financial benefits from its renewable resources while securing mixed-source power from Brookfield. Such a strategy is particularly significant as it acts as a safeguard against potential low water years, which can adversely affect hydropower generation.
Strategic Impact and Future Outlook
Grant Public Utility District (PUD) in Ephrata is gearing up to review two significant energy contracts to meet state clean-energy goals and stabilize energy rates. The first contract proposes buying 80 megawatts of solar power from Goose Prairie Solar, LLC in Moxee, near Yakima, for five years starting January 8, 2025, through January 8, 2030. This move aims to address the growing energy demand while complying with Washington state’s strict clean energy standards. According to Rich Flanigan, Grant PUD’s Senior Manager, this solar power deal is crucial for meeting regulatory requirements and ensuring a stable electricity supply. The proposal emerged as the top choice from 82 submissions, including options like wind power and biodiesel.
The second contract under consideration is a three-year agreement with Brookfield Renewables Trading and Marketing. From January 1, 2025, to December 31, 2027, Brookfield would buy 10% of Grant PUD’s hydropower generated at the Priest Rapids and Wanapum dams, replacing an expiring deal with Avangrid Renewables. By selling part of its hydropower, Grant PUD aims to gain financial benefits and secure a mix of power sources to protect against potential low water years that could affect hydropower generation.
