PG&E’s Spaulding 1 powerhouse and Spaulding Reservoir in Nevada County. Photo courtesy of PG&E

PLACER COUNTY, CA (MPG) - PG&E’s Spaulding 1 powerhouse in Nevada County is back in service and is providing flows to canals leading to key reservoirs. 

After repairs were completed earlier this month, PG&E tested water flows through the powerhouse to ensure all equipment was operating properly. The powerhouse was returned to service on July 24. With water passing through the powerhouse, discharges into the Drum Canal are now feeding into Rollins Reservoir, with a diversion providing water to the South Yuba Canal which feeds Scotts Flat Reservoir. Both reservoirs belong to the Nevada Irrigation District, with the Placer County Water Agency also drawing from Rollins. 

“When the powerhouse issues were identified, PG&E immediately moved forward with inspections and repairs and consulted with water agencies on the best time to schedule repairs,” said Dave Gabbard, vice president of Power Generation at PG&E. “We well understood the impacts to water users, and we worked 24/7 to repair both water discharge horns so flows could resume as soon as possible. Our team’s dedication was apparent as they worked together to achieve the goal. We thank the water districts for their understanding, coordination and cooperation.” 

The work was challenging as the small powerhouse was commissioned in 1928 and the workspace is confined. There is no road as it is on a cliffside, so tools and materials had to be brought in by tram or helicopter.