Federal Approval Granted for Controversial Pumped Hydro-Storage Project in Washington
ENERGY STORAGEFLOW CONTROL
The federal government approved a permit for a pumped hydro-energy storage facility near Goldendale, Washington, proposed by Rye Development and Copenhagen Infrastructure Partners, despite objections from the Ḱamíłpa Band of the Yakama Nation due to cultural site destruction. The $2-3 billion project will connect two reservoirs and is set to begin construction by late 2027.
The project has faced years of opposition from the Yakama Nation and environmental groups over inadequate tribal consultation and significant resource impacts. The Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) emphasized the need for expedited development amidst ongoing controversies.

Mar 11, 2026, 6:14 AM