Proposed 100-Mile Underwater Transmission Line Under Columbia River Faces Environmental Concerns
A $1.6 billion underwater transmission line project is proposed to meet energy demands in the Northwest, set for completion by 2028. Concerns from environmental groups and Native tribes include potential impacts on cultural sites and aquatic life during construction.
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Developers propose a 100-mile high-voltage transmission line to be installed under the Columbia River, starting in The Dalles, Oregon, and ending in Portland. This $1.6 billion project aims to alleviate energy transfer limitations from eastern Washington and Oregon to the west.
The installation process involves a hydroplow creating a trench where cables will be buried at least 10 feet deep. Construction is expected to occur over two winters to avoid disrupting salmon migration, with plans to minimize impacts on recreational activities.
However, environmental groups and tribes express concerns regarding potential disturbances to historic burial sites and aquatic ecosystems. The environmental review by the Washington State Energy Facility Site Evaluation Council will address these issues.
The project requires various approvals and could take up to 36 months to complete, with trenching potentially yielding 1.5 miles per day. If approved, completion is projected for 2028.
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