Renewable Energy Aggregators Proposes Old Forge Pumped Storage Hydro Project for Mine Water Reclamation
Renewable Energy Aggregators Inc. (REA) has proposed the Old Forge pumped storage hydroelectric project aimed at reclaiming polluted mine water from the Old Forge borehole. The borehole has been discharging contaminated mine water into the Lackawanna River since 1962, significantly impacting local ecosystems and contributing to pollution in the Susquehanna River and Chesapeake Bay.
The project encompasses a 1,300-acre area across Old Forge and Ransom Township, with plans for two reservoirs, a purification facility, and a powerhouse capable of generating 184 megawatts. REA filed an application for a three-year preliminary permit with the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) in July 2025. If approved, the project aims to purify 99.99% of the borehole water, restore aquatic life, and generate approximately 671,600 megawatt-hours of electricity per year, contributing to regional energy stability and environmental restoration.
