Relicensing of Balch Hydroelectric Project

The relicensing of the 131.52-megawatt Balch Hydroelectric Project, identified as FERC Project No. 175, is being managed by the State Water Resources Control Board in Fresno County, California. Proposed by Pacific Gas and Electric Company, the project involves the continued operation of the Black Rock Reservoir, Balch Diversion Dam, Balch Afterbay and Afterbay Dam, two powerhouses, and approximately 28 miles of transmission and distribution lines. Key objectives include the rehabilitation of recreation facilities, the designation of 14 miles of roads and 2.5 miles of trails as project assets, the decommissioning of the Black Rock Creek and Weir Creek feeder facilities, and the modification of the FERC project boundary to better define operational lands and waters. The project is primarily operated as a peaking facility for power demand and irrigation, with operations coordinated with the Haas-Kings River Hydroelectric Project. Environmental compliance has been addressed through a Mitigated Negative Declaration under the California Environmental Quality Act, which determined that the project will not have a significant environmental impact. This process included a comprehensive Initial Study and a public comment period ending in December 2025. Administrative requirements included a filing fee of 3,043.75 dollars paid to the California Department of Fish and Wildlife. The project is overseen by Project Manager Jessica Dyke and must adhere to the Federal Power Act and specific FERC license articles.