Relicensing of Helms Pumped Storage Project

The State Water Resources Control Board is overseeing the FERC relicensing of the 1,212-megawatt Helms Pumped Storage Project, operated by Pacific Gas and Electric Company (PG&E) in Fresno and Madera Counties, California. The project scope includes the continued operation of the facility, the rehabilitation and replacement of existing recreation facilities, and the formal designation of approximately 36 miles of roads and one mile of trails as project infrastructure. Additionally, the project involves modifying the FERC Project boundary to accurately define lands necessary for operation and maintenance and implementing new protection, mitigation, and enhancement plans. Environmental compliance has been managed through the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) process, resulting in a Final Mitigated Negative Declaration in July 2026. This determination concluded that the project would not significantly affect the environment, and no further mitigation conditions or monitoring plans were required. Key regulatory requirements include obtaining a water quality certification under section 401 of the federal Clean Water Act and adhering to CalGEM guidelines regarding the safety and abandonment of oil, gas, or geothermal wells within the project area. The project is supported by Stantec Consulting Services, Inc., and involves coordination with trustee agencies such as the California Department of Fish and Wildlife.