Bavarian Substation

Bavarian webpage photo

Planning to Power - all the way to 2075

Substations are an integral part of Chelan PUD’s electrical power system, bringing together generation, transmission, and distribution. In alignment with the long-range vision of Imagine 2075, the Substation Program provides a strategic framework for proactively improving and expanding substation infrastructure. The PUD's Substation Program ensures we can continue delivering safe, reliable power to meet the evolving needs of Chelan County. 

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 Please email customeroutreach@chelanpud.org or
 call 509-661-8563.


Background

When an existing substation is consistently reaching 80% capacity, it triggers the PUD to begin looking into the need for a new substation. The PUD refers to this as an 80/20 Model and it initiates the process of identifying a location for a new substation and the associated transmission and distribution lines, in order to continue resilient and reliable service.

Chelan County PUD has been working with the community since 2015 to construct a new substation and associated transmission lines to serve the Leavenworth area. The existing double-bank substation serving the area is nearing capacity. In May 2017, the PUD, along with community input, selected a site at the intersection of North Road and Chumstick Highway for the new substation.

80-20 graphic

What's Happening Now?

  • Upon completion of environmental reviews, Chelan PUD applied for and received a Conditonal Use Permit.
  • Site preparation work is expected to begin in September 2025.
  • Easement acquisition for transmission and distribution routes are nearly complete.
  • Chelan PUD will inform stakeholders of upcoming construction activities.

Anticipated Timeline

Substation Program Phase &
Anticipated Timeline

What's the PUD doing?

How are we engaging you?

1

 

PLAN

 

2020-2024

 


  • Identified the need for additional capacity
  • Identified potential alternative solutions

INFORM:
We will keep the public informed.


2

 

ACQUIRE

 

2020-2024

 


  • Identify and score potential sites
  • Acquire property and land rights
INVOLVE:
We will gather and consider feedback in decision making.


3

 

BUILD

 

2020-2024

 


  • Design of the substation and power lines 
  • Pursue appropriate permitting
  • Construct the substation and power lines
  • New infrastructure serving customers
CONSULT:
We will listen to and acknowledge concerns during the design process.


INFORM:
We will keep the public informed during the construction process.