Castlerock Substation

Substation_program_planning to power_clr (002)
Castlerock 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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 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.

In 2006, Chelan County PUD purchased three parcels on Castlerock Avenue as a potential site for a new substation. Today, with nearby substations approaching capacity, we’re beginning to explore infrastructure improvements to meet growing energy needs from homes, businesses, and new development. After careful analysis, our engineering team determined that constructing the Castlerock Substation is now necessary to safely and reliably meet Wenatchee's increasing electrical demand.

Over the coming months, we’ll be evaluating the Castlerock property and gathering input as we prepare to engage with neighbors and other stakeholders.

80-20 graphic

What's Happening Now?

As part of early planning work, neighbors may notice surveyors or PUD crews on the property collecting data. This fieldwork helps us better understand the site, supports informed decision-making, and provides information required for permit applications. Chelan PUD and its contractors are evaluating habitat, vegetation, and soil conditions to satisfy City of Wenatchee permit requirements for environmental mitigation and safety.

  • May 18 - 22, 2026: Geotechnical drilling is scheduled to occur. For worker and public safety, the Castlerock Trailhead will be closed between 7:30 AM - 4:00 PM. Hikers may access the trail before or after these working hours. You may see drill trucks or equipment on the substation property or hillside. Some noise may occur as a result of the drilling, but it will be temporary and during working hours. No weekend work is expected.

Neighborhood Meeting Materials

On April 13, 2026, we held a neighborhood meeting to provide information on the substation construction. You can find the presentation slides and our responses to questions we received at the meeting below.

April 13 Neighborhood Meeting Slides

Responses to Neighbor Questions
We understand that substation construction raises many concerns. We've compiled some responses to frequently asked questions and concerns here: Substation FAQs

Anticipated Timeline

Substation Program Phase &
Anticipated Timeline

What's the PUD doing?

How are we engaging you?


3

 

BUILD

 

2026-2028

 

           2026:
           Design of the substation and power lines
           Pursue appropriate permitting

           2027:
           Construct the substation and power lines

           2028:
           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.