Reader comments: Feds suspend Bear Lake dam proposal
7 comments | Read story
Richard C | 10:21 a.m. May 1, 2008
This whole idea seems so close to a perpetual motion scam that it's a bit scary. It also would use more energy than produced. I just don't understand why anyone would think this would work effectively. And even if it did, there are so many things that could go wrong. Thanks to Those government officials, State and Federal that put a stop to this nonsense.
The TA | 11:27 a.m. May 1, 2008
I happened across this article as I was finishing up a report on the proposal.
It's true that you can't generate energy by pumping water uphill and then draining it back down past hydroelectric turbines--at least, not without violating the laws of thermodynamics. But you can generate a profit, if you use cheap nighttime power to pump the water and then drain it back down during the daytime, producing expensive daytime power that you sell at peak rates. The project was definitely feasible. It was also definitely very easy for the political spin machines to slant--either in support or opposition.
It's true that you can't generate energy by pumping water uphill and then draining it back down past hydroelectric turbines--at least, not without violating the laws of thermodynamics. But you can generate a profit, if you use cheap nighttime power to pump the water and then drain it back down during the daytime, producing expensive daytime power that you sell at peak rates. The project was definitely feasible. It was also definitely very easy for the political spin machines to slant--either in support or opposition.
dingo | 2:25 p.m. May 1, 2008
wow FERC got it right. i am amazed. bear lake needs to be protected responsibly. now maybe all parties can find a resolution that works.
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Bear Lake Visitor | 4:35 p.m. May 1, 2008
So glad to hear this. Bear Lake is a true treasure that deserves to be protected from needless exploitation.
Jeff Probst | 4:44 p.m. May 1, 2008
Good to see this dam proposal suspended. It would jeopardize the water quality and the fish endemic to Bear Lake. It would result in a net loss of energy (not a green solution). Only the investors would make money, at a loss to thousands of recreational users from Utah and Idaho. The local residents would also suffer financially as business dependent upon recreation would lose, as would all homeowners lose value.
that dam proposal | 6:05 p.m. May 1, 2008
I'm really glad the fed nixed this dam proposal! It was a really awful dam proposal!
John | 5:58 p.m. May 2, 2008
I am thrilled with the Gov. Huntsman. The State of UT did an very detailed analysis of the pros and cons. I also understand Gov. Otter of Idaho is against the project. Anyone who reads about the potential for damage to the lake and the fact the project uses more energy than it produces is easy to see why the vast majority of people are against it. This was a money making scheme utilizing a public resource for private profit with no upside for the State of UT.
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