Hydro Power

Hydroelectric power is a renewable resource that generates electricity without burning fossil fuels or polluting the air. In addition, Tacoma Power’s projects support major wildlife and fisheries programs, and provide excellent outdoor recreation facilities.

Tacoma Power’s hydroelectric projects generate about 3 billion kilowatt-hours of electricity each year, enough to serve about half of its customers’ power needs.

The Cowlitz River Project includes Mayfield and Mossyrock dams built in the 1960s.	The Cushman Hydro Project, located on the North Fork of the Skokomish River, has two dams: Cushman No. 1 built in 1925 and Cushman No. 2 built in 1930.
The Nisqually River Project includes Alder and LaGrande dams built in 1945 and the original LaGrande powerhouse built in 1912.	The Wynoochee River Project has a powerhouse built by Tacoma Power in 1993 at a flood control dam built by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers in 1972.

Education

Tacoma Power has an active energy education program. It helps support the Foundation for Water and Energy Education, a great source for basic information on hydropower.

Take a Tour

Free group tours of Hydro Power facilities are available for school, civic, business and recreational groups during regular working hours by appointment. To make arrangements for a tour, call Tacoma Power at 253-502-8759. Tours are available at all four of Tacoma's hydro facilities:

• Cowlitz River Project
• Cushman Hydro Project
• Nisqually River Project
• Wynnoochee River Project

Community

Tacoma Power is a very active community member in Lewis County, Washington, where the Cowlitz River Project is located. Tacoma Power maintains an integral role in the community through membership in The Mossyrock Chamber of Commerce, The Chamber Serving Centralia, Chehalis and Greater Lewis County, and the Economic Development Council, along with supporting United Way and assisting many local organizations and schools.

One of the most popular community activities sponsored by Tacoma Power is the Mossyrock Dam Open House held every May. People take in the view from the top of the state's tallest dam, see interesting displays and exhibits and enjoy the camaraderie of Tacoma Power employees who volunteer their time to host the open house.

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