US-based engineering services company Jacobs has been tasked with providing crucial engineering (engg) and advisory services for the Grand Coulee Modernization Program.
The programme seeks to boost the reliability, efficiency and longevity of the power infrastructure at the US’s largest power-generating dam, Grand Coulee.
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The programme is essential for the Bonneville Power Administration (BPA), as the Grand Coulee dam is central to delivering more than 21 billion kilowatt-hours of electricity annually across multiple states and into Canada.
As the owner’s consultant, Jacobs will offer project management, scoping, engineering and strategic advisory services. These efforts are directed towards modernising substation infrastructure, optimising transmission pathways, enhancing operational efficiency and ensuring the continued provision of high-quality power to BPA’s customers.
Jacobs executive vice-president Fiachra Ó Cléirigh stated: “Through this new agreement, Jacobs will apply its experience in energy and infrastructure to support BPA in delivering resilient, secure and cost-effective power solutions to communities across the Pacific Northwest.
“This collaboration reinforces Jacobs’ dedication to advancing critical capital projects, modernising utility infrastructure and strategically positioning BPA to meet future load demand with efficiency and reliability.”
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By GlobalDataThe modernisation programme is an extension of Jacobs’ ongoing work with BPA, which includes the Ross Complex Redevelopment Program and the Facilities Portfolio Delivery Program.
Ross Complex Redevelopment encompasses the management of BPA’s power transmission in the Northwestern US, while the Facilities Portfolio Delivery includes refurbishment, maintenance and new construction of BPA facilities across multiple states.
In a strategic move to enhance efficiency and reduce costs, the Grand Coulee programme was recently shifted from the Bureau of Reclamation to BPA. This transfer is expected to expedite the modernisation of facilities cost-effectively.
BPA spokesperson Kevin Wingert stated: “Grand Coulee dam plays a critical role powering our communities, given its current capacity of more than 7,000 megawatts.
“Modernising and making the current switchyards more reliable for the future will preserve current utility infrastructure and allow Grand Coulee to quickly and safely ramp up and down generation depending on grid demand – critical as AI data centres and other power-dense applications come online.”
This modernisation initiative is part of Jacobs’ broader engagement in the US power sector. The company has secured key roles such as programme manager and owner’s engineer for Xcel Energy, supporting significant transmission, distribution, and generation projects throughout the northern and central US.
