Duke Energy's Lake Keowee Water Grab Under Enviro Scrutiny
Published Date: 7/29/2025
Notice
Summary
Duke Energy Carolinas wants to let Pickens Regional Joint Water System build a water intake facility on Lake Keowee to pull up to 16.5 million gallons of water daily. The government is preparing an environmental check to make sure this project is safe for the area, with a report expected by mid-December 2025. Local communities, landowners, and nature lovers should keep an eye out and share their thoughts during the public comment period.
Analyzed Economic Effects
3 provisions identified: 2 benefits, 0 costs, 1 mixed.
Proposed Lake Keowee water intake
Pickens Regional Joint Water System has requested an easement to build a raw water intake on Lake Keowee on a 0.37 acre site. The proposal would allow a gross maximum instantaneous withdrawal rate of 16.5 million gallons per day (MGD) and a gross maximum average annual withdrawal rate of 12 MGD, and would include screened intake pipes, shoreline stabilization, and a floating dock.
Environmental assessment and 30-day comment
The Federal Energy Regulatory Commission staff intends to prepare an environmental assessment (EA) under NEPA and plans to issue the EA by December 15, 2025. When issued, the EA will be made available for a 30-day public comment period so members of the public can submit comments for staff to consider.
Help available to participate
The Commission's Office of Public Participation (OPP) can help landowners, community organizations, Tribal members, and others access information and navigate filings such as interventions, comments, or requests for rehearing. OPP contact information is provided (phone: (202) 502-6595) for people seeking assistance with participation.
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Key Dates
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