Aspen Powers Up Ruedi Hydro: New Turbine, Same Old River
Published Date: 8/1/2025
Notice
Summary
The City of Aspen wants to upgrade its Ruedi Hydroelectric Project by adding a new powerhouse, turbine, and modernizing equipment—all inside the current project area. This will affect local communities and the environment near the Fryingpan River in Colorado. An environmental check will be done by August 2026, and the public can share their thoughts during a 30-day comment period.
Analyzed Economic Effects
3 provisions identified: 2 benefits, 0 costs, 1 mixed.
Proposed Hydropower Upgrades (1.2 MW)
The City of Aspen proposes to add a new 22 by 28-foot powerhouse, 110 feet of new 30-inch penstock, a second turbine and generator unit with 1.2 megawatt capacity, a new 48 by 48-inch 60-foot concrete tailrace, a 24-inch bypass line, and to replace a transformer and modernize the electrical system inside the existing project boundary at Ruedi Dam on the Fryingpan River in Pitkin and Eagle counties, Colorado.
Environmental Assessment and 30‑Day Comment
The Federal Energy Regulatory Commission will prepare an environmental assessment (EA) for the Ruedi Hydroelectric Project and plans to issue the EA by August 5, 2026. Once issued, the EA will be open for a 30-day public comment period so you can file comments that the Commission will review before making a final decision.
Office of Public Participation Assistance
The Commission's Office of Public Participation (OPP) can help members of the public — including landowners, community organizations, and Tribal members — access publicly available information and navigate Commission processes for this proceeding. The notice lists OPP contact options for help with filings like comments or requests for rehearing.
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Key Dates
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