Hydropower Facilities

New Colgate Powerhouse - 350 Megawatts

New Colgate Powerhouse is located on the main stem of the Yuba River downstream of the convergence of the North Yuba River, Middle Yuba River and Oregon Creek.

Water is carried nearly five miles from New Bullards Bar Reservoir through a 26-foot-diameter tunnel, and then makes its way down a 15-foot-diameter penstock to drive two of the largest single-cast Pelton Wheel turbines ever built. These turbines can produce up to 350 megawatts, which is enough electricity for approximately 350,000 homes.

Narrows 2 Powerhouse - 55 Megawatts

The Narrows 2 development is located on the main stem of the Yuba River. The development includes one power tunnel and penstock, and one powerhouse. Narrows 2 Powerhouse is located downstream from Englebright Dam and receives the water to drive its turbine from Englebright Reservoir. This powerhouse supplements Narrows 1 Powerhouse, which is located on the opposite side of the river.

Narrows 1 Powerhouse - 12 Megawatts

Located across the Yuba River from Yuba Water Agency’s Narrows 2 Powerhouse, Narrows 1 was purchased in 2020 from PG&E, but has been generating clean energy since its construction in 1942. The acquisition of the facility complements Yuba Water’s other hydropower assets, while enabling the agency to continue to provide reliable flows for salmon and steelhead in the lower Yuba River.