Otter Tail Power Company (OTP) required support for the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) relicensing of the existing 3.45 megawatt Otter Tail River Hydroelectric Project. Located in Fergus Falls, MN, the Project comprises five developments.
Kleinschmidt provided comprehensive support to OTP, beginning with a strategic assessment to evaluate the project’s future, considering options such as sale, relicensing, or decommissioning. Our approach enabled OTP to make a well-informed decision on the path forward. We employed the Integrated Licensing Process (ILP) to prepare all essential relicensing documentation and manage the required studies efficiently. Our team successfully coordinated the submission of a unified Final License Application for the project in November 2019. We led and executed 12 critical studies, ranging from impoundment bathymetry to cultural resources surveys, ensuring thorough analysis and documentation. Our effective management of the consultation process with key federal and state agencies underscored our commitment to delivering a seamless relicensing journey for OTP.
With Kleinschmidt’s expertise, Otter Tail Power secured a favorable license that minimized the requirements for protection, mitigation, and enhancement measures. This achievement not only ensures a cost-effective solution for OTP’s customers but also preserves the community’s way of life by maintaining reservoir levels close to residential areas. Our tailored solutions and strategic oversight provided OTP with a clear path to license renewal, affirming our commitment to delivering results that benefit both our clients and their communities.
Regional Vice President
Chris Goodwin, P.E.
“I was attracted to Kleinschmidt by the culture and focus of the company on water resources and renewable energy. The culture has lived up to the expectations and I am excited to be part of a team all rowing in the same direction” Chris Goodwin has over 35 years of water resources-specific experience and specializes...