Hydroelectric power is a renewable resource that generates electricity without burning fossil fuels or polluting the air. In addition, Tacoma Power’s projects support major wildlife and fisheries programs, and provide excellent outdoor recreation facilities.
Our hydroelectric projects generate about three billion kilowatt hours of electricity each year, enough to serve about half of our customers’ power needs.
News: Tacoma Power receives a long-term license for Cushman Hydroelectric Project
Our hydroelectric projects
- The Cowlitz River Project includes Mayfield Dam completed in 1963 and Mossyrock Dam completed in 1968.
- The Nisqually River Project includes Alder and LaGrande dams built in 1945 and the original LaGrande powerhouse built in 1912.
- The Cushman Hydro Project, located on the North Fork of the Skokomish River, has two dams: Cushman No. 1 built in 1925 and Cushman No. 2 built in 1930.
- The Wynoochee River Project has a powerhouse built by Tacoma Power in 1993 at a flood control dam built by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers in 1972.
Education
Tacoma Power has an active energy education program. It helps support the Foundation for Water and Energy Education, a great source for basic information on hydro power.
Take a tour
Free group tours of Tacoma Power’s hydroelectric facilities are available by appointment to school, civic, business and recreational groups during regular working hours. To make arrangements for a tour, call Tacoma Power at (253) 502-8759.
Tours are available at all four of Tacoma's hydro facilities:
Community
Tacoma Power is an active member in the communities where our projects are located.
Tacoma Power maintains a role in the communities through participation in the local chambers of commerce, the White Pass Scenic Byway, the Nisqually River Council, the Lower Columbia Fish Enhancement Group, the Lower Columbia Fish Recovery Board, the Cascade Land Conservancy and other groups.
Our staff members show strong support for their local communities by supporting United Way and assisting many local organizations and schools.