SCH Number 2024051330

Project Info

Title

Alamitos Bay Water Quality Enhancement Project

Description

The proposed project would maintain existing water circulation patterns in Alamitos Bay by replacing the existing once-through-cooling (OTC) pumps at AES Alamitos for power generating operations with a new pump system that is separate from power generating operations. OTC operations at AES Alamitos are anticipated to cease in December 2026, in accordance with current regulations from the State Water Resources Control Board. The proposed project would install new pumps to convey water from Alamitos Bay to the San Gabriel River Estuary, maintaining current circulation patterns and preventing water quality impacts to Alamitos Bay (including Marine Stadium and Colorado Lagoon). The proposed project includes installation of screens within the existing intake channel that will comply with regulatory criteria for fish impingement, fish entrainment, and trash removal. The new pumps will be installed within the intake channel of the existing AES Alamitos Unit 6. The new infrastructure would be installed within the intake channel as well as on land and require an anticipated construction duration of approximately 2 to 2.5 years. Construction activities are anticipated to require a Coastal Development Permit (CDP) from the California Coastal Commission (CCC), a Clean Water Act Section 404 permit from the US Army Corps of Engineers (USACE), and a Clean Water Act Section 401 Certification from the Los Angeles Regional Water Quality Control Board (LARWQCB). In addition, to operate the pumps, it is anticipated an NPDES discharge permit will be required from the LARWQCB.

2 documents in project