Leota Enterprises asked Franson Civil Engineers to evaluate whether a hydropower project in Leamington Canyon, Utah, could be technically and economically viable. The concept would divert water from the Sevier River into an existing canal, generate hydroelectric power, and return the water to the river downstream. We completed preliminary hydrologic, hydraulic, sizing, and cost analyses to help the client understand the project’s practical options.

Work included:

• Evaluating preliminary plant sizing and cost-effectiveness

• Analyzing generating capacities ranging from 1.3 to 3.9 MW

• Coordinating with potential power purchasers in Utah

• Evaluating natural gas generation as a way to firm the project’s capacity

• Preparing, submitting, and securing a preliminary Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) permit for the project site

• Continuing discussions with potential power purchasers

• Completing the permitting process through the Division of Air Quality for the natural gas turbine

• Coordinating with Central Utah Canal Company on canal enlargement and using the canal to convey water

• Designing the diversion structure, penstocks, and electrical facilities needed to deliver water to the power plant and generate electricity

The study gave Leota Enterprises and potential project partners a clearer basis for deciding whether to move forward. It defined the site’s potential generating capacity, identified the infrastructure and permits the project would require, and evaluated whether the investment could be cost-effective. The concept also showed how the existing canal system could support local hydroelectric generation while returning diverted water to the Sevier River downstream.