Roseville City Council approves $46M repower project for Power Plant 2

The City Council of Roseville convened on April 2, 2025, to discuss the significant Roseville Power Plant Number 2 Repower Project, a $46 million initiative aimed at upgrading the city's aging power generation infrastructure. Chief Operating Officer Sean Matcham presented the project, emphasizing its importance for enhancing local energy reliability and environmental standards.

The repower project involves replacing outdated equipment at the Roseville Power Plant, which has been operational since 1987. The new generators will increase the plant's capacity from 48 megawatts to approximately 67 megawatts, providing better support for community energy needs, especially during peak summer months. Matcham highlighted the project's alignment with the California Department of Water Resources (DWR), which has been a collaborative partner since the installation of emergency generators adjacent to the plant.

The project is designed to improve operational efficiency and reduce emissions, as the new units will include advanced emissions control systems. This upgrade is expected to significantly enhance local air quality compared to the current generators, which lack such technology. The construction is scheduled to begin in October 2025, with a target completion date for commercial operation set for June 1, 2026.

In terms of funding, the project will be financed through a combination of existing electric fund cash, reallocations from other capital budgets, and potential future bonding. DWR will contribute $8 million towards the construction costs, with an additional $9 million expected at the end of the project term.

The council's approval of this initiative marks a critical step in ensuring that Roseville's energy infrastructure meets future demands while also addressing environmental concerns. The project is poised to strengthen the city's energy reliability and sustainability for years to come.