Austin Energy plans carbon-free future impacting Decker Creek Power Plant operations

In a recent meeting of the Austin Integrated Water Resource Planning Community Task Force, members engaged in critical discussions regarding the future of water resource management in the region. The focus was primarily on the potential for utilizing Walter E. Long Lake as an alternative to the proposed Indirect Potable Reuse (IPR) project at Lady Bird Lake. This conversation is particularly significant as Austin grapples with increasing water demands and the need for sustainable solutions.

Task force members explored the feasibility of enhancing the Walter E. Long project to extract treated wastewater directly from the lake, potentially bypassing the IPR at Lady Bird Lake. This alternative could provide similar water yield while addressing storage concerns during drought conditions. The discussions highlighted the importance of evaluating various project configurations to determine the most effective approach for water supply.

The complexities of each option were acknowledged, with members emphasizing the need for comprehensive information on infrastructure requirements, permitting processes, and community engagement. The task force is committed to keeping all options open as they navigate these challenges, ensuring that they consider the implications of each strategy on the community.

Another key topic was the enhanced treatment requirements for the IPR at Lady Bird Lake, which is currently impaired due to algae. Members noted that phosphorus removal would be necessary, and additional treatment parameters could further increase costs. In contrast, the advanced treatment for Walter E. Long would focus on potable water quality, potentially involving energy-intensive processes like reverse osmosis.

The meeting also touched on the future of the Decker Lake Power Plant, which is slated for decommissioning as part of Austin Energy's goal to achieve carbon neutrality by 2035. This transition raises questions about local power generation and its impact on water resource strategies.

Overall, the task force's discussions reflect a proactive approach to addressing Austin's water challenges. As they continue to evaluate options and gather necessary data, the community can anticipate further developments that will shape the region's water management strategies in the coming years.