FSEC Updates on Karagor Solar Facility and Badger Mountain Application Status

The Energy Facility Site Evaluation Council (EFSEC) convened on July 16, 2025, to discuss several ongoing projects and updates related to energy facilities in Washington State. Key topics included the progress of various solar and energy storage projects, as well as environmental assessments.

During the meeting, it was reported that the installation of solar modules at the Karagor solar facility in Cliketek County is underway, with significant progress made on pile racking and security fencing. The council had previously voted to recommend the approval of this facility to Governor Ferguson, who has until August 25 to respond.

Joanne Snarski, the siting specialist for the proposed GoldenEye battery energy storage facility in Skagit County, provided updates on the project's review process. Staff are currently addressing concerns related to a drainage ditch that impacts Hansen Creek, a critical waterway feeding into the Skagit River.

Additionally, the council discussed the Wallula Gap application, noting that results from a traditional cultural property study conducted by the Yakima Nation are under review. This study is part of the ongoing coordination with tribal governments and other agencies.

The meeting also highlighted the ongoing work on the transmission programmatic environmental impact statement (EIS). Sean Green, a CIVUS Specialist for EFSEC, mentioned that staff are collaborating with the Department of Ecology to ensure consistency across various programmatic EIS documents. The final version of the transmission programmatic EIS is expected to be published in late September 2025.

In conclusion, the council's discussions underscored the ongoing efforts to advance renewable energy projects while ensuring environmental considerations are met. The next steps involve awaiting the governor's decision on the Karagor facility and continuing reviews of other projects, with further updates anticipated in the coming months.