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FSEC posts addendum on Horse Heaven Wind micrositing; staff received 107 comments
Summary
FSEC staff released an addendum to the Horse Heaven Wind project's final EIS covering micrositing updates (commitment to option 2 turbines, turbine count reduction and routing changes). Staff said 107 comments were received and concluded the changes largely fall within the FEIS scope; the one nonsubstantial change (switch from underground to overhead crossing of I‑82) was addressed in the addendum.
FSEC staff reported on an addendum to the Horse Heaven Wind final environmental impact statement that addresses micrositing updates proposed by the certificate holder. Amy Moon summarized the seven core changes, which include a commitment to use the taller "option 2" turbines (up to 147 turbines; tip height up to 671 feet), a reduced overall turbine count in the updated layout, routing and switchyard shifts within the approved micrositing corridor, and converting a planned Interstate 82 underground crossing to an overhead crossing.
Sean Green, FSEC SEPA specialist, summarized public response: the agency received 107 comments during the addendum comment period. Many comments reflected general opposition or support for the project; some commenters argued the taller turbines introduced new impacts and urged a supplemental EIS. FSEC staff said the FEIS previously assessed both turbine height options and the certificate holder’s selection of option 2 does not create new or increased impacts beyond the FEIS scope. Staff identified the Interstate 82 underground‑to‑overhead change as the one item that produced a nonsignificant change in the environmental analysis and which the addendum specifically addresses.
What’s next: Because there is no site certificate amendment tied to this addendum, there is no immediate council action. The next council step tied to the addendum findings will be review of final construction plans when those are filed; staff said that is not expected in the near term.
