Rye Development, the leading U.S. developer of pumped storage, has submitted a Final License Application to the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) for the Lewis Ridge Pumped Storage Project.

The 266-megawatt hydropower facility sited on former mine lands in southeastern Kentucky, will support approximately 2,300 construction jobs and apprenticeships. Once operational, the facility will employ about 45 workers. Rye Development plans to hire and train workers locally, in partnership with Shaping Our Appalachian Region (SOAR), a nonprofit committed to helping individuals across Eastern Kentucky discover purpose and dignity through meaningful employment.

“Projects like Lewis Ridge will play a key role in Kentucky’s energy future,” said Sandy Slayton, vice president of environmental at Rye Development and the project manager for the Lewis Ridge Pumped Storage Project. ​​“Pumped storage facilities operate around the clock to support grid reliability, prevent blackouts, and keep energy prices stable.”

“We are proud to partner with Rye Development to train and support the local workforce that will power Lewis Ridge construction," said Colby Hall, SOAR executive director. This project will offer good-paying jobs and apprenticeship opportunities for Kentuckians along with additional economic benefits for restaurants, hotels, and other local businesses across Bell County.”

The Lewis Ridge project utilizes pumped storage hydropower technology—America’s most proven long-duration energy storage—moving water between two reservoirs at different elevations to store and generate electricity. The giant water battery will be capable of storing electricity for up to eight hours and generating on-demand electricity at a moment’s notice—enough to power about 70,000 homes.

In addition to spurring job growth, the project is poised to deliver substantial economic benefits to the local community—both during construction and for decades to come. A recent economic analysis estimates the Lewis Ridge project will inject $104 million into the local economy during construction, benefiting local restaurants, hotels, stores and other businesses. Once completed, the pumped storage hydro facility will contribute about $16.5 million in annual property taxes to Bell County—funding schools, police and fire departments, roads, playgrounds, libraries and other community needs.

The Final License Application submission for the Lewis Ridge project begins a rigorous FERC licensing timeline, which includes a formal environmental review, public comment periods, public hearings, and coordination with state and federal agencies.

To learn more about the project, including about upcoming public meetings, and to sign up for the project newsletter, visit www.lewisridgeproject.com