Power through the Valley Preserving a lifeline between Peshastin and the Pass

Chelan County PUD crews are clearing hazard trees along a high-voltage line from Sunitsch Canyon to Winton to improve electrical grid safety. This project will protect communities like Peshastin and Dryden from winter storms and wildfire risks. Dan Koch, chief of operations at Chelan PUD, stated the work is critically important for safe operation. The U. S.

Forest Service is assisting in implementing best forest management practices. While power is temporarily rerouted through a Puget Sound Energy line, customers may face longer outages. This work is the first phase of a multi-year rebuild of the McKenzie–Beverly transmission line, which has served the area since the 1930s. The next phase will involve rebuilding 15 miles of transmission line and upgrading infrastructure, starting in 2027. The project represents a $60 million investment to secure long-term power reliability for approximately 3,500 customers in the Upper Valley.