Energy Northwest faces scrutiny after oil leaks into river

In a recent government meeting, officials addressed two significant incidents involving potential leaks from the Columbia Generating Station, operated by Energy Northwest. The discussions highlighted concerns over environmental safety and the integrity of aging equipment.

On September 10, 2024, Energy Northwest reported a leak of approximately 30 gallons of silicon compressor fluid into the plant service water system, which ultimately flows into the Columbia River. The leak was traced back to a heat exchanger that had been removed from service due to excessive oil consumption. Following the discovery, the heat exchanger was replaced, and a report was promptly submitted to the relevant authorities, including the United States Coast Guard and the Washington State Department of Ecology.

A second incident occurred on September 18, 2024, when lubricating oil was suspected to have leaked from a failed heat exchanger on the reactor feed water turbine. Although a visual inspection of the water basin did not reveal any oil sheen, downstream sampling indicated the presence of oil. The blowdown line, which connects the basin to the Columbia River, was secured to prevent further discharge, and authorities were notified of the situation.

Council members expressed concerns regarding the frequency of such incidents, noting that these were the second and third occurrences within a year. Questions were raised about the potential need for a comprehensive evaluation of the facility's aging equipment and inspection protocols to prevent future leaks. Energy Northwest representatives assured the council that they are actively assessing the condition of all heat exchangers and will provide updates in future meetings.

The meeting concluded with a commitment to ongoing monitoring and reporting, emphasizing the importance of environmental safety and proactive management of the facility's infrastructure.