Diversion Intake Structure Modernization & Canal Energy System (CES) Project

The Buckeye Water Conservation and Drainage District (BWCDD), located west of Metropolitan Phoenix is modernizing their existing manually controlled concrete diversion intake structure on the Gila River, and concrete lining 600 to 1,600 feet. of their earthen Main Canal downstream of the diversion. The new diversion structure includes multiple Rubicon FlumeGate flow control gates to control and measure flows with SCADA. In addition, a new by-pass radial gate sluing structure will be constructed to manage trash and sediment for reliable diversion from the river. Future phases on the project include the construction of a regulating reservoir in the Gila River to capture winter flows and allow for reduced ground water pumping during the growing season. This project also includes design and installation of a “State of the Art” Canal Energy System (CES), which includes 876-Kilowatt solar array over the Main Canal combined with in-line micro hydrkenetuic turbines. This project is expected to result in annual water saving of about 16,639 acre-feet, which is currently lost to evaporation, seepage, operational spills and over deliveries. Our team at WX completed a feasibility study study for the Canal Energy System, and prepared successful grant applications to obtain project funding including a Reclamation Water and Energy Grant for $5 million dollars, and a WIFA grant for 3$ million dollars. Estimated construction cost is about $10.8 million dollars with construction starting in winter of 2023.