Power Generation

SWCA’s biological and ecological services address the challenges of power generation projects by providing expertise in terrestrial and aquatic species and their habitats. Our scientists and technical experts use both traditional methods and cutting-edge technologies to gather, analyze, and apply data for planning, permitting, and implementing projects. Our services include natural resource surveys, habitat restoration, endangered species compliance, and avian and bat conservation strategies. We also specialize in NEPA/CEQA visual assessments, wetland mitigation, and marine mammal protection consultations. By maintaining strong relationships with regulators and academics, we ensure that the best available information is applied to compliance frameworks, enabling clients to meet regulatory requirements while minimizing project delays.

SWCA’s environmental compliance services help power generation clients minimize risks, avoid costly penalties, and achieve sustainability goals. Our experts provide tailored strategies that balance regulatory compliance with operational needs, ensuring projects meet deadlines while adhering to environmental requirements. Our services include environmental monitoring, mitigation planning, reclamation, and restoration. We also offer on-the-fly planning, field-staking, and post construction plans to address unforeseen challenges. By combining Sound Science with Creative Solutions, we ensure that compliance strategies are effective and aligned with project objectives, enabling clients to navigate environmental regulations with confidence.

SWCA stands as one of the largest cultural resources consultants in the U.S., with more than 400 experts supporting power generation projects with comprehensive services. Our nationwide presence allows us to handle projects of all sizes and complexities, offering expertise in archaeology, historic preservation, tribal relations, and ethnography. We are well versed in regulatory processes, including the National Historic Preservation Act (NHPA), Archaeological Resources Protection Act (ARPA), and Native American Graves Protection and Repatriation Act (NAGPRA). Our services include cultural resource surveys, Section 106 consultation, artifact recovery, indigenous relations, and unanticipated discoveries plans. By leveraging strong relationships with federal agencies, indigenous governments, and State Historic Preservation Offices, we provide tailored guidance to meet cultural resources objectives while ensuring compliance with all relevant laws and regulations.

SWCA’s engineering teams integrate science and innovation to support power generation projects through ecological restoration and water quality remediation. Our expertise includes civil site development services, such as preliminary construction layouts, drainage plans, and stormwater management. We specialize in restoring ecosystems like streams, wetlands, and coastal shorelines to improve water quality and support diverse aquatic communities. Additional services include grading plans, erosion control, spill prevention, and utility coordination. By blending technical expertise with environmental stewardship, we ensure that engineering solutions align with both project goals and ecological sustainability.

SWCA’s permitting services navigate the complex regulatory landscape of power generation projects. Our experts provide strategic guidance to secure timely permit approvals and clearances, minimizing delays and ensuring compliance with federal, state, and local regulations. Key services include Clean Water Act (CWA) permitting for wetlands and water quality, Clean Air Act (CAA) compliance, and National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) permitting. We work closely with clients to define objectives, evaluate project options, and adapt strategies to align with economic and ecological conditions. By leveraging local knowledge and strong agency relationships, we ensure that permitting processes are streamlined and aligned with client goals.

In the power generation market, SWCA’s environmental planning and permitting consultants provide strategic guidance and tailored solutions to help clients achieve their goals while preserving environmental resources and navigating complex regulations. Our expertise in local resource knowledge, agency relationships, and government ordinances ensures timely permit approvals and clearances, minimizing surprises and delays. The planning process involves defining objectives, gathering community input, evaluating project options, and adapting strategies to align with economic, ecological, and resource conditions. Our services include early critical issues identification, GIS analysis and modeling, site selection, stakeholder engagement, and National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) documentation. By collaborating with clients and leveraging innovative approaches, we deliver successful outcomes that align permitting strategies with client objectives, ensuring projects move forward efficiently.