At Shaping Our Appalachian Region (SOAR), we believe that meaningful work is the foundation of purpose and dignity. That’s why we’re proud to stand alongside Rye Development, the leading U.S. developer of pumped storage hydropower, to announce a major step forward for one of Eastern Kentucky’s most promising infrastructure projects: the Lewis Ridge Pumped Storage Project.

This week, Rye Development submitted the Final License Application (FLA) to the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) for the project, a 266-megawatt pumped storage facility planned for construction on former mine lands near Pineville, Kentucky, in Bell County.

This announcement marks more than regulatory progress, it signals a new era of opportunity for our region.

Creating Jobs and Revitalizing Communities

The Lewis Ridge project is a powerful example of how Eastern Kentucky’s proud legacy as a coal-producing region continues to fuel progress and innovation today. By placing this facility on former mine lands, the project honors the generations of Appalachian workers whose labor powered the nation.

Planned for construction from 2027 to 2031, the project will create approximately 2,300 construction jobs and apprenticeships. Once operational, the facility would employ about 45 employees. Rye Development plans to hire and train workers locally, in partnership with SOAR and other partners.

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.

SOAR will work in partnership with Rye Development and other local stakeholders to help train and recruit local workers, ensuring these opportunities are rooted in our communities.

“We are proud to partner with Rye Development to train and support the local workforce that will power Lewis Ridge construction. 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.” – Colby Hall, executive director, SOAR

Meeting Kentucky’s Energy Needs with Innovative Storage

As Kentucky’s energy demand is projected to increase by 30% to 45% by 2032, due largely to growth in data centers and advanced manufacturing, grid reliability and energy storage have never been more critical.

The Lewis Ridge facility will function like a giant water battery, storing electricity by moving water between two reservoirs at different elevations. It will be capable of, storing up to 8 hours of electricity, while Generating power on demand for approximately 70,000 homes

Pumped storage hydropower is the most proven form of long-duration energy storage in the U.S., helping to reduce blackouts and keep energy prices stable while integrating more renewable energy sources.

“Large projects like Lewis Ridge will play a critical role in Kentucky’s energy future. Pumped storage facilities operate around the clock to help ensure homes and businesses can access affordable energy when they need it most.” – Sandy Slayton, vice president of environmental at Rye Development and project manager for the Lewis Ridge Pumped Storage Project

A Model for Transition and Transformation

From its siting on reclaimed mine lands to its community-driven workforce approach, Lewis Ridge represents a model for responsible development in Appalachia.The submission of the Final License Application now initiates a rigorous FERC review process, which includes environmental assessments, public comment periods, and formal hearings, all essential steps on the road to breaking ground.

At SOAR, we are committed to supporting that journey, not just as a partner, but as a champion for the people and potential of Eastern Kentucky. This is more than a project. It’s a vision for the future, one that creates jobs, strengthens communities, and positions our region as a leader in the 21st-century energy economy.

To learn more about the Lewis Ridge Pumped Storage Project and SOAR’s efforts to build a brighter future for Eastern Kentucky, visit https://www.ryedevelopment.com/rye-development-reaches-key-milestone-for-kentucky-project.html