Operating Experience: From the start of commercial operation in 1983 through the early 1990s, the station’s
capacity Factor (CF) averaged 88.9%, which includes the 6 month period when the plant was off line for precipitator
replacement shortly after opening. The CF has been lower in recent years, not because of problems at the plant, but because of the very low market prices for hydroelectric energy in the Pacific Northwest. Originally rated at 42.5 MW (net), the Kettle Falls plant can operate continuously at 46 MW (net). On average, the plant generates 1000 kWh of electricity for
every 1.5 t of sawmill waste burned. This is equivalent to a net plant heat rate of about 14,100 Btu/kWh (24.2% thermal
efficiency, HHV basis).