White Pine Power
A proposed 600 MW combined-cycle natural gas power plant.
The Pacific Northwest needs reliable power, now more than ever.
The region is facing a growing and well-documented gap between electricity supply and demand.
PNGC Power, a generation and transmission cooperative, is partnering with Kindle Energy, an energy infrastructure development, construction, and asset management company, to build and operate the facility. Power produced will serve several cooperative members across the region.
A widening supply gap
A 2026 independent analysis commissioned by regional utilities documents a growing gap between available generation and rising demand, especially during extreme weather when reliable power matters most.
Firm, around-the-clock capacity
A 600 MW facility in Rathdrum would provide power the region can count on around the clock, keeping the grid stable when demand spikes and the weather doesn't cooperate with renewable options.
Affordable, stable energy
Local generation reduces exposure to volatile wholesale electricity markets that drive up costs for families and businesses throughout the region.
One of the most efficient, lowest-emitting gas-fired designs in the country.
Rathdrum, Idaho.
Early design and development
The project team is finalizing site studies, technical configuration, and early stakeholder engagement.
Permitting and regulatory filings
Submission of required applications to applicable Idaho state and federal regulatory authorities.
Securing final permits
Response and education regarding any public comments and securing final local, state, and federal permits.
Construction start
Pending all required approvals, construction is targeted to begin following the regulatory review period.
Frequently asked questions.
01Regional Need & The Project3 questions+
Why does the Pacific Northwest need a new power plant?
The region faces a growing gap between electricity supply and demand. The Northwest Power and Conservation Council and Bonneville Power Administration project shortfalls of 6–9 gigawatts in coming years, driven by population growth, electrification, and the retirement of existing generation. This is a present, accelerating challenge requiring investment now.
What type of gas plant is this?
A combined-cycle natural gas plant in Rathdrum, Idaho, designed to be one of the most efficient, lowest-emitting gas-fired resources in the U.S. It will provide reliable, around-the-clock power to Pacific Northwest cooperatives and communities, with operation expected roughly six years after breaking ground.
When will construction begin and when will the plant be operational?
Design and construction are expected to take approximately six years.
02Development1 question+
Who is developing this project?
PNGC Power, an electric generation and transmission cooperative owned by 25 electric distribution cooperatives across Idaho, Montana, Nevada, Oregon, Utah, Washington, and Wyoming, is partnering with Kindle Energy, an energy infrastructure development and asset management company with experience developing and operating power generation assets nationwide.
03Water Use & Quality2 questions+
How does the plant plan to minimize its water use?
Instead of traditional wet cooling, the plant uses an air-cooled condenser (ACC), condensing steam with air rather than evaporating water. The condensed steam recirculates in a closed loop, significantly reducing water use compared to wet-cooled facilities.
What will happen to water quality in the area?
The plant will comply with all Clean Water Act requirements, including NPDES permitting. No untreated process water will be discharged to local waterways.
04Noise1 question+
How loud will the plant be?
A noise impact study will guide the design to meet Rathdrum's noise ordinance and applicable county standards. Turbines will use aerodynamic design and inlet/exhaust silencing for sound attenuation. Post-construction monitoring will be available as needed. In similar Kindle projects, fenceline noise (~200 ft from the source) averaged about 45 dBA — comparable to a library or a quiet suburban night.
Contact us.
Questions, comments, or concerns about the project? Reach the team directly or use the form.