Workers with EM Office of River Protection (ORP) tank operations contractor Washington River Protection Solutions (WRPS) are “going green” with new battery-powered electric generators on the Hanford Site.
Office of Environmental Management
October 11, 2022
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RICHLAND, Wash. – Workers with EM Office of River Protection (ORP) tank operations contractor Washington River Protection Solutions (WRPS) are “going green” with new battery-powered electric generators on the Hanford Site.
Crews at the site are working to retrieve and treat radiological and chemical tank waste. Many of the original tank farms, where the waste is stored in underground tanks, were built without the power infrastructure necessary to support modern-day cleanup and monitoring efforts. In the past, workers used small, gas-powered generators to operate things like air samplers, cameras, lights, vacuums and other equipment.
“We have a great interest in addressing environmental, safety and cost-related concerns,” said Ricky Bang, ORP Tank Farms Program Division director. “With the new battery-powered generators, you eliminate gas generator exhaust fumes, and reduce the hazards to the workers and the environment.”
The zero-emission generators are also lighter and quieter than their gas-powered counterparts. They require less upkeep and crews do not need to keep gasoline on hand, eliminating a potential hazard.
“They use batteries to supply power, and the battery packs are good for more than 500 charges,” said Barry Orth, a WRPS field crew manager. “Additionally, they charge from a standard electrical outlet and can be outfitted with up to four solar panels.”
Initial field use suggests a fully charged electric generator can last an entire shift and requires minimal maintenance. The one-time purchase of an electric unit nearly equals the annual maintenance costs of a gas-powered generator.
“Our switch to battery-powered generators started with an employee identifying a possible area of improvement, researching the issue, then following the proper channels to help further our mission in a way that reinforces WRPS core values,” said Jim Geary, WRPS chief operating officer. “Our focus is reducing the environmental risk posed by 56 million gallons of hazardous waste stored in underground tanks; our commitment includes doing the job safely with a strong focus on innovation, employee involvement and environmental protection.”
The successful implementation has since improved efficiency, mitigated potential hazards and prompted discussion about utilizing other electric-powered equipment at the Hanford Site.
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