Assemblyman Chris Tague (R,C-Schoharie) and Sen. Peter Oberacker (R,C-Schenevus) attended the Blenheim-Gilboa Power Project’s 50th anniversary celebration on Friday. The officials presented the New York Power Authority’s President and CEO, Justin Driscoll, with a proclamation to recognize the project's years of growth and service.

The project first opened for business in July of 1973 to help meet the growing electric needs of the bustling state. It has since received a $135 million Life Extension and Modernization update, which led to an 11.5 percent increase in its total capacity, totaling 1,160 MW. The facility has a visitors center that highlights the science of electricity and hydropower and is adjacent to Mine Kill State Park and Lansing Manor, a 19th century home.

“The New York Power Authority’s Blenheim-Gilboa Pumped Storage Power Project has played a pivotal role in providing clean, low-cost, reliable energy for the people of Schoharie County. We are so appreciative of the sustainable and good paying jobs being provided by the Power Authority for the last 50 years, and we look forward to the next 50,” said Tague. “It is great to see the dedication and hard work of the employees here at B-G. Their engineering achievements and years of growth are admirable, and I commend those who have helped build the project into what it is today.”

“The New York Power Authority’s Blenheim-Gilboa Pumped Storage Power Project, right here in picturesque Schoharie County, plays an indispensable role in meeting the state’s power needs through the use of innovative engineering and scientific brilliance,” said Oberacker.“I applaud the dedicated individuals who have worked at Blenheim-Gilboa over the past 50 years along with those who continue to ensure that B-G will play a leading role in meeting the Empire State’s diverse energy needs for generations to come.”