LADWP Issued Violation Notice Over Valley Station Methane Leak

LOS ANGELES, CA — The Los Angeles Department of Water and Power was issued a violation notice Thursday due to the longtime methane leak detected last summer at the Valley Generating Station.

South Coast Air Quality Management District issued the notice, saying LADWP lack of equipment maintenance led to the leak. AQMD said they learned of the leak on August 26, although LADWP admitted they had discovered the leak in July 2019.

A notice of violation can result in fines, although an amount hasn't been announced as of January 8.

LADWP released a statement Friday morning in response to the notice, saying they have already fixed the leak.

"While the level of emissions detected prior to the repairs is considered very low in comparison to numerous other emissions sources, we know that a leak of any amount is of concern to neighbors and local residents in the Northeast Valley," the DWP said.

"We have taken the necessary steps to remedy the situation and will remain vigilant in undertaking repairs when they are needed and monitoring the compressors and other related equipment to ensure early detection when problems arise.

LADWP said the leak was completely stopped as of December 2020.

The Los Angeles City Council voted unanimously on Nov. 25 to direct the DWP to create a timeline for the shutdown of the Valley Generating Station in Sun Valley.

Council President Nury Martinez formally called for the shutdown of the plant in October following reports of methane gas leaks at the plant that took place over a year-long period.

City News Service contributed to his report.