Reclamation Information Sharing Environment (RISE)

This study reviews alternatives to carbon dioxide (CO2) fire suppression systems used in Bureau of Reclamation hydroelectric generators. CO2 systems, though effective, present severe life-safety hazards, face obsolescence, and require intensive maintenance. The research evaluates water-based, water mist, clean agent, inert gas, hybrid, and chemical systems against effectiveness, safety, reliability, maintainability, cost, and environmental impact. Key points: CO2 systems are effective but increasingly unsafe and unsustainable; Water mist and inert gas systems provide strong performance with improved life safety; Hybrid water mist/inert gas systems show the highest overall potential; Clean agents face environmental and regulatory challenges; Dry/wet chemical systems are unsuitable for generators. While CO2 has protected generators for decades, its safety risks outweigh its benefits. Hybrid, inert gas, and water mist systems offer the most balanced alternatives, combining reliable suppression with enhanced personnel protection. Transitioning to these technologies will reduce operational risk, improve safety, and ensure long-term resilience of Reclamation’s power infrastructure.