River Falls residents oppose $20M plan to dismantle Junction Falls hydroelectric dam

The River Falls Utility Advisory Board convened on December 16, 2024, to discuss significant issues surrounding the Junction Falls Dam and the future of hydroelectric generation in the community. The meeting highlighted concerns from local residents regarding the city's plans to potentially dismantle the dam, which has been a crucial source of renewable energy for the area.

One resident emphasized the financial commitment made by taxpayers and utility ratepayers, noting that approximately $3 million had already been invested in reconstructing the Junction Falls Dam, ensuring its operational viability until around 2065. This investment also included costs associated with re-licensing the dam for electricity generation until 2063. The resident expressed frustration over the city's proposal to spend an additional $20 million to remove the dam, arguing that such a decision would undermine the community's previous investments and lead to a loss of millions of kilowatt hours of renewable energy at a time when the city is expanding its electricity infrastructure.

Another speaker, William Hanson, reinforced the importance of the hydroelectric facility, highlighting its annual production of over 1.2 million kilowatt hours of electricity. He pointed out that this locally generated renewable energy not only benefits the utility's 7,500 customers by reducing their electricity costs but also contributes to a decrease in reliance on fossil fuels. Hanson urged the board to consider the broader implications of dismantling the dam, especially during the holiday season when the community enjoys the benefits of locally sourced energy.

The discussions underscored a growing concern among residents about the future of renewable energy in River Falls and the financial implications of the city's decisions regarding the Junction Falls Dam. The board's next steps remain to be seen as they weigh the community's input against the proposed plans.