3.3. SR 11-18-2019
The Elk River Vision
A welcoming community with revolutionary and spirited resourcefulness, exceptional
service, and community engagement that encourages and inspires prosperity
Request for Action
To
Mayor and City Council, Chair and Utilities Commission
Item Number
3.3
Agenda Section
Joint Meeting
Meeting Date
November 18, 2019
Prepared by
Troy Adams, P.E. – ERMU General Manager
Item Description
Minnesota Municipal Power Agency Hometown
WindPower Project – Wind Turbine Siting Options
Reviewed by
Reviewed by
Action Requested
Review, discuss, and provide direction to staff to begin the process with Minnesota Municipal Power
Agency to site a Hometown WindPower Project wind turbine in Elk River, MN.
Background/Discussion
Minnesota Municipal Power Agency (MMPA), ERMU’s new wholesale power provider, has a program
where they install a demonstration wind turbine in every member city. The agency is looking to site one
of these wind turbines in Elk River.
The tower is a smaller scale than the one located off Highway 169 in northern Elk River. (Note: ERMU
does not own the wind turbine on Highway 169.) The MMPA towers located in the other member cities
are near schools, city halls, utility offices, and areas of visibility. Pictured on the attachment are examples
of MMPA wind turbine installs in Shakopee and in Faribault. Also pictured on the attachment is a
drawing indicating the height of the MMPA turbine for scale.
City and ERMU staff have worked together to identify a number of possible sites for consideration. Staff
is looking for Council and Commission discussion and direction on site preference. The wind turbine
installation would follow the normal site plan and City Council review process.
Financial Impact
N/A
Attachments
Minnesota Municipal Power Agency (MMPA) Hometown WindPower Program – Turbine
Installation Examples
Minnesota Municipal Power Agency (MMPA) Hometown WindPower Program
Turbine Installation Examples
November 18, 2019
MMPA Turbine in Shakopee MMPA Turbine in Faribault
MMPA Turbine Tower Height