6.1d1 EMRUSR 02-11-2025J�
ElkAiORiver
,Ire Municipal Utilities
ELK
RIVER
YEAR IN REVIEW
2024
COMMUNITY CONNECTIONS
10- A MESSAGE FROM THE GENERAL MANAGER
WW As I reflect on 2024, one central theme stands out: connections.
A From collaborating with peer utilities to advancing our infrastructure
' and engaging with our community, these efforts underscore our
commitment as your hometown, locally operated, public utility.
In 2024, we supported mutual aid efforts with publicly owned hometown utilities in
Anoka, MN, Kissimmee, FL, and Orlando, FL: and with Connexus Energy, a cooperative
utility in Ramsey, MN. While incredibly important for those receiving the support,
these initiatives also offered our crews invaluable experience in managing real -world,
large-scale storm response. This hands-on training has strengthened our safety
protocols, operational procedures, and communication strategies - ensuring we're
ready to restore essential services when needed most.
In 2024 we saw the completion of the 169 Redefine project that required a significant
team effort over a three year period. Additionally, our multi -year Advanced Metering
Infrastructure (AMU project took a big step forward in 2024. By November, over half of
the 5,800 water meters in town were upgraded, and the replacement of nearly 13,000
electric meters commenced after overcoming supply chain delays. These upgrades
enhance how we connect with customers, providing near real-time usage insights
accessible via your SmartHub account - empowering you and our customer service
team with actionable information.
This year, we prioritized outreach through educational programs in schools,
community events, and digital platforms like social media and our website. Our focus
was on linking you with money -saving rebates, conservation tips, and opportunities
to participate in our Clean Energy Choice program which fosters sustainability and
renewable energy use.
It is clear that 2024 has been a year of growth and meaningful progress. Every effort
reflects our dedication to building and maintaining strong connections with you, our
valued customers. Thank you for trusting us in all that we do to serve you and keep
our community connected.
- Mark Hanson, P.E., Genera( Manager
169 REDEFINE PROJECT SUCCESSFULLY COMPLETED
As stated in a recent news release from the City of Elk River, the ambitious 169
Redefine project, a three-year, $124 million transformation of Highway 169 into
a freeway, has been successfully completed, marking a significant milestone for
the community. It delivered four new interchanges, enhanced pedestrian access,
upgraded essential underground infrastructure, and improved access points for the
Elk River community.
ERMU worked closely with city staff, the Minnesota Department of Transportation,
Ames Construction, and WSB Engineering on this project. The transformation
required significant electric relocation and water infrastructure upgrades.
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COMMUNITY SUPPORT
ERMU ANSWERS MUTUAL AID CALL
IN RESPONSE TO HURRICANES
Mutual aid is at the heart of what public power does. At its
core, it's about neighbors helping neighbors - even when
our neighbor is a fellow utility hundreds (or thousands) of
miles away. The American Public Power Association (APPA),
together with state and regional public power utilities and
organizations, coordinates the mutual aid network for the
nation's public power utilities. Utilities like ERMU that want
to give and/or receive help for power restoration after a
disaster sign up for this network. When (and even before) a
major disaster hits a utility's territory and the utility knows
that its own crews and equipment won't be enough to
restore power quickly, it calls for mutual aid.
After Hurricanes Helene and Milton devastated much of
Florida this past year, ERMU was proud to answer the call
and be a part of the APPA mutual aid effort. A crew from
ERMU was part of a larger contingent that departed from
Rochester, MN to Kissimmee, FL and later moved on to
assist lineworkers in Orlando. Helping other communities
during challenging times is a true privilege.
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COMMUNITY EVENTS
BUILDING COMMUNITY CONNECTIONS: ERMU'S EVENT HIGHLIGHTS 2024
ERMU continued to foster meaningful community connections, taking part in a variety of events throughout 2024. From the
Sherburne County Fair Parade and Night to Unite to the Downtown Trick -or -Treat and Day of the Dozers, ERMU demonstrated
its commitment to being a community partner. As a customer -owned public power utility, there is a strong sense of pride being
able to give back to the community ERMU serves.
OJPNGED INETFR''�
RMI't
READS
AMI PROJECT TAKES CENTER STAGE IN 2024
ERMU took a major step forward in the multi -year Advanced Metering Infrastructure (AMI)
project with the assistance of ERMU's approved AMI installation vendor, Allegiant Utility
Services. Installation of the new AMI water meters began in March 2024. To date, half of
the ERMU water service territory's meters have been upgraded. In Novembe r 2024,
installation of the AMI electric meters began. The new AMI meters offer near real-time
data that improves service responsiveness, supports operational efficiencies, and
provides detailed, accurate billing information. These enhancements empower
customers with greater insight into their utility usage. As the project continues into 2025,
customers are encouraged to visit ourwebsite at ERMUMN.COM for project information
and FAQs.
13069 Orono Parkway, PO Box 430 1 Elk River, MN 55330 1 763.441.2020 1 www.ERMUMN.com 0 in f X
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