The Rochester Public Utilities (RPU) Utility Board selected two Resource Plan scenarios that include 100% renewable energy by 2030 at the July 23^rd RPU Utility Board Meeting.

After a presentation of scenario options and costs of varying renewable energy levels and resources, the RPU Utility Board voted unanimously to direct staff to further pursue two 100% renewable scenarios, one including a peaking generator and one involving battery storage.

This historic vote comes after significant engagement with Rochester citizens, along with many hours of work and research by RPU staff.

“RPU prides itself on its commitment to work with the Rochester community and to be good stewards of resources. Today’s decision to go to 100% renewable energy by 2030 is a testament to the commitment by  RPU Board, RPU staff, and Rochester citizens working together to find the best outcome for all,” said RPU General Manager Mark Kotschevar.

Rochester joins the cities of St. Paul, Minneapolis, and St. Louis Park as Minnesota cities committed to 100% renewable energy.

The Resource Plan scenarios selected call for RPU to meet all of its energy needs through 100% renewable energy sources and remaining capacity requirements with either a new 220 megawatt natural gas powered facility or battery storage.

The Resource Plan presentation is available on the RPU website at www.rpu.org. For additional questions, contact Tony Benson at 507.280.1534.

About Rochester Public Utilities

As the municipal utility of Rochester, Minn., for more than 110 years, RPU provides high-quality and reliable electricity to over 55,000 customers. Water customers number more than 40,000. RPU continually investigates innovative technologies to help customers realize the best value from the services they receive. Current initiatives include photovoltaic offerings, wind energy, energy and water efficient equipment, and electric vehicle charging.

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The Rochester Public Utilities (RPU) Utility Board will discuss and select a scenario for Rochester’s energy needs beyond 2030 at its July 23^rd meeting.

Burns & McDonnell Engineering Company Inc. will present scenarios to the RPU Board showing different energy mix scenarios for RPU after 2030, when RPU’s contract with Southern Minnesota Municipal Power Agency (SMMPA) concludes. Scenarios will include an array of different energy mixes including a 100% renewable energy option.

Minnesota cities that currently have chosen a 100% renewable energy direction include St. Paul, Minneapolis, and St. Louis Park.

All RPU Utility Board Meetings are open to the public. The July 23^rd meeting will be held in the RPU Community Room at the RPU Service Center and will begin promptly at 4pm.

After the presentation of the Resource Plan, it will be made available on the RPU website at www.rpu.org. For additional questions, contact Tony Benson at 507.280.1534.

About Rochester Public Utilities

As the municipal utility of Rochester, Minn., for more than 110 years, RPU provides high-quality and reliable electricity to over 55,000 customers. Water customers number more than 40,000. RPU continually investigates innovative technologies to help customers realize the best value from the services they receive. Current initiatives include photovoltaic offerings, wind energy, energy and water efficient equipment, and electric vehicle charging.

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Rochester Public Utilities (RPU) will be conducting hydrant flow testing beginning on Monday, July 8th.  Testing is expected to take up to three weeks.

The hydrant testing is required to evaluate pressure and flow throughout the water system as part of RPU’s long term system planning project. Water main/hydrant flushing activities will be conducted primarily between 8 am and 3 pm Monday through Friday.

During this time, customers may notice episodes of decreased water pressure or discoloration of their water. Water discoloration results from temporary disturbances of the normal water flow within the piping network. These short-term changes in flow can stir up naturally occurring minerals and sediment that settle within the water mains. In the event that RPU water crews notice discolored water during testing, they may extend the flushing duration to help clear the discoloration.

Discolored water is still safe to drink although it may have additional taste and odor characteristics. Additionally, during this three week period, RPU recommends customers store water in their refrigerators for drinking in the event they encounter discolored water. If water discoloration occurs, customers should also try to refrain from using hot water (for washing laundry, etc.) and run their cold-water faucets until the water appears clear.

Daily flush areas will be available each morning through RPU Customer Relations.  In addition, if you have questions in regards to discolored water please contact RPU Customer Relations at 507.280.1500.

About Rochester Public Utilities

As the municipal utility of Rochester, Minn., for more than 110 years, RPU provides high-quality and reliable electricity to over 55,000 customers. Water customers number more than 40,000. RPU continually investigates innovative technologies to help customers realize the best value from the services they receive. Current initiatives include photovoltaic offerings, wind energy, energy and water efficient equipment, and electric vehicle charging.

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The RPU Board Meeting for July has been moved to July 23rd. Time and location remain the same. https://www.rpu.org/about-rpu/board-meetings-minutes.php