St. Paul – Today, the Minnesota House of Representatives passed an energy bill, HF 1842. The bill includes a provision which will expand the Granite Falls hydroelectric facility. Rep. Tim Miller (R-Prinsburg) was the original author of the Granite Falls hydroelectric facility bill before its inclusion in this year’s energy bill.
“I am so pleased that the Minnesota House voted to expand the Granite Falls hydroelectric facility, “said Rep. Miller. “I was excited to vote in favor of this bill after working with city officials from Granite Falls and Sen. Andrew Lang to ensure its passage. I am proud of what we have accomplished. So many of our most essential government projects do not come from the federal government. Often, they are the result of partnerships between state and local government.”
Specifically, the bill awards $2,750,000 to Granite Falls in the form of a grant. The grant will allow the city to purchase a new turbine to increase the current capacity of the existing hydroelectric facility. Additionally, $400,000 of the grant money will be used to repair structural damage and erosion that the facility has endured due to flooding.
“This facility will be transformative for Granite Falls,” said Rep. Miller. “The hydroelectric facility currently meets approximately 30% of Granite Falls’ energy needs. With this new expansion, energy that is clean, safe, and cost-effective will be more readily available. Dependable energy is important to all Minnesotans, and this project will serve Granite Falls for decades to come.”
The Minnesota Senate will also vote on this bill. If the bill is passed in that chamber as well, then it will be sent to the desk of Governor Tim Walz for his signature. The bill is expected to be passed by the Minnesota Senate and signed into law by Governor Walz.
###