Update: Elk River City Council Tables Coal Decision, Big Stone II Goes Back to Utilities Commission July 8

At a June 29, special meeting of the Elk River Municipal Utility (ERMU) and the City Council to discuss alternatives for their energy supply in 2018, the Council moved to table discussion of investment the Big Stone II coal project until  July 13. 

One of the options presented was investing in 30 megawatts of the Big Stone II coal plant expansion for $90 million.  

The Utilites board will meet July 8 to discuss the proposal and have requested more detailed information from the proposers.

When asked about the liklihood of ERMU's approval Troy Adams, Director of Operations for ERMU, said "To tell you the truth, I don't know. We're waiting for more information about the finances and the risk of the project."

The City Council will have another special meeting on July 13 to make a final decision.  The letter of intent to become a partial owner in Big Stone II is due July 15. Both the council and the utilities board need to vote yes for it to pass.