Dakota County’s Byllesby Dam, a century-old structure, has recently completed a significant upgrade that promises to double its renewable energy output, as local leaders and partners congregated last Thursday to mark this milestone. According to a news release from the Dakota County’s website, the dam, situated on the Cannon River, will now generate an estimated 4.4 megawatts of electricity, a figure substantial enough to meet and surpass the needs of Cannon Falls’ municipality.

Funding for the $47 million improvement project, was sourced from a combination of state, federal, and non-levy county funds; $26 million came from the federal American Rescue Plan, and state leaders contributed $12 million, the remaining balance was covered by the county’s non-levy funding, which will be repaid through the revenue generated by the energy production the enhanced infrastructure, including two new turbines, a new powerhouse, and a customized control room, stands to increase efficiency and reliability in clean power generation. U.S. Sen. Tina Smith claimed, “This upgrade is extremely important, and the project and the modernization that have been done here allow this dam to produce clean power more efficiently and more reliably.”

Dakota County Board Chair Joe Atkins revealed an ambitious milestone that Dakota County has achieved, proclaiming, “This is the first place in America — the first county in America — that will generate more electricity from renewable sources than all of our buildings and facilities use.” The county’s proactive stance on renewable energy and its incorporation into its infrastructure is not only setting a green example but also underscores a growing trend in local governance taking direct action on sustainable practices.

Commissioner Mike Slavik, in a statement celebrated by the local community, emphasized the multifaceted benefits of the project, saying, “We’ve expanded the contribution of renewable energy to the state of Minnesota, improved the condition of the 115-year-old dam and ensured continued safety and flood protection for thousands of residents downstream in and around Cannon Falls.” The project surpasses mere energy considerations, addressing long-term safety and flood management for the area, reaffirming the county’s commitment to its residents and environmental stewardship.