Money approved to develop hydro power

The city will have to come up with about $11,000 for the development phase.
By ERIC GROSSO
VINDICATOR CORRESPONDENT
NEWTON FALLS -- The city entered into a cost-sharing agreement with American Municipal Power-Ohio that could bring hydroelectric power to Newton Falls.
Council voted to take part in the development phase of American Municipal Power Ohio's Hydro Matrix Projects, which would generate power by building new facilities along the Ohio River. The structures use much smaller turbines than traditional hydroelectric plants, but use more of them, along with existing dams, to generate electricity, according to Phil Meier, AMP-Ohio's Chief Information Officer.
Meier, who spoke to council earlier this month, said that the system can deliver electricity for less than the current market cost.
Electrical engineering consultant Jeff Pearce recommended the city take advantage of the project.
"The energy isn't going to decrease in value, it's only going to increase," said Pearce.
Options
Pearce did note that after the planning phase is over, the city should look closely at its options. The major decision council could be faced with is to buy into the structure, in which they would own part of it, or work out a long-term agreement to purchase power from the project.
According to Meier, the current estimated cost of the developmental phase is $1 million. Newton Falls would fund roughly $11,000 of that project.
"It's a wonderful project because it's a clean source of power and won't run out," council member Phil Beer said earlier this month.
The developmental phase should take six to twelve months. Engineering feasibility, estimated labor and expenses costs and legal approval will be completed during the phase.
Because they use dam structures that already exist, hydro matrix projects don't involve heavy civil engineering, cost approximately 60 percent of conventional construction on hydro electric structures and have less environmental impact.
City Manager David Watson said he likes the project because the city doesn't have to commit to buying any equipment and can opt out after the developmental phase is over.
Newton Falls joins approximately 60 other communities that have already signed up as part of the developmental phase of the project.