City of Le Sueur CIP

Why should I buy Green Power? By purchasing Green Power, you support increased reliance on renewable energy sources, thereby reducing the burning of fossil fuels, such as coal, oil and natural gas. Unlike fossil fuels, power generated from renewable energy sources does not produce harmful emissions (known as "greenhouse gasses"). And, Green Power energy sources (water, wind and sunlight) are replaced naturally in the environment. In addition to these environmental benefits, reliance on Green Power helps our economy and improves our national energy security.

What's the source of this power? The Green Power Choice program currently offers Hydropower and Wind Power that is purchased under contract by Le Sueur Municipal Utilities' energy supplier. Hydropower refers to the energy generated by directing flowing water through a turbine located inside a dam. Energy from the water flowing through rivers and streams is converted into electricity at Hydroelectric power plants. Hydropower creates no air pollution and water is recycled into other uses. Planning is underway to develop additional Hydroelectric sources in Minnesota.

Wind Power has been added as an option under the Green Power Choice program. Wind power is a clean, renewable form of energy which produces no carbon dioxide.

How does the power get to my home or business? The actual electrons produced from the Green Power you purchase are not directly sent to your home or business. Rather, the amount of Green Power electricity you purchase will be delivered to the power grid that supplies the City.

How much will it cost me monthly? Hydropower is offered in blocks of 100 kilowatt hours (kWh) for a charge of $1.75 per block. Wind power is also offered in blocks of 100 (kWh) for a charge of $1.75/block. Because you choose the number of blocks you would like to purchase, you decide how much you are willing to contribute to support the use of renewable energy.
**For example, if you choose to buy 3 blocks (300 kWh) of hydropower and 2 blocks of wind power (200 kWh) an additional $8.75 will be added to your bill. (3 x $1.75 + 2 x $1.75 = $8.75)

Why does it cost more to purchase Green Power? While water, wind and sunlight are cheaper fuels than coal, oil and natural gas, the facilities that use renewable energy sources are currently more expensive to construct and operate. However, as public reliance on renewable energy increases and more facilities are built, these costs should go down.

How do I sign up? Just print and fill out the Green Power Choice Form (form will open in new window) and fax it (507) 665-3813 or mail it to Le Sueur Municipal Utilities, 203 S 2nd St., P.O. Box 176, Le Sueur, MN 56058.

If you have any questions, just call (507) 665-6401 and we'll be happy to help you.