Rochester plans major shift from groundwater to alternative water sources
The Rochester City Council heard presentations on July 28 about two critical long-term plans: a Water System Master Plan that would fundamentally change how the city sources its water after 100 years of relying on groundwater, and a Power Supply Plan showing progress toward the city's goal of 100% renewable energy by 2030.
Rochester Public Utilities (RPU) presented the Water System Master Plan in response to new restrictions from the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources. The DNR prohibited the city from drilling new wells in the Jordan aquifer—Rochester's primary water source—until it explores alternative sources. RPU General Manager Tim Makulla called the two presentations "probably two of the larger pieces of planning and resource work that's happening across the city right now."
The master plan addresses several challenges: Rochester's population is expected to grow significantly by 2065, water quality complaints are twice the national average due to high iron and manganese levels, and the city lacks conventional water treatment despite having 100,000 residents. To meet future demand, RPU is studying alternatives including the Mount Simon aquifer and surface water sources like the South Fork of the Zumbro River, Silver Lake, and Lake Zumbro. Council Member Keane emphasized the magnitude of this shift: "This would be a big change not just to the way we source our water and the technology behind it, but also probably in the cost of the water." No votes were taken, but RPU outlined plans to request funding for short-term growth-related capital projects.
On the power side, RPU reported achieving approximately two-thirds of its 100% net renewable energy goal by 2030. Key projects include the Mount Simon Station, which recently secured an interconnection agreement at 25% of estimated cost—saving $15 million. However, a large 180-megawatt wind project in Howard County, Iowa, faces federal permitting delays. RPU announced an upcoming Request for Proposals to secure remaining renewable energy capacity, with recommendations expected by year-end or early 2024.
Council members pressed RPU on conservation efforts and how growth projections factor in efficiency programs. Makulla responded that RPU invests significantly in conservation and demand response programs, which he said could reduce peak demand by up to six megawatts on hot days. The council will receive further updates as both plans develop.
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RPU Power Supply Plan Update
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