Water Resources

Responsible water resource management is a continuing focus of Alliant Energy utility companies based on the use of large quantities of water to make steam and for cooling in the production of electricity. As a result, we look for innovative ways to minimize water consumption.

For example, our newly constructed combined-cycle power plant in Iowa, Emery Generating Station, uses process water (also commonly known as grey water) from a nearby wastewater treatment facility to partially meet its cooling water needs.

Alliant Energy is implementing the new federal Clean Water Act rules concerning the protection of aquatic life at its power plant water intake structures on lakes and rivers. Studies of the specific aquatic populations at each power plant are under way. Based on the findings, solutions will be developed to reduce the impact of these water intake structures on native populations.

We are working with the state of Wisconsin to establish water quality standards for temperature discharges to water bodies that it regulates.

WP&L is actively participating in a cross-functional advisory committee to develop rules that protect the delicate balance of aquatic life in lakes and streams while allowing the water to also be used for cooling purposes.