Hydro energy
Our history is strongly tied to hydroelectric power, and it continues to be an important part of our renewable energy portfolio.
A proud history and a wave of the future
Kilbourn Dam (Wisconsin Dells, Wis.) and Prairie du Sac Hydro (Prairie du Sac, Wis.)
The Kilbourn Dam and the Prairie du Sac Hydro use the mighty Wisconsin River as their power source. They were among our first generating stations more than 100 years ago. Many Wisconsinites first experienced home electricity thanks to power from these two facilities.
Kilbourn Dam is a visible downtown Wisconsin Dells landmark that generates up to 10 megawatts of electricity. Prairie du Sac Hydro is located about one mile north of Prairie du Sac and is responsible for the formation of Lake Wisconsin. It has a capacity of about 31 megawatts.
These two hydroelectric dams are a testament to the fact that alternative energy sources are not “new.” Both facilities have been incredibly reliable and consistent in bringing renewable electricity to our customers for decades.
Other hydroelectric sources
We receive power from and own a 50% interest in Wisconsin River Power Company, which operates the Petenwell and Castle Rock Dams on the Wisconsin River.
We also have purchased power agreements with other hydroelectric facilities across Wisconsin and Iowa, many of which we previously owned, that add to our renewable energy mix.
More information
For a daily, early morning update on Wisconsin River flows at the Castle Rock Dam, Prairie du Sac Hydro and Kilbourn Dam, call 1-800-242-1077.