Report says Saskatoon weir feasible for hydropower
A report going to City Council says a $50-million power project using the weir makes technical and financial sense.
Environmental committee says $50-million project most realistic
A report to council from the city's environment committee is backing the idea of using the weir in the South Saskatchewan River to produce electricity.
The report pulled together the findings of third-party studies and then evaluates the options. It said the most realistic scenario would involve raising the weir by a little more than a metre.
That would cost $50 million, give a return of up to $5 million a year and keep the lights on in more than 3,000 homes.
The report said private groups are interested in partnering with the city to offset the capital cost.
The committee wants to take a closer look at development options, including environmental implications, and then get back to council with its findings.