In this edition of The Municipal take a look at an energy-producing structure that’s somewhat controversial but has been consistently employed for hundreds of years and across all geographies: hydropower.

Hydroelectric power is expensive on the front end, but it’s a reliable form of renewable energy. That’s why it’s experiencing a renewed popularity and has an irrefutable place among the components of long-term regional energy stability plans.

Hydro generation uses a known and tested technology that neither adds directly to greenhouse gases nor produces nuclear waste. On a large scale, the Congo’s Inga dams, in Africa, have the potential to provide the equivalent of South Africa’s existing power capacity. South African authorities relied on hydro, power currently coming from Mozambique, during the international World Cup soccer matches in 2010.

Small dams do wonders in terms of political clout as well. That seems to have played a role in making our cover photo structure, the John H. Kerr Dam and Reservoir on the Roanoke River, Va., a reality.

This month in The Municipal we also talked to Natchitoches Parish, La., about recent local coups that include opening the doors of an architecturally cutting edge public building, the Louisiana Sports Hall of Fame and Northwest Louisiana History Museum. Then we’d like to explain how the telemarketer your office may have hung up on was actually a resident in need of your department’s assistance — and how to tell the difference.

We hope the information in our energy edition proves useful. See you in March.

Jodi Magallanes
Editor