In this edition of The Municipal, we’re taking a look at a means of energy production that’s somewhat controversial but has been consistently employed for hundreds of years, across all geographies: hydropower.

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

Hydroelectric energy 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.

In western New York more than 27,000 jobs and millions of dollars in investments are tied to the hydropower industry, converting it into an indispensable part of the economy of the entire state. nypa’s low-cost hydropower is an important factor in job expansion and creation in the region.

This month in The Municipal we also talked to Sioux City, Iowa, a place that’s been honored several times for its livability. Writer Barb Sieminski discovered that the municipality is now focused on helping its residents enjoy their hometown for as long as possible, by actively promoting participation in Blue Zones Project. The initiative attempts to increase longevity by improving social connections, physical fitness, work/life balance and nutrition.

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

Jodi Magallanes
Editor