On January 28, 2025, Low Head Hydro M 18, LLC applied for a preliminary permit to study the possibility of building a hydropower project at the Mississippi River Lock and Dam 18 across Des Moines County, IA, and Henderson County, IL. This permit would give them priority to apply for a full license, but it doesn't allow any construction or land changes. The project would feature various components including a powerhouse, turbines, control building, and transmission lines with an expected annual energy generation of 126,800 megawatt-hours. Comments or competing applications for this project are due within 60 days of the notice's publication.
Simple Explanation
Low Head Hydro M 18 wants to investigate building a power plant using water from a river, giving them the chance to apply for a special permission later, but for now, they can't start building anything. People have 60 days to say if they think it's a good idea or not.