Research Continues On Norristown Hydroelectric Dam Project

NORRISTOWN, PA — Montgomery County continues to study the Schuylkill River in Norristown to gauge the potential for a hydroelectric dam which advocates have said could transform the energy landscape throughout the Delaware Valley.

The county is currently on the second phase of a feasibility study with environmental consulting and engineering firm Verdantas Flow Labs.

Scientists and analysts are looking at everything from hydraulic modeling, water quality monitoring, and the assessment of a fish passage, to collecting data on the flow of the river and its depth at various points.

"These early steps could help transform the dam into a source of renewable energy for our community," the county said in a statement this week. "This project is one more way Montco is building a cleaner, more sustainable future."

The project area would run along the Schuylkill River from the dam, located between the DeKalb Street and Markley Street bridges, several miles west down the river.

"Verdantas conducted feasibility studies in 2016 which confirmed the technical viability of hydropower development, but financial constraints delayed progress," the firm shared. "Renewed interest emerged in 2021 following the announcement of federal funding opportunities for small hydropower projects, prompting the county to re-engage in design and permitting efforts."

The county said they are still working to obtain a Federal Energy Regulatory Commission exemption, which is required to move forward with the project. Verdantas is assisting them with preparing for that application, and will work with the county on grants and fundraising if next steps are approved.

The county has already taken the first step in gaining federal approval by filing the necessary documentation — called an "Initial Consultation Document" — but a timeline for when that will be processed is not clear.

If successful, the dam could potentially transform the energy landscape in the region and help the county meet its goal of transitioning to renewable energy in the coming decades.