Where does SMU get its electricity from?
SMU gets the largest share of its power from the Western Area Power Administration (WAPA), which operates several hydroelectric dams on the Missouri River. Another large portion of SMU’s power comes from the Neal 4 generating plant south of Sioux City. When needed, SMU purchases electricity from the grid through the North Iowa Municipal Electric Cooperative, or NIMECA. SMU also owns a jet turbine generator located at our facility that provides power during peak usage and serves as a back-up power source for the community. SMU is also be part-owner of a new coal-fired generating station under construction near Council Bluffs. When completed, “Council Bluffs 4” will provide SMU with a new, long-term source of energy.
