Vermont town plans new municipal system with hydro

Springfield, Vermont, in an effort to lower utility bills at its all-electric high school, is planning to reactivate six old hydroelectric projects on the Black River and develop a municipal electric service. The project will also include a reservoir and several power plants with a 30-MW output as a peaking unit. Projected state power shortages in the 1980s may lead to intermediate power generation. Public hearings are underway to determine the best method of ownership and the proper cost to Springfield, although local officials expect the final decisions to be made by the state Supreme Court. Proponents of a municipal system foresee significantly lower electric bills after the project is completed in spite of intense opposition from the Central Vermont Public Service Co.