The U.S. House of Representatives has passed a bill allowing the town of Canton to operate hydroelectric turbines on two Farmington River dams.
The legislation, sponsored by U.S. Rep. Chris Murphy, D-5th District, is the first step in what is expected to be a long process for the town, in cooperation with Avon and Burlington, to generate its own power from two hydropower dams in the Collinsville section. The dams were built in the 19th century to provide power for the Collins Co., but their hydroelectric turbines were abandoned after the company closed in the 1960s.
The legislation will reinstate existing private licenses to operate the hydroelectric dams and transfer them to the town. The bill also calls for a full environmental review of the impact of hydroelectric power on the river.
Before Canton can continue with its plans, the Senate must pass the bill, and President Obama must sign it.
