In brief
Constellation Energy has committed over $340 million to improve water quality at the Conowingo Dam, crucial for the Chesapeake Bay ecosystem. This agreement, made in collaboration with state officials and environmental organizations, follows a tumultuous legal battle over pollution from the dam. The funds will go towards pollution reduction initiatives and infrastructure improvements, promoting ecological resilience in the region.
ANNAPOLIS, Md. (PulseWire) — Constellation Energy has agreed to spend more than $340 million to enhance water quality at the Conowingo Dam, which flows into the Susquehanna River and ultimately the Chesapeake Bay, the largest estuary in the United States.
The agreement paves the way for the re-licensing and continued operation of the hydroelectric facility, the largest renewable energy source in Maryland.
Gov. Wes Moore stated, This agreement will lead to real improvements in water quality in the biggest tributary of the Chesapeake Bay, while securing the future of one of our state’s largest clean energy producers.
This arrangement concludes disputes regarding accountability for pollution caused by sediments trapped in the dam, which are released downstream into the bay.
In 2018, the Maryland Department of the Environment initially certified the Conowingo Dam, but legal challenges prompted a waiver in 2019, requiring Constellation Energy to invest $230 million in improvements contingent on receiving a federal license renewal, which was eventually granted but faced opposition from environmental groups.
The deal, announced Thursday, was reached with input from Waterkeepers Chesapeake and the Lower Susquehanna Riverkeeper Association to ensure compliance with water quality standards. It includes approximately $88 million for pollution mitigation efforts, such as shoreline restoration and fish passage projects, and an additional $78 million for trash removal initiatives.
Other funding will support fish and eel passage improvements, establishment of a freshwater mussel hatchery, invasive species management, and a study on the feasibility of dredging the dam to remove trapped sediments. Furthermore, a revised Water Quality Certification will be submitted to the federal government for the dam's renewed license.
“Today’s announcement marks 16 years of tremendous effort and perseverance by our organization to assure Conowingo Dam is relicensed with proper conditions that protect the health of the Lower Susquehanna River and Chesapeake Bay,” stated Ted Evgeniadis, Executive Director of the Lower Susquehanna Riverkeeper Association.
