For the first time since 1978, sometime this summer there won't be steam coming out of the iconic Duluth steam plant smokestack in Canal Park. The plant's been operating continuously for the last 37 years, but the shut down for a few weeks will be part of its transition to Duluth Energy Systems.
The changeover, born of a partnership between Duluth and Ever-Green Energy, will save water, save energy and increase efficiency, among other things. The only drawback, it seems, is a possible diminishing of the ambience of some spots on Superior Street. The key to the new system is partly, explains general manager Jim Green, in the difference between hot water ... and VERY hot water.
