Electric Department
The Electric Utility Department's goal is to provide a constant and reliable supply of electricity to our customers. They are also responsible for maintaining and operating a back up generation system as well as installing and maintaining the infrastructure of the electric utility.
Heartland Energy (HE)
Lake Crystal Municipal Utilities purchases their power from Heartland Energy. Visit their website at www.heartlandenergy.com to learn more about them and the rebate programs they have to offer Lake Crystal Municipal Utility Customers.
Energy Audit
If you are interested in having an Energy Audit done in your home please contact City Hall.
(507) 726-2538 Ext #3 or click here to send an email.
Solar Panels
Considering a switch to solar power? Check out this insightful article by Luke Drummer, our dedicated Climate Core member! It’s packed with information that could help you make an informed decision about embracing renewable energy.
Is Solar Power Right For Your Home?
Lake Crystal Municipal Utilities (LCMU) has adopted a Solar Interconnection Process and Requirements Policy for those interested in installing qualifying co-generation facilities operating in parallel with LCMU in their home or business. A Building Permit is also required for installing solar panels. Please allow 7-10 business days for processing of the building permit.
Click here for more information regarding utility applications, billing, payments, and suspension of services.
State of Electric Utility
The City of Lake Crystal has faced ongoing electrical reliability issues for many years due to aging infrastructure and unstable transmission lines operated by Xcel Energy. Since December 2020, the City has experienced numerous outages, including a major 21-hour outage and dozens of additional partial or full service interruptions. Reliability concerns increased further following the loss of the Rapidan Dam transmission line in 2024, leaving the City dependent on a single power feed.
Lake Crystal currently purchases electricity through Heartland Energy under a contract extended through 2040, while also evaluating future energy options and long-term flexibility. Although the electric utility remains financially stable, the City’s aging diesel generators, cooling systems, and substation infrastructure now require significant repair or replacement.
To address these challenges, the City is planning for the construction of a new substation and developing a long-term strategy to improve reliability, modernize infrastructure, and secure the community’s energy future.
Additional details, reports, and supporting information are available in the attached PDF documents for public review.