Bellingham studies possible hydro plant on waterfront

The city expects to spend up to $200,000 in 2011 to find out if an industrial water main from Lake Whatcom to the waterfront can be used to run a turbine to generate cash as well as electricity.
Public Works Director Ted Carlson said the money will come from water revenues, not the city's tax-supported general fund. The money will be spent on preliminary engineering studies and permitting to find out if it is feasible. The answer to that question could come by the end of the year.