The City of Kaukauna, located in Wisconsin, United States, is a forward-thinking community that is committed to developing renewable projects in various sectors, including climate policy and small hydro. The city has a population of approximately 16,000 people and is situated along the Fox River, which provides an ideal location for small hydro projects.

The city has been actively involved in climate policy initiatives for many years. In 2006, the city adopted a comprehensive sustainability plan that focused on reducing greenhouse gas emissions, promoting energy efficiency, and increasing the use of renewable energy sources. The plan set a goal of reducing greenhouse gas emissions by 20% by 2020, which the city has already achieved.

To achieve its sustainability goals, the city has implemented several initiatives, including the installation of solar panels on city buildings, the use of energy-efficient lighting and appliances, and the promotion of alternative transportation options. The city has also partnered with local businesses and organizations to promote sustainability and reduce greenhouse gas emissions.

One of the most significant renewable projects that the City of Kaukauna has developed is in the small hydro sector. The city has a long history of harnessing the power of the Fox River for electricity generation, dating back to the early 1900s. Today, the city operates two small hydroelectric facilities that generate a total of 3.5 megawatts of electricity.

The first hydroelectric facility, located at the Kaukauna Dam, was built in 1907 and has a capacity of 2.4 megawatts. The facility was renovated in the 1980s and again in 2015, with the installation of new turbines and generators to increase efficiency and capacity. The second facility, located at the Little Chute Dam, was built in 1930 and has a capacity of 1.1 megawatts. This facility was also renovated in the 1980s and again in 2015.

In addition to these two facilities, the city is currently exploring the development of a new small hydro project at the Vulcan Street Dam. This project would involve the installation of a new turbine and generator to generate an additional 1.2 megawatts of electricity. The project is currently in the planning and design phase, with construction expected to begin in 2022.

The City of Kaukauna has also been involved in several other renewable energy projects, including the installation of solar panels on city buildings and the development of a community solar project. In 2018, the city installed a 100-kilowatt solar array on the roof of the Kaukauna Utilities building. The array generates approximately 10% of the building's electricity needs and has a lifespan of 25 years.

The city has also partnered with the local utility company, Kaukauna Utilities, to develop a community solar project. The project involves the installation of a 1-megawatt solar array on city-owned land, which will be used to generate electricity for local residents and businesses. The project is currently in the planning and design phase, with construction expected to begin in 2021.

Overall, the City of Kaukauna is a leader in renewable energy development and sustainability initiatives. The city's commitment to reducing greenhouse gas emissions and promoting renewable energy sources has resulted in significant progress towards its sustainability goals. The city's small hydro projects, in particular, have been a significant source of renewable energy for the community, and the development of new projects will further enhance the city's renewable energy portfolio.