Hydroelectric Generation Fleet is Reducing Energy Costs Due to Unseasonably Wet Weather

Significant rainfall and cooler temperatures may have dampened the spirits of outdoor recreationists this fall; however, the silver-lining has been an increase in the production of clean, renewable energy from Upper Peninsula Power Company’s (UPPCO) hydroelectric generation fleet.

“The extra rainfall has increased the amount of water that is available to produce renewable energy through our hydroelectric generators,” according to Brett French, UPPCO Vice President of Business Development and Communication. “During the month of September, we produced ~70 percent more energy than we would typically expect to see based on the ten-year average. This additional energy equates to lower bills for our customers.”

UPPCO owns and operates seven hydroelectric dams along the Dead, Escanaba, Ontonagon and Sturgeon rivers. UPPCO’s hydroelectric generation fleet produces approximately 18 percent of the company’s energy requirements during a typical year, exceeding the state’s renewable portfolio standard. As an added benefit, UPPCO’s hydros provide fish and wildlife habitat, offer recreational opportunities for U.P. residents and visitors and support the local tax base. The additional energy being produced reduces the need for wholesale energy purchases, helping to lower the overall cost to customers.

“This could be a banner year for energy production out of our hydrogeneration fleet,” said French. “We take great pride in knowing our hydros provide considerable value to our customers and the entire Upper Peninsula.”

For more information on UPPCO’s hydroelectric generation fleet, visit www.uppco.com.