Keweenaw Gas Co-op Temporarily Closed

The Keweenaw Gas Co-op on Sixth Street in Calumet experienced a power surge that went through the building and blew out several electronic devices in the store as well as the gas pump dispensers.

On early Thursday morning security cameras recorded flickering canopy lights and at 2:03 am the security cameras went down. Upon opening the store at 8 a.m., the manager and staff found equipment, such as cash registers, credit card machine, printers and more unable to operate. A local electrician and a technician from Northwest Petroleum Services (provider of petroleum equipment and services for gas stations throughout Wisconsin and Michigan’s Upper Peninsula) determined that the Co-op had been hit by a power surge that caused extensive damage throughout the gasoline dispensing and retail sales system. “We are fortunate that our coolers and interior lighting were not affected by the power surge,” stated Art Limback board chairman.

The board of directors is hopeful that the store can be re-opened in a few days as in-store equipment has been ordered to replace the damaged items. It will be slightly longer before the Keweenaw Co-op will be able to sell gasoline. The directors are working diligently to review new pump options and to have the Co-op up and running as soon as possible.

The Keweenaw Gas Co-op has been in business for over 30 years and has been bringing reasonable gas prices to the Copper Country since it opened. The Co-op has over 600 shareholders and also provides cigarettes and grocery products to customers. The Co-op thanks the community for its patience with this unexpected situation.