By Journal Staff

MARQUETTE — Significant rainfall and cooler temperatures may have dampened the spirits of outdoor enthusiasts this fall, but the silver-lining has been an increase in the production of clean, renewable energy from Upper Peninsula Power Company’s hydroelectric generation fleet.

“The extra rainfall has increased the amount of water that is available to produce renewable energy through our hydroelectric generators,” Brett French, UPPCO’s vice president of Business Development and Communication, said in a press release. “During the month of September, we produced (about) 70 percent more energy than we would typically expect to see based on the 10-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. The utility’s hydroelectric generation fleet produces roughly 18 percent of the company’s energy requirements during a typical year, exceeding the state’s renewable portfolio standard, according to the press release. UPPCO’s hydro facilities also provide fish and wildlife habitat, offer recreational opportunities for U.P. residents and visitors and support the local tax base, officials noted. The additional energy being produced reduces the need for wholesale energy purchases, helping to lower the overall cost to customers, the release states.

“This could be a banner year for energy production out of our hydro-generation fleet,” French said. “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.