Ketchikan Public Utilities will turn on its expensive diesel generators Tuesday to supplement hydroelectric power during peak hours.
According to KPU, Ketchikan had a dry fall, which means lake levels are lower than normal.
In addition to low lake levels, electric use in October was the highest in history for Ketchikan. Wrangell and Petersburg also experienced higher than normal electric use.
The result is insufficient hydroelectric power to carry Ketchikan through the winter. KPU estimates that at the current rate, Ketchikan has two months of hydropower in the reservoirs.
KPU Electric Division officials recommend that customers turn off unneeded lights and appliances, and turn down thermostats when they’re not at home.
