Flooding forces two power plants to shut down
SIOUX FALLS, SOUTH DAKOTA - Flooding on the Missouri River is forcing two electric power plants in western North Dakota to shut down. But Gov. John Hoeven says it won't cut off power to customers.
Hoeven says the Leland Olds and Coal Creek power plants are shutting down because the Garrison Dam is not releasing water. The power plants need a certain river level to take in Missouri River water used to make steam and power the plant's turbines.
The dam cut off its water releases to ease flooding downstream in Bismarck.
Related News
BC Hydro electricity demand down 10% amid COVID-19 pandemic
VANCOUVER - Elecricity demand is down 10 per cent across British Columbia, an unprecedented decline sparked by the COVID-19 pandemic, according to a BC Hydro report.
Power demand across hotels, offices, recreational facilities and restaurants have dwindled as British Columbians self isolate.
The shortfall means there's a surplus of water in reservoirs across the province.
"This drop in load in addition to the spring snow melt is causing our reservoirs to reach near capacity, which could lead to environmental concerns, as well as public safety risks if we don't address the challenges now," said spokesperson Tanya Fish.
Crews will have to strategically spill reservoirs…
