MANCHESTER, NH – September 25, 2008 – For the second month in a row, PSNH hydroelectric facilities have produced a record amount of energy. The 37,744 megawatt hours of energy produced in August by PSNH hydro generation was an amazing 216 percent higher than the long-term average for the month, and the best August ever in PSNH’s history.
While New Hampshire’s August precipitation was only slightly above average, total precipitation for the entire summer – June through August – was the sixth highest (17 inches) since record keeping began in 1895. PSNH hydro staff took advantage of the wet weather by postponing some routine maintenance and continuing to operate the facilities to their fullest potential.
PSNH hydroelectric facilities also produced a record amount of electricity during the month of July, generating 41,792 megawatt hours of energy – 192 percent higher than the month’s long-term average.
It is anticipated that PSNH hydro production in September will be at or below average, as the amount of precipitation has been low and several hydro units are offline for inspections and maintenance. PSNH owns and operates a total of nine hydroelectric generation facilities that are reliable and economic sources of renewable power for PSNH customers.