NLI: Northern Lights, Inc. > Public Safety Power Shutoff CANCELLED

Public Safety Power Shutoff CANCELLED

Updated: Thursday, July 16, 5:15 p.m., Pacific time.

Bonneville Power Administration has called off the PSPS.

Northern Lights Members,

Please know that like you, we are frustrated by short notice about these decisions, which limited our ability to communicate with you in a timely manner. We are grateful for our members and appreciate your patience.

-Your Northern Lights Team
Original message:

The Bonneville Power Administration, which supplies transmission power to Northern Lights, has notified us that they plan to implement a Public Safety Power Shutoff today, Thursday, July 16 beginning at 5 p.m., Pacific time.

PSPSs are intentional and necessary outages to prevent wildfires during high-risk weather conditions. During these conditions, if sparks occur—such as those from downed lines or damaged equipment—the combination of high temperatures, low humidity and strong winds significantly increases the risk of starting and spreading a wildfire in the community.

Due to this elevated risk, BPA has called for a PSPS that will impact several Northern Lights’ substations and members in the following areas:

  • Troy, Montana area
  • Yaak area
  • Lincoln county
  • Area north of Bonners Ferry to the Canadian border
  • Mt. Hall area
  • North Bench
  • Moyie Springs
  • Schweitzer Mountain
  • Sagle and  surrounding areas
  • Cocolalla and surrounding areas
  • Areas west of Sandpoint
  • Area north of Priest River
  • Priest Lake area – both sides of the lake
  • North of Athol

Members impacted will also be notified directly.

This means power will be temporarily shut off to reduce the risk of wildfire and protect local homes and businesses. PSPS is in effect until 11 a.m. on Friday, July 17.

When weather conditions improve and fire risk subsides, BPA will again provide power to our impacted substations. There may be an extended outage as Northern Lights crews inspect overhead lines and determine they are safe to operate before power can again be restored to our members. Northern Lights will communicate updates via our website, social media channels and text messaging as available.

We know that a power outage can create hardships, and please be assured that this is the last resort taken after close coordination with wildfire experts and emergency response personnel. This is a matter of public safety to protect you, your home and our communities.