PPL is now operating its Lake Wallenpaupack hydroelectric facility to help offset drought conditions in the Delaware River Basin. The new operational focus is the result of a formal drought Conservation Order enacted yesterday (Dec. 18) by the Delaware River Basin Commission.

"We fully support the commission’s plan to address the drought conditions along the Delaware River," PPL Generation President Jim Miller said. "We are in constant contact with the commission to aid in this effort."

The lake was last used to offset drought conditions in the 1960s. Located in northeastern Pennsylvania, the lake was built to generate electricity. PPL agreed voluntarily to include the lake in the Delaware River Basin Commission’s drought management plan.

During times of drought, the DRBC can issue a Conservation Order and assume control over lake operations – including the release of water. This allows the commission to draw down the lake to certain predetermined levels.

The Lake Wallenpaupack facility can generate 44 megawatts of electricity. In addition to its hydro generation role, the 5,700-acre man-made lake is a popular location for year-round outdoor recreation.

Miller said these recreation activities should be minimally affected – even in the case of an extreme drawdown.

"Based on historical flow conditions, lake levels are expected to fully recover to normal prior to the start of the 2002 summer recreation season," said Miller.