CHARLOTTE, N.C. (WBTV) – Duke Energy is taking steps to conserve water usage for its hydro-electric plants as the ongoing drought worsens.
Duke Energy has elevated its drought advisory to a Stage One, with the worst possible level being a Stage Four Emergency.
In response to the drought advisory, the utility company will decrease the water flow through its hydro-electric plants to conserve water. That means water levels in places like the Catawba River may drop and impact boating.
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“We have a shared goal to make sure that water is managed and that there’s an adequate supply for everybody so it’s very important to protect the basin,” said Logan Stewart, a spokesperson for Duke Energy.
Stewart shared that the drought is impacting the 11 bodies of water in the Catawba Wateree River Basin used by the utility company for electricity production.
“For those that go out on the lake that could be slowing recreational flows. While I know that’s not great news for boaters and others. it’s just really important in a time like this that we are making sure we’re taking the necessary steps to protect that water resource,” said Stewart.
This change does not impact anyone’s power at home for now.
If the drought gets worse and water levels drop to unsafe depths, Duke Energy will close boat ramps accordingly.
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