Energy Conservation and Safety

Energy independence

Storms and power outages are a reality of living in Northwest Montana. Having a backup plan in place in case of a prolonged power outage should also be a reality if you live here. It is important to prepare and stay safe.

Check Flathead Electric Cooperative webpage for information on how to prepare and plan for outages.

What to do if your power is out:

Check your fuses or breakers, the breaker below your meter, and if your neighbors have electricity. Check Flathead Cooperative Outage Map, or call them at 406-751-4449.

Call 911 if you see downed power lines or have any other emergency.

Plan for an outage:

  • Have extra water in your pantry, extra provisions for your animals, alternative provisions if you rely on electricity for medical purposes, and flashlights and batteries.

  • Have a plan to keep pipes from freezing during winter outages and food from spoiling during summer outages.

  • Consider having a backup heat source.

  • Consider removing trees that could fall and disrupt power lines during a storm.

Stay safe during an outage:

  • Only use generators outdoors and away from windows and never use a gas stove to heat your home.

  • Never touch or drive over a downed power line, or touch anything the line may be touching. Stay at least 10 or more feet away, call the power company, and, if the line is sparking, call 911.

  • Keep the refrigerator and freezer closed up to 24 hrs. If the outage last longer than that, arrange to store your food at another location. Have alternate plans for refrigerating medicines or using power-dependent medical devices. Unplug all other appliances and electronics to avoid damage from electrical surges.

  • If safe, go to an alternate location for heat or cooling. Check on your neighbors.

Flathead Energy Projects

Most of the energy in the Flathead comes from hydropower, purchased largely from the Bonneville Power Administration. The Flathead Electric Cooperative (Co-op) has entered into several local agreements to diversify its portfolio, including:

  • Community Solar

    Not everyone who wants solar panels can have them — some members rent their homes and cannot add solar, while others don’t have an opportune site for solar panels to generate energy. In 2015, your Co-op developed the area’s first community solar project, allowing any member to own locally-sited solar generation.

    Learn More

  • The Flathead County Landfill Gas-To-Energy Plant

    “Essentially, your garbage can power your house,” says Dave Prunty, Public Works Director for Flathead County, when asked to explain Flathead Electric Cooperative’s biomass project at the county landfill, now in its 14th year.

    Learn More

  • The Stoltze Biomass Facility

    This biomass-fueled facility generates electricity at the F.H. Stoltze Land & Lumber Company near Columbia Falls selling up to 2.5 megawatts of power at a wholesale rate annually to the Co-op.

    Learn More

  • The City of Whitefish

    The City of Whitefish purchased a hydro-electric generator, with assistance from the Co-op, strengthening local, clean energy sources.

    Learn More

Energy Conservation and Savings

There are many ways to save money, energy, and the environment through energy efficient appliances and conservation measures.

Visit Flathead Electric’s Energy Conservation - Ways to Save Energy, including possible local or federal rebates for electrifying your home, HVAC, weatherization, appliances, new construction, water heating, and more.

Also check Rewiring America to see what national rebates and discounts you qualify for.

Resources