Longmont Power & Communications will not shut off power to electric customers ahead of possible high winds on Wednesday, but is taking precautions to protect the safety and reliability of the city’s electric service.   

 

“We know how critical it is for our homes and businesses to have safe, reliable electricity,” said Darrell Hahn, LPC’s director of electric services. “We continually work to support that priority and as always, our crews are ready to respond as needed to maintain or restore power.”  

 

According to the National Weather Service, winds could gust up to 44 mph in the Longmont area on Wednesday. Xcel Energy, which serves a number of neighboring communities, has announced the possibility of a “Public Safety Power Shutoff” to its customers. 

 

LPC does not have a pre-emptive power shutoff program, but takes several other steps to protect the safety of the electric system and the Longmont community:  

 

• When high winds are expected, LPC crews temporarily modify the system so that it doesn’t automatically try to reconnect when it detects a fault. This adjustment helps LPC safely clear the system and prevent a fire when, for example, a tree branch is blown onto a power line.  
• LPC contracts with a company to trim trees around the community year-round, to lessen the possible impact of a windstorm and reduce any fire danger.  

• Each year, LPC moves some of its overhead lines underground. This has been done gradually because of the expense, but provides additional protection from severe weather.  

• In 2026, LPC will be introducing new equipment and upgrades to the Longmont electric grid to further increase fire safety.  

 

“We’re always working to evaluate and improve our service to the community,” Hahn said. “Our residents depend on the reliable power that Longmont has provided for over a century and we stand ready to serve them.”  

 

 

 

About Longmont Power & Communications 

Longmont Power & Communications has been Longmont’s municipally owned electric utility since 1912. Our dedicated, innovative team connects the community to affordable, reliable, and environmentally responsible electric services, empowering our community’s transition to a sustainable, carbon-free future. To learn more, visit www.longmontcolorado.gov/lpc.