What does hydrocycling or peaking operation mean?
Hydrocycling or peaking operation means that water may be accumulated in a reservoir and then released later for utilization at a powerhouse when the electricity is needed most. This flexibility allows a utility to vary its generation in accordance with the demand for electricity. Hydrocycling varies the natural flow rate of water in a canal or river. Loup Power District’s Columbus Powerhouse is operated in a hydrocycling manner using water accumulated in Lake Babcock and Lake North.
