Earlier in the year, Juneau experienced avalanches that destroyed many of their major power lines. The backup generators cost nearly five times as much as the old power supply. Alaskans responded by cutting their power use by 40%, primarily through household-based conservation. Lights were used sparingly, dishes were washed by hand, clothes dried on a line.
The lines have now been repaired…but electric consumption has not jumped back to its former level.
For a brief report:
http://www.environmentalgraffiti.com/green-living/juneau-alaska-is-an-energy-star/1116
Richard Pace 