PLATTSBURGH — An unexpected interruption in a transmission line could mean blackouts this weekend for City of Plattsburgh residents and outlying areas.

An energy-generating facility outside the city experienced an unexpected shutdown Friday and will most likely remain off line until late Monday evening.

Mayor Donald Kasprzak said there is some uncertainty as to the source of replacement power through Monday evening.

One replacement source may be electrical power generated from local wind turbines.

The remaining power lines are operating close to capacity, and if that capacity is affected, there could be blackouts in the city and outlying areas.

The city's Municipal Lighting Department is preparing to deal with any power issues that may occur over the weekend.

The mayor said that, fortunately, the weather has been mild and is expected to continue the next few days, which could help prevent power outages if usage is down.

"We would appreciate the residents of the city to make every effort to conserve electricity by keeping thermostats at a comfortable level and minimizing your electric usage through Monday."

Plattsburgh State President John Ettling said executives at the college were meeting Friday to discuss how to cope with any power outage. It is Open House at the college today, along with some major sports events over the weekend.

E-mail Joe LoTemplio at: jlotemplio@pressrepublican.com