ROANOKE, Va., Feb. 13, 2026 —Appalachian Power Company (APCo) will conduct a required test of its electricity generating units at the Smith Mountain Dam, beginning in the early morning hours on Monday, Feb. 16.
Testing, which is required twice a year, will decrease the Smith Mountain Lake by approximately two feet. APCo will begin pumping water back into Smith Mountain Lake (from Leesville Lake) later in the afternoon on Monday, and as conditions allow. The “pump back” process is expected to be completed sometime on Wednesday, Feb. 18.
The test was originally planned for Monday, Feb. 9; however, PJM Interconnection, the regional transmission organization that coordinates the movement of wholesale electricity in the mid-Atlantic region, requested APCo to reschedule the test due to demand on the power grid.
“We’re routinely coordinating with PJM, and sometimes we need to adjust the Smith Mountain Lake Project’s operations to keep the entire system safe and reliable,” said Bob Jessee, vice president of generating assets. “APCo will follow PJM’s directions and will work to minimize any impact to customers. No action is needed from our customers; if the test or any dispatch changes could affect service, we will notify customers with details and timing.”
Due to ongoing drought conditions, the water surface elevation is lower than normal. As a result of these lower levels, recreational boat users who launch from one of the public boat ramps on Smith Mountain Lake early Monday morning, may not be able to get their boat back onto the trailer when they return to the ramp.
Increased flow from Leesville Dam will occur, as necessary, to conduct the test. Those considering recreating on the rivers should monitor AEP’s website for additional information.