MARQUETTE (AP) — Water and electricity don’t always mix. But a utility in the Upper Peninsula said it has benefited from significant rain in September.

Upper Peninsula Power said the extra rain has allowed it to increase production at hydroelectric sites. It produced 70 percent more energy, based on a 10-year average, the company said.

Vice president Brett French says it will help lower bills for customers.

French says it could be a “banner year” for hydro power.

Upper Peninsula Power operates seven hydroelectric dams on the Dead, Escanaba, Ontonagon and Sturgeon rivers. The utility serves 52,000 customers in 10 northern Michigan counties.