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01/12/2022 - 09:46 AM
Title United Power Partners with Electric Highway Coalition /sites/default/files/styles/news_card_553x430_/public/news/05_11_2021__EV_Keenesburg.jpg?itok=hgsoXdBI Wednesday | January 12, 2022 Card Teaser As a partner, United Power will seek to effectively deploy EV fast chargers in its service territory to compliment existing and planned charging stations. Cooperative Committed to Providing Accessible EV Charging Infrastructure Brighton, CO – United Power announced a partnership with the National Electric Highway Coalition in January. The Coalition is a collaboration among electric utilities committed to providing an accessible electric vehicle charging infrastructure. Expanding the available charging network will allow electric vehicle drivers to travel with confidence along corridors throughout the country. It has set a goal to achieve a sufficient electric vehicle charging infrastructure by the end of 2023. This past year, United Power energized its second electric vehicle fast charger at the Market Street Mart in Keenesburg, located along Interstate 76 northeast of Denver. The charger filled a gap in available charging options for rural electric vehicle owners between Brighton and Fort Morgan. The cooperative installed its first charging station at its Coal Creek office in 2019. A third is planned for its office location in Carbon Valley along Interstate 25. “United Power serves more than 100,000 members living in some of the fastest growing communities in the country,” said Mark A. Gabriel, United Power’s President and Chief Executive Officer. “We also serve several transportation corridors running through those areas. We have seen a proliferation of electric vehicle owners in our territory and in Colorado in recent years. Joining the National Electric Highway Coalition reinforces the cooperative’s commitment to its members and the changing nature of the electric industry.” Cooperative leadership continues to look at the electric vehicle landscape and consider what programs provide the most benefit for members, including expanding its existing charging network. As a partner in the National Electric Highway Coalition, United Power will seek to accomplish an efficient and effective deployment of electric vehicle fast charging stations within its service territory that complements existing and planned charging stations along its transportation corridors. It is estimated that more than 100,000 fast charging ports will be necessary to meet the needs of more than 22 million electric vehicle drivers by 2030. The National Electric Highway Coalition represents the largest group of electric utilities aligned to meet those charging infrastructure needs. More than 50 electric utilities throughout 47 states have joined as partners in the coalition’s mission. United Power joins Xcel Energy as the only other Colorado utility in the Coalition and the second cooperative nationwide. United Power is a member-owned, not-for-profit electric cooperative, delivering electricity to homes, farms and businesses throughout Colorado’s northern front range. The cooperative is one of the fastest-growing electric cooperatives in the nation, and in June joined the elite ranks of cooperatives serving more than 100,000 meters. The 900 square mile service territory extends from the mountains of Coal Creek and Golden Gate Canyon, along the I-25 corridor and Carbon Valley region, to the farmlands of Brighton, Hudson and Keenesburg. United Power is also a founding member of the NextGen Cooperative Alliance, dedicated to expanding the power supply and procurement options and reforming the traditional Generation and Transmission (G&T) business model. For more information about the cooperative, visit www.unitedpower.com or follow them on social media Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, YouTube and Instagram. ###08/01/2024 - 03:51 PM
Title United Power Partners with Kindle Energy for Natural Gas Peaking Unit /sites/default/files/styles/news_card_553x430_/public/news/Frederick_Stories_1.png?h=45932144&itok=BvugHOQK Thursday | August 1, 2024 Brighton, CO – United Power, Inc. is partnering with Kindle Energy LLC (Kindle) to add 162 megawatts (MW) of peaking natural gas capacity on its system in Keenesburg, CO. As the state of Colorado transitions away from coal-fired energy production, this project will provide United Power greater flexibility when power costs are at their highest and ensure reliability and resource adequacy in times of low renewable energy production and extreme weather conditions. “The integration of this peaking natural gas unit is key to our ongoing energy transition,” said Mark A. Gabriel, President and CEO of United Power. “To remain responsive to our members’ needs as we move away from a single wholesale power supplier, this project will provide the necessary flexibility we need on our system. It is just one more tool in our toolbox that will help us better meet the varied needs of our members and provide more predictable costs in the future.” The natural gas units will be installed at the Mountain Peak Power plant in Keenesburg, which is adjacent to United Power’s Tesla Substation. The proximity of a natural gas pipeline to the substation property was key to making this installation an economical one for the cooperative, and a quicker construction project for Kindle Energy. Additionally, the unit is considered “hydrogen-ready,” which means it is also designed to run on fuels with hydrogen content once commercially viable, increasing the unit’s versatility. When in operation, which is planned for June 2025, Mountain Peak Power is expected to deliver up to 162 MW, to support the ongoing energy transition in the state. Lee Davis, CEO of Kindle Energy, said, “Kindle is excited to partner with United Power on the Mountain Peak Power project, supporting their transition to cleaner energy sources. The Mountain Peak Power project is important to Kindle because it demonstrates our ongoing commitment to bring strong solutions with flexible, reliable generation to support the ongoing transition to a greener energy portfolio.” United Power transitioned away from a single wholesale power supplier in May of this year, with a vision to create a more flexible power delivery system that would provide cooperative members with predictable costs and allow for the integration of various local energy sources. In addition to this peaking unit, the cooperative has invested in batteries at eight substations throughout the service territory to help balance load during high use periods and to provide critical back up generation. “We appreciate how quickly Kindle is able to make this installation a reality,” said Gabriel. “Thanks go out to all our working partners at the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment and leaders in Weld County for their coordination and foresight.” To learn more about United Power’s energy transition and our varied sources of power, visit the cooperative’s website at www.unitedpower.com. About United Power United Power is a member-owned, not-for-profit electric cooperative, delivering electricity to homes, farms, and businesses throughout Colorado’s northern front range. The cooperative is one of the fastest-growing electric co-ops in the nation, serving more than 112,000 meters. Its 900-square mile service territory extends from the mountains of Coal Creek and Golden Gate Canyon, along the I-25 corridor and Carbon Valley region, to the farmlands of Brighton, Hudson, and Keenesburg. United Power is also a founding member of the NextGen Cooperative Alliance, which is dedicated to expanding the power supply and procurement options available to distribution co-ops and reforming the traditional generation and transmission business model. For more information about United Power, visit www.unitedpower.com or follow the cooperative on Facebook, X, LinkedIn, YouTube, and Instagram. About Kindle Energy Kindle Energy is a power generation development and asset management firm based in Princeton, NJ. With over 11GW currently under management, Kindle Energy offers customized approaches to investing in, operating, and managing power generation assets in North America. Supporting Utilities, Co-Ops, Municipals and other energy facility owners, Kindle Energy is focused on providing creative solutions to the complex energy issues of today to allow customers to focus on their core business. Please visit https://kindle-energy.com/ to see more details. ###05/21/2024 - 11:07 AM
Title United Power Partners with TEA Solutions for Wholesale Power Services /sites/default/files/styles/news_card_553x430_/public/news/Background_Blue.jpg?h=45932144&itok=W2fa0jjn Tuesday | May 21, 2024 Card Teaser TEA Solutions worked with United Power to complete its transition from a single supplier to multiple wholesale energy providers. Brighton, CO - On May 1, 2024, United Power officially departed from its prior wholesale power contract, allowing the cooperative to restructure the energy resources in its power mix and provide a more flexible framework for its members. TEA Solutions, a sister company of The Energy Authority, worked with the cooperative’s team to complete the transition from a single supplier to multiple wholesale energy providers. “United Power is excited for our revolutionary new energy future,” said Mark A. Gabriel, President and CEO of United Power. “Our move away from a single, central power supplier will give us the flexibility and responsiveness that a utility needs to be competitive in the changing power market. We will be able to better meet the varied needs of our members and provide more predictable costs in the future.” The cooperative’s partnership with TEA Solutions will provide for a variety of services on the power delivery side, including portfolio management, trading, and load forecasting. The full suite of services will ensure that the cooperative has adequate oversight of its multiple power sources and has an experienced team of specialists working to manage risk in the forecasting and trading markets. “We’re proud to be United Power’s partner of choice as they begin their next chapter operating as an independent utility,” stated Joanie Teofilo, President and CEO of TEA Solutions. “This partnership demonstrates our commitment to assisting community-owned utilities in delivering reliable and affordable service to their residents.” United Power’s decision to leave its former power supplier grew from a variety of changes in the electric delivery market and the fact that wholesale power represented 74% of all the cooperative’s costs prior to its departure. The previous contract also made it difficult to meet the growing demand for the integration of local generation sources, including rooftop solar. Additionally, the structure required that the cooperative cover a growing percentage of the power supplier’s costs that did not directly benefit United Power members. “TEA Solutions offers a customized solution for electric utilities to provide the depth and experience we need to efficiently manage our power acquisition and delivery,” said Gabriel. “We are excited to work with an experienced and accomplished team of professionals who, along with cooperative staff, were able to manage our transition smoothly and without interruption.” TEA Solutions will provide support for United Power’s unique energy needs, helping the cooperative meet its goals for delivering sustainable and economical power to its members. “We are proud of our team’s hard work throughout this entire process and look forward to continuing our partnership with United Power,” said Teofilo. “We are dedicated to ensuring their success in this new market and future expanded markets while supporting their continued excellent service to their communities.” United Power’s Board and staff were committed to finding a power solution that provides members with reliable power at more predictable prices into the future. Changes in the wholesale power market, increasing needs for flexibility in the delivery system, and growing ongoing operational costs from the cooperative’s former wholesale energy provider drove the need to seek out a change. United Power completed its withdrawal from its wholesale contract with Tri-State Generation and Transmission on May 1, 2024, with a historic funding agreement signed in April 2024. About United Power United Power is a member-owned, not-for-profit electric cooperative, delivering electricity to homes, farms, and businesses throughout Colorado’s northern front range. The cooperative is one of the fastest-growing electric co-ops in the nation, and in June 2021 joined the elite ranks of cooperatives serving more than 100,000 meters. The 900-square mile service territory extends from the mountains of Coal Creek and Golden Gate Canyon, along the I-25 corridor and Carbon Valley region, to the farmlands of Brighton, Hudson, and Keenesburg. United Power is also a founding member of the NextGen Cooperative Alliance, which is dedicated to expanding the power supply and procurement options available to distribution co-ops and reforming the traditional generation and transmission business model. For more information about United Power, visit www.unitedpower.com or follow the cooperative on Facebook, X, LinkedIn, YouTube, and Instagram. About TEA Solutions TEA Solutions provides community-owned utilities with a full suite of services to manage and maximize their wholesale energy load. TEA Solutions leverages the talent, systems, and tools of The Energy Authority which provides trading and risk management services to over 70 clients – with combined generating assets of over 25,000 MW. ###07/10/2020 - 07:55 PM
Title United Power Prevails as Colorado Public Utilities Commission Judge Finds Buyout Methodology Reasonable /sites/default/files/styles/news_card_553x430_/public/news/Gavel.png?itok=Nlg14PbQ Friday | July 10, 2020 Colorado Public Utilities Commission (the “Commission”), represented by Administrative Law Judge Robert Garvey, ruled in favor of United Power in the electric cooperative’s effort to establish a “fair, just and reasonable” buyout number from their power supplier, Tri-State Generation and Transmission. The action in front of the Commission was brought late last year and today’s decision helps to establish a methodology for calculating just and non-discriminatory terms for United Power to withdraw as a member of Tri-State. “United Power has continued to pursue this action on behalf of our members,” stated Bryant Robbins, acting CEO. “It’s our goal to provide reliable power to every family and business we serve, and to provide that power at a cost that makes sense. We carefully considered our obligations to Tri-State and developed what we believed was a fair exit cost. Should this exit charge be affirmed by the Commission, it will be up to our Board of Directors to decide if this is in the best interest of our membership.” For nearly two years, United Power sought a fair “exit charge” from Tri-State. During the hearing, United Power presented a methodology based on their proportionate share of Tri-State’s debt which produced an exit charge of approximately $235 million, comparable to payments made by other cooperatives who have exited Tri-State. Instead of working toward a reasonable exit charge, Tri-State tried to block United Power from leaving by proposing to charge it $1.25 billion, a discriminatory amount that would have resulted in an unfair windfall to Tri-State’s remaining members. “Access to today’s energy marketplace requires a utility to be nimble and responsive to both the energy mix and the cost to the members at the end of the line,” stated Dean Hubbuck, Chief Energy Resource Officer. “This is a momentous decision in United Power’s effort to have more control over our power mix while keeping costs down.” “We are hopeful that the Commission affirms this decision and, while we are elated, we recognize this is just the next step in a long process,” stated Robbins. “On behalf of United Power and our Board of Directors, I want to thank Judge Garvey and the Colorado Public Utilities Commission staff for their diligence and efforts in considering this matter. We appreciate their willingness to lend their expertise and oversight to this critical matter.” ###05/30/2018 - 02:43 PM
Title United Power Purchases New Facility in Western Corridor of Territory /sites/default/files/styles/news_card_553x430_/public/news/2017_WesternFacility_0.JPG?itok=UpZSI4WG Thursday | April 27, 2017 Card Teaser Brighton, Colo.—United Power has closed on the purchase of a 130,000 square foot facility located on the west side of the cooperative’s service territory to serve as the fourth location serving our members. Brighton, Colo.—United Power has closed on the purchase of a 130,000 square foot facility located on the west side of the cooperative’s service territory to serve as the fourth location serving our members. The new facility is located on the east side of I-25, just south of Highway 119. “The purchase of this building is a great step toward meeting some of United Power’s strategic goals,” said United Power CEO, Darryl Schriver. “As the territory becomes more populated, our ability to respond quickly and efficiently to our members is vital. This west office will allow us to dispatch trucks and personnel to the west and north sides of our territory quickly without the substantial drive time from the headquarters in Brighton.” The new facility will help the cooperative free up space in the Brighton headquarters to have more room for training and storage. Plans are also in place to lease part of the west facility back to United Power’s primary contractor, Ward Electric. Ward Electric recently added United Power logos to their trucks to help members quickly identify cooperative contractors in the field. “This facility is a win for the cooperative, for Ward Electric and for our members,” stated Schriver. “We’ve been able to negotiate a great financial deal on this purchase, in part because the seller appreciated the cooperative’s profile in the community and sees us a valuable resource. Now we’ll be able to better support the rapidly growing areas in our territory by having trucks and staff that can respond from both sides of our plains territory.” United Power purchased the facility for $8.76 million and took possession on April 25th. United Power is also in negotiations to acquire an adjacent plot of undeveloped land. The additional property would allow for the addition of on-site material storage and expanded parking. The cooperative will be communicating updates about the new facility and how it will be used via the member newsletter United Newsline and on the website.08/19/2019 - 12:14 PM
United Power Ranked in Top 10 List for Energy Storage Monday | August 19, 2019 United Power was among the smallest utilities, and only Colorado utility, to make the list. Read more >05/02/2022 - 08:45 AM
Title United Power Reaffirms Intent to Leave Tri-State; Issues RFP for Up to 600 MW Wholesale Electric Power Supply /sites/default/files/styles/news_card_553x430_/public/news/Jan2019_NL_Rates.png?h=45932144&itok=KW7a9GOa Monday | May 2, 2022 Card Teaser United Power filed its non-conditional Notice of Intent to Withdraw from Tri-State Generation and Transmission Association, Inc. (Tri-State) on April 29. The latest filing moves the cooperative’s previously announced departure date to May 1, 2024. Brighton, Colo. — United Power, a member-owned, not-for-profit electric cooperative based in Brighton, Colorado, filed its non-conditional Notice of Intent to Withdraw from Tri-State Generation and Transmission Association, Inc. (Tri-State) with the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) in Washington, D.C., on April 29. The electric cooperative previously filed a similar notice of intent late last year. That notice, which included a proposed Jan. 1, 2024 departure date, was conditioned upon the assessment of a just and reasonable exit fee by FERC. With this latest action, United Power’s Board of Directors reaffirmed its decision to depart from its wholesale power supplier with a non-conditional notice. “After careful consideration, our Board stands committed to securing more affordable, more flexible, and lower carbon power,” said Mark A. Gabriel, United Power President and Chief Executive Officer. “We expect this will bring economic benefits and lower rates to our communities, along with greater flexibility to generate power closer to home,” he added. The latest filing moves the cooperative’s previously announced departure date to May 1, 2024. The modification to the exit timing comes after a recent FERC ruling that required departing utilities to provide non-conditional notices. Central to FERC’s decision is that United Power and its power supplier both require certainty regarding actual departure dates and contracting obligations for power supply. The non-conditional notice of United Power’s departure will allow Tri-State to plan for its reduced supply obligation and assess the economic viability of its higher cost coal generation units. A FERC hearing to determine a just and reasonable exit fee begins May 3 in Washington, D.C. A ruling from the presiding FERC Judge on exit fees for Tri-State’s members is expected by the end of the summer, with a final Commission decision expected in 2023. Contract disputes between United Power and its power supplier have been ongoing as the cooperative seeks a just and equitable exit fee. United Power is one of several electric cooperatives in the Tri-State system seeking more flexibility, lower cost power, and fewer contract constraints. Two others, Kit Carson Electric Cooperative and Delta-Montrose Electric Association, have already exited, while three other cooperatives have filed to reduce their participation by 50%. Current power rates through Tri-State are 20% above market, and contract requirements permit only 5% locally sourced power. Economic benefit for its members and the ability to generate local power continue to be the primary reasons United Power seeks to leave the Tri-State membership. United Power believes its withdrawal is in the best interest of its members. Simultaneously, United Power today issued a Request for Proposals (RFP) for wholesale electric power supply to serve a peak load of up to 600 MW and retail sales of approximately 3,000 GWh. Commitments of intent to participate in the RFP are due by May 16, with questions and clarifications due by June 13. Proposals for part one of the process are due by Aug. 8. The complete RFP and information for interested respondents can be found at www.unitedpower.com/RFP. Questions about the RFP or selection process may be submitted to United_Power_RFP@enervision-inc.com. United Power is a member-owned, not-for-profit electric cooperative, delivering electricity to homes, farms and businesses throughout Colorado’s northern front range. The cooperative is one of the fastest-growing electric cooperatives in the nation, and in June 2021 joined the elite ranks of cooperatives serving more than 100,000 meters. The 900-square mile service territory extends from the mountains of Coal Creek and Golden Gate Canyon, along the I-25 corridor and Carbon Valley region, to the farmlands of Brighton, Hudson and Keenesburg. United Power is also a founding member of the NextGen Cooperative Alliance, which is dedicated to expanding the power supply and procurement options available to distribution co-ops and reforming the traditional generation and transmission business model. For more information about United Power, visit www.unitedpower.com or follow the cooperative on Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, YouTube and Instagram. ###04/22/2021 - 09:48 AM
Title United Power Recognizes Earth Day /sites/default/files/styles/news_card_553x430_/public/news/EartDay.jpg?itok=kAniev3J Thursday | April 22, 2021 Card Teaser This year, United Power is encouraging its members to practice energy efficiency and join the cooperative in recognizing Earth Day on April 22. Cooperative Encourages Members to Practice Energy Efficiency Brighton, CO – In the spring of 1970, more than 20 million Americans were inspired to gather in communities across the country to celebrate the first Earth Day. The celebration was designed to bring awareness to environmental issues and encourage using our resources more efficiently. This year, United Power is encouraging its members to practice energy efficiency and join the cooperative in recognizing Earth Day on April 22. “Our members are the drivers of energy efficiency, and we want to help them make better decisions about how they use electricity in their homes and businesses,” said United Power Chief Executive Officer Mark A. Gabriel. “As a cooperative, we are uniquely situated to provide tools for members to make energy efficiency a priority this Earth Day. We encourage our members to take a moment to consider the ways they can improve their energy use, save money and help contribute to environmental wellness both locally and globally.” Thinking about ways to implement energy efficiency goals may seem daunting to many individuals and families, but it does not have to be. United Power offers members a wealth of information about how to practice energy efficiency. Here are some easy and low-cost tips to start your energy saving journey: Invest in LED Lighting Many homes and businesses may still utilize older, less efficient forms of lighting. Traditional lighting converts energy into heat to produce light. The heat lost during generation is wasted. Newer, more efficient LEDs, or light emitting diodes, turn energy directly into light, producing little wasted energy. Although LEDs can be a more expensive investment initially, they will pay for themselves in time because they have a far longer life than traditional bulbs and use far less energy. It is one of the quickest ways to practice energy efficiency in your home. Manage Your Demand Demand is the amount of energy you use in a given time. United Power recommends members stagger the use of large appliances, such as ovens, dishwashers, clothing washers and dryers to keep demand costs down. When possible, you can also try to use smaller appliances to do the job of bigger ones, such as cooking in a crockpot. Adjust Your Thermostat Heating and cooling account for approximately half of the average family’s annual energy use. Because spring weather in Colorado is impossible to predict, you never know if you will be cranking up the heat or blasting your air conditioning. Adjusting your thermostat even a single degree per an eight-hour period is estimated to result in a 1 percent savings on your energy bill. During warm nights, you can also take advantage of Colorado’s mild climate by opening a couple windows, known as cross ventilation. Turn Appliances Completely Off Whether you are leaving for a short trip to the grocery store or a weeklong family vacation, take care to ensure any appliances are turned off. Many newer appliances have what is called a “standby” mode, which still draws a small amount of energy. Televisions and gaming systems are most notable for these modes. These loads can add up quickly. According to the US Department of Energy, these loads account for approximately 10 percent of the average family’s energy use. Simple, quick and cheap steps can show immediate results. These steps will help you, help the cooperative and, most importantly, help the environment. For members who want to go a step further and generate solar energy at home, these simple energy savings tips can help you get the most out of your solar investment. For more information on how to manage energy use in your home, go to Managing My Energy. How United Power is Forging a Renewable Future United Power has long been invested in pursuing renewable projects that make economic sense for both the cooperative and its members. The cooperative has built a national reputation for its introduction of innovative renewable projects over the past decade, beginning with the launch of its community solar garden, Sol Partners, in May 2010. As your cooperative, United Power continues to monitor the renewable energy landscape and recognizes the future of electrical generation will be an “all of the above” strategy of investing in a variety of generation sources. The addition of these projects, from utility scale solar farms to a state-leading battery storage facility, helps build some cost stability for members. The addition of the Platteville Solar Farm in December brought United Power’s cumulative solar production to more than 45 megawatts. Together with the cooperative’s other renewable projects and its members’ rooftop solar systems, United Power produces nearly 85 total megawatts, accounting for 14 percent of its energy needs and enough to power more than 11,000 homes and businesses. “United Power has demonstrative success in planning for and implementing renewable projects that provide tangible benefits for our members,” Gabriel said. “As we plan for the future, we’ll continue to prioritize projects that establish us as a leader in the energy industry and also meet our members’ expectations for us as their cooperative. What we’re doing now is laying the groundwork for a sustainable and environmentally friendly electric utility.”11/01/2022 - 10:29 AM
Title United Power Releases Exit Fee Calculations for All Tri-State Members’ Use /sites/default/files/styles/news_card_553x430_/public/news/Jan2019_NL_Rates.png?h=45932144&itok=KW7a9GOa Tuesday | November 1, 2022 Card Teaser United Power has filed two exit fee calculators in conjunction with its response to the FERC initial decision by Administrative Law Judge Renee Terry. Dynamic Calculators Included in Recent FERC Exceptions Filing Brighton, CO - United Power has filed two exit fee calculators in conjunction with its response to the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) initial decision by Administrative Law Judge Renee Terry. These calculators may be used to assist FERC and others as they evaluate the impact of (1) United Power’s proposed balance sheet approach (BSA) incorporating the most recent available data and (2) certain modifications to the BSA proposed by FERC trial staff and adopted by the initial decision. The tools allow all 42 utility members to assess their exit fees from Tri-State Generation and Transmission Association (Tri-State) under (1) United Power’s as-filed BSA (“Appendix A”) and (2) the BSA implementing certain adjustments adopted in the initial decision (“Appendix B”). Working copies of the calculator tools, definitions, and descriptions can be found at www.unitedpower.com/powersupply. The Appendix B fees are modeled based on FERC staff’s exemplary calculations previewed during the hearing process that were adopted in the initial decision, as well as publicly available data, such as Tri-State’s annual financial reports. Each of the 42 utility members can enter a desired departure date and select variables implementing the exit options available under the initial decision. The Appendix B model also calculates alternatives proposed by United Power in its concurrently filed exceptions brief (e.g., a principled 10-year revenue averaging option and transmission revenue adjustment that United Power describes in the brief). These alternatives improve upon the calculations reflecting the initial decision’s overarching principle that the exit fees should be based on the net costs Tri-State incurred to serve the exiting member. “We appreciate the hard work by FERC staff in proposing solutions for departure from our power supplier that are in most respects aligned with what United Power has consistently advocated as a fair outcome,” said Mark A. Gabriel, President and CEO of United Power. “By following United Power’s balance sheet approach, everyone can calculate their actual cost to depart. This is critical for future planning for our current power supplier and its utility members. Though the initial decision modifications present implementation questions and other obstacles that we challenge in our exceptions brief, we believe the decision’s principles chart a course toward members’ fair transition to competitive supply and open access.” United Power has formally indicated its departure from Tri-State, effective May 1, 2024. Learn more about United Power’s departure plan at www.unitedpower.com/powersupply. About United Power United Power is a member-owned, not-for-profit electric cooperative, delivering electricity to homes, farms, and businesses throughout Colorado’s northern front range. The cooperative is one of the fastest-growing electric co-ops in the nation, and in June 2021 joined the elite ranks of cooperatives serving more than 100,000 meters. The 900-square mile service territory extends from the mountains of Coal Creek and Golden Gate Canyon, along the I-25 corridor and Carbon Valley region, to the farmlands of Brighton, Hudson, and Keenesburg. United Power is also a founding member of the NextGen Cooperative Alliance, which is dedicated to expanding the power supply and procurement options available to distribution co-ops and reforming the traditional generation and transmission business model. For more information about United Power, visit www.unitedpower.com or follow them on Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, YouTube, and Instagram. ###05/12/2021 - 11:38 AM
Title United Power Resumes In-Person Services and Collection of Late Fees, Reconnect Fees /sites/default/files/styles/news_card_553x430_/public/images/Images_News/Touchstone_Energy_Office_073.jpg?itok=hzUKd7Ke Wednesday | May 12, 2021 Card Teaser United Power is phasing in a return to standard operating and billing procedures. Now that COVID vaccinations are widely available and restrictions are lifting, United Power is phasing in a return to standard operating and billing procedures. Beginning on May 18th, late fees and reconnect fees, which were temporarily waived during the height of the COVID shutdowns, will be reinstated. On June 1st, select teams of United Power employees will return to the office, and United Power will open its Brighton lobby to walk-in visitors and for in-person payments. United Power was one of the first Colorado utilities to pause disconnections for non-payment and waive late fees and disconnect fees when the initial pandemic stay-at-home orders were issued. Disconnections for non-payment resumed in July 2020, and on May 18th, late fees for payments not received by the due date and reconnection fees to restore electric service will resume. United Power offers several ways to avoid fees, including payment arrangements, enrolling in Pay As You Go pre-paid electric service, and applying for Co-op Cares Funds. The cooperative allocated $550,000 in relief funds to help members financially impacted by COVID. Any member struggling to make their payments in full or on time is encouraged to call United Power to access resources for assistance. “We want to help our members avoid additional fees and disconnections, but they need to reach out to us before they are past due on their payments,” said Francis Ashu, United Power Director of Member Services. “Through our Co-op Cares fund, we have been able to help almost two thousand members financially impacted by COVID, and there are still funds available for members who are facing hardships.” On June 1st, United Power’s Brighton Headquarters lobby at 500 Cooperative Way will re-open. While we will continue providing a suite of remote options to assist members, our Representatives will be available to assist members in person during regular business hours of Monday-Friday, 7:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Masks and social distancing will be required for all visitors and employees as directed by local health code mandates. The Carbon Valley and Coal Creek offices remain closed to visitors. Payment kiosks accept cash, check, and card payments and are available at all United Power offices and the Bank of Colorado Operations Center in Ft Lupton. “Our dedicated employees are anxious to see our members and interact with them in person again. We are glad that a safe return to normal operations is possible,” said Mark A. Gabriel, United Power President, and Chief Executive Officer. “United Power has taken every precaution to protect employees from being affected by COVID. With one office re-opening, we will continue to adhere to health department guidelines in the office, and some teams will continue to work remotely. To further protect our employees and ensure they are here to serve our members, we are offering an on-site vaccine clinic for employees and family members.”02/29/2024 - 02:46 PM
Title United Power Selected by US Department of Energy to Receive $6.1 Million Investment /sites/default/files/styles/news_card_553x430_/public/news/PowerLine.jpg?h=6ae7ec77&itok=vzIvBZWb Thursday | February 29, 2024 Card Teaser The Fort Lupton Microgrid project was selected as one of 17 clean energy projects across 20 states and 30 tribal nations and communities. Brighton, CO - United Power was selected by the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) Office of Clean Energy Demonstrations to begin award negotiations for up to $6.1 million in Bipartisan Infrastructure Law funding as part of the Energy Improvements in Rural or Remote Areas (ERA) program. The Fort Lupton Microgrid project was selected as one of 17 clean energy projects across 20 states and 30 tribal nations and communities to receive more than $366 million to ensure more reliable power, lower energy costs, reduce greenhouse gas emissions, provide economic growth opportunities, and support our nation’s rural and remote communities. “We are excited that this unique project was recognized by the U.S. Department of Energy through this program,” stated Mark A. Gabriel, United Power CEO and President. “United Power is in the process of changing our operating structure to invest in more local power generation, and that includes developing energy solutions along with local leadership. United Power has a long history of partnering with the communities we serve to bring them the services their residents need, and this innovative microgrid project is an illustration of that commitment. I encourage all our members to read more about our vision for United Power’s energy future on our Cooperative Roadmap, which can be found at unitedpower.com. Building a cooperative for tomorrow through new energy solutions is a just one of the ways we are showing our members that we are here for good.” The Fort Lupton Microgrid project was submitted with the goal of increasing the reliability of the city’s municipal water treatment plant. The project will replace an aging diesel generator with a floating photovoltaic array, coupled with battery storage, that will help to ensure a clean, reliable water source for residents of Fort Lupton. The project will bring construction jobs to the area, and United Power is partnering with Aims Community College and the BUENO Centre for Multicultural Education to provide contracting outreach in the community. Schneider Electric will lead the construction of the microgrid, which will improve power resiliency, reduce water evaporation, and help the city deliver reliable water services. The project is eligible for up to $6.1 million in funding. “We expect this project to increase power redundancy while reducing our costs,” stated Chris Cross, Fort Lupton City Administrator. “We are projecting a 9% savings on the city’s monthly power bill. Coupled with the floating panel benefits to the water storage, we are excited to see how high our overall savings will be from the project.” “This project captures our drive to revolutionize the energy landscape,” said Jana Gerber, Microgrid President, Schneider Electric North America. “The Fort Lupton microgrid is a perfect complement for our focus on streamlining energy delivery, while providing more sustainable energy solutions. Bringing additional jobs and training opportunities to residents is a key component of the project and will help build the skillsets workers will need in an expanded energy economy.” Learn more about the ERA program and projects selected for award negotiations here. About United Power United Power is a member-owned, not-for-profit electric cooperative, delivering electricity to homes, farms, and businesses throughout Colorado’s northern front range. The cooperative is one of the fastest-growing electric co-ops in the nation, and in June 2021 joined the elite ranks of cooperatives serving more than 100,000 meters. The 900-square mile service territory extends from the mountains of Coal Creek and Golden Gate Canyon, along the I-25 corridor and Carbon Valley region, to the farmlands of Brighton, Hudson, and Keenesburg. United Power is also a founding member of the NextGen Cooperative Alliance, which is dedicated to expanding the power supply and procurement options available to distribution co-ops and reforming the traditional generation and transmission business model. For more information about United Power, visit www.unitedpower.com or follow the cooperative on Facebook, X, LinkedIn, YouTube, and Instagram. About the U.S. Department of Energy’s Office of Clean Energy Demonstrations (OCED) The U.S. Department of Energy’s Office of Clean Energy Demonstrations (OCED) was established to accelerate clean energy technologies and fill a critical innovation gap on the path to achieving our nation’s climate goals of net zero emissions by 2050. OCED’s mission is to deliver clean energy demonstration projects at scale in partnership with the private sector to accelerate deployment, market adoption, and the equitable transition to a decarbonized energy system. Visit energy.gov/oced to learn more. ###04/09/2024 - 12:28 PM
United Power Signs Power Purchase Agreement with NextEra Energy Resources Tuesday | April 9, 2024 Agreement adds 150 MW of solar to the cooperative’s power mix. Read more >