Title
2018: A Year in Review
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Friday | January 25, 2019
Card Teaser
United Power works tirelessly behind the scenes year after year to bring our members safe and reliable power and the tools they need to monitor and control usage patterns that could save them money.
United Power works tirelessly behind the scenes year after year to bring our members safe and reliable power and the tools they need to monitor and control usage patterns that could save them money. This past year has been no different for the cooperative, which took steps to be among the first to adopt utility scale battery storage and rolled out several exciting programs for members to utilize in their daily lives to understand how some behaviors may impact their bill.
Working the Lines
The ability to provide power begins with our linemen. As one of the most dangerous jobs in the world, linemen put themselves in harm’s way every day to ensure the steady stream of power to our members. In 2018, the cooperative completed construction on a new state-of-the-art training facility for linemen, comparable in size and scope to some of the state’s largest. Just as you’ve come to expect from United Power, we went above and beyond, including the most innovative ideas from training yards across the country. From a series of low and high poles, linemen are able to practice a variety of situations to be better prepared to safely face anything they might experience in the field.
Bird’s Eye View
For the past few years, United Power has prioritized preventative maintenance of its electrical infrastructure. For this reason, United Power became one of the first electric utilities in Colorado to utilize unmanned aerial vehicles (UAV) to monitor our power lines. While the project began in the mountain territory nearly two years ago, it was rolled out in phases to the plains territory this past year, beginning in Brighton. Drones offer a safer and more time efficient option for diagnosing potential repairs that need to be made on poles and can often offer the information before outages happen. The project, to date, has examined more than 30 miles of power lines, saving countless man-hours and preventing outages.
When it’s Unpreventable
Despite our best efforts, not all outages are preventable. To provide members with more information related to outages impacting them, United Power rolled out an all-new user friendly outage map in early 2018. The new information shows detailed outage information including number of members affected and cause, among other things, without sacrificing safety and security.
Co-op Continued its Innovative Approach in 2018
Free Resources for Members
In early 2018, United Power began rolling out a new free online resource, the Power Portal, which allows members to monitor their energy usage in 15-minute increments to decide what behaviors had the heaviest impact and adjust accordingly. With the Power Portal, members can monitor their usage patterns to keep energy demand costs down.
The cooperative also launched Rush Hour Rewards in partnership with Nest Learning Thermostats to replace its former cycled air program. The smart home appliance gives members more control over energy usage when they’re not at home. Enrolling in Rush Hour Rewards with your Nest allows United Power to adjust your thermostat a few degrees on hot summer days to save you energy, and rewards you for it at the end of the summer.
Leading the Way
United Power members have been quick to adopt solar energy, setting the bar high for other utilities to follow. In November, the cooperative celebrated its 3,000th rooftop solar connection. According to a 2018 report, United Power ranks among the top 50 utilities nationwide in solar energy and second among cooperatives in connected solar. Our commitment to renewable energy leads the way among all 43 cooperatives in Tri-State’s four-state region.
Also in November, we energized the state’s largest utility-scale battery storage facility at our new west office. The battery system generates 4 MW of electricity and is expected to save the cooperative $1 million in wholesale energy charges. The project, developed in collaboration with ENGIE North America, is enough to power up to 700 homes simultaneously. While not technically being used as a renewable energy source, battery storage represents the next logical step in the progression of renewable energy.
Commitment to Cooperative Principles
Most of us never go more than a few hours without some form of power, whether that’s work, school or home or the commute in between. When United Power lineman Kelly Snow was given the opportunity to join a group of linemen from Colorado and Oklahoma to build the infrastructure necessary to provide two remote jungle villages with power for the first time, he jumped at it. In September, the group left for Guatemala for three weeks to volunteer for the project through NRECA International. When asked why the trip meant so much to him, Snow responded with the Rural Electric Association’s principle of bringing electricity to rural parts of the country and those who are underserved.
Throughout 2018, United Power had many opportunities to celebrate continual growth and innovation with members and leaders in the communities we serves. As we look to the future, we’ll continue to set the bar for others to follow. We look forward to all 2019 has to offer, and continuing to provide our members safe and reliable power.
Title
2019 Official Posting of Nominations for Director by Petition
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Friday | February 15, 2019
Card Teaser
The following persons have been nominated by petition to run for Director of United Power, Inc., in conjunction with the Annual Meeting of Members scheduled April 17, 2019.
UNITED POWER, INC. OFFICIAL POSTING OF NOMINATIONS FOR DIRECTOR BY PETITION
The following persons have been nominated by petition to run for Director of United Power, Inc., in conjunction with the Annual Meeting of Members scheduled April 17, 2019. Districts E (East), S (South) and W (West) are up for three-year terms.
District E (East):
Elizabeth Martin
District S (South):
Keith Alquist, II
Bradley J. Case
District W (West):
Ursula J. Morgan
This notice is posted pursuant to Section 4.06 of the Bylaws of United Power, Inc.
Posted: 2-15-19
Cooperative Website
Brighton Headquarters
Coal Creek Office
Ft. Lupton Office
Title
2019: A Year in Review
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Thursday | February 6, 2020
Card Teaser
This past year was a banner one for the co-op, which also celebrated its 80th anniversary at the annual meeting this past April.
United Power works around the clock year after year to ensure its members continue to receive the safe and reliable power they’ve come to expect from the cooperative. There have been some big changes over the past year. Some of these exciting changes have helped the cooperative better serve members living in different parts of the service territory and many have been for member use and convenience. This past year was a banner one for the co-op, which also celebrated its 80th anniversary at the annual meeting this past April.
A Cooperative Milestone
Celebrating 80 years was a special cooperative milestone for United Power. Not only was the cooperative one of the earliest co-ops formed, but it also took overcoming tremendous odds to achieve the milestone. Originally established by a group of rural farmers in 1938, United Power, formerly Union REA, overcame an aggressive takeover attempt from Public Service Company of Colorado (now Xcel Energy) with the help of its members and has become one of the most progressive cooperatives across the country. Today, United Power proudly serves more than 93,000 members.
Officially Welcomed Frederick
This past January, United Power officially acquired Frederick Power & Light and became the sole power provider to the Town of Frederick. Along with the addition, the cooperative also welcomed approximately 2,400 new members, which pushed its total services above 90,000 meters. The acquisition closed a crucial hole in the middle of the service territory, helping United Power better integrate its electric delivery system and reduce operations costs for all.
Carbon Valley Office Staffed
United Power purchased a large facility near Carbon Valley in 2017 to operate as a base of services in the western part of its service territory. After significant renovations and remodeling, crews began operating out of the facility toward the end of 2018. The western office quickly began providing value for members in the area. Crews stationed in Carbon Valley have quicker and more convenient access to the highways and communities in United Power’s western service territory, eliminating a 45-minute commute from the cooperative’s Brighton-based facility. The shorter commute allows crews to respond more rapidly in the event of an outage and restore power more quickly. Although some operations staff were already stationed at the Carbon Valley Service Center, the facility wasn’t officially staffed until 2019. As the cooperative continues to grow, more departments will be staffed within the new office. The office, located along East I-25 Frontage Road just south of Highway 119, offers construction services and, as of December, a payment kiosk in the office lobby. A community room is also available for local community groups to use free of charge.
New Website Launched
United Power overhauled its website in 2019, launching the new version toward the end of June. The new site was designed with a more member-focused approach. Not only was the new site designed with more user-friendly navigation, it was also tailored to be responsive on mobile devices, making it more intuitive for member use. In addition, the visually focused layout was intended to make the site more engaging while providing assurance members can find the appropriate content to meet their needs more quickly. United Power continues to update the site with the latest cooperative news and information, so it’s important to check back regularly.
Landmark Achievements
From energizing the first community solar farm and becoming one of the first utilities in the country to utilize a single-axis tracking system on its large-scale solar farms, United Power has become synonymous with innovation over the past 10 years. The cooperative celebrated achievements for two innovative projects in 2019. In May, the Sol Partners Community Solar Farm turned 10. An immediate hit at inception, the solar farm sold out quickly and has been adopted by cooperatives across the country. In the fall, United Power’s battery storage project was ranked in the top 10 for interconnected storage capacity by the Smart Electric Power Alliance. The cooperative was the only Colorado utility to appear on the list.
Payment Options that Work for Members
To round out a busy and successful year, United Power also adopted two new payment methods for members. Pay Now allows members to make quick, one-time payments online via check or credit card with just an account number or invoice number, a quick way to pay when you don’t have your password on hand. The cooperative also placed two payment kiosks at office locations in Coal Creek Canyon and Carbon Valley. Like the Pay Now feature, members can make payments using the kiosk with just an account number and form of payment. Payments made by cash or credit are applied immediately and restores accounts subject to disconnection immediately upon payment.
Throughout 2019, United Power had many opportunities to celebrate continual growth and innovation with members and leaders in the communities we serve. As we look to the future, we’ll continue to set the bar for others to follow. We look forward to all 2020 has to offer, and continuing to provide our members safe and reliable energy.
Title
2020 Annual Meeting: Connect with Your Co-op
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Monday | March 2, 2020
Card Teaser
All members are invited to connect with United Power leadership at the Annual Meeting, enjoy the company of fellow cooperative members and have a chance to win one of several door prizes.
Due to the potential spread of COVID-19, United Power's 2020 Annual Meeting has been moved to a virtual "town hall" meeting. Find more information about changes to this year's annual meeting format at www.unitedpower.com/annual-meeting.
As United Power gears up for its 2020 Annual Meeting & Director Election on April 15, 2020, the cooperative is encouraging its members to participate and reminding them they are more than a customer. When you vote in the director election, you have a say in the future of the cooperative. As a member, your vote carries equal weight as any other member’s vote, regardless of what kind of account they have or how large it is. Your pulse on the community and understanding of what’s important to it is critical in helping the cooperative better serve its members.
All members are invited to connect with United Power leadership at the Annual Meeting, enjoy the company of fellow cooperative members and have a chance to win one of several door prizes. The meeting will be held at Riverdale Regional Park, formerly Adams County Fairgrounds, located at 9755 Henderson Road, Brighton, CO 80601.
Eight candidates will be running for election to the United Power board of directors. This year, one seat in each of United Power’s director districts is up for election. The director candidates are James Vigesaa in the East District; Tamra K. Waltemath in the Mountain District; Greg Campbell, Stan Martin, Phil Noble and David E. Rose in the South District; and Virginia “Ginny” A. Buczek and James P. Menghi in the West District. (Candidate statements are published here and included in the March-April United Newsline.)
The cooperative mails out director ballots – including candidate statements – in late March and encourages all members to vote and return their mail ballot prior to the deadline. Ballots may also be dropped off at a United Power office before April 15 or filled out in-person at the Annual Meeting. Although directors live in specific geographic districts, they represent all members and are therefore elected on an “at-large” basis. This means members should cast a vote for a director in each district and not just their own.
Member registration opens at 4:30 p.m. Members who did not mail in their ballot or chose not to vote prior to the meeting will be issued a ballot and be able to cast their votes until the beginning of the official business meeting at 6:30 p.m. After members have cast their ballot, they can enjoy a barbecue dinner with us, visit educational exhibit booths and be entertained by musician Dave Connelly.
The official business meeting includes a report on the status of the cooperative, as well as a report from the board treasurer. Election results will be announced prior to adjournment and door prize drawings will conclude the meeting. To learn more about the Annual Meeting or the candidates running for a seat on the board, visit the Annual Meeting & Director Election page.
Title
2020: Year in Review
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Friday | February 5, 2021
Card Teaser
Even as work and home life looked different during this time, United Power has continued to work hard behind the scenes to provide the same level of service to our members despite unexpected limitations.
The events that will come to define this past year were unpredictable. Even as work and home life looked different during this time, United Power has continued to work hard behind the scenes to provide the same level of service to our members despite unexpected limitations. Though the cooperative took certain steps for the health and safety of both members and employees, we continued to work toward providing safe, reliable and affordable power in 2020.
A United Response to COVID-19
Although 2020 had its share of defining moments, perhaps nothing will come to define it more than the pandemic that arrived on the scene midway through March, forcing United Power to temporarily close its offices to the public. Recognizing the impact certain COVID restrictions could have on members, the cooperative took immediate action to provide help and relief.
The cooperative became one of the first in the state to announce a temporary halt to disconnects for nonpayment, making the decision prior to Governor Jared Polis’ statewide executive order. In the weeks that followed, the Board of Directors approved an allocation of $250,000 in unclaimed capital credits to the Co-op Cares Fund. The fund was established to help members who were financially impacted by the pandemic pay balances on their account. Toward the end of the year, the Board approved an additional allocation of $300,000, including $250,000 to help support members in 2021. Among other relief efforts, the cooperative also retired capital credits to members several months early, getting cash back to members at a time when they could use the relief. Additional information about the cooperative’s ongoing COVID-19 response is available on our Coronavirus Response page.
Round-Up Gets Involved
Considering the many families struggling because of the pandemic, Operation Round-Up distributed additional funds to nonprofits providing services to help United Power members. In addition to the continued support of several partner organizations, Round-Up provided $10,000 each to the Food Bank of the Rockies and the Weld Country Food Bank, helping provide thousands of meals for United Power members and their families.
Find out more information or sign up for Round-Up here.
Contactless Payment Options
United Power has provided members with a variety of contactless payment methods for several years. Members are able to make payments quickly and easily using our free online account management tool, SmartHub, or the United Power mobile app. With these tools, members can schedule their own payments or enroll in Auto Pay, which ensures payments are made on time every month. Members may also make payments over the phone by calling 866-999-4485. United Power also invested in new ways for members to make contactless payments, installing kiosks at its office locations in Carbon Valley and Coal Creek. The cooperative later added a kiosk at the Brighton office location and recently in Fort Lupton at the Bank of Colorado’s Operation Center. More information about kiosks can be found on our Payment Options page. .
Supporting Causes Members Care About
United Power unveiled its Member Choice Grants program in 2020. The new program allowed members to nominate area nonprofits to receive grants from the cooperative, ensuring our continued support for causes you care about. The six nonprofits selected to receive grants in 2020 were focused on providing for the essential needs of others who were trying to navigate difficult circumstances. The program was renewed for 2021, and nominations are now being accepted on our Member Choice Grants page.
Wildfire Rebuild in the Mountains
Several wildfires burned throughout Colorado during the summer and fall of 2020, representing the worst wildfire season in the state’s history. Thousands of acres were burned in rural parts of the state, impacting a few neighboring cooperatives. When the East Troublesome Fire consumed more than 100,000 acres overnight near Granby and Grand Lake in October, Mountain Parks Electric received significant damage to its system. United Power joined four other state cooperatives in dispatching crews and equipment to help rebuild parts of the system to quickly and safely restore power to as many of their members as possible.
Fifth Utility Solar Farm
Despite difficult circumstances, United Power was also busy behind the scenes maintaining its reputation as one of the nation’s most forward-thinking and innovative cooperatives in 2020. Toward the year’s end, United Power energized the Platteville Solar Farm, its fifth utility scale solar farm, directly adjacent to the Rattlesnake Solar Farm near Platteville. With the addition of this new facility, the cooperative now has more than 43 megawatts of solar connected to its system, in addition to approximately 6,000 residential rooftop systems.
Find our more about our innovative projects here.
Investing in EV Resources
Electric vehicles are gaining popularity across the country, and there’s significant interest and adoption within the United Power service area. United Power provided several opportunities for members to look at potential investments in EVs this past year. In October, United Power hosted a live virtual event to dispel myths and hesitations about EVs and provide education on how an electric vehicle could be right for you and your family. Earlier in the year, we also rolled out a new online resource, called ChooseEV, to help answer member questions about either all-electric or plug-in hybrid vehicles.
For more information on ChooseEV, click here.
No Rate Increase for 2021
In December, United Power announced there would be no rate increase for the new year, which could not have come at a better time for many members, especially those who were impacted by the pandemic. Rates were able to remain stable thanks to the forethought of cooperative leadership, who recognized the financial impact of the pandemic and took immediate action to reduce spending in various departments. Other factors that allowed for stable rates included another strong year of growth in both membership and load.
As we move into this new year, the cooperative also remains in discussions with its wholesale power provider, Tri-State Generation & Transmission, in hopes of being able to reduce current rates and offer more competitive rates in the future. United Power responded to unprecedented and unpredictable circumstances in 2020. These situations helped us find new ways to communicate with members without sacrificing the same level of service you have come to expect from the cooperative. Responding to new challenges will inform us for years to come as we continue to provide our members with safe and reliable power.
Title
2021: A Year in Review
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Thursday | February 10, 2022
Card Teaser
Year after year, United Power works toward an unmatched excellence. Despite endless unpredictability over the past two years, the cooperatve has elevated its expectations.
Disclaimer Date: 4/25/2022
In compliance with a recent Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) ruling, United Power will file an unconditional, binding notice to leave our power supplier in the next few months. This will change our previously announced exit date of Jan. 1, 2024. In the same ruling, FERC reaffirmed that a two-year notice period was appropriate. Once determined, the final exit date will be communicated to our members.
100,000 Meter Milestone, Wholesale Power Announcement Highlight 2021
Year after year, United Power works toward an unmatched excellence in the level of service it provides for its members, the support it demonstrates in its communities and its exceedingly high standard for delivering continuously reliable power. Endless unpredictability over the past two years, caused by the ongoing pandemic and unproductive negotiations with its wholesale power supplier, has not inhibited the cooperative from pursuing these goals. Instead, its leadership has elevated its expectations, building on all United Power has accomplished over the past year.
Crossing A Meter Milestone
United Power experienced record levels of growth throughout its service territory in 2021, resulting in it surging past a significant meter milestone this past summer. The cooperative energized its 100,000th meter connection in Commerce City’s fast-growing Reunion community in June, becoming just the second Colorado cooperative – and 31st nationwide – to surpass the meter milestone and highlighting a period of sustained growth for the cooperative that failed to slow even during the pandemic. It joins CORE Electric Cooperative, formerly Intermountain REA, as the only other cooperative serving more than 100,000 meters in Colorado.
Leadership Shift at the Top
The cooperative welcomed Mark A. Gabriel as its new President and Chief Executive Officer in March after a months-long nationwide search. A 25-year veteran in the electric utility business, Gabriel transitioned immediately to lead ongoing contract negotiations with Tri-State and to help position United Power for future success as a cooperative and industry leader in the changing energy landscape. Prior to joining United Power, Gabriel served eight years as CEO of the Western Area Power Administration.
“I am extremely honored to have been selected to lead such an amazing organization as we approach a transformational time in the electricity business,” Gabriel said. “United Power is uniquely positioned to be engaged in the decarbonization of the grid and to take advantage of the introduction of new technologies as we move to a cleaner energy future.”
Reunited & Ready
United Power was able to resume normal activities this past summer after more than a year of altering its practices for the health and safety of members and employees. The Brighton office location was opened to members again in June. While office locations were closed, the cooperative also installed several payment kiosks around its service territory to allow members to continue accessing convenient payment centers.
A gradual return to normal activities also meant the return of community functions and events. From summer fairs and festivals to holiday parades, United Power was a pivotal partner in helping make many of them possible. The cooperative is a proud sponsor of community events throughout its service territory.
Supporting Members & Causes They Care About
Cooperative leadership approved a support fund to provide relief to members struggling with the pandemic in 2020 called the Co-op Cares Fund. As pandemic concerns continued for many United Power members, the Board allocated another $250,000 to the fund for 2021. Throughout the year, approximately $212,000 in assistance was applied to 1,300 member accounts through Co-op Cares.
United Power also renewed its Member Choice Grant program in 2021. These grants allowed members to nominate local nonprofits to receive funds from the cooperative, ensuring our continued support for causes you care about. Six $1,000 grants were distributed to nonprofit organizations that received nominations from members throughout the year.
No Rate Increase for 2022
Rates are the single greatest concern for United Power members. Proactive efforts to reduce spending and control costs as a direct result of the pandemic allowed the cooperative to avoid a rate increase for members in 2021. Continued cost-control measures, coupled with significant meter and load growth throughout the service territory this past year, allowed United Power to announce in December there would be no residential or business rate increases for the second consecutive year in 2022. The lack of a rate increase should provide a little relief to members who continue to feel the effects of the ongoing pandemic.
Intent to Leave Wholesale Power Supplier
United Power’s ongoing negotiations with its wholesale power supplier reached a defining point at the end of 2021. After more than three years of unsuccessful attempts to modify its all-requirements contract, the cooperative officially filed its intent to leave, effective January 1, 2024. As a member of the wholesale power supplier, United Power was saddled with some of the highest cost, carbon-intensive power in Colorado. The cooperative pursued contract alterations that would allow it to lower costs and expand member options, which its wholesale supplier was unresponsive to. Exiting the contract will allow United Power to deploy more renewable resources on its grid or source more renewable options from new suppliers and provide more competitive rates for its members.
2022: Year in Review
Tuesday | January 10, 2023
United Power is working tirelessly to position the cooperative for future success, using our experie...
Read more >
2023: Year in Review
Thursday | January 11, 2024
United Power had a stellar year including new power contracts, eclipsing a milestone in residential...
Read more >
Title
2018: A Year in Review
/sites/default/files/styles/news_card_553x430_/public/news/Feb2019_NL_Review.png?itok=wnLgmR3X
Friday | January 25, 2019
Card Teaser
United Power works tirelessly behind the scenes year after year to bring our members safe and reliable power and the tools they need to monitor and control usage patterns that could save them money.
United Power works tirelessly behind the scenes year after year to bring our members safe and reliable power and the tools they need to monitor and control usage patterns that could save them money. This past year has been no different for the cooperative, which took steps to be among the first to adopt utility scale battery storage and rolled out several exciting programs for members to utilize in their daily lives to understand how some behaviors may impact their bill.
Working the Lines
The ability to provide power begins with our linemen. As one of the most dangerous jobs in the world, linemen put themselves in harm’s way every day to ensure the steady stream of power to our members. In 2018, the cooperative completed construction on a new state-of-the-art training facility for linemen, comparable in size and scope to some of the state’s largest. Just as you’ve come to expect from United Power, we went above and beyond, including the most innovative ideas from training yards across the country. From a series of low and high poles, linemen are able to practice a variety of situations to be better prepared to safely face anything they might experience in the field.
Bird’s Eye View
For the past few years, United Power has prioritized preventative maintenance of its electrical infrastructure. For this reason, United Power became one of the first electric utilities in Colorado to utilize unmanned aerial vehicles (UAV) to monitor our power lines. While the project began in the mountain territory nearly two years ago, it was rolled out in phases to the plains territory this past year, beginning in Brighton. Drones offer a safer and more time efficient option for diagnosing potential repairs that need to be made on poles and can often offer the information before outages happen. The project, to date, has examined more than 30 miles of power lines, saving countless man-hours and preventing outages.
When it’s Unpreventable
Despite our best efforts, not all outages are preventable. To provide members with more information related to outages impacting them, United Power rolled out an all-new user friendly outage map in early 2018. The new information shows detailed outage information including number of members affected and cause, among other things, without sacrificing safety and security.
Co-op Continued its Innovative Approach in 2018
Free Resources for Members
In early 2018, United Power began rolling out a new free online resource, the Power Portal, which allows members to monitor their energy usage in 15-minute increments to decide what behaviors had the heaviest impact and adjust accordingly. With the Power Portal, members can monitor their usage patterns to keep energy demand costs down.
The cooperative also launched Rush Hour Rewards in partnership with Nest Learning Thermostats to replace its former cycled air program. The smart home appliance gives members more control over energy usage when they’re not at home. Enrolling in Rush Hour Rewards with your Nest allows United Power to adjust your thermostat a few degrees on hot summer days to save you energy, and rewards you for it at the end of the summer.
Leading the Way
United Power members have been quick to adopt solar energy, setting the bar high for other utilities to follow. In November, the cooperative celebrated its 3,000th rooftop solar connection. According to a 2018 report, United Power ranks among the top 50 utilities nationwide in solar energy and second among cooperatives in connected solar. Our commitment to renewable energy leads the way among all 43 cooperatives in Tri-State’s four-state region.
Also in November, we energized the state’s largest utility-scale battery storage facility at our new west office. The battery system generates 4 MW of electricity and is expected to save the cooperative $1 million in wholesale energy charges. The project, developed in collaboration with ENGIE North America, is enough to power up to 700 homes simultaneously. While not technically being used as a renewable energy source, battery storage represents the next logical step in the progression of renewable energy.
Commitment to Cooperative Principles
Most of us never go more than a few hours without some form of power, whether that’s work, school or home or the commute in between. When United Power lineman Kelly Snow was given the opportunity to join a group of linemen from Colorado and Oklahoma to build the infrastructure necessary to provide two remote jungle villages with power for the first time, he jumped at it. In September, the group left for Guatemala for three weeks to volunteer for the project through NRECA International. When asked why the trip meant so much to him, Snow responded with the Rural Electric Association’s principle of bringing electricity to rural parts of the country and those who are underserved.
Throughout 2018, United Power had many opportunities to celebrate continual growth and innovation with members and leaders in the communities we serves. As we look to the future, we’ll continue to set the bar for others to follow. We look forward to all 2019 has to offer, and continuing to provide our members safe and reliable power.
Title
2019 Official Posting of Nominations for Director by Petition
/sites/default/files/styles/news_card_553x430_/public/news/04_18_2018_AnnualMeeting79_0.png?itok=7k2sd_Vx
Friday | February 15, 2019
Card Teaser
The following persons have been nominated by petition to run for Director of United Power, Inc., in conjunction with the Annual Meeting of Members scheduled April 17, 2019.
UNITED POWER, INC. OFFICIAL POSTING OF NOMINATIONS FOR DIRECTOR BY PETITION
The following persons have been nominated by petition to run for Director of United Power, Inc., in conjunction with the Annual Meeting of Members scheduled April 17, 2019. Districts E (East), S (South) and W (West) are up for three-year terms.
District E (East):
Elizabeth Martin
District S (South):
Keith Alquist, II
Bradley J. Case
District W (West):
Ursula J. Morgan
This notice is posted pursuant to Section 4.06 of the Bylaws of United Power, Inc.
Posted: 2-15-19
Cooperative Website
Brighton Headquarters
Coal Creek Office
Ft. Lupton Office
Title
2019: A Year in Review
/sites/default/files/styles/news_card_553x430_/public/news/Feb2020_NL_YearReview.jpg?itok=wfDxhO85
Thursday | February 6, 2020
Card Teaser
This past year was a banner one for the co-op, which also celebrated its 80th anniversary at the annual meeting this past April.
United Power works around the clock year after year to ensure its members continue to receive the safe and reliable power they’ve come to expect from the cooperative. There have been some big changes over the past year. Some of these exciting changes have helped the cooperative better serve members living in different parts of the service territory and many have been for member use and convenience. This past year was a banner one for the co-op, which also celebrated its 80th anniversary at the annual meeting this past April.
A Cooperative Milestone
Celebrating 80 years was a special cooperative milestone for United Power. Not only was the cooperative one of the earliest co-ops formed, but it also took overcoming tremendous odds to achieve the milestone. Originally established by a group of rural farmers in 1938, United Power, formerly Union REA, overcame an aggressive takeover attempt from Public Service Company of Colorado (now Xcel Energy) with the help of its members and has become one of the most progressive cooperatives across the country. Today, United Power proudly serves more than 93,000 members.
Officially Welcomed Frederick
This past January, United Power officially acquired Frederick Power & Light and became the sole power provider to the Town of Frederick. Along with the addition, the cooperative also welcomed approximately 2,400 new members, which pushed its total services above 90,000 meters. The acquisition closed a crucial hole in the middle of the service territory, helping United Power better integrate its electric delivery system and reduce operations costs for all.
Carbon Valley Office Staffed
United Power purchased a large facility near Carbon Valley in 2017 to operate as a base of services in the western part of its service territory. After significant renovations and remodeling, crews began operating out of the facility toward the end of 2018. The western office quickly began providing value for members in the area. Crews stationed in Carbon Valley have quicker and more convenient access to the highways and communities in United Power’s western service territory, eliminating a 45-minute commute from the cooperative’s Brighton-based facility. The shorter commute allows crews to respond more rapidly in the event of an outage and restore power more quickly. Although some operations staff were already stationed at the Carbon Valley Service Center, the facility wasn’t officially staffed until 2019. As the cooperative continues to grow, more departments will be staffed within the new office. The office, located along East I-25 Frontage Road just south of Highway 119, offers construction services and, as of December, a payment kiosk in the office lobby. A community room is also available for local community groups to use free of charge.
New Website Launched
United Power overhauled its website in 2019, launching the new version toward the end of June. The new site was designed with a more member-focused approach. Not only was the new site designed with more user-friendly navigation, it was also tailored to be responsive on mobile devices, making it more intuitive for member use. In addition, the visually focused layout was intended to make the site more engaging while providing assurance members can find the appropriate content to meet their needs more quickly. United Power continues to update the site with the latest cooperative news and information, so it’s important to check back regularly.
Landmark Achievements
From energizing the first community solar farm and becoming one of the first utilities in the country to utilize a single-axis tracking system on its large-scale solar farms, United Power has become synonymous with innovation over the past 10 years. The cooperative celebrated achievements for two innovative projects in 2019. In May, the Sol Partners Community Solar Farm turned 10. An immediate hit at inception, the solar farm sold out quickly and has been adopted by cooperatives across the country. In the fall, United Power’s battery storage project was ranked in the top 10 for interconnected storage capacity by the Smart Electric Power Alliance. The cooperative was the only Colorado utility to appear on the list.
Payment Options that Work for Members
To round out a busy and successful year, United Power also adopted two new payment methods for members. Pay Now allows members to make quick, one-time payments online via check or credit card with just an account number or invoice number, a quick way to pay when you don’t have your password on hand. The cooperative also placed two payment kiosks at office locations in Coal Creek Canyon and Carbon Valley. Like the Pay Now feature, members can make payments using the kiosk with just an account number and form of payment. Payments made by cash or credit are applied immediately and restores accounts subject to disconnection immediately upon payment.
Throughout 2019, United Power had many opportunities to celebrate continual growth and innovation with members and leaders in the communities we serve. As we look to the future, we’ll continue to set the bar for others to follow. We look forward to all 2020 has to offer, and continuing to provide our members safe and reliable energy.
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2020 Annual Meeting: Connect with Your Co-op
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Monday | March 2, 2020
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All members are invited to connect with United Power leadership at the Annual Meeting, enjoy the company of fellow cooperative members and have a chance to win one of several door prizes.
Due to the potential spread of COVID-19, United Power's 2020 Annual Meeting has been moved to a virtual "town hall" meeting. Find more information about changes to this year's annual meeting format at www.unitedpower.com/annual-meeting.
As United Power gears up for its 2020 Annual Meeting & Director Election on April 15, 2020, the cooperative is encouraging its members to participate and reminding them they are more than a customer. When you vote in the director election, you have a say in the future of the cooperative. As a member, your vote carries equal weight as any other member’s vote, regardless of what kind of account they have or how large it is. Your pulse on the community and understanding of what’s important to it is critical in helping the cooperative better serve its members.
All members are invited to connect with United Power leadership at the Annual Meeting, enjoy the company of fellow cooperative members and have a chance to win one of several door prizes. The meeting will be held at Riverdale Regional Park, formerly Adams County Fairgrounds, located at 9755 Henderson Road, Brighton, CO 80601.
Eight candidates will be running for election to the United Power board of directors. This year, one seat in each of United Power’s director districts is up for election. The director candidates are James Vigesaa in the East District; Tamra K. Waltemath in the Mountain District; Greg Campbell, Stan Martin, Phil Noble and David E. Rose in the South District; and Virginia “Ginny” A. Buczek and James P. Menghi in the West District. (Candidate statements are published here and included in the March-April United Newsline.)
The cooperative mails out director ballots – including candidate statements – in late March and encourages all members to vote and return their mail ballot prior to the deadline. Ballots may also be dropped off at a United Power office before April 15 or filled out in-person at the Annual Meeting. Although directors live in specific geographic districts, they represent all members and are therefore elected on an “at-large” basis. This means members should cast a vote for a director in each district and not just their own.
Member registration opens at 4:30 p.m. Members who did not mail in their ballot or chose not to vote prior to the meeting will be issued a ballot and be able to cast their votes until the beginning of the official business meeting at 6:30 p.m. After members have cast their ballot, they can enjoy a barbecue dinner with us, visit educational exhibit booths and be entertained by musician Dave Connelly.
The official business meeting includes a report on the status of the cooperative, as well as a report from the board treasurer. Election results will be announced prior to adjournment and door prize drawings will conclude the meeting. To learn more about the Annual Meeting or the candidates running for a seat on the board, visit the Annual Meeting & Director Election page.
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2020: Year in Review
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Friday | February 5, 2021
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Even as work and home life looked different during this time, United Power has continued to work hard behind the scenes to provide the same level of service to our members despite unexpected limitations.
The events that will come to define this past year were unpredictable. Even as work and home life looked different during this time, United Power has continued to work hard behind the scenes to provide the same level of service to our members despite unexpected limitations. Though the cooperative took certain steps for the health and safety of both members and employees, we continued to work toward providing safe, reliable and affordable power in 2020.
A United Response to COVID-19
Although 2020 had its share of defining moments, perhaps nothing will come to define it more than the pandemic that arrived on the scene midway through March, forcing United Power to temporarily close its offices to the public. Recognizing the impact certain COVID restrictions could have on members, the cooperative took immediate action to provide help and relief.
The cooperative became one of the first in the state to announce a temporary halt to disconnects for nonpayment, making the decision prior to Governor Jared Polis’ statewide executive order. In the weeks that followed, the Board of Directors approved an allocation of $250,000 in unclaimed capital credits to the Co-op Cares Fund. The fund was established to help members who were financially impacted by the pandemic pay balances on their account. Toward the end of the year, the Board approved an additional allocation of $300,000, including $250,000 to help support members in 2021. Among other relief efforts, the cooperative also retired capital credits to members several months early, getting cash back to members at a time when they could use the relief. Additional information about the cooperative’s ongoing COVID-19 response is available on our Coronavirus Response page.
Round-Up Gets Involved
Considering the many families struggling because of the pandemic, Operation Round-Up distributed additional funds to nonprofits providing services to help United Power members. In addition to the continued support of several partner organizations, Round-Up provided $10,000 each to the Food Bank of the Rockies and the Weld Country Food Bank, helping provide thousands of meals for United Power members and their families.
Find out more information or sign up for Round-Up here.
Contactless Payment Options
United Power has provided members with a variety of contactless payment methods for several years. Members are able to make payments quickly and easily using our free online account management tool, SmartHub, or the United Power mobile app. With these tools, members can schedule their own payments or enroll in Auto Pay, which ensures payments are made on time every month. Members may also make payments over the phone by calling 866-999-4485. United Power also invested in new ways for members to make contactless payments, installing kiosks at its office locations in Carbon Valley and Coal Creek. The cooperative later added a kiosk at the Brighton office location and recently in Fort Lupton at the Bank of Colorado’s Operation Center. More information about kiosks can be found on our Payment Options page. .
Supporting Causes Members Care About
United Power unveiled its Member Choice Grants program in 2020. The new program allowed members to nominate area nonprofits to receive grants from the cooperative, ensuring our continued support for causes you care about. The six nonprofits selected to receive grants in 2020 were focused on providing for the essential needs of others who were trying to navigate difficult circumstances. The program was renewed for 2021, and nominations are now being accepted on our Member Choice Grants page.
Wildfire Rebuild in the Mountains
Several wildfires burned throughout Colorado during the summer and fall of 2020, representing the worst wildfire season in the state’s history. Thousands of acres were burned in rural parts of the state, impacting a few neighboring cooperatives. When the East Troublesome Fire consumed more than 100,000 acres overnight near Granby and Grand Lake in October, Mountain Parks Electric received significant damage to its system. United Power joined four other state cooperatives in dispatching crews and equipment to help rebuild parts of the system to quickly and safely restore power to as many of their members as possible.
Fifth Utility Solar Farm
Despite difficult circumstances, United Power was also busy behind the scenes maintaining its reputation as one of the nation’s most forward-thinking and innovative cooperatives in 2020. Toward the year’s end, United Power energized the Platteville Solar Farm, its fifth utility scale solar farm, directly adjacent to the Rattlesnake Solar Farm near Platteville. With the addition of this new facility, the cooperative now has more than 43 megawatts of solar connected to its system, in addition to approximately 6,000 residential rooftop systems.
Find our more about our innovative projects here.
Investing in EV Resources
Electric vehicles are gaining popularity across the country, and there’s significant interest and adoption within the United Power service area. United Power provided several opportunities for members to look at potential investments in EVs this past year. In October, United Power hosted a live virtual event to dispel myths and hesitations about EVs and provide education on how an electric vehicle could be right for you and your family. Earlier in the year, we also rolled out a new online resource, called ChooseEV, to help answer member questions about either all-electric or plug-in hybrid vehicles.
For more information on ChooseEV, click here.
No Rate Increase for 2021
In December, United Power announced there would be no rate increase for the new year, which could not have come at a better time for many members, especially those who were impacted by the pandemic. Rates were able to remain stable thanks to the forethought of cooperative leadership, who recognized the financial impact of the pandemic and took immediate action to reduce spending in various departments. Other factors that allowed for stable rates included another strong year of growth in both membership and load.
As we move into this new year, the cooperative also remains in discussions with its wholesale power provider, Tri-State Generation & Transmission, in hopes of being able to reduce current rates and offer more competitive rates in the future. United Power responded to unprecedented and unpredictable circumstances in 2020. These situations helped us find new ways to communicate with members without sacrificing the same level of service you have come to expect from the cooperative. Responding to new challenges will inform us for years to come as we continue to provide our members with safe and reliable power.
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2021: A Year in Review
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Thursday | February 10, 2022
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Year after year, United Power works toward an unmatched excellence. Despite endless unpredictability over the past two years, the cooperatve has elevated its expectations.
Disclaimer Date: 4/25/2022
In compliance with a recent Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) ruling, United Power will file an unconditional, binding notice to leave our power supplier in the next few months. This will change our previously announced exit date of Jan. 1, 2024. In the same ruling, FERC reaffirmed that a two-year notice period was appropriate. Once determined, the final exit date will be communicated to our members.
100,000 Meter Milestone, Wholesale Power Announcement Highlight 2021
Year after year, United Power works toward an unmatched excellence in the level of service it provides for its members, the support it demonstrates in its communities and its exceedingly high standard for delivering continuously reliable power. Endless unpredictability over the past two years, caused by the ongoing pandemic and unproductive negotiations with its wholesale power supplier, has not inhibited the cooperative from pursuing these goals. Instead, its leadership has elevated its expectations, building on all United Power has accomplished over the past year.
Crossing A Meter Milestone
United Power experienced record levels of growth throughout its service territory in 2021, resulting in it surging past a significant meter milestone this past summer. The cooperative energized its 100,000th meter connection in Commerce City’s fast-growing Reunion community in June, becoming just the second Colorado cooperative – and 31st nationwide – to surpass the meter milestone and highlighting a period of sustained growth for the cooperative that failed to slow even during the pandemic. It joins CORE Electric Cooperative, formerly Intermountain REA, as the only other cooperative serving more than 100,000 meters in Colorado.
Leadership Shift at the Top
The cooperative welcomed Mark A. Gabriel as its new President and Chief Executive Officer in March after a months-long nationwide search. A 25-year veteran in the electric utility business, Gabriel transitioned immediately to lead ongoing contract negotiations with Tri-State and to help position United Power for future success as a cooperative and industry leader in the changing energy landscape. Prior to joining United Power, Gabriel served eight years as CEO of the Western Area Power Administration.
“I am extremely honored to have been selected to lead such an amazing organization as we approach a transformational time in the electricity business,” Gabriel said. “United Power is uniquely positioned to be engaged in the decarbonization of the grid and to take advantage of the introduction of new technologies as we move to a cleaner energy future.”
Reunited & Ready
United Power was able to resume normal activities this past summer after more than a year of altering its practices for the health and safety of members and employees. The Brighton office location was opened to members again in June. While office locations were closed, the cooperative also installed several payment kiosks around its service territory to allow members to continue accessing convenient payment centers.
A gradual return to normal activities also meant the return of community functions and events. From summer fairs and festivals to holiday parades, United Power was a pivotal partner in helping make many of them possible. The cooperative is a proud sponsor of community events throughout its service territory.
Supporting Members & Causes They Care About
Cooperative leadership approved a support fund to provide relief to members struggling with the pandemic in 2020 called the Co-op Cares Fund. As pandemic concerns continued for many United Power members, the Board allocated another $250,000 to the fund for 2021. Throughout the year, approximately $212,000 in assistance was applied to 1,300 member accounts through Co-op Cares.
United Power also renewed its Member Choice Grant program in 2021. These grants allowed members to nominate local nonprofits to receive funds from the cooperative, ensuring our continued support for causes you care about. Six $1,000 grants were distributed to nonprofit organizations that received nominations from members throughout the year.
No Rate Increase for 2022
Rates are the single greatest concern for United Power members. Proactive efforts to reduce spending and control costs as a direct result of the pandemic allowed the cooperative to avoid a rate increase for members in 2021. Continued cost-control measures, coupled with significant meter and load growth throughout the service territory this past year, allowed United Power to announce in December there would be no residential or business rate increases for the second consecutive year in 2022. The lack of a rate increase should provide a little relief to members who continue to feel the effects of the ongoing pandemic.
Intent to Leave Wholesale Power Supplier
United Power’s ongoing negotiations with its wholesale power supplier reached a defining point at the end of 2021. After more than three years of unsuccessful attempts to modify its all-requirements contract, the cooperative officially filed its intent to leave, effective January 1, 2024. As a member of the wholesale power supplier, United Power was saddled with some of the highest cost, carbon-intensive power in Colorado. The cooperative pursued contract alterations that would allow it to lower costs and expand member options, which its wholesale supplier was unresponsive to. Exiting the contract will allow United Power to deploy more renewable resources on its grid or source more renewable options from new suppliers and provide more competitive rates for its members.
2022: Year in Review
Tuesday | January 10, 2023
United Power is working tirelessly to position the cooperative for future success, using our experie...
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2023: Year in Review
Thursday | January 11, 2024
United Power had a stellar year including new power contracts, eclipsing a milestone in residential...
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