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Beneficial Electrification: What It Is & Why It Matters
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Thursday | November 11, 2021
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Beneficial electrification is electricity produced by environmentally friendly means that saves money and/or improves quality of life. Also known as "strategic" electrification.
The electrification of America is one of the most significant achievements of all time. More than 100 years ago, the most prominent population centers across the country were granted access to the valuable resource and quickly began to grow and prosper. Over the past century, access to electricity has expanded to include all parts of the country, especially thanks to the development of member-owned and operated rural electric cooperatives.
Today, the industry is one in the midst of an overarching transition. The retirement of coal plants, relative affordability of renewable energy and advancements in technology have primed electric utilities to power the movement toward beneficial electrification.
As we’re moving closer to an electrified future, renewable energy sources are becoming as affordable or more affordable than traditional fossil fuels. Electricity generated from renewable sources also produces zero carbon emissions and the movement toward electrified “smart” devices utilizes energy more efficiently.
Beneficial electrification, then, is electricity produced by environmentally friendly means that saves money and/or improves quality of life. This is also known as “strategic” electrification because it targets the most practical and valuable fuel switching opportunities, such as electric vehicles and lawn equipment, traditionally powered by gas engines.
Saves Money Over Time
New energy efficient technology that saves consumers money over time is being developed every day. From regularly used appliances in your home or kitchen to the construction of new homes, efficiency is key for both cost savings and environmental impact. Although there’s usually a higher initial investment, it pays for itself over time. For example, electric vehicles are priced above their gas engine equivalents, but because there are fewer moving parts and less standard maintenance, owners will realize greater savings over the life of the vehicle. That’s without considering rebates and the significant price gap between electricity and gas.
Consider heating and cooling your home, as well. Energy used for heating and cooling account for more than half the average consumer’s energy costs. A solution to reducing these costs are air source and ground source heat pumps, which are so efficient they actually provide more energy than they consume. Smart thermostats can regulate energy use whether you’re home or away, analyze your usage and make recommendations. Energy efficient lighting is brighter, lasts longer and uses just a fraction of the energy as traditional incandescent lighting.
Improves Quality of Life
We don’t often purchase devices or appliances that make our lives more difficult. Many of the same devices that provide us with energy savings also improve our quality of life, satisfying two criteria for beneficial electrification. Consider electric vehicles again. Much hesitancy surrounding EVs is related to perceived quality of life – range anxiety and access to a sufficient charging infrastructure. However, range is increasing, charging infrastructure is growing and initial cost of investment is dropping. Vehicles powered by electricity are also quiet, more capable and, depending on who you ask, more fun.
Smart meters allow the cooperative to provide members with aggregate data about their energy use in 15-minute segments using Power Portal, a free tool available to all members. This data, like other smart devices, provides a detailed review of behaviors that have the greatest impact on their energy use. Using this data, members can make small changes to realize instant energy savings.
Devices that are able to provide consumers with energy use data or learn our habits to optimize energy use in a way that fits our lifestyles ultimately means increased savings, more freedom and less anxiety about your energy bill.
Reduces Environmental Impact
The first two criteria reflect how beneficial electrification has a positive effect on consumers, but electricity has to be produced before it can be used. As more coal plants are retired, they are being replaced with renewable alternatives like wind or solar, and the technology used to capture renewable energy generated from these sources is also advancing. These advancements allow us to take greater advantage of renewable resources.
United Power has brought on more than 40 megawatts of solar energy since 2012 and has also debuted alternative renewable projects, like its methane capture project at the Erie landfill. Capturing methane produced in landfills and using it to generate electricity helps reduce its effect on climate change.
Increases Grid Resiliency
Research at Darmouth College earlier this year found electric grids with more renewables were more robust and reliable. As United Power has grown, it has added additional renewable projects to its system.
Load control methods, especially ones that shift energy use away from peak demand periods, have also shown to increase grid resiliency. United Power offers a Time of Day rate that encourages members to shift usage to off-peak periods and its Rush Hour Rewards provides incentives to let the cooperative adjust energy usage on hot days during peak periods. Upcoming cooperative programs will also utilize load control incentives to shift at-home EV charging to off-peak hours.
United Power has demonstrated its leadership in beneficial electrification through a commitment to renewable energy and energy efficiency incentives that save money and improve lives for both it and its members.
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Board Approves June 1 Rate Increase
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Thursday | May 2, 2024
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Increase to fund wholesale power contract exit.
Increase to Fund Wholesale Power Contract Exit
United Power members will see a rate increase effective for usage beginning on June 1, 2024. The rate increase, which is being spread across all rate classes, is intended to offset the contract termination costs paid by the cooperative to leave its current wholesale power contract on May 1. The average household on the standard residential rate using about 850 kwh per month with a demand of 7 kW will see their bill rise from $124.82 to $136.85, an increase of $12.03.
United Power’s Board and leadership signed a historic funding agreement last month to fund the contract termination payment with the co-op’s wholesale power supplier. The agreement provided $627 million toward its exit fee, with at least $179 million of that amount for prepayment for use of the Tri-State Generation and Transmission’s transmission system. The prepayment amount will be credited back monthly with interest against United Power’s transmission bills.
“We are proud of the work that went into this effort to leave our wholesale power contract,” stated Mark A. Gabriel, President and CEO of United Power. “We envision a future with more locally produced power, more predictability in rates, and the flexibility to meet the changing needs of our members. We will have control over the largest single component of our members’ bills – their wholesale power costs. Leaving this contract gives us the ability to design the future we want.”
What is Changing?
The average residential member will see increases in both the demand charge and in the energy charge, while the fixed charge will remain the same. The demand charge will increase from $2.50 to $4.00 per kW, while the energy charge will increase from 10.39 cents per kwh to 10.57 cents.
Residential time-of-use members will see a similar increase, with an increase in demand from $2.50 to $4.00 per kW. On-peak energy charges will drop from 16.07 cents to 15.25 cents, while off-peak energy charges will increase from 5.5 cents per kwh to 6 cents. All other rates will see similar increases.
See full menu of rate changes.
How to Control Your Demand
The structure of United Power’s rates provides members the ability to keep costs lower by both reducing use and controlling demand. Lowering demand is as simple as not using electric appliances at the same time. Additionally, setting timers on dryers and dishwashers so they start after the family goes to sleep moves the demand of that appliance to a lower use period and actively reduces demand costs.
Learn more about demand and how you can reduce the impact of this portion of your bill.
Members who need assistance managing their monthly bills are encouraged to contact United Power’s member services team about billing options such as Budget Billing, which provides the same predictable payment each month. The team can also provide information about assistance organizations in the co-op’s service territory that can provide counseling and resources for those having trouble paying their bill.
The member services team can be reached during normal business hours by phone at 303-637-1300 or via online chat, located in the bottom right hand corner of the United Power website. Likewise, members may email the United Power team at memberservices@unitedpower.com.
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Board Approves Modest Rate Increase for 2017
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Tuesday | January 24, 2017
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United Power’s Board of Directors approved a rate increase of 2.79 percent for residential and commercial members in 2017.
Increase Offsets 4.23 percent Wholesale Power Increase from Tri-State
United Power’s Board of Directors approved a rate increase of 2.79 percent for residential and commercial members in 2017. The rate increase, coupled with cost containment efforts, will offset the 4.23 percent increase in wholesale power from Tri-State Generation and Transmission, United Power’s wholesale power supplier.
The average residential member will see an increase of less than $3 a month in their bill, while commercial members will see just under a $13 increase. The rate increase would become effective for usage beginning February 1st, so members will not see the increase until their March, 2017 bill.
“The board and staff worked hard looking at the ways we could contain operating costs to lessen the impact of this increase on our members,” said Darryl Schriver, CEO. “This modest increase will help the cooperative remain financially healthy, and should make a minimal impact on most members’ electric bills.”
Tri-State Generation and Transmission, a generation cooperative headquartered in Westminster, provides wholesale power to 43 distribution cooperatives in a four state region, including United Power. Tri-State indicated that both increased expenses and lower revenues have made the increase necessary.
An unexpected mid-year increase in power costs from one of their larger suppliers, coupled with increased costs of producing power is stated to be key drivers of their expense increases. Tri-State states that cost increases are being driven by regulatory compliance, additional environmental controls and increases to basic fuel and production costs.
Tri-State is also forecasting a reduction in revenue, due in part to lagging oil and gas production, slow growth, and closure of several large manufacturing and energy production facilities throughout their territory.
In 2014, United Power absorbed most of a 1.6 percent wholesale power cost increase by adjusting rates to a handful of rate classes, and reducing some operational costs. In 2015 only one industrial rate was adjusted even though many costs continued to increase for the cooperative.
“I am pleased with the effort both the board and staff made to find a rate solution that balanced the cooperative’s financial health and the well-being of our members,” Schriver said. “We remain committed to looking out for all our members, while continuing to build a system that delivers safe and reliable power.”
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Board Approves Rate Changes
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Monday | December 3, 2018
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United Power’s Board of Directors approved a rate change for 2019 that separates energy and demand charges and includes a modest 1.5-2% rate increase for most members.
New Rates will be Effective Jan. 1, 2019
United Power’s Board of Directors approved a rate change for 2019 that separates energy and demand charges and includes a modest 1.5-2% rate increase for most members. The new rates will be effective with January 1, 2019 electric use, so members will see these changes reflected on their February 2019 bills.
Since the cooperative began using the advanced metering infrastructure several years ago, we are now able to better measure every member’s impact on the electric system. The new rates break apart the blended rate members have paid in the past, incorporating both an energy charge and a demand charge.
The new rates allow United Power to more fairly charge members for both their energy consumption and their impact on the delivery grid.
“We always weigh multiple factors when considering a rate change,” stated Dean Hubbuck, Director of Power Supply and Rates. “The board takes several months to really evaluate our extensive cost of service study, and then considers our budget when setting rates for the coming year. We are pleased that the rate increase is small, and that members will have more ways to manage their energy bill.”
There have been multiple articles in previous issues of the United Newsline talking about how demand is determined, and how to reduce it. Additionally, the actual demand was added to most bills earlier this year with a zero amount, so members could begin to see how their actions affect their demand.
The new rate structure will assign a one-dollar per kW charge to the demand component, and members will see a corresponding drop in the cost of the energy. Now members can affect their electric bill in two different ways – reducing their demand by staggering their use of appliances and by simply using less energy. So, while rates are increasing next year, the change in the rate structure gives members more power to control their bill than in the past.
The changes to the rates affect all existing residential, time of use and small commercial rates. The rate change also includes the addition of a new Smart Choice Rate that takes the demand concept a step further.
This new Smart Choice Rate provides two different peak demand charges, and a much lower energy charge than with any other rate. The higher demand charges and lower energy charges may work well for a member who is willing to shift their demand throughout the day and night, and actively monitor their use.
In the past year United Power has rolled out access to the Power Portal, a way for members to look at their energy use in near real time (Read more about the Power Portal). The portal provides information about how the member is using power in 15-minute increments. This is a powerful tool to help members manage their energy use and see how they are impacting the power grid. Used in tandem with the demand rates, the Power Portal will provide the information members need to make good energy choices.
“By using the Power Portal and monitoring how they use appliances in their homes, members will have a greater ability to manage their energy costs than at any time in the past,” stated Hubbuck. “We think we have a new rate structure that really meets the needs of our members – whether they want to take an active role in keeping their costs down, or if they simply want a fair rate they don’t have to think about.”
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Board Directors Earn NRECA Certificates
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Wednesday | May 11, 2022
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Five Directors Earn Gold Certificate; Two Earn Credentialed Cooperative Director Certificate
Five Directors Earn Gold Certificate; Two Earn CCD
United Power’s Board of Directors is committed to continuing education opportunities that enable them to govern the cooperative more effectively and stay informed about industry changes. In the past few months, several directors have completed or renewed director certifications through the National Rural Electric Cooperative Association (NRECA). The cooperative’s two newest directors, Stephen Whiteside and Brad Case, received their Credentialed Cooperative Director (CCD) certificates late last year, and Dave Rose earned his Director Gold certification. Directors Tim Erickson, James Vigesaa, Ginny Buczek, and Elizabeth Martin have also recently renewed their Director Gold certificates.
NRECA’s three-step Director Education Program is designed to teach essential skills and knowledge through a series of educational courses. The first step in the process is the CCD, which helps prepare directors to fulfill their fiduciary duty as elected officials on behalf of their membership. Once the program has been completed, directors can proceed to the Board Leadership Certificate (BLC). Directors who have completed both the CCD and BLC, plus an additional three BLC credits, are eligible to earn Director Gold certification. To maintain Director Gold certification, directors must earn at least three credits from approved continuing education courses within a two-year period.
All of United Power’s directors are committed to achieving the highest levels of certification and professional training for the benefit of the cooperative and the members they represent. As of February, all eleven directors have completed at least the CCD certification and nine directors have received Director Gold certification.
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Board of Director Petitions Now Being Accepted
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Monday | December 16, 2019
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The deadline for nominations by petition is Friday, February 14, 2020 by 4:00 p.m.
Four Board Seats Up for Election
Four positions on United Power’s eleven-member board are up for election at the 2020 Annual Meeting which is scheduled for Wednesday, April 15, 2020 at Riverdale Regional Park & Fairgrounds in Brighton. One seat in the East, West, South and Mountain districts will be up for a three-year term.
To be eligible to become or remain a director, a person must be a United Power member and receive electric service from United Power at the member’s primary residence in the district he or she represents. United Power’s bylaws provide in-depth information on director districts, qualifications, terms, elections, meetings and officers.
Each member’s district is printed on their United Power statement. Nominations by written petition must state nominee’s name and district, be signed by 15 or more United Power members, and be filed with the board no less than 60 days prior to the Annual Meeting.
The deadline for nominations by petition is 4 p.m. on Friday, February 14, 2020. Petitions are available at United Power’s headquarters office in Brighton at 500 Cooperative Way. Additional information can be obtained by calling United Power’s executive department at 303-659-0551 or by visiting our Annual Meeting page.
See attached flyer below for more information.
2020 Annual Meeting & Director Election
Wednesday, April 15, 2020
4:30 p.m. | Registration Opens
6:30 p.m. | Balloting Closes & Meeting Begins
Riverdale Regional Park & Fairgrounds
9755 Henderson Road, Brighton, CO 80601
Balloting Deadlines
February 14, 2020 | Direction Nominations by Petition Deadline at 4 p.m.
April 13, 2020 | Mail-in Ballots must arrive at the P.O. Box by 6 a.m.
April 15, 2020 | Ballot Drop-Boxes at offices close at 2 p.m.
April 15, 2020 | Ballot Drop Box Open from 12-4 p.m. at the Riverdale Regional Park and Fairgrounds
Candidate Forums
Attend a Meet the Candidate Forum to learn more about each of the candidates vying to serve on the Board of Directors. The following events are free to members. Light refreshments will be served. RSVPs are not required.
Thursday, March 19, 2020 | 6:30 p.m.
Carbon Valley Service Center
9586 E I-25 Frontage Road, Longmont, CO 80504
Friday, March 20, 2020 | 7:30 a.m.
Coal Creek Canyon Community Center
3158 Highway 72, Golden, CO 80403
Monday, March 23, 2020 | 6:30 p.m.
Riverdale Regional Park
Rendezvous Room, located in Waymire Dome
9755 Henderson Road, Brighton, CO 80601
Tuesday, March 24, 2020 | 7:30 a.m.
Fort Lupton Recreation Center
Multi-Purpose Room 3
203 S. Harrison Ave, Fort Lupton, CO 80621
*Dates and locations may be subject to change.
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Board to Consider Rate Adjustment for 2020
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Monday | November 4, 2019
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The United Power Board meets for its Regulatory Meeting on Nov. 8, 2019.
Annual Regulatory Meeting Planned for November 8, 2019
Meeting Agenda
Every year, the United Power board takes a deep dive into the rates we charge for electricity and considers both the revenue requirements of the cooperative and the anticipated load growth for the cooperative in setting rates for the upcoming year. The United Power board will be considering some adjustments in current rates and adding an additional rate for 2020 at its November 8 Regulatory Meeting.
Recommendations from staff for the upcoming year include a modest 1.5-2% increase for residential members. Similar to last year’s rate changes, the adjustment being proposed would slightly increase the demand component and reduce the cost of energy. In 2019, the cooperative incorporated a demand charge into their residential rate, while reducing the cost of energy.
“When United Power rolled out the advanced metering infrastructure several years ago, we were able to collect better data about how each member uses power in their home or business,” stated Dean Hubbuck, Director of Power Supply and Rates. “Using this data, we constructed a rate that considers not only how much power a member consumes, but we can also measure their impact on the grid that supplies that power. By breaking apart these separate components members are billed more accurately for their use and impact.”
The rate structure not only allowed the cooperative to charge members more fairly for their impact on the electrical system, but it also put more power into the hands of members to control their costs by shifting the way they use electricity in their homes. For instance, by spreading out the use of household appliances like dryers and dishwashers through the course of the day, members can have a direct impact on their demand and reduce their costs.
This year, the board is also considering a new rate that would help lessen the impact on members who utilize electric heating technology in their homes. Homes utilizing electric thermal storage units experienced a larger impact from the rate change in 2019 when compared with the average household. A group of members concerned about the increase met with staff and board members to voice their concerns and ask the board to consider their unique situation.
“One of the best things about being served by a cooperative is that members have direct access to their regulators – the board of directors,” stated Hubbuck. “In response to our members concerns we hosted public meetings, and the new rate being considered in November is in response to these meetings.”
The changes are planned to be in effect for consumption beginning January 1, which means members would see the changes on their February bills. Once the rate adjustments are decided, the changes will be communicated via the United Newsline and on the cooperative’s website.
Bright Lights and Shiny Trucks
Thursday | January 3, 2019
In December, United Power featured its festive, hand-built holiday float, “Christmas Time is Here” i...
Read more >
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Brighton Lobby Closure
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Monday | August 26, 2024
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Brighton lobby, payment kiosk, and drop box unavailable Sept. 6 - Oct. 14.
Brighton Lobby Closure
Sept. 6 — Oct. 14BRIGHTON LOBBY CLOSED
United Power’s Brighton lobby, payment kiosk, and drop box are NOT ACCESSIBLE due to construction of the parking lot and sidewalks. Please plan to use an alternative payment method during this time.Ways to Pay Your Bill:
Online Account — log in to your online account or via the United Power mobile app to pay with a check or credit card.
Pay by Phone — call 303-637-1300 and select option 2 to pay with a check or credit card.
Payment kiosks in Fort Lupton, Carbon Valley, and Coal Creek remain open and accept cash, check, and credit card payments. Click here for kiosk locations.
Watch this page for construction schedule updates or call our member services team at 303-637-1300. We appreciate your patience.
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Camp, Cabins and Cooperatives
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Monday | September 3, 2018
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Each summer, United Power selects youth who stand out from among their peers to represent the coop for a week in the mountains of northwest Colorado, immersing themselves in learning the value of cooperatives.
Each summer, United Power selects youth who stand out from among their peers to represent the coop for a week in the mountains of northwest Colorado, immersing themselves in learning the value of cooperatives. With more than 100 fellow leaders from Colorado, Oklahoma, Kansas and Wyoming, campers are able to craft new friendships and develop leadership skills they can model in their schools and communities back home.
The 2018 Cooperative Youth Leadership Camp isn’t a camp in the traditional sense. There are no tents, no campfires, no s’mores. While there is time for fun, there’s much to cover and little time to do it during the weeklong camp. A lot of time and effort goes on behind the scenes to piece together an experience that is both challenging and entertaining for those attending, and it begins as soon as the buses and vans roll in to deposit campers from their respective cooperatives.
On Day 1, campers were ushered into a valley in an outcropping behind the cluster of cabins where they would begin the process of establishing and managing their own cooperative for the week, including the selection of a Board of Directors, selecting a general manager and holding regular meetings with their “members.” In between, days are filled with cooperative-focused activities, leadership training and collaborative group projects.
Being a part of a cooperative isn’t all business all the time, however. Whether it was building camaraderie while rafting down the Colorado River, enjoying the breathtaking views atop Mt. Werner or competing in the annual volleyball tournament, there were ample opportunities built in for taking a break and having fun.
This summer, two area youth represented United Power at the Youth Leadership Camp: Brooklyn Stubby, of Mapleton Early College, and Catera Gagna, of Brighton High School.
Applications for the 2019 Youth Leadership Camp will be available at the end of 2018. Visit www.unitedpower.com to learn more.
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Capital Credits are Coming
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Monday | July 2, 2018
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Capital credits are just one of the ways United Power is different from other utilities. We’re different because we’re owned by you, our members.
It's Your Money, and Here's How it Works
Capital credits are just one of the ways United Power is different from other utilities. We’re different because we’re owned by you, our members. As we’re heading into our retirement cycle, here’s a brief synopsis of how capital credits work.
Step One: Membership
If you receive power from United Power, you are not just another customer. You are a member. Members have unique privileges, one of which is the principle of economic participation. A portion of each electric bill goes toward the cooperative’s operation and infrastructure, making you a part owner.
Members may also vote annually in board elections or run for a board seat to make their voices heard. By actively engaging and participating with the cooperative, you will always have a voice in our operation.
Step Two: Allocation
Every spring, United Power looks at the prior year and allots any funds remaining after all expenses are paid into a budget item called “patronage capital.” These designated funds are then “allocated” to members, based on the prior year’s electric consumption – the more power you use, the larger your allocation.
The allocation is not a check, but a bookkeeping of the amount of money you have invested into the cooperative’s electric system based on your electric consumption. This allocation amount is reflected as an actual dollar amount on your bill in May each year.
Step Three: Retirement
Every year our board decides if a capital credit “retirement” is feasible. If they decide to retire capital credits the money is paid out or “retired” from each member’s account, based on their past electric use and length of service. At United Power, anyone who receives a retirement of $10 or more receives a check, and any amount under $10 is returned as a credit on members’ bills.
Look for more information about this year’s capital credit retirement in our August issue, and we’ll tell you how to enter to win a prize just for telling us how you’re going to use your capital credit refund!
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Beneficial Electrification: What It Is & Why It Matters
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Thursday | November 11, 2021
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Beneficial electrification is electricity produced by environmentally friendly means that saves money and/or improves quality of life. Also known as "strategic" electrification.
The electrification of America is one of the most significant achievements of all time. More than 100 years ago, the most prominent population centers across the country were granted access to the valuable resource and quickly began to grow and prosper. Over the past century, access to electricity has expanded to include all parts of the country, especially thanks to the development of member-owned and operated rural electric cooperatives.
Today, the industry is one in the midst of an overarching transition. The retirement of coal plants, relative affordability of renewable energy and advancements in technology have primed electric utilities to power the movement toward beneficial electrification.
As we’re moving closer to an electrified future, renewable energy sources are becoming as affordable or more affordable than traditional fossil fuels. Electricity generated from renewable sources also produces zero carbon emissions and the movement toward electrified “smart” devices utilizes energy more efficiently.
Beneficial electrification, then, is electricity produced by environmentally friendly means that saves money and/or improves quality of life. This is also known as “strategic” electrification because it targets the most practical and valuable fuel switching opportunities, such as electric vehicles and lawn equipment, traditionally powered by gas engines.
Saves Money Over Time
New energy efficient technology that saves consumers money over time is being developed every day. From regularly used appliances in your home or kitchen to the construction of new homes, efficiency is key for both cost savings and environmental impact. Although there’s usually a higher initial investment, it pays for itself over time. For example, electric vehicles are priced above their gas engine equivalents, but because there are fewer moving parts and less standard maintenance, owners will realize greater savings over the life of the vehicle. That’s without considering rebates and the significant price gap between electricity and gas.
Consider heating and cooling your home, as well. Energy used for heating and cooling account for more than half the average consumer’s energy costs. A solution to reducing these costs are air source and ground source heat pumps, which are so efficient they actually provide more energy than they consume. Smart thermostats can regulate energy use whether you’re home or away, analyze your usage and make recommendations. Energy efficient lighting is brighter, lasts longer and uses just a fraction of the energy as traditional incandescent lighting.
Improves Quality of Life
We don’t often purchase devices or appliances that make our lives more difficult. Many of the same devices that provide us with energy savings also improve our quality of life, satisfying two criteria for beneficial electrification. Consider electric vehicles again. Much hesitancy surrounding EVs is related to perceived quality of life – range anxiety and access to a sufficient charging infrastructure. However, range is increasing, charging infrastructure is growing and initial cost of investment is dropping. Vehicles powered by electricity are also quiet, more capable and, depending on who you ask, more fun.
Smart meters allow the cooperative to provide members with aggregate data about their energy use in 15-minute segments using Power Portal, a free tool available to all members. This data, like other smart devices, provides a detailed review of behaviors that have the greatest impact on their energy use. Using this data, members can make small changes to realize instant energy savings.
Devices that are able to provide consumers with energy use data or learn our habits to optimize energy use in a way that fits our lifestyles ultimately means increased savings, more freedom and less anxiety about your energy bill.
Reduces Environmental Impact
The first two criteria reflect how beneficial electrification has a positive effect on consumers, but electricity has to be produced before it can be used. As more coal plants are retired, they are being replaced with renewable alternatives like wind or solar, and the technology used to capture renewable energy generated from these sources is also advancing. These advancements allow us to take greater advantage of renewable resources.
United Power has brought on more than 40 megawatts of solar energy since 2012 and has also debuted alternative renewable projects, like its methane capture project at the Erie landfill. Capturing methane produced in landfills and using it to generate electricity helps reduce its effect on climate change.
Increases Grid Resiliency
Research at Darmouth College earlier this year found electric grids with more renewables were more robust and reliable. As United Power has grown, it has added additional renewable projects to its system.
Load control methods, especially ones that shift energy use away from peak demand periods, have also shown to increase grid resiliency. United Power offers a Time of Day rate that encourages members to shift usage to off-peak periods and its Rush Hour Rewards provides incentives to let the cooperative adjust energy usage on hot days during peak periods. Upcoming cooperative programs will also utilize load control incentives to shift at-home EV charging to off-peak hours.
United Power has demonstrated its leadership in beneficial electrification through a commitment to renewable energy and energy efficiency incentives that save money and improve lives for both it and its members.
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Board Approves June 1 Rate Increase
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Thursday | May 2, 2024
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Increase to fund wholesale power contract exit.
Increase to Fund Wholesale Power Contract Exit
United Power members will see a rate increase effective for usage beginning on June 1, 2024. The rate increase, which is being spread across all rate classes, is intended to offset the contract termination costs paid by the cooperative to leave its current wholesale power contract on May 1. The average household on the standard residential rate using about 850 kwh per month with a demand of 7 kW will see their bill rise from $124.82 to $136.85, an increase of $12.03.
United Power’s Board and leadership signed a historic funding agreement last month to fund the contract termination payment with the co-op’s wholesale power supplier. The agreement provided $627 million toward its exit fee, with at least $179 million of that amount for prepayment for use of the Tri-State Generation and Transmission’s transmission system. The prepayment amount will be credited back monthly with interest against United Power’s transmission bills.
“We are proud of the work that went into this effort to leave our wholesale power contract,” stated Mark A. Gabriel, President and CEO of United Power. “We envision a future with more locally produced power, more predictability in rates, and the flexibility to meet the changing needs of our members. We will have control over the largest single component of our members’ bills – their wholesale power costs. Leaving this contract gives us the ability to design the future we want.”
What is Changing?
The average residential member will see increases in both the demand charge and in the energy charge, while the fixed charge will remain the same. The demand charge will increase from $2.50 to $4.00 per kW, while the energy charge will increase from 10.39 cents per kwh to 10.57 cents.
Residential time-of-use members will see a similar increase, with an increase in demand from $2.50 to $4.00 per kW. On-peak energy charges will drop from 16.07 cents to 15.25 cents, while off-peak energy charges will increase from 5.5 cents per kwh to 6 cents. All other rates will see similar increases.
See full menu of rate changes.
How to Control Your Demand
The structure of United Power’s rates provides members the ability to keep costs lower by both reducing use and controlling demand. Lowering demand is as simple as not using electric appliances at the same time. Additionally, setting timers on dryers and dishwashers so they start after the family goes to sleep moves the demand of that appliance to a lower use period and actively reduces demand costs.
Learn more about demand and how you can reduce the impact of this portion of your bill.
Members who need assistance managing their monthly bills are encouraged to contact United Power’s member services team about billing options such as Budget Billing, which provides the same predictable payment each month. The team can also provide information about assistance organizations in the co-op’s service territory that can provide counseling and resources for those having trouble paying their bill.
The member services team can be reached during normal business hours by phone at 303-637-1300 or via online chat, located in the bottom right hand corner of the United Power website. Likewise, members may email the United Power team at memberservices@unitedpower.com.
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Board Approves Modest Rate Increase for 2017
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Tuesday | January 24, 2017
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United Power’s Board of Directors approved a rate increase of 2.79 percent for residential and commercial members in 2017.
Increase Offsets 4.23 percent Wholesale Power Increase from Tri-State
United Power’s Board of Directors approved a rate increase of 2.79 percent for residential and commercial members in 2017. The rate increase, coupled with cost containment efforts, will offset the 4.23 percent increase in wholesale power from Tri-State Generation and Transmission, United Power’s wholesale power supplier.
The average residential member will see an increase of less than $3 a month in their bill, while commercial members will see just under a $13 increase. The rate increase would become effective for usage beginning February 1st, so members will not see the increase until their March, 2017 bill.
“The board and staff worked hard looking at the ways we could contain operating costs to lessen the impact of this increase on our members,” said Darryl Schriver, CEO. “This modest increase will help the cooperative remain financially healthy, and should make a minimal impact on most members’ electric bills.”
Tri-State Generation and Transmission, a generation cooperative headquartered in Westminster, provides wholesale power to 43 distribution cooperatives in a four state region, including United Power. Tri-State indicated that both increased expenses and lower revenues have made the increase necessary.
An unexpected mid-year increase in power costs from one of their larger suppliers, coupled with increased costs of producing power is stated to be key drivers of their expense increases. Tri-State states that cost increases are being driven by regulatory compliance, additional environmental controls and increases to basic fuel and production costs.
Tri-State is also forecasting a reduction in revenue, due in part to lagging oil and gas production, slow growth, and closure of several large manufacturing and energy production facilities throughout their territory.
In 2014, United Power absorbed most of a 1.6 percent wholesale power cost increase by adjusting rates to a handful of rate classes, and reducing some operational costs. In 2015 only one industrial rate was adjusted even though many costs continued to increase for the cooperative.
“I am pleased with the effort both the board and staff made to find a rate solution that balanced the cooperative’s financial health and the well-being of our members,” Schriver said. “We remain committed to looking out for all our members, while continuing to build a system that delivers safe and reliable power.”
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Board Approves Rate Changes
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Monday | December 3, 2018
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United Power’s Board of Directors approved a rate change for 2019 that separates energy and demand charges and includes a modest 1.5-2% rate increase for most members.
New Rates will be Effective Jan. 1, 2019
United Power’s Board of Directors approved a rate change for 2019 that separates energy and demand charges and includes a modest 1.5-2% rate increase for most members. The new rates will be effective with January 1, 2019 electric use, so members will see these changes reflected on their February 2019 bills.
Since the cooperative began using the advanced metering infrastructure several years ago, we are now able to better measure every member’s impact on the electric system. The new rates break apart the blended rate members have paid in the past, incorporating both an energy charge and a demand charge.
The new rates allow United Power to more fairly charge members for both their energy consumption and their impact on the delivery grid.
“We always weigh multiple factors when considering a rate change,” stated Dean Hubbuck, Director of Power Supply and Rates. “The board takes several months to really evaluate our extensive cost of service study, and then considers our budget when setting rates for the coming year. We are pleased that the rate increase is small, and that members will have more ways to manage their energy bill.”
There have been multiple articles in previous issues of the United Newsline talking about how demand is determined, and how to reduce it. Additionally, the actual demand was added to most bills earlier this year with a zero amount, so members could begin to see how their actions affect their demand.
The new rate structure will assign a one-dollar per kW charge to the demand component, and members will see a corresponding drop in the cost of the energy. Now members can affect their electric bill in two different ways – reducing their demand by staggering their use of appliances and by simply using less energy. So, while rates are increasing next year, the change in the rate structure gives members more power to control their bill than in the past.
The changes to the rates affect all existing residential, time of use and small commercial rates. The rate change also includes the addition of a new Smart Choice Rate that takes the demand concept a step further.
This new Smart Choice Rate provides two different peak demand charges, and a much lower energy charge than with any other rate. The higher demand charges and lower energy charges may work well for a member who is willing to shift their demand throughout the day and night, and actively monitor their use.
In the past year United Power has rolled out access to the Power Portal, a way for members to look at their energy use in near real time (Read more about the Power Portal). The portal provides information about how the member is using power in 15-minute increments. This is a powerful tool to help members manage their energy use and see how they are impacting the power grid. Used in tandem with the demand rates, the Power Portal will provide the information members need to make good energy choices.
“By using the Power Portal and monitoring how they use appliances in their homes, members will have a greater ability to manage their energy costs than at any time in the past,” stated Hubbuck. “We think we have a new rate structure that really meets the needs of our members – whether they want to take an active role in keeping their costs down, or if they simply want a fair rate they don’t have to think about.”
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Board Directors Earn NRECA Certificates
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Wednesday | May 11, 2022
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Five Directors Earn Gold Certificate; Two Earn Credentialed Cooperative Director Certificate
Five Directors Earn Gold Certificate; Two Earn CCD
United Power’s Board of Directors is committed to continuing education opportunities that enable them to govern the cooperative more effectively and stay informed about industry changes. In the past few months, several directors have completed or renewed director certifications through the National Rural Electric Cooperative Association (NRECA). The cooperative’s two newest directors, Stephen Whiteside and Brad Case, received their Credentialed Cooperative Director (CCD) certificates late last year, and Dave Rose earned his Director Gold certification. Directors Tim Erickson, James Vigesaa, Ginny Buczek, and Elizabeth Martin have also recently renewed their Director Gold certificates.
NRECA’s three-step Director Education Program is designed to teach essential skills and knowledge through a series of educational courses. The first step in the process is the CCD, which helps prepare directors to fulfill their fiduciary duty as elected officials on behalf of their membership. Once the program has been completed, directors can proceed to the Board Leadership Certificate (BLC). Directors who have completed both the CCD and BLC, plus an additional three BLC credits, are eligible to earn Director Gold certification. To maintain Director Gold certification, directors must earn at least three credits from approved continuing education courses within a two-year period.
All of United Power’s directors are committed to achieving the highest levels of certification and professional training for the benefit of the cooperative and the members they represent. As of February, all eleven directors have completed at least the CCD certification and nine directors have received Director Gold certification.
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Board of Director Petitions Now Being Accepted
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Monday | December 16, 2019
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The deadline for nominations by petition is Friday, February 14, 2020 by 4:00 p.m.
Four Board Seats Up for Election
Four positions on United Power’s eleven-member board are up for election at the 2020 Annual Meeting which is scheduled for Wednesday, April 15, 2020 at Riverdale Regional Park & Fairgrounds in Brighton. One seat in the East, West, South and Mountain districts will be up for a three-year term.
To be eligible to become or remain a director, a person must be a United Power member and receive electric service from United Power at the member’s primary residence in the district he or she represents. United Power’s bylaws provide in-depth information on director districts, qualifications, terms, elections, meetings and officers.
Each member’s district is printed on their United Power statement. Nominations by written petition must state nominee’s name and district, be signed by 15 or more United Power members, and be filed with the board no less than 60 days prior to the Annual Meeting.
The deadline for nominations by petition is 4 p.m. on Friday, February 14, 2020. Petitions are available at United Power’s headquarters office in Brighton at 500 Cooperative Way. Additional information can be obtained by calling United Power’s executive department at 303-659-0551 or by visiting our Annual Meeting page.
See attached flyer below for more information.
2020 Annual Meeting & Director Election
Wednesday, April 15, 2020
4:30 p.m. | Registration Opens
6:30 p.m. | Balloting Closes & Meeting Begins
Riverdale Regional Park & Fairgrounds
9755 Henderson Road, Brighton, CO 80601
Balloting Deadlines
February 14, 2020 | Direction Nominations by Petition Deadline at 4 p.m.
April 13, 2020 | Mail-in Ballots must arrive at the P.O. Box by 6 a.m.
April 15, 2020 | Ballot Drop-Boxes at offices close at 2 p.m.
April 15, 2020 | Ballot Drop Box Open from 12-4 p.m. at the Riverdale Regional Park and Fairgrounds
Candidate Forums
Attend a Meet the Candidate Forum to learn more about each of the candidates vying to serve on the Board of Directors. The following events are free to members. Light refreshments will be served. RSVPs are not required.
Thursday, March 19, 2020 | 6:30 p.m.
Carbon Valley Service Center
9586 E I-25 Frontage Road, Longmont, CO 80504
Friday, March 20, 2020 | 7:30 a.m.
Coal Creek Canyon Community Center
3158 Highway 72, Golden, CO 80403
Monday, March 23, 2020 | 6:30 p.m.
Riverdale Regional Park
Rendezvous Room, located in Waymire Dome
9755 Henderson Road, Brighton, CO 80601
Tuesday, March 24, 2020 | 7:30 a.m.
Fort Lupton Recreation Center
Multi-Purpose Room 3
203 S. Harrison Ave, Fort Lupton, CO 80621
*Dates and locations may be subject to change.
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Board to Consider Rate Adjustment for 2020
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Monday | November 4, 2019
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The United Power Board meets for its Regulatory Meeting on Nov. 8, 2019.
Annual Regulatory Meeting Planned for November 8, 2019
Meeting Agenda
Every year, the United Power board takes a deep dive into the rates we charge for electricity and considers both the revenue requirements of the cooperative and the anticipated load growth for the cooperative in setting rates for the upcoming year. The United Power board will be considering some adjustments in current rates and adding an additional rate for 2020 at its November 8 Regulatory Meeting.
Recommendations from staff for the upcoming year include a modest 1.5-2% increase for residential members. Similar to last year’s rate changes, the adjustment being proposed would slightly increase the demand component and reduce the cost of energy. In 2019, the cooperative incorporated a demand charge into their residential rate, while reducing the cost of energy.
“When United Power rolled out the advanced metering infrastructure several years ago, we were able to collect better data about how each member uses power in their home or business,” stated Dean Hubbuck, Director of Power Supply and Rates. “Using this data, we constructed a rate that considers not only how much power a member consumes, but we can also measure their impact on the grid that supplies that power. By breaking apart these separate components members are billed more accurately for their use and impact.”
The rate structure not only allowed the cooperative to charge members more fairly for their impact on the electrical system, but it also put more power into the hands of members to control their costs by shifting the way they use electricity in their homes. For instance, by spreading out the use of household appliances like dryers and dishwashers through the course of the day, members can have a direct impact on their demand and reduce their costs.
This year, the board is also considering a new rate that would help lessen the impact on members who utilize electric heating technology in their homes. Homes utilizing electric thermal storage units experienced a larger impact from the rate change in 2019 when compared with the average household. A group of members concerned about the increase met with staff and board members to voice their concerns and ask the board to consider their unique situation.
“One of the best things about being served by a cooperative is that members have direct access to their regulators – the board of directors,” stated Hubbuck. “In response to our members concerns we hosted public meetings, and the new rate being considered in November is in response to these meetings.”
The changes are planned to be in effect for consumption beginning January 1, which means members would see the changes on their February bills. Once the rate adjustments are decided, the changes will be communicated via the United Newsline and on the cooperative’s website.
Bright Lights and Shiny Trucks
Thursday | January 3, 2019
In December, United Power featured its festive, hand-built holiday float, “Christmas Time is Here” i...
Read more >
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Brighton Lobby Closure
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Monday | August 26, 2024
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Brighton lobby, payment kiosk, and drop box unavailable Sept. 6 - Oct. 14.
Brighton Lobby Closure
Sept. 6 — Oct. 14BRIGHTON LOBBY CLOSED
United Power’s Brighton lobby, payment kiosk, and drop box are NOT ACCESSIBLE due to construction of the parking lot and sidewalks. Please plan to use an alternative payment method during this time.Ways to Pay Your Bill:
Online Account — log in to your online account or via the United Power mobile app to pay with a check or credit card.
Pay by Phone — call 303-637-1300 and select option 2 to pay with a check or credit card.
Payment kiosks in Fort Lupton, Carbon Valley, and Coal Creek remain open and accept cash, check, and credit card payments. Click here for kiosk locations.
Watch this page for construction schedule updates or call our member services team at 303-637-1300. We appreciate your patience.
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Camp, Cabins and Cooperatives
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Monday | September 3, 2018
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Each summer, United Power selects youth who stand out from among their peers to represent the coop for a week in the mountains of northwest Colorado, immersing themselves in learning the value of cooperatives.
Each summer, United Power selects youth who stand out from among their peers to represent the coop for a week in the mountains of northwest Colorado, immersing themselves in learning the value of cooperatives. With more than 100 fellow leaders from Colorado, Oklahoma, Kansas and Wyoming, campers are able to craft new friendships and develop leadership skills they can model in their schools and communities back home.
The 2018 Cooperative Youth Leadership Camp isn’t a camp in the traditional sense. There are no tents, no campfires, no s’mores. While there is time for fun, there’s much to cover and little time to do it during the weeklong camp. A lot of time and effort goes on behind the scenes to piece together an experience that is both challenging and entertaining for those attending, and it begins as soon as the buses and vans roll in to deposit campers from their respective cooperatives.
On Day 1, campers were ushered into a valley in an outcropping behind the cluster of cabins where they would begin the process of establishing and managing their own cooperative for the week, including the selection of a Board of Directors, selecting a general manager and holding regular meetings with their “members.” In between, days are filled with cooperative-focused activities, leadership training and collaborative group projects.
Being a part of a cooperative isn’t all business all the time, however. Whether it was building camaraderie while rafting down the Colorado River, enjoying the breathtaking views atop Mt. Werner or competing in the annual volleyball tournament, there were ample opportunities built in for taking a break and having fun.
This summer, two area youth represented United Power at the Youth Leadership Camp: Brooklyn Stubby, of Mapleton Early College, and Catera Gagna, of Brighton High School.
Applications for the 2019 Youth Leadership Camp will be available at the end of 2018. Visit www.unitedpower.com to learn more.
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Capital Credits are Coming
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Monday | July 2, 2018
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Capital credits are just one of the ways United Power is different from other utilities. We’re different because we’re owned by you, our members.
It's Your Money, and Here's How it Works
Capital credits are just one of the ways United Power is different from other utilities. We’re different because we’re owned by you, our members. As we’re heading into our retirement cycle, here’s a brief synopsis of how capital credits work.
Step One: Membership
If you receive power from United Power, you are not just another customer. You are a member. Members have unique privileges, one of which is the principle of economic participation. A portion of each electric bill goes toward the cooperative’s operation and infrastructure, making you a part owner.
Members may also vote annually in board elections or run for a board seat to make their voices heard. By actively engaging and participating with the cooperative, you will always have a voice in our operation.
Step Two: Allocation
Every spring, United Power looks at the prior year and allots any funds remaining after all expenses are paid into a budget item called “patronage capital.” These designated funds are then “allocated” to members, based on the prior year’s electric consumption – the more power you use, the larger your allocation.
The allocation is not a check, but a bookkeeping of the amount of money you have invested into the cooperative’s electric system based on your electric consumption. This allocation amount is reflected as an actual dollar amount on your bill in May each year.
Step Three: Retirement
Every year our board decides if a capital credit “retirement” is feasible. If they decide to retire capital credits the money is paid out or “retired” from each member’s account, based on their past electric use and length of service. At United Power, anyone who receives a retirement of $10 or more receives a check, and any amount under $10 is returned as a credit on members’ bills.
Look for more information about this year’s capital credit retirement in our August issue, and we’ll tell you how to enter to win a prize just for telling us how you’re going to use your capital credit refund!
