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Ask the Expert: Electric Vehicle Q&A
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Friday | September 25, 2020
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Nigel Zeid of Boulder Nissan addresses some of the most common concerns and hesitations United Power members may be feeling about the possibility of purchasing an electric vehicle.
Nigel Zeid of Boulder Nissan addresses some of the most common concerns and hesitations United Power members may be feeling about the possibility of purchasing an electric vehicle:
Can an electric vehicle meet my range needs?
With ranges north of 250 miles, electric vehicles today are more than sufficient to manage the average driver’s daily commute.
Use your trip odometer to monitor a typical day’s commuting. You can more than likely go the whole day without a charge, and charging stations are becoming more accessible if you need a refill.
Where am I suppose to charge my electric vehicle?
Most people can recharge enough using an outlet in their garage overnight, but charging infrastructure is also growing rapidly.
Your home is already equipped to charge your EV overnight—just like you would charge your cell phone. For most vehicles, an electrician can make a simple upgrade to the outlets in your garage to decrease charge times without purchasing any special charging equipment.
What will it do to my electric bill?
Not as much as you might think. And between saving on gas and maintenance, your electric vehicle will be much cheaper to operate.
Li-on batteries are more contained than regular vehicles where the danger is often fires started by spilled fluids.
But aren’t electric vehicles more expensive?
Electric vehicles are a bit more expensive, but with rebates and incentives, they are just as affordable. And don’t forget your other savings.
Several Federal and State tax credits are available for Colorado drivers.
So electric vehicles are affordable, but are they safe?
Electric vehicles often come standard with enhanced safety features that are only available on higher trims or packages of other vehicles.
Use the Savings Calculator on our ChooseEV page to estimate your gas savings, then check out United Power’s Time of Day rate to see how much you can save by charging overnight.
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August Message from Mark A. Gabriel
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Thursday | August 29, 2024
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A message to United Power members from the cooperative's President & Chief Executive Officer.
Fall is rapidly upon us, and we have successfully managed our first summer as an independent electric cooperative. It has been a hot summer and despite naysayers, the amazingly dedicated women and men of United Power have led us through this significant transition.
United Power’s loads continue to grow. Combining new sources of power and innovative technology, we have managed the system in a new and exciting way. As of May 1, we immediately reduced our carbon intensity by 26%, all while setting new peak loads, month over month. Our investment in nearly 80 MW of battery energy storage systems paid for itself just two weeks after the official ribbon cutting in July. On Aug. 2, we hit an all-time historical peak of nearly 650 MW. The true load had we not deployed battery storage — and initiated demand response — would have been 719 MW! This is up from the 2023 peak of 634 MW. The batteries meant we were able to buy lower cost and lower carbon power at night and use it during peak hours from 4–8 p.m. instead of purchasing expensive fossil fuel alternatives.
There is tremendous value in having a diverse portfolio of generation and large-scale storage resources. As United Power members, you do not have to wait until the end of the decade for the energy transition, as other cooperatives are doing. We are living it now with a wide range of power suppliers — 26 at last count — bringing a lower carbon and more flexible energy supply. Hydropower, wind, solar, storage, and gas allow us to have a balanced energy portfolio.
An increasing number of our members are adding solar, storage, and electric vehicles to their lives, and we support these efforts, happily providing critical analytical tools to make sure these decisions are being made with the best and most neutral information possible. United Power fully supports an “all of the above” strategy whether we provide the resource or not. One of United Power’s critical goals, as outlined in Our Cooperative Roadmap, is to continually optimize our electric system enabling all technologies to operate seamlessly. For help in these and other energy savings opportunities, click here.
In addition to the change in power suppliers, United Power is adding intelligence to how we operate and monitor the grid through advanced systems, including:
A new outage management system, giving us visibility and insight into our operations,
Advanced metering infrastructure (AMI),
Supervisory control and data acquisition (SCADA), the system our operators use to monitor real time performance,
and a distributed energy resource management system (DERMS).
These tools are all part of our drive to become a Distribution System Operator as we prepare for the evolving energy enterprise. In recognition of our commitment to innovation, knowledge sharing, and moving the industry forward, United Power was just honored with the Survalent Industry Innovation Award.
I am particularly excited about several developments that support our members and critical community resources thanks to the benefits of the Inflation Reduction Act and Empower Rural America (New ERA) Program.
Golden Aluminum is receiving $22.5 million to convert some of their equipment from natural gas to electric power.
We are also in the final stages of seeking a large New ERA grant that can help in our transition to lower carbon resources.
All of these exciting changes happen thanks to the dedication of our employees and support from your Board of Directors. As always, I welcome your questions, comments and concerns.
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Automated Devices for Better Reliability
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Monday | November 22, 2021
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United Power’s outage restoration system utilizes a sophisticated network of automated field devices that allow it to respond and resolve outages more quickly..
How Components Work to Reduce Outage Times and Improve Reliability
United Power’s outage restoration system is among the most advanced and innovative in the country. While the cooperative has a national reputation for its forward-thinking beneficial energy projects, behind the scenes it has also dedicated significant resources to improve system reliability and reduce member outage times. The result is one that utilizes a sophisticated network of automated field devices that allow system operators and line crews to respond and resolve outages more quickly while often also preventing larger outages affecting more members.
Automated field devices fall into a varying spectrum from simple to complex, but they all work in conjunction to identify, isolate and, when possible, resolve “faults.” A fault is when the flow of electricity is abnormal or interrupted and can be caused by any number of incidents, such as weather, vegetation or equipment failures. Automated devices detect these faults and respond to them. Each type of device has a different response but all have the same purpose – to keep your lights on.
Fuses are not automated, but they are the simplest and least expensive means of protecting the cooperative’s system from fault damage and preventing larger outages. Fuses are “sacrificial” devices used to isolate small areas. They blow quickly in response to a fault, usually resulting in a relatively small outage impacting only a handful of members while maintaining service to any remaining members downstream of the fault. Line crews are able to quickly and easily replace these devices to restore power. Think of fuses like GFCI outlets in your home. When they detect an abnormal current, they shut off power to protect you.
The next level of protection against faults are reclosers and breakers. Although reclosers and breakers are technically separate devices, they function in similar ways. They protect much larger service areas and can respond to a fault in just a few seconds. This fault response is the most common cause of power “blinks.” When your house lights dim temporarily or you lose power briefly, this is caused by a breaker detecting a fault and responding. Breakers will attempt to reclose automatically to determine if the fault is still present. In the event of a sustained fault, system operators can reclose some breakers remotely once the fault has been cleared, limiting outage times for members impacted. While fuses in your home will shut off power to a single outlet, a breaker will shut off power to entire section of your home when it detects an overloaded circuit.
Switches are another remote device United Power system operators can use to quickly restore power to members affected by an outage. They are used to reroute the distribution of power to restore members while isolating the segment of line with the fault, also known as a redundancy, or the ability to serve members from more than one substation. Before remote switches, lineworkers had to manually activate switches, which required a lot of manpower and guesswork. In most cases, rerouting power with a switcher can restore power to most members within minutes or even seconds. In a few cases, it can restore power to all members. United Power is in the process of upgrading more switches to remote field devices.
System redundancies allow United Power to serve approximately 90 percent of its members from at least two different substations or circuits. The cooperative is continually looking for solutions to construct backup facilities serving remaining members but have been limited by geographical challenges. The approach to installing automated and remote field devices is a strategic method that allows the cooperative to better serve members, resulting in fewer outages where possible, shorter outages where not and improved overall system reliability.
“What we’re doing with automated devices is well ahead of your average electric utility,” said Engineering Director Robert Maxwell. “We’ve been continually reviewing our system and its performance to identify where installing automated devices would best serve our members.”
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Balloon Safety Around Power Lines
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Tuesday | April 29, 2025
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Balloons can become dangerous when they get loose and contact energized power lines.
May is here and that means high school and college graduation ceremonies are around the corner. Helium-filled and mylar balloons are a common theme at celebrations but they can become dangerous when they get loose and contact energized power lines. Thousands of these events occur every year, which can result in expensive equipment repairs and prolonged outages.
Balloon-Related Safety Measures
Loose balloons can find their way into power lines even if they are not immediately located nearby. Practice the following safety measures at your events and celebrations:
Never let helium-filled balloons drift away outdoors. Keep balloons indoors whenever possible to ensure they cannot be released and drift into power lines. If you are using balloons outside, anchor them with weights and double check to make sure they are secure.
Avoid bundling balloons together. Anchor each balloon individually with a short string to control its direction.
Never tie metallic string or streamers to balloons. Metallic materials conduct electricity and can become a pathway to the ground if a balloon contacts a power line.
Deflate balloons after use. Properly dispose of balloons after your event and clean up any remnants so that wildlife, such as birds or squirrels, cannot carry pieces into energized equipment.
Never try to retrieve or release balloons caught in power lines. Power lines carry a high voltage and are extremely dangerous. If you notice balloons or other obstructions in power lines, contact United Power at 303-637-1300.
Member Responsibility
United Power members who release balloons could be liable for damages to the cooperative’s electrical equipment as well as any related damages. Members are encouraged to practice balloon safety and properly dispose of them after use.
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Balloting Open in 2025 United Power Director Election
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Monday | March 17, 2025
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Electronic balloting now open; paper ballots mailed March 14.
Electronic Balloting Now Open; Paper Ballots Mailed March 14Brighton, CO – Balloting in United Power’s 2025 Director Election is open. Members of the cooperative have the option to cast their ballots electronically through their online account or via paper ballot, mailed to members on Friday, March 14. Electronic and mail ballots must be received by 11:59 a.m. on April 15. Members may also vote in person at the cooperative’s Annual Meeting on April 16.
United Power encourages all members to cast their votes in the annual Director Election. Voting allows members to have a voice in their board representation and helps the cooperative better serve its members. Members may return their mail ballot via the postage-paid envelope included in the ballot packet, or they can log into their online account to cast an electronic ballot. Members voting online can access the ballot by clicking the “Vote Now” button.
Three positions on United Power’s Board are up for election this year – one seat in the North, Central, and South Districts. The director candidates are Ursula J. Morgan (incumbent) in the North District; Keith Alquist (incumbent) in the Central District; and Ryan Keefer and Beth Martin (incumbent) in the South District. Candidate statements are available online.
Directors represent all members and are elected on an “at-large” basis to four-year terms. This means members may cast a vote for a director in each district and not just their own. Directors serve in geographic districts to ensure equitable representation of United Power’s member base in the cooperative’s governing body.
Director Election results will be announced at the 2025 Annual Meeting, held at the Riverdale Regional Park & Fairgrounds in Brighton on April 16. Registration for the meeting opens at 4:30 p.m. and balloting closes at the beginning of the official business meeting at 6:30 p.m. A livestream of the meeting will be hosted on the cooperative’s website at www.unitedpower.com/annual-meeting.
About United PowerUnited Power is a member-owned, not-for-profit electric cooperative, delivering electricity to homes, farms, and businesses throughout Colorado’s northern front range. The cooperative is one of the fastest-growing electric co-ops in the nation, serving nearly 114,000 meters. Its 900-square mile service territory extends from the mountains of Coal Creek and Golden Gate Canyon, along the I-25 corridor and Carbon Valley region, to the farmlands of Brighton, Hudson, and Keenesburg. For more information about United Power, visit www.unitedpower.com or follow the cooperative on Facebook, X, LinkedIn, YouTube, and Instagram.###
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Balloting Open in 2026 United Power Director Election
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Friday | March 13, 2026
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Electronic balloting now open; paper ballots mailed March 13.
Electronic Balloting Now Open; Paper Ballots Mailed March 13Brighton, CO – Balloting in United Power’s 2026 Director Election is open. Members of the cooperative have the option to cast their ballots electronically through their online account or via paper ballot, mailed to members on March 13. Electronic and mail ballots must be received by 11:59 a.m. on April 14. Members may also vote in person at the cooperative’s Annual Meeting on April 15, where votes will be cast using a streamlined digital voting system.
United Power encourages all members to cast their votes in the annual Director Election. Voting allows members to have a voice in their board representation and helps the cooperative better serve its members. Members may return their mail ballot via the postage-paid envelope included in the ballot packet, or they can log into their online account to cast an electronic ballot. Members voting online can access the ballot by clicking the “Vote Now” button.
This year, one seat is up for election in each of United Power’s four director districts, and six candidates are running for election. The director candidates are Phil Tiffany and Virginia A. “Ginny” Buczek (incumbent) in the North District; Vicki Erickson and Lisa Hough in the Central District; Steven Douglas (incumbent) in the South District; and Tamra K. Waltemath (incumbent) in the Mountain District. Candidate statements are available online.
Proposed amendments to the cooperative’s Articles of Incorporation will also appear on the ballot for approval by the membership. These amendments will ensure the articles are clear, transparent, and consistent with current state laws and the co-op’s bylaws. Specifically, the proposed amendments remove duplicative and outdated language and add clarifying language where necessary. The proposed amendments can be viewed in full online.
Directors represent all members and are elected on an “at-large” basis to four-year terms. This means members may cast a vote for a director in each district and not just their own. Directors serve in geographic districts to ensure equitable representation of United Power’s member base in the cooperative’s governing body.
Director Election results will be announced at the 2026 Annual Meeting, held at the Riverdale Regional Park & Fairgrounds in Brighton on April 15. Registration for the meeting opens at 4:30 p.m. and balloting closes at the beginning of the official business meeting at 6:30 p.m. A livestream of the meeting will be hosted on the cooperative’s website at www.unitedpower.com/annual-meeting.
About United PowerUnited Power is a member-owned, not-for-profit electric cooperative, delivering electricity to homes, farms, and businesses throughout Colorado’s northern front range. The cooperative is one of the fastest-growing electric co-ops in the nation, serving more than 117,000 meters. Its 900-square mile service territory extends from the mountains of Coal Creek and Golden Gate Canyon, along the I-25 corridor and Carbon Valley region, to the farmlands of Brighton, Hudson, and Keenesburg. For more information about United Power, visit www.unitedpower.com or follow the cooperative on Facebook, X, LinkedIn, YouTube, and Instagram.###
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Battery Storage System Goes Live
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Thursday | November 1, 2018
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Earlier this month, United Power went live with its much anticipated battery storage facility at its new west office, located on the I-25 Frontage Road south of state Highway 119.
Earlier this month, United Power went live with its much anticipated battery storage facility at its new west office, located on the I-25 Frontage Road south of state Highway 119. The project, developed in collaboration with ENGIE, is the largest utility battery storage facility in Colorado.
The introduction of battery storage to United Power’s portfolio will allow the cooperative to save an expected $1 million each year in wholesale capacity charges. Energy generated from all sources on United Power’s grid will be stored during low-demand hours to be discharged during high-peak periods throughout the year.
United Power’s primary goal for its battery storage facility is peak shaving, but it also better positions the cooperative to respond to future innovation and development within the energy environment.
“Understanding storage is the next logical step in the progression of renewable generation,” said Jerry Marizza, United Power’s New Business Director. “Without the ability to store energy, renewables will have an artificial cap placed on its utilization.”
On bright days when the sun is shining, solar fields may collect more energy than can be immediately used. Without proper storage capabilities, that excess energy is lost. Allowing the capture of both wind and solar energy produced at off-peak times when demand is low conserves energy and saves money.
“As a co-op, we have an obligation to our communities and individual members to explore these new options to meet this ever changing energy environment,” Marizza said.
The Tesla battery system United Power and ENGIE utilized for this project is a larger version of the lithium ion battery found in Tesla’s popular electric vehicles. Through years of testing and refinement, Tesla batteries have become the industry standard in energy storage.
The system has the capacity to store and distribute up to four megawatts of energy, or enough to power up to 700 homes simultaneously. Size and duration of the batteries used was determined during a study of United Power’s monthly load profile.
“As one of the fastest growing co-ops in Colorado, United Power wants to stay ahead of the curve when it comes to integrating new technology that can help boost reliability and keep costs down,” said John Parker, United Power CEO, during the project announcement this past year. “Energy storage will play an important role in the grid of the future, and we’re excited to be starting now.”
The new battery storage facility builds on United Power’s reputation for adopting and implementing innovative technology, such as the Sol Partners Cooperative Solar Farm – the first of its kind in Colorado – and Methane to Megawatts Project at the Erie Landfill – only the second of its kind in the state. More than just renewables, these projects also make economic sense for our members while providing reliable energy.
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Beat the Heat...and Your Energy Bill
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Monday | September 3, 2018
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If you’ve seen your electric usage trickle up over the past couple months, it might have something to do with Colorado’s hot summer weather.
If you’ve seen your electric usage trickle up over the past couple months, it might have something to do with Colorado’s hot summer weather. By mid-July, the state had already experienced more than 30 days of temperatures higher than 90 degrees, breaking a July 2012 temperature record.
While the excessive heat wave has probably contributed to some increase in your energy usage, there are some other factors that may have, as well. It’s a good time to talk about those reasons, and how you can use your air conditioning in a way that keeps you comfortable without the added burden on your bill.
Summer vacation is over for school age kids, but for the past two months, they’ve been spending more time at home while you’re at work. That means more time running the air conditioning, playing on electronics and maybe even cooking. All those things require more energy.
Along with having kids home during the weekday, maybe you or your family recently purchased a pool or used your existing pool more often to escape the summer heat. Water features, like pool pumps, use a lot of extra energy.
Seemingly small things can also contribute extra energy usage over the summer. Remembering to close windows and blinds, which block solar heat from entering your home, can keep the house a little cooler. Programmable smart thermostats also give you control when you’re away from the home. You can turn the air conditioning on when you’re about to head home or turn it off if you’re out and forgot.
The summer months are coming to an end and the kids are back in school, but there are a few tips and tricks you can use to help save a little more energy until fall rolls around or even when summer returns next year.
Start with growth prevention. Grass and other plants can grow up around outside air conditioning units, making it more difficult for them to breathe, potentially freezing coils. Take a few extra moments each week to make sure any excess growth around your unit has been cleared.
When you return home from a long day at work or out with the family, turn on your ceiling fan before the air conditioning. The breeze the fan creates will evaporate moisture from your skin and make you feel cooler, even when room temperatures are a few degrees warmer. Remember to turn off fans when you leave a room, though.
If you’re new to Colorado, you might not be familiar with the advantages the climate here provides. Opening your windows before going to bed allows cool air to move through your home so you can keep the air conditioning off. Remember to close windows early in the morning and pull blinds on the south and west sides of your home later in the day.
Another quick and easy technique you can utilize is weatherstripping. Air leaks from your home through cracks around windows, doors and even the foundation. Applying weatherstripping and caulking seals in cool air and prevents hot air from entering.
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Beating the Heat & Summer Demand
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Thursday | June 17, 2021
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June is here and summer is just around the corner. With many people still working from home as we approach summer, electricity usage is going to be important to watch.
June is here and summer is just around the corner. With many people still working from home as we approach summer, electricity usage is going to be important to watch.
Your air conditioning is one of the most demand intensive appliances in your home, accounting for more than 15 percent of your total energy usage. This means members will begin to see their demand charge rise to include the use of this additional appliance. However, United Power was able to prevent rates from increasing this year, which means summer electric bills should remain fairly similar to bills from a year ago, depending on the weather.
United Power provides free member tools to assist in monitoring and controlling your energy usage. The Power Portal, for example, provides a custom dashboard detailing energy usage patterns and identifying peak demand allowing members to determine what behaviors are driving their demand. The cooperative’s custom demand calculator can give members an idea of what appliances are consuming the most energy and are the greatest contributors to demand charges. With air conditioning being the main driver of summer energy usage, United Power also starting offering rebates on ENERGY STAR A/C units this past summer.
The majority of summer energy efficiency tips revolve around creative ways to keep your home cool without overburdening your air conditioning, which has already been difficult during the early part of the summer.
You can find some of these energy saving tips on our website. For these tips, information about demand, available rebates and more, please visit the Understanding Demand page. For quick and simple energy tips, visit our Energy Savings page.
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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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Ask the Expert: Electric Vehicle Q&A
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Friday | September 25, 2020
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Nigel Zeid of Boulder Nissan addresses some of the most common concerns and hesitations United Power members may be feeling about the possibility of purchasing an electric vehicle.
Nigel Zeid of Boulder Nissan addresses some of the most common concerns and hesitations United Power members may be feeling about the possibility of purchasing an electric vehicle:
Can an electric vehicle meet my range needs?
With ranges north of 250 miles, electric vehicles today are more than sufficient to manage the average driver’s daily commute.
Use your trip odometer to monitor a typical day’s commuting. You can more than likely go the whole day without a charge, and charging stations are becoming more accessible if you need a refill.
Where am I suppose to charge my electric vehicle?
Most people can recharge enough using an outlet in their garage overnight, but charging infrastructure is also growing rapidly.
Your home is already equipped to charge your EV overnight—just like you would charge your cell phone. For most vehicles, an electrician can make a simple upgrade to the outlets in your garage to decrease charge times without purchasing any special charging equipment.
What will it do to my electric bill?
Not as much as you might think. And between saving on gas and maintenance, your electric vehicle will be much cheaper to operate.
Li-on batteries are more contained than regular vehicles where the danger is often fires started by spilled fluids.
But aren’t electric vehicles more expensive?
Electric vehicles are a bit more expensive, but with rebates and incentives, they are just as affordable. And don’t forget your other savings.
Several Federal and State tax credits are available for Colorado drivers.
So electric vehicles are affordable, but are they safe?
Electric vehicles often come standard with enhanced safety features that are only available on higher trims or packages of other vehicles.
Use the Savings Calculator on our ChooseEV page to estimate your gas savings, then check out United Power’s Time of Day rate to see how much you can save by charging overnight.
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August Message from Mark A. Gabriel
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Thursday | August 29, 2024
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A message to United Power members from the cooperative's President & Chief Executive Officer.
Fall is rapidly upon us, and we have successfully managed our first summer as an independent electric cooperative. It has been a hot summer and despite naysayers, the amazingly dedicated women and men of United Power have led us through this significant transition.
United Power’s loads continue to grow. Combining new sources of power and innovative technology, we have managed the system in a new and exciting way. As of May 1, we immediately reduced our carbon intensity by 26%, all while setting new peak loads, month over month. Our investment in nearly 80 MW of battery energy storage systems paid for itself just two weeks after the official ribbon cutting in July. On Aug. 2, we hit an all-time historical peak of nearly 650 MW. The true load had we not deployed battery storage — and initiated demand response — would have been 719 MW! This is up from the 2023 peak of 634 MW. The batteries meant we were able to buy lower cost and lower carbon power at night and use it during peak hours from 4–8 p.m. instead of purchasing expensive fossil fuel alternatives.
There is tremendous value in having a diverse portfolio of generation and large-scale storage resources. As United Power members, you do not have to wait until the end of the decade for the energy transition, as other cooperatives are doing. We are living it now with a wide range of power suppliers — 26 at last count — bringing a lower carbon and more flexible energy supply. Hydropower, wind, solar, storage, and gas allow us to have a balanced energy portfolio.
An increasing number of our members are adding solar, storage, and electric vehicles to their lives, and we support these efforts, happily providing critical analytical tools to make sure these decisions are being made with the best and most neutral information possible. United Power fully supports an “all of the above” strategy whether we provide the resource or not. One of United Power’s critical goals, as outlined in Our Cooperative Roadmap, is to continually optimize our electric system enabling all technologies to operate seamlessly. For help in these and other energy savings opportunities, click here.
In addition to the change in power suppliers, United Power is adding intelligence to how we operate and monitor the grid through advanced systems, including:
A new outage management system, giving us visibility and insight into our operations,
Advanced metering infrastructure (AMI),
Supervisory control and data acquisition (SCADA), the system our operators use to monitor real time performance,
and a distributed energy resource management system (DERMS).
These tools are all part of our drive to become a Distribution System Operator as we prepare for the evolving energy enterprise. In recognition of our commitment to innovation, knowledge sharing, and moving the industry forward, United Power was just honored with the Survalent Industry Innovation Award.
I am particularly excited about several developments that support our members and critical community resources thanks to the benefits of the Inflation Reduction Act and Empower Rural America (New ERA) Program.
Golden Aluminum is receiving $22.5 million to convert some of their equipment from natural gas to electric power.
We are also in the final stages of seeking a large New ERA grant that can help in our transition to lower carbon resources.
All of these exciting changes happen thanks to the dedication of our employees and support from your Board of Directors. As always, I welcome your questions, comments and concerns.
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Automated Devices for Better Reliability
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Monday | November 22, 2021
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United Power’s outage restoration system utilizes a sophisticated network of automated field devices that allow it to respond and resolve outages more quickly..
How Components Work to Reduce Outage Times and Improve Reliability
United Power’s outage restoration system is among the most advanced and innovative in the country. While the cooperative has a national reputation for its forward-thinking beneficial energy projects, behind the scenes it has also dedicated significant resources to improve system reliability and reduce member outage times. The result is one that utilizes a sophisticated network of automated field devices that allow system operators and line crews to respond and resolve outages more quickly while often also preventing larger outages affecting more members.
Automated field devices fall into a varying spectrum from simple to complex, but they all work in conjunction to identify, isolate and, when possible, resolve “faults.” A fault is when the flow of electricity is abnormal or interrupted and can be caused by any number of incidents, such as weather, vegetation or equipment failures. Automated devices detect these faults and respond to them. Each type of device has a different response but all have the same purpose – to keep your lights on.
Fuses are not automated, but they are the simplest and least expensive means of protecting the cooperative’s system from fault damage and preventing larger outages. Fuses are “sacrificial” devices used to isolate small areas. They blow quickly in response to a fault, usually resulting in a relatively small outage impacting only a handful of members while maintaining service to any remaining members downstream of the fault. Line crews are able to quickly and easily replace these devices to restore power. Think of fuses like GFCI outlets in your home. When they detect an abnormal current, they shut off power to protect you.
The next level of protection against faults are reclosers and breakers. Although reclosers and breakers are technically separate devices, they function in similar ways. They protect much larger service areas and can respond to a fault in just a few seconds. This fault response is the most common cause of power “blinks.” When your house lights dim temporarily or you lose power briefly, this is caused by a breaker detecting a fault and responding. Breakers will attempt to reclose automatically to determine if the fault is still present. In the event of a sustained fault, system operators can reclose some breakers remotely once the fault has been cleared, limiting outage times for members impacted. While fuses in your home will shut off power to a single outlet, a breaker will shut off power to entire section of your home when it detects an overloaded circuit.
Switches are another remote device United Power system operators can use to quickly restore power to members affected by an outage. They are used to reroute the distribution of power to restore members while isolating the segment of line with the fault, also known as a redundancy, or the ability to serve members from more than one substation. Before remote switches, lineworkers had to manually activate switches, which required a lot of manpower and guesswork. In most cases, rerouting power with a switcher can restore power to most members within minutes or even seconds. In a few cases, it can restore power to all members. United Power is in the process of upgrading more switches to remote field devices.
System redundancies allow United Power to serve approximately 90 percent of its members from at least two different substations or circuits. The cooperative is continually looking for solutions to construct backup facilities serving remaining members but have been limited by geographical challenges. The approach to installing automated and remote field devices is a strategic method that allows the cooperative to better serve members, resulting in fewer outages where possible, shorter outages where not and improved overall system reliability.
“What we’re doing with automated devices is well ahead of your average electric utility,” said Engineering Director Robert Maxwell. “We’ve been continually reviewing our system and its performance to identify where installing automated devices would best serve our members.”
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Balloon Safety Around Power Lines
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Tuesday | April 29, 2025
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Balloons can become dangerous when they get loose and contact energized power lines.
May is here and that means high school and college graduation ceremonies are around the corner. Helium-filled and mylar balloons are a common theme at celebrations but they can become dangerous when they get loose and contact energized power lines. Thousands of these events occur every year, which can result in expensive equipment repairs and prolonged outages.
Balloon-Related Safety Measures
Loose balloons can find their way into power lines even if they are not immediately located nearby. Practice the following safety measures at your events and celebrations:
Never let helium-filled balloons drift away outdoors. Keep balloons indoors whenever possible to ensure they cannot be released and drift into power lines. If you are using balloons outside, anchor them with weights and double check to make sure they are secure.
Avoid bundling balloons together. Anchor each balloon individually with a short string to control its direction.
Never tie metallic string or streamers to balloons. Metallic materials conduct electricity and can become a pathway to the ground if a balloon contacts a power line.
Deflate balloons after use. Properly dispose of balloons after your event and clean up any remnants so that wildlife, such as birds or squirrels, cannot carry pieces into energized equipment.
Never try to retrieve or release balloons caught in power lines. Power lines carry a high voltage and are extremely dangerous. If you notice balloons or other obstructions in power lines, contact United Power at 303-637-1300.
Member Responsibility
United Power members who release balloons could be liable for damages to the cooperative’s electrical equipment as well as any related damages. Members are encouraged to practice balloon safety and properly dispose of them after use.
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Balloting Open in 2025 United Power Director Election
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Monday | March 17, 2025
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Electronic balloting now open; paper ballots mailed March 14.
Electronic Balloting Now Open; Paper Ballots Mailed March 14Brighton, CO – Balloting in United Power’s 2025 Director Election is open. Members of the cooperative have the option to cast their ballots electronically through their online account or via paper ballot, mailed to members on Friday, March 14. Electronic and mail ballots must be received by 11:59 a.m. on April 15. Members may also vote in person at the cooperative’s Annual Meeting on April 16.
United Power encourages all members to cast their votes in the annual Director Election. Voting allows members to have a voice in their board representation and helps the cooperative better serve its members. Members may return their mail ballot via the postage-paid envelope included in the ballot packet, or they can log into their online account to cast an electronic ballot. Members voting online can access the ballot by clicking the “Vote Now” button.
Three positions on United Power’s Board are up for election this year – one seat in the North, Central, and South Districts. The director candidates are Ursula J. Morgan (incumbent) in the North District; Keith Alquist (incumbent) in the Central District; and Ryan Keefer and Beth Martin (incumbent) in the South District. Candidate statements are available online.
Directors represent all members and are elected on an “at-large” basis to four-year terms. This means members may cast a vote for a director in each district and not just their own. Directors serve in geographic districts to ensure equitable representation of United Power’s member base in the cooperative’s governing body.
Director Election results will be announced at the 2025 Annual Meeting, held at the Riverdale Regional Park & Fairgrounds in Brighton on April 16. Registration for the meeting opens at 4:30 p.m. and balloting closes at the beginning of the official business meeting at 6:30 p.m. A livestream of the meeting will be hosted on the cooperative’s website at www.unitedpower.com/annual-meeting.
About United PowerUnited Power is a member-owned, not-for-profit electric cooperative, delivering electricity to homes, farms, and businesses throughout Colorado’s northern front range. The cooperative is one of the fastest-growing electric co-ops in the nation, serving nearly 114,000 meters. Its 900-square mile service territory extends from the mountains of Coal Creek and Golden Gate Canyon, along the I-25 corridor and Carbon Valley region, to the farmlands of Brighton, Hudson, and Keenesburg. For more information about United Power, visit www.unitedpower.com or follow the cooperative on Facebook, X, LinkedIn, YouTube, and Instagram.###
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Balloting Open in 2026 United Power Director Election
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Friday | March 13, 2026
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Electronic balloting now open; paper ballots mailed March 13.
Electronic Balloting Now Open; Paper Ballots Mailed March 13Brighton, CO – Balloting in United Power’s 2026 Director Election is open. Members of the cooperative have the option to cast their ballots electronically through their online account or via paper ballot, mailed to members on March 13. Electronic and mail ballots must be received by 11:59 a.m. on April 14. Members may also vote in person at the cooperative’s Annual Meeting on April 15, where votes will be cast using a streamlined digital voting system.
United Power encourages all members to cast their votes in the annual Director Election. Voting allows members to have a voice in their board representation and helps the cooperative better serve its members. Members may return their mail ballot via the postage-paid envelope included in the ballot packet, or they can log into their online account to cast an electronic ballot. Members voting online can access the ballot by clicking the “Vote Now” button.
This year, one seat is up for election in each of United Power’s four director districts, and six candidates are running for election. The director candidates are Phil Tiffany and Virginia A. “Ginny” Buczek (incumbent) in the North District; Vicki Erickson and Lisa Hough in the Central District; Steven Douglas (incumbent) in the South District; and Tamra K. Waltemath (incumbent) in the Mountain District. Candidate statements are available online.
Proposed amendments to the cooperative’s Articles of Incorporation will also appear on the ballot for approval by the membership. These amendments will ensure the articles are clear, transparent, and consistent with current state laws and the co-op’s bylaws. Specifically, the proposed amendments remove duplicative and outdated language and add clarifying language where necessary. The proposed amendments can be viewed in full online.
Directors represent all members and are elected on an “at-large” basis to four-year terms. This means members may cast a vote for a director in each district and not just their own. Directors serve in geographic districts to ensure equitable representation of United Power’s member base in the cooperative’s governing body.
Director Election results will be announced at the 2026 Annual Meeting, held at the Riverdale Regional Park & Fairgrounds in Brighton on April 15. Registration for the meeting opens at 4:30 p.m. and balloting closes at the beginning of the official business meeting at 6:30 p.m. A livestream of the meeting will be hosted on the cooperative’s website at www.unitedpower.com/annual-meeting.
About United PowerUnited Power is a member-owned, not-for-profit electric cooperative, delivering electricity to homes, farms, and businesses throughout Colorado’s northern front range. The cooperative is one of the fastest-growing electric co-ops in the nation, serving more than 117,000 meters. Its 900-square mile service territory extends from the mountains of Coal Creek and Golden Gate Canyon, along the I-25 corridor and Carbon Valley region, to the farmlands of Brighton, Hudson, and Keenesburg. For more information about United Power, visit www.unitedpower.com or follow the cooperative on Facebook, X, LinkedIn, YouTube, and Instagram.###
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Battery Storage System Goes Live
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Thursday | November 1, 2018
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Earlier this month, United Power went live with its much anticipated battery storage facility at its new west office, located on the I-25 Frontage Road south of state Highway 119.
Earlier this month, United Power went live with its much anticipated battery storage facility at its new west office, located on the I-25 Frontage Road south of state Highway 119. The project, developed in collaboration with ENGIE, is the largest utility battery storage facility in Colorado.
The introduction of battery storage to United Power’s portfolio will allow the cooperative to save an expected $1 million each year in wholesale capacity charges. Energy generated from all sources on United Power’s grid will be stored during low-demand hours to be discharged during high-peak periods throughout the year.
United Power’s primary goal for its battery storage facility is peak shaving, but it also better positions the cooperative to respond to future innovation and development within the energy environment.
“Understanding storage is the next logical step in the progression of renewable generation,” said Jerry Marizza, United Power’s New Business Director. “Without the ability to store energy, renewables will have an artificial cap placed on its utilization.”
On bright days when the sun is shining, solar fields may collect more energy than can be immediately used. Without proper storage capabilities, that excess energy is lost. Allowing the capture of both wind and solar energy produced at off-peak times when demand is low conserves energy and saves money.
“As a co-op, we have an obligation to our communities and individual members to explore these new options to meet this ever changing energy environment,” Marizza said.
The Tesla battery system United Power and ENGIE utilized for this project is a larger version of the lithium ion battery found in Tesla’s popular electric vehicles. Through years of testing and refinement, Tesla batteries have become the industry standard in energy storage.
The system has the capacity to store and distribute up to four megawatts of energy, or enough to power up to 700 homes simultaneously. Size and duration of the batteries used was determined during a study of United Power’s monthly load profile.
“As one of the fastest growing co-ops in Colorado, United Power wants to stay ahead of the curve when it comes to integrating new technology that can help boost reliability and keep costs down,” said John Parker, United Power CEO, during the project announcement this past year. “Energy storage will play an important role in the grid of the future, and we’re excited to be starting now.”
The new battery storage facility builds on United Power’s reputation for adopting and implementing innovative technology, such as the Sol Partners Cooperative Solar Farm – the first of its kind in Colorado – and Methane to Megawatts Project at the Erie Landfill – only the second of its kind in the state. More than just renewables, these projects also make economic sense for our members while providing reliable energy.
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Beat the Heat...and Your Energy Bill
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Monday | September 3, 2018
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If you’ve seen your electric usage trickle up over the past couple months, it might have something to do with Colorado’s hot summer weather.
If you’ve seen your electric usage trickle up over the past couple months, it might have something to do with Colorado’s hot summer weather. By mid-July, the state had already experienced more than 30 days of temperatures higher than 90 degrees, breaking a July 2012 temperature record.
While the excessive heat wave has probably contributed to some increase in your energy usage, there are some other factors that may have, as well. It’s a good time to talk about those reasons, and how you can use your air conditioning in a way that keeps you comfortable without the added burden on your bill.
Summer vacation is over for school age kids, but for the past two months, they’ve been spending more time at home while you’re at work. That means more time running the air conditioning, playing on electronics and maybe even cooking. All those things require more energy.
Along with having kids home during the weekday, maybe you or your family recently purchased a pool or used your existing pool more often to escape the summer heat. Water features, like pool pumps, use a lot of extra energy.
Seemingly small things can also contribute extra energy usage over the summer. Remembering to close windows and blinds, which block solar heat from entering your home, can keep the house a little cooler. Programmable smart thermostats also give you control when you’re away from the home. You can turn the air conditioning on when you’re about to head home or turn it off if you’re out and forgot.
The summer months are coming to an end and the kids are back in school, but there are a few tips and tricks you can use to help save a little more energy until fall rolls around or even when summer returns next year.
Start with growth prevention. Grass and other plants can grow up around outside air conditioning units, making it more difficult for them to breathe, potentially freezing coils. Take a few extra moments each week to make sure any excess growth around your unit has been cleared.
When you return home from a long day at work or out with the family, turn on your ceiling fan before the air conditioning. The breeze the fan creates will evaporate moisture from your skin and make you feel cooler, even when room temperatures are a few degrees warmer. Remember to turn off fans when you leave a room, though.
If you’re new to Colorado, you might not be familiar with the advantages the climate here provides. Opening your windows before going to bed allows cool air to move through your home so you can keep the air conditioning off. Remember to close windows early in the morning and pull blinds on the south and west sides of your home later in the day.
Another quick and easy technique you can utilize is weatherstripping. Air leaks from your home through cracks around windows, doors and even the foundation. Applying weatherstripping and caulking seals in cool air and prevents hot air from entering.
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Beating the Heat & Summer Demand
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Thursday | June 17, 2021
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June is here and summer is just around the corner. With many people still working from home as we approach summer, electricity usage is going to be important to watch.
June is here and summer is just around the corner. With many people still working from home as we approach summer, electricity usage is going to be important to watch.
Your air conditioning is one of the most demand intensive appliances in your home, accounting for more than 15 percent of your total energy usage. This means members will begin to see their demand charge rise to include the use of this additional appliance. However, United Power was able to prevent rates from increasing this year, which means summer electric bills should remain fairly similar to bills from a year ago, depending on the weather.
United Power provides free member tools to assist in monitoring and controlling your energy usage. The Power Portal, for example, provides a custom dashboard detailing energy usage patterns and identifying peak demand allowing members to determine what behaviors are driving their demand. The cooperative’s custom demand calculator can give members an idea of what appliances are consuming the most energy and are the greatest contributors to demand charges. With air conditioning being the main driver of summer energy usage, United Power also starting offering rebates on ENERGY STAR A/C units this past summer.
The majority of summer energy efficiency tips revolve around creative ways to keep your home cool without overburdening your air conditioning, which has already been difficult during the early part of the summer.
You can find some of these energy saving tips on our website. For these tips, information about demand, available rebates and more, please visit the Understanding Demand page. For quick and simple energy tips, visit our Energy Savings page.
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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.
