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Four Colorado Utilities Partner to Explore Transmission Solutions
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Tuesday | July 15, 2025
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Colorado Springs Utilities, CORE Electric Cooperative, Platte River Power Authority and United Power are joining forces to explore an innovative transmission solution that will better serve their member-customers.
Brighton, CO – Four of Colorado’s leading public power and distribution cooperative utilities — Colorado Springs Utilities (Springs Utilities), CORE Electric Cooperative (CORE), Platte River Power Authority and United Power — are joining forces to explore an innovative transmission solution that will better serve their member-customers. This collaboration aims to reduce electric transmission congestion, enhance system reliability and expand access to renewable energy sources, all while supporting the State of Colorado’s ambitious carbon reduction goals.
Transmission lines are the backbone of the electric grid, carrying power from generation facilities to local utilities and substations. Transmission congestion along Colorado’s Front Range has become a growing challenge that limits flexibility. Together, these four utilities serve more than 1.5 million Coloradans, including some of the state’s fastest-growing communities.
“We expect our growth to continue, so addressing transmission congestion is critical,” said Mark A. Gabriel, President and CEO of United Power. “United Power serves an area that is growing quickly, attracting large residential developments and new businesses alike. A more reliable transmission route would help to stabilize costs and increase reliability for current and future members in the cooperative’s service territory.”
A new transmission solution could also benefit the utilities by allowing them to better access generation and share transmission resources, helping to meet Colorado’s clean energy goals.
“We are committed to decarbonizing our portfolio for our four owner communities while supporting our neighbor utilities as we all make this energy transition,” says Jason Frisbie, CEO of Platte River Power Authority. “All options are on the table to help improve reliability and reduce costs, including opportunities to enhance transmission capabilities as we move into an organized market.”
In a complementary move to help manage costs and maintain reliability, Springs Utilities, Platte River Power Authority and United Power will join the Southwest Power Pool (SPP) Regional Transmission Organization on April 1, 2026. CORE is also evaluating market participation, including the SPP.
“What’s great about public power entities is their willingness to collaborate to find the best solutions for their customers. We’re focused on strategies that help manage costs, maintain our industry-leading reliability and reduce carbon emissions. This partnership is a proactive step toward a more resilient energy future for Colorado Springs,” says Travas Deal, Springs Utilities CEO.
“This is a positive first step in exploring alternative ways for our four utilities to support growth and resiliency across our service territories,” stated Pam Feuerstein, CORE CEO. “Additional transmission would enable CORE to continue providing affordable and reliable power to our members, now and into the future.”
The four utilities have agreed to continue to evaluate future transmission options that can best support each utility’s needs while advancing shared goals for reliability, affordability and sustainability.
About Colorado Springs UtilitiesColorado Springs Utilities is one of the largest community-owned, not-for-profit, four-service utilities in the nation. For more than 100 years, we have provided Colorado Springs with safe, reliable and competitively priced electric, natural gas, water and wastewater services. About CORE Electric Cooperative CORE is a member-owned, not-for-profit electric distribution cooperative providing power to over 180,000 services inside a 5,000-square-mile area along Colorado's Front Range. Its headquarters is in Sedalia, and district offices are in Bennett, Pine Junction, and Woodland Park. Learn more at www.CORE.coop.  About Platte River Power AuthorityPlatte River Power Authority (Platte River) is a not-for-profit, community-owned public power generation and transmission utility that provides safe, reliable, environmentally responsible and financially sustainable energy and services to Estes Park, Fort Collins, Longmont and Loveland, Colorado, for delivery to their distribution utility customers. In addition to providing a public health and safety service to the owner communities, Platte River is working toward a 100% noncarbon energy future through a Resource Diversification Policy approved by its board of directors in 2018. For more information, visit prpa.org.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 115,000 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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Free Online EV Resource
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Friday | February 5, 2021
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ChooseEV is the hub of information on electric vehicles for United Power members.
Electric vehicles have continued to improve and advance over the past few years, and as they have improved, so too has interest and intrique. More people now rely on EVs for their daily lives than ever before, thanks in part to continued development of vehicles, rapid adoption by consumers and growth in the local and national charging infrastructure. If you’ve been interested in learning more about purchasing an EV for yourself, there has never been a better opportunity to do so, and your cooperative is here to take that journey with you. United Power recently launched ChooseEV, a free member resource to help you learn more about EVs and how they may impact your energy usage.
ChooseEV is the hub of information on electric vehicles for United Power members. Here you can find facts about electric vehicles, benefits of ownership and tips for how to purchase your own EV. If you’re already determined to buy an EV for you or your household and are curious what models are available to meet your needs, ChooseEV provides a comprehensive list of models. It even includes a list of plug-in hybrids, in case you’re on the fence or undecided about purchasing a fully electric model. For peace of mind, you’ll also find a map of charging stations and a helpful calculator to help determine your savings potential for driving an EV. (Savings difference calculates the monthly cost to drive a gas-powered vehicle compared to electric or hybrid, but also provides members with an expected amount to anticipate seeing on their electric bills.)
As this year goes on, United Power is excited to take this journey with you as we look at new ways to serve our EV members. Stay tuned in the upcoming months for updates about the cooperative’s investment in electric vehicles.
To check out our ChooseEV resource for yourself or to research more information about your upcoming EV purchase, go to Choose EV.
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Giving A Helping Hand
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Monday | September 21, 2020
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Because of COVID-19, this year has been anything but normal, and the foundation needs your help to continue providing for members in need.
Members Show Support for One Another through Operation Round-Up Foundation.
Every month thousands of United Power members voluntarily have their bills rounded up to the next whole dollar through an organization known as Operation Round-Up. In a normal year, a board made up of fellow members of the cooperative would redistribute donated funds to nonprofits throughout the area to help provide meals, living assistance and other services to those in need.
Because of the coronavirus pandemic, this year has been anything but normal. The resulting fallout from proactive plans to prevent the spread of the virus impacted many of the cooperative’s members. In an effort to ensure impacted members were able to receive the same level of services from area nonprofits experiencing a surge in number of clients, Operation Round-Up responded by going above and beyond, while also maintaining its commitment to several partner organizations.
Recognizing an immediate need in the service territory, the foundation’s board in May issued grants to the Weld County Food Bank and Food Bank of the Rockies, which both have sizeable reach to the cooperative’s members. In the following months, another grant was issued to Pastor’s Pantry, a food bank located in Coal Creek Canyon. The combined distribution of meals from the food banks was greater than 100,000 in May and June alone.
These grants were made in addition to on-going support to several groups providing essential services to community members over the past few years, including Almost Home in Brighton, Catholic Charities in Ft. Lupton, Carbon Valley Help Center in Firestone and Canyon Cares in Coal Creek Canyon. The quarterly contributions to these organizations allow them to continue providing assistance to members who may need help paying utilities, rent or other expenses, which has been especially meaningful during this pandemic.
It’s members like you who make these contributions possible. Operation Round-Up is entirely funded through voluntary member donations. Your donations allow the foundation to distribute thousands of dollars to organizations that provide these services. However, this unusual year has stretched it to its limits, and the foundation needs your help to continue meeting these needs.
“As a longtime board member, I can say our board truly believes in the purpose of Operation Round-Up,” said Dale McCall, president of the foundation’s board. “But we couldn’t do what we do without the support from our members or the staff at United Power who are responsible for getting others to believe in our purpose, as well.”
A crippling nationwide pandemic was an interesting way for Operation Round-Up to celebrate its 25th anniversary, but provided a grand stage to show how generous member support has been for the foundation. Since its inception in 1995, it has distributed more than $2 million in assistance to members in need.
Donations average just $.50 per billing statement, or just $6/year. To show your support and sign up for Operation Round-Up, go to www.unitedpower.com. To increase your contribution or make a one-time donation, please call our Member Services team at 303-637-1300.
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Hard at Work For Our Members
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Monday | July 13, 2020
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Looking Out For Member Needs, Even In Uncertain Times.
Operations at United Power have Continued Despite COVID-19 Pandemic
It’s been more than three months since United Power closed its office locations to walk-in visitors and moved over half of the co-op’s employees to remote work locations in an effort to mitigate the risk of catching or spreading COVID-19 to both members and employees. The preemptive nature of the cooperative’s office closure allowed it to continue operations at a safe distance while many other businesses were temporarily closing or stopping nonessential services. Over the past few weeks, many businesses have been able to gradually reopen in phases as virus numbers started to drop in Colorado, but United Power has continued to work hard on behalf of its members throughout this time.
As the summer inches to a close and the beginning of a new school year approaches, uncertainty remains, especially as coronavirus cases are again on the rise across the country. United Power continues to closely monitor the situation and plan carefully for the future, remembering to put members’ needs at the forefront of decision-making processes. Here are just a few of the many essential functions the co-op has continued to provide members.
Get Cooperative Updates on the Website
The United Power website exists as a free resource to learn more about the cooperative, its activities and opportunities available to you and your family as a member. It’s also been a tremendous resource for members to get updates about the cooperative’s response to the coronavirus pandemic. Regular updates containing pertinent information detail how United Power is taking actionable approaches to the situation. Members can learn more about the United Power coronavirus response here.
In addition to timely updates about pandemic response, the website connected members to the cooperative’s first-ever virtual annual meeting and to assistance and resources for members who have been economically impacted. For members seeking the most up-to-date and relevant information from United Power, the cooperative’s website has answers to many of your questions and is also updated with new information as it becomes available.
Shopping For A New Appliance?
Lots of time at home may have given you ample opportunity to consider whether to replace an old appliance, such as a dishwasher or refrigerator. Certain ENERGY STAR appliances qualify for exclusive member rebates through United Power. (Confused about shopping for the most energy efficient appliances? Learn more about navigating the process on Page 7.) Rebate applications must be returned within 120 days of purchase, but United Power has you covered. Our online rebate application is quick, simple and delivered directly to the cooperative’s energy management team. All you need is a little information about your new appliance and a few photos to confirm it meets ENERGY STAR requirements.
More information about appliance rebates and qualifying products can be found on our appliance rebate page. For a full list of available rebates, go to
our programs and rebates page. Don’t forget other energy management services are also still available, which can be found on the website.
Growing Rapidly
United Power has experienced unprecedented growth in the past few years. The cooperative has continued to outpace nationwide growth averages and is one of the fastest growing co-ops in the country, due in large part to its location in relation to Denver. It provides power to some of the nation’s fastest growing suburban communities, as well as several fast-growing industrial corridors. In 2019, the cooperative added 5,999 new meters and is on pace for another strong year in 2020. While many business have been impacted by the current pandemic it has not slowed the growth of construction projects in the cooperative’s service territory.
The new construction team at United Power continued to process and design applications for new service throughout the pandemic.
Convenient Ways to Pay
Although United Power office locations remain closed at this time, members who prefer cash payments may still do so using payment kiosks in Brighton, Carbon Valley and Coal Creek. Any member, however, may also take advantage of a half dozen alternative payment methods United Power offers. Payment options include Auto Pay, ensuring your payment is made on-time every month, and Pay Now, a quick way to make a one-time payment using just your account number and a form of payment, among others. A full list of available payment and billing options is available here.
For Account Assistance, Call Member Services
United Power’s Member Service Representatives have continued to work regularly scheduled hours for member convenience throughout the pandemic. Spending more time at home during quarantine means you’ve likely become even more aware of energy needs in your home. If you have questions about your account, are interested in available member programs and rebates or need to report an outage, representatives are available to take your call during business hours Monday – Friday at 303-637-1300. Outages can be reported via the phone line even after hours.
For further COVID-19 updates, check the United Power website regularly.
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Have You Checked Out Your Bill Pay Addresses Recently?
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Saturday | October 30, 2021
Do you pay your United Power using a bill pay service from your bank? Remember that you are responsible for making sure that the payment is being sent to the correct account. Bill pay is a function of your bank account, and United Power can not help you if a payment is sent to an incorrect address.
Both the utilities that serve you and the financial services industry are constantly updating processes and sometimes that includes changes in routing numbers or to addresses where bill payments are sent. If you haven’t checked your bill payment addresses recently, we recommend you take a few minutes to review those payments including your United Power bill.
Where Should Your Payment be Sent?
United Power bill payments should be sent to:
United Power
PO Box 173703
Denver, CO 80217-3703
What Can I Do If My Payment Was Sent to a Different Address?
We recommend contacting your bank to determine what happened to your payment. United Power is unable to access your bank account or assist you in changing bill pay details on your personal account. If you have fallen behind on your United Power account because of a misdirected payment, please contact us to let us know you are working with your bank to correct the issue.
Is There Another Way to Pay My United Power Bill?
United Power offers several ways to pay your bill. You can make a simple one-time payment through our Pay Now link, set up auto pay, or even explore our Pay as You Go program. Learn more about each of these options on our website, or contact one of our Member Services Representatives to help you understand and access any of these options. Of course we also accept payments in person during business hours at our Brighton Office, or you can use a payment kiosk at our Brighton, Carbon Valley, Ft. Lupton or Coal Creek Canyon kiosk locations. These self-serve kiosks are open outside of normal business hours, including weekends. Available hours for each kiosk vary, so check out their open times on our website.
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Helping Forge a Renewable Future
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Thursday | May 13, 2021
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United Power has long been invested in pursuing renewable projects that make economic sense for both the cooperative and its members.
United Power has long been invested in pursuing renewable projects that make economic sense for both the cooperative and its members. The cooperative has built a national reputation for its introduction of innovative renewable projects over the past decade, beginning with the launch of its community solar garden, Sol Partners, in May 2010.
As your cooperative, United Power continues to monitor the renewable energy landscape and recognizes the future of electrical generation will be an “all of the above” strategy of investing in a variety of generation sources. The addition of these projects, from utility scale solar farms to a state-leading battery storage facility, helps build some cost stability for members.
The addition of the Platteville Solar Farm in December brought United Power’s cumulative solar production to more than 45 megawatts. Together with the cooperative’s other renewable projects and its members’ rooftop solar systems, United Power produces nearly 85 total megawatts, accounting for 14 percent of its energy needs and enough to power more than 11,000 homes and businesses. United Power members recently topped more than 6,100 total rooftop solar systems across the cooperative’s territory.
“United Power has demonstrative success in planning for and implementing renewable projects that provide tangible benefits for our members,” said Mark A. Gabriel, United Power President & Chief Executive Officer. “As we plan for the future, we’ll continue to prioritize projects that establish us as a leader in the energy industry and also meet our members’ expectations for us as their cooperative. What we are doing now is laying the groundwork for a sustainable and environmentally friendly electric utility.”
For more information about United Power’s renewable portfolio and other innovative energy projects, visit www.unitedpower.com.
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Here for the Community
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Monday | November 25, 2024
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United Power's community support demonstrates it is "Here for Good."
United Power's Community Support Demonstrates it is "Here for Good"
United Power has undergone significant change over the past year, including its wholesale energy contract exit, as it moved to become an independent electric utility on May 1. The cooperative has announced new power purchase agreements and innovative energy projects to ensure continued reliability and system resiliency, but it has also maintained a close relationship with the diverse communities it serves across the Colorado Front Range.
As a co-op, United Power regularly demonstrates its commitment to communities — one of its core guiding principles — through supporting local fairs and festivals, service organizations, business expansion, educational partnerships, and student opportunities. Sometimes the co-op’s support even extends beyond its own service territory to enrich the lives of disadvantaged communities in other parts of the country. This was another active year for the cooperative in its communities.
Giving Life to Fairs and Festivals
Local community events bring value to families living in the communities across United Power’s service territory. The cooperative is proud to be an active participant and supporter at many of these events. It continued its long-standing role as presenting sponsor of the Adams County Fair in August, which annually brings out thousands of local residents and visitors and is recognized as one of the largest county fairs in the country. The co-op also provided support for fairs in Southeast Weld and Gilpin Counties, community heritage celebrations like the Tomato Festival & Market at Trapper Days in Fort Lupton and Miners Day in Frederick, and other events that recognize each city or town’s unique and rich history.
Now that the holiday season has begun and busy main street roads are shining with bright lights and elaborate decorations, cities are preparing for local holiday celebrations. Look for United Power in your community’s local festivities. The cooperative’s famous Rudolph the Red-Nosed Bucket Truck can frequently be found rolling in parades adorned in thousands of colorful lights and decorations.
“Here for Good” Employee Service Projects
Another vital component of our communities are the nonprofits that provide critical services to local residents. Dozens of organizations are helping meet a variety of needs for cooperative members, including mental health therapy, housing and food security, outdoor recreation, and more. More than 80 United Power employees volunteered for service projects with eight organizations across the cooperative’s service territory in October.
Some of the projects that employees completed included staining wooden structures for protection from winter weather at Barr Lake State Park and the Colorado Therapeutic Riding Center; painting and updating community areas at Graceful Oaks Youth Ranch; removing old flooring for renovations at the Carbon Valley Help Center; and mud mitigation at Allegiance Ranch. Employees also sorted and organized food for redistribution at Pastor’s Pantry in Coal Creek Canyon, the Fort Lupton Food and Clothing Bank, and Food For Hope in Thornton.
United Power presented each organization with a $500 donation in addition to the volunteer hours as a thank you for the contributions they make to our communities.
Powering Families of the Navajo Nation
Lineworkers traveled to New Mexico for a week in July and again in October to build electrical infrastructure and provide power to members of the Navajo Nation. The mutual aid initiative, Light Up Navajo, is aimed at providing access to electricity for families living in remote parts of the Navajo Nation for the very first time.
The ambitious, years-long initiative has provided electricity to nearly 8,000 homes, but thousands more still do not have access. United Power provided trucks, equipment, and experienced lineworkers for both projects. Working long hours, and often in extreme heat, they placed poles and strung line to power local homes.
Supporting Local Youth
Students in our local schools are also the future leaders of our communities. United Power recognizes the importance of supporting local education, and has annually provided thousands of dollars in scholarship awards and leadership training opportunities to outstanding high school students in its service territory.
The cooperative is also an active partner in the classroom, such as Mead’s Energy Academy. Will Thomas, Energy Systems Specialist, presented on the future of battery storage technology for Energy Academy students in September. Students also later participated in a high voltage safety demonstration and toured one of the co-op’s battery storage facilities.
United Power also hosted students from 27J’s Career and Technical Education program for a “Day in the Boots” event in October. Students were able to move through stations and learn the day-to-day responsibilities of the cooperative’s operations team. The cooperative also supports career fairs for students of all ages.
Although much of the service territory is becoming suburban, the co-op still serves large agricultural areas. Each year, United Power supports local youth in agriculture through livestock sales at county fairs.
United Power supports the local community in all these ways and many more, including charity events that benefit nonprofits or educational foundations. It is why we exist, and it is why we will remain...Here for Good.
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High Heat Can Lead to High Bills
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Wednesday | June 15, 2022
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How to stay on top of energy use before your bill arrives.
Nothing affects your energy use and your bill like extremely low or extremely high temperatures. Especially when those temperatures stay high for an extended period, as we’ve experienced over the last month.
Heating and cooling are the largest contributors to your energy use, so when the temperature drastically rises, usage and bills go up. Your home’s age, how many people live there, and how cool you keep your home all play a part.
So, what can you do? United Power offers a variety of tools and programs to help you manage your budget and be more energy-efficient.
Monitor Your Daily Usage
Through the United Power mobile app and the Power Portal, you can watch for trends in your usage to see how much energy you’ve used before your bill arrives.
Make Your Smart Thermostat Work
Enroll your Nest or Honeywell smart thermostat in our Smart Rewards program and you’ll help us curb energy during peak times. This saves the cooperative from purchasing expensive peak power, reduces your energy use, and we pay you $25 at the end of the summer for participating.
Enroll in Pay As You Go
Never receive a bill after the fact. With Pay As You Go, you pay for electricity the same way you pay for gas or groceries, keeping you well informed of how much energy you’re using and what it is costing daily.
Energy-Saving Tips
Check out these energy-saving tips to help lower your bill:
Keep your thermostat setting as high as you can. Every degree below 78 can increase your bill three percent or more.
Have your air conditioner serviced regularly and don’t forget to change the filters. Dirty filters reduce air flow and cause your system to work harder, which can increase your cooling costs and lead to costly repairs.
Plug those leaks! Use weather stripping, caulk or foam insulation to fill in the leaks around windows, doors, or under your sinks where the pipes go into the wall.
Block the sun! During the day, close your blinds or curtains, especially on windows that face the sun to avoid extra heat gain.
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Hodge, Whitmore Honored
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Friday | November 3, 2017
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Mary Hodge, Adams County Commissioner, and Troy Whitmore, United Power Public Affairs Officer received the distinguished Alumni of the Plains award from Pro 15 at their annual Fall Conference held in October.
Mary Hodge, Adams County Commissioner, and Troy Whitmore, United Power Public Affairs Officer received the distinguished Alumni of the Plains award from Pro 15 at their annual Fall Conference held in October. Commissioner Hodge was also inducted into the Pro 15 Legislative Hall of Fame.
Hodge, a United Power member, graduated from high school in Idalia, Colo., and prior to serving as an Adams County Commissioner, she served in the Colorado State Legislature in both the House and Senate. Whitmore graduated from high school in Haxtun, Colo. and has been with United Power for 31 years. He has served the community on the Thornton City Council, Brighton Economic Development Council, MetroNorth Chamber of Commerce Board and Government Affairs Committee, Northeastern Junior College Alumni Association and the Colorado 4-H and Colorado FFA Foundations.
The Alumni of the Plains award was established eleven years ago to recognize individuals who graduated from a high school in one of the 15 counties in Northeast Colorado, and who have excelled in their profession. Progressive 15 (Pro 15) is the collective voice of 15 counties in Northeast Colorado—advocating for legislation and policy that impact the economic vitality of the region.
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Home Appliances: 6 Ways to Save
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Friday | February 25, 2022
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Take some easy steps to save on the operation of your appliances, or boost your savings with a new appliance rebate from your co-op.
Our appliances make life easier and help tackle the manual tasks of housework, but there’s a cost to this convenience. Many newer models are designed to be energy efficient, but why not take measures that will help you save even more energy and money?
Run a full load. Wash clothes and dishes with a full load only; partial loads waste energy and water. Load your dishwasher according to the manufacturer's instructions. Fill the racks completely to maximize water and energy use but allow for adequate water circulation to ensure clean dishes.
Stay cool and fresh. Set refrigerator and freezer thermostats at the recommended temperature settings: 37°F to 40°F for the refrigerator, and 5°F for the freezer. It will help optimize energy savings while keeping foods fresh.
Stock the fridge. A fully stocked unit uses less energy because there is less air to cool. Avoid overfilling; too many items packed together closely will reduce air circulation.
Keep your dryer dry. Clean the lint filter after each dryer load; this will increase air circulation and improve dryer efficiency. Inspect your dryer vent periodically to ensure that it's not blocked.
Air your clean laundry. When doing laundry, why not air-dry your clothes? It will reduce energy costs, and it may help to keep clothes looking new.
Get cooking efficiently. Use your microwave or toaster oven rather than the stovetop or oven. These smaller appliances often heat food more quickly, while using less energy. If you do use the stovetop, match the pan size to the burner size, and cover pots and pans.
Boost your Savings with an Energy Smart Rebate
Looking to upgrade to more efficient appliances? Replace older appliances with new ENERGY STAR®-certified efficient models. These products are the best of the best, delivering cutting-edge energy efficiency along with the latest in technological innovation.
United Power members can boost their savings with rebates on a variety of ENERGY STAR® and select efficient electric appliances. View the complete menu of Energy Smart Rebates to reduce the cost your new appliance purchase.
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How to Modernize the Electric Grid: Rethinking Our Vision
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Monday | August 2, 2021
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Modernization of the electric grid should not be the singular focus of spending in the United States, rather we should also be targeting our efforts and dollars at specific projects that will make the most immediate impacts.
Modernization of the electric grid should not be the singular focus of spending in the United States, rather we should also be targeting our efforts and dollars at specific projects that will make the most immediate impacts. Billions are spent every year on upgrading the system and adding intelligence to the grid and are always balanced against the impacts on rates and customers. Even with unlimited checkbooks on transmission – California and Texas are great examples – system issues can occur.
As a country, we should dream big but equally critical are to make improvements that can have an immediate impact on improving the nation’s infrastructure. The vision of seven hundred and sixty-five megawatt lines crisscrossing the U.S. is a “BHAG” – big, hairy audacious goal – that should be pursued.
However, with even the simplest transmission project taking a decade or more, we should take some specific, short- and medium-term actions.
It is also important to realize while permitting is slow, money is currently available to invest in transmission. The hang up is in assuring the line will be used and commitments made to guarantee the offtake of power. In other words, if no demand backed by financial arrangements, no construction. So, what projects do I believe can and should be done today?
Rebuild the seven AC/DC ties between the Eastern and Western grid. At a cost of roughly thirty million, this project could be complete in less than eighteen months.
Expand the Mead Substation at Hoover Dam into a renewable energy hub. This project will take between twenty-four to thirty-six months to complete. It is at the base of the El Dorado Valley, connects to California, and is the ideal spot for a robust hub.
Complete the Intertie Project started in 1964. In forty-eight months or less, the two hundred and seventy-five miles of transmission could be built that would loop the Pacific Northwest across the west and into the Southwest Power Pool.
Widen our focus and fund technology that benefits the nation and not just a single region. Concentrate those efforts on grid cybersecurity, as well as advanced system sensing to anticipate and avoid issues.
Another key area is to create a cohesive national effort to enhance wildfire tools and technology, including the expansion of right-of-way tree clearing. Encourage or standardize the use of coated cables, especially in areas when undergrounding is limited by terrain or cost.
Create an incentive structure that supports our end goals for improvements in the grid. Pay higher incentives for the power solutions that are really needed: pay a higher rate of return for lines that serve grids wider than a single state, quit paying for redundant infrastructure, and guarantee offtake as a fundamental component of the incentive structure.
Create real markets that span time zones and weather conditions and empower those entities to support. This should also include an RTO to coordinate offshore wind and provide the trading and management platform.
Finally, recognize that transmission is best suited to fix the growing energy divide. The digital divide is often spoken of in our country when the energy divide is an even greater one to navigate for underserved or unserved communities. The “haves” can afford solar panels and storage, while the “have nots” are paying the price. The haves can create microgrids – which serve a purpose – but also serve to create a balkanized electrical system.
Our current business models hang on an engineering measurement – the kilowatt/megawatt hour paradigm. This paradigm is no longer valid when the haves can move their energy supply off the grid for a portion of the day while the have nots pay the carrying costs. We need to move beyond a simple engineering focus on our grid and the delivery of power and understand the far-reaching effects being created with our inherently uneven system.
The question to be asking is how can we effectively grow our grid to realize all the intrinsic potential, and bring all our citizens along to enjoy those benefits? Let us dream for the future and act for today.
This article recently appeared in August 2021 Public Utilities Fortnightly. Read the original article here.Â
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Four Colorado Utilities Partner to Explore Transmission Solutions
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Tuesday | July 15, 2025
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Colorado Springs Utilities, CORE Electric Cooperative, Platte River Power Authority and United Power are joining forces to explore an innovative transmission solution that will better serve their member-customers.
Brighton, CO – Four of Colorado’s leading public power and distribution cooperative utilities — Colorado Springs Utilities (Springs Utilities), CORE Electric Cooperative (CORE), Platte River Power Authority and United Power — are joining forces to explore an innovative transmission solution that will better serve their member-customers. This collaboration aims to reduce electric transmission congestion, enhance system reliability and expand access to renewable energy sources, all while supporting the State of Colorado’s ambitious carbon reduction goals.
Transmission lines are the backbone of the electric grid, carrying power from generation facilities to local utilities and substations. Transmission congestion along Colorado’s Front Range has become a growing challenge that limits flexibility. Together, these four utilities serve more than 1.5 million Coloradans, including some of the state’s fastest-growing communities.
“We expect our growth to continue, so addressing transmission congestion is critical,” said Mark A. Gabriel, President and CEO of United Power. “United Power serves an area that is growing quickly, attracting large residential developments and new businesses alike. A more reliable transmission route would help to stabilize costs and increase reliability for current and future members in the cooperative’s service territory.”
A new transmission solution could also benefit the utilities by allowing them to better access generation and share transmission resources, helping to meet Colorado’s clean energy goals.
“We are committed to decarbonizing our portfolio for our four owner communities while supporting our neighbor utilities as we all make this energy transition,” says Jason Frisbie, CEO of Platte River Power Authority. “All options are on the table to help improve reliability and reduce costs, including opportunities to enhance transmission capabilities as we move into an organized market.”
In a complementary move to help manage costs and maintain reliability, Springs Utilities, Platte River Power Authority and United Power will join the Southwest Power Pool (SPP) Regional Transmission Organization on April 1, 2026. CORE is also evaluating market participation, including the SPP.
“What’s great about public power entities is their willingness to collaborate to find the best solutions for their customers. We’re focused on strategies that help manage costs, maintain our industry-leading reliability and reduce carbon emissions. This partnership is a proactive step toward a more resilient energy future for Colorado Springs,” says Travas Deal, Springs Utilities CEO.
“This is a positive first step in exploring alternative ways for our four utilities to support growth and resiliency across our service territories,” stated Pam Feuerstein, CORE CEO. “Additional transmission would enable CORE to continue providing affordable and reliable power to our members, now and into the future.”
The four utilities have agreed to continue to evaluate future transmission options that can best support each utility’s needs while advancing shared goals for reliability, affordability and sustainability.
About Colorado Springs UtilitiesColorado Springs Utilities is one of the largest community-owned, not-for-profit, four-service utilities in the nation. For more than 100 years, we have provided Colorado Springs with safe, reliable and competitively priced electric, natural gas, water and wastewater services. About CORE Electric Cooperative CORE is a member-owned, not-for-profit electric distribution cooperative providing power to over 180,000 services inside a 5,000-square-mile area along Colorado's Front Range. Its headquarters is in Sedalia, and district offices are in Bennett, Pine Junction, and Woodland Park. Learn more at www.CORE.coop.  About Platte River Power AuthorityPlatte River Power Authority (Platte River) is a not-for-profit, community-owned public power generation and transmission utility that provides safe, reliable, environmentally responsible and financially sustainable energy and services to Estes Park, Fort Collins, Longmont and Loveland, Colorado, for delivery to their distribution utility customers. In addition to providing a public health and safety service to the owner communities, Platte River is working toward a 100% noncarbon energy future through a Resource Diversification Policy approved by its board of directors in 2018. For more information, visit prpa.org.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 115,000 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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Free Online EV Resource
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Friday | February 5, 2021
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ChooseEV is the hub of information on electric vehicles for United Power members.
Electric vehicles have continued to improve and advance over the past few years, and as they have improved, so too has interest and intrique. More people now rely on EVs for their daily lives than ever before, thanks in part to continued development of vehicles, rapid adoption by consumers and growth in the local and national charging infrastructure. If you’ve been interested in learning more about purchasing an EV for yourself, there has never been a better opportunity to do so, and your cooperative is here to take that journey with you. United Power recently launched ChooseEV, a free member resource to help you learn more about EVs and how they may impact your energy usage.
ChooseEV is the hub of information on electric vehicles for United Power members. Here you can find facts about electric vehicles, benefits of ownership and tips for how to purchase your own EV. If you’re already determined to buy an EV for you or your household and are curious what models are available to meet your needs, ChooseEV provides a comprehensive list of models. It even includes a list of plug-in hybrids, in case you’re on the fence or undecided about purchasing a fully electric model. For peace of mind, you’ll also find a map of charging stations and a helpful calculator to help determine your savings potential for driving an EV. (Savings difference calculates the monthly cost to drive a gas-powered vehicle compared to electric or hybrid, but also provides members with an expected amount to anticipate seeing on their electric bills.)
As this year goes on, United Power is excited to take this journey with you as we look at new ways to serve our EV members. Stay tuned in the upcoming months for updates about the cooperative’s investment in electric vehicles.
To check out our ChooseEV resource for yourself or to research more information about your upcoming EV purchase, go to Choose EV.
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Giving A Helping Hand
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Monday | September 21, 2020
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Because of COVID-19, this year has been anything but normal, and the foundation needs your help to continue providing for members in need.
Members Show Support for One Another through Operation Round-Up Foundation.
Every month thousands of United Power members voluntarily have their bills rounded up to the next whole dollar through an organization known as Operation Round-Up. In a normal year, a board made up of fellow members of the cooperative would redistribute donated funds to nonprofits throughout the area to help provide meals, living assistance and other services to those in need.
Because of the coronavirus pandemic, this year has been anything but normal. The resulting fallout from proactive plans to prevent the spread of the virus impacted many of the cooperative’s members. In an effort to ensure impacted members were able to receive the same level of services from area nonprofits experiencing a surge in number of clients, Operation Round-Up responded by going above and beyond, while also maintaining its commitment to several partner organizations.
Recognizing an immediate need in the service territory, the foundation’s board in May issued grants to the Weld County Food Bank and Food Bank of the Rockies, which both have sizeable reach to the cooperative’s members. In the following months, another grant was issued to Pastor’s Pantry, a food bank located in Coal Creek Canyon. The combined distribution of meals from the food banks was greater than 100,000 in May and June alone.
These grants were made in addition to on-going support to several groups providing essential services to community members over the past few years, including Almost Home in Brighton, Catholic Charities in Ft. Lupton, Carbon Valley Help Center in Firestone and Canyon Cares in Coal Creek Canyon. The quarterly contributions to these organizations allow them to continue providing assistance to members who may need help paying utilities, rent or other expenses, which has been especially meaningful during this pandemic.
It’s members like you who make these contributions possible. Operation Round-Up is entirely funded through voluntary member donations. Your donations allow the foundation to distribute thousands of dollars to organizations that provide these services. However, this unusual year has stretched it to its limits, and the foundation needs your help to continue meeting these needs.
“As a longtime board member, I can say our board truly believes in the purpose of Operation Round-Up,” said Dale McCall, president of the foundation’s board. “But we couldn’t do what we do without the support from our members or the staff at United Power who are responsible for getting others to believe in our purpose, as well.”
A crippling nationwide pandemic was an interesting way for Operation Round-Up to celebrate its 25th anniversary, but provided a grand stage to show how generous member support has been for the foundation. Since its inception in 1995, it has distributed more than $2 million in assistance to members in need.
Donations average just $.50 per billing statement, or just $6/year. To show your support and sign up for Operation Round-Up, go to www.unitedpower.com. To increase your contribution or make a one-time donation, please call our Member Services team at 303-637-1300.
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Hard at Work For Our Members
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Monday | July 13, 2020
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Looking Out For Member Needs, Even In Uncertain Times.
Operations at United Power have Continued Despite COVID-19 Pandemic
It’s been more than three months since United Power closed its office locations to walk-in visitors and moved over half of the co-op’s employees to remote work locations in an effort to mitigate the risk of catching or spreading COVID-19 to both members and employees. The preemptive nature of the cooperative’s office closure allowed it to continue operations at a safe distance while many other businesses were temporarily closing or stopping nonessential services. Over the past few weeks, many businesses have been able to gradually reopen in phases as virus numbers started to drop in Colorado, but United Power has continued to work hard on behalf of its members throughout this time.
As the summer inches to a close and the beginning of a new school year approaches, uncertainty remains, especially as coronavirus cases are again on the rise across the country. United Power continues to closely monitor the situation and plan carefully for the future, remembering to put members’ needs at the forefront of decision-making processes. Here are just a few of the many essential functions the co-op has continued to provide members.
Get Cooperative Updates on the Website
The United Power website exists as a free resource to learn more about the cooperative, its activities and opportunities available to you and your family as a member. It’s also been a tremendous resource for members to get updates about the cooperative’s response to the coronavirus pandemic. Regular updates containing pertinent information detail how United Power is taking actionable approaches to the situation. Members can learn more about the United Power coronavirus response here.
In addition to timely updates about pandemic response, the website connected members to the cooperative’s first-ever virtual annual meeting and to assistance and resources for members who have been economically impacted. For members seeking the most up-to-date and relevant information from United Power, the cooperative’s website has answers to many of your questions and is also updated with new information as it becomes available.
Shopping For A New Appliance?
Lots of time at home may have given you ample opportunity to consider whether to replace an old appliance, such as a dishwasher or refrigerator. Certain ENERGY STAR appliances qualify for exclusive member rebates through United Power. (Confused about shopping for the most energy efficient appliances? Learn more about navigating the process on Page 7.) Rebate applications must be returned within 120 days of purchase, but United Power has you covered. Our online rebate application is quick, simple and delivered directly to the cooperative’s energy management team. All you need is a little information about your new appliance and a few photos to confirm it meets ENERGY STAR requirements.
More information about appliance rebates and qualifying products can be found on our appliance rebate page. For a full list of available rebates, go to
our programs and rebates page. Don’t forget other energy management services are also still available, which can be found on the website.
Growing Rapidly
United Power has experienced unprecedented growth in the past few years. The cooperative has continued to outpace nationwide growth averages and is one of the fastest growing co-ops in the country, due in large part to its location in relation to Denver. It provides power to some of the nation’s fastest growing suburban communities, as well as several fast-growing industrial corridors. In 2019, the cooperative added 5,999 new meters and is on pace for another strong year in 2020. While many business have been impacted by the current pandemic it has not slowed the growth of construction projects in the cooperative’s service territory.
The new construction team at United Power continued to process and design applications for new service throughout the pandemic.
Convenient Ways to Pay
Although United Power office locations remain closed at this time, members who prefer cash payments may still do so using payment kiosks in Brighton, Carbon Valley and Coal Creek. Any member, however, may also take advantage of a half dozen alternative payment methods United Power offers. Payment options include Auto Pay, ensuring your payment is made on-time every month, and Pay Now, a quick way to make a one-time payment using just your account number and a form of payment, among others. A full list of available payment and billing options is available here.
For Account Assistance, Call Member Services
United Power’s Member Service Representatives have continued to work regularly scheduled hours for member convenience throughout the pandemic. Spending more time at home during quarantine means you’ve likely become even more aware of energy needs in your home. If you have questions about your account, are interested in available member programs and rebates or need to report an outage, representatives are available to take your call during business hours Monday – Friday at 303-637-1300. Outages can be reported via the phone line even after hours.
For further COVID-19 updates, check the United Power website regularly.
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Have You Checked Out Your Bill Pay Addresses Recently?
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Saturday | October 30, 2021
Do you pay your United Power using a bill pay service from your bank? Remember that you are responsible for making sure that the payment is being sent to the correct account. Bill pay is a function of your bank account, and United Power can not help you if a payment is sent to an incorrect address.
Both the utilities that serve you and the financial services industry are constantly updating processes and sometimes that includes changes in routing numbers or to addresses where bill payments are sent. If you haven’t checked your bill payment addresses recently, we recommend you take a few minutes to review those payments including your United Power bill.
Where Should Your Payment be Sent?
United Power bill payments should be sent to:
United Power
PO Box 173703
Denver, CO 80217-3703
What Can I Do If My Payment Was Sent to a Different Address?
We recommend contacting your bank to determine what happened to your payment. United Power is unable to access your bank account or assist you in changing bill pay details on your personal account. If you have fallen behind on your United Power account because of a misdirected payment, please contact us to let us know you are working with your bank to correct the issue.
Is There Another Way to Pay My United Power Bill?
United Power offers several ways to pay your bill. You can make a simple one-time payment through our Pay Now link, set up auto pay, or even explore our Pay as You Go program. Learn more about each of these options on our website, or contact one of our Member Services Representatives to help you understand and access any of these options. Of course we also accept payments in person during business hours at our Brighton Office, or you can use a payment kiosk at our Brighton, Carbon Valley, Ft. Lupton or Coal Creek Canyon kiosk locations. These self-serve kiosks are open outside of normal business hours, including weekends. Available hours for each kiosk vary, so check out their open times on our website.
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Helping Forge a Renewable Future
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Thursday | May 13, 2021
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United Power has long been invested in pursuing renewable projects that make economic sense for both the cooperative and its members.
United Power has long been invested in pursuing renewable projects that make economic sense for both the cooperative and its members. The cooperative has built a national reputation for its introduction of innovative renewable projects over the past decade, beginning with the launch of its community solar garden, Sol Partners, in May 2010.
As your cooperative, United Power continues to monitor the renewable energy landscape and recognizes the future of electrical generation will be an “all of the above” strategy of investing in a variety of generation sources. The addition of these projects, from utility scale solar farms to a state-leading battery storage facility, helps build some cost stability for members.
The addition of the Platteville Solar Farm in December brought United Power’s cumulative solar production to more than 45 megawatts. Together with the cooperative’s other renewable projects and its members’ rooftop solar systems, United Power produces nearly 85 total megawatts, accounting for 14 percent of its energy needs and enough to power more than 11,000 homes and businesses. United Power members recently topped more than 6,100 total rooftop solar systems across the cooperative’s territory.
“United Power has demonstrative success in planning for and implementing renewable projects that provide tangible benefits for our members,” said Mark A. Gabriel, United Power President & Chief Executive Officer. “As we plan for the future, we’ll continue to prioritize projects that establish us as a leader in the energy industry and also meet our members’ expectations for us as their cooperative. What we are doing now is laying the groundwork for a sustainable and environmentally friendly electric utility.”
For more information about United Power’s renewable portfolio and other innovative energy projects, visit www.unitedpower.com.
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Here for the Community
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Monday | November 25, 2024
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United Power's community support demonstrates it is "Here for Good."
United Power's Community Support Demonstrates it is "Here for Good"
United Power has undergone significant change over the past year, including its wholesale energy contract exit, as it moved to become an independent electric utility on May 1. The cooperative has announced new power purchase agreements and innovative energy projects to ensure continued reliability and system resiliency, but it has also maintained a close relationship with the diverse communities it serves across the Colorado Front Range.
As a co-op, United Power regularly demonstrates its commitment to communities — one of its core guiding principles — through supporting local fairs and festivals, service organizations, business expansion, educational partnerships, and student opportunities. Sometimes the co-op’s support even extends beyond its own service territory to enrich the lives of disadvantaged communities in other parts of the country. This was another active year for the cooperative in its communities.
Giving Life to Fairs and Festivals
Local community events bring value to families living in the communities across United Power’s service territory. The cooperative is proud to be an active participant and supporter at many of these events. It continued its long-standing role as presenting sponsor of the Adams County Fair in August, which annually brings out thousands of local residents and visitors and is recognized as one of the largest county fairs in the country. The co-op also provided support for fairs in Southeast Weld and Gilpin Counties, community heritage celebrations like the Tomato Festival & Market at Trapper Days in Fort Lupton and Miners Day in Frederick, and other events that recognize each city or town’s unique and rich history.
Now that the holiday season has begun and busy main street roads are shining with bright lights and elaborate decorations, cities are preparing for local holiday celebrations. Look for United Power in your community’s local festivities. The cooperative’s famous Rudolph the Red-Nosed Bucket Truck can frequently be found rolling in parades adorned in thousands of colorful lights and decorations.
“Here for Good” Employee Service Projects
Another vital component of our communities are the nonprofits that provide critical services to local residents. Dozens of organizations are helping meet a variety of needs for cooperative members, including mental health therapy, housing and food security, outdoor recreation, and more. More than 80 United Power employees volunteered for service projects with eight organizations across the cooperative’s service territory in October.
Some of the projects that employees completed included staining wooden structures for protection from winter weather at Barr Lake State Park and the Colorado Therapeutic Riding Center; painting and updating community areas at Graceful Oaks Youth Ranch; removing old flooring for renovations at the Carbon Valley Help Center; and mud mitigation at Allegiance Ranch. Employees also sorted and organized food for redistribution at Pastor’s Pantry in Coal Creek Canyon, the Fort Lupton Food and Clothing Bank, and Food For Hope in Thornton.
United Power presented each organization with a $500 donation in addition to the volunteer hours as a thank you for the contributions they make to our communities.
Powering Families of the Navajo Nation
Lineworkers traveled to New Mexico for a week in July and again in October to build electrical infrastructure and provide power to members of the Navajo Nation. The mutual aid initiative, Light Up Navajo, is aimed at providing access to electricity for families living in remote parts of the Navajo Nation for the very first time.
The ambitious, years-long initiative has provided electricity to nearly 8,000 homes, but thousands more still do not have access. United Power provided trucks, equipment, and experienced lineworkers for both projects. Working long hours, and often in extreme heat, they placed poles and strung line to power local homes.
Supporting Local Youth
Students in our local schools are also the future leaders of our communities. United Power recognizes the importance of supporting local education, and has annually provided thousands of dollars in scholarship awards and leadership training opportunities to outstanding high school students in its service territory.
The cooperative is also an active partner in the classroom, such as Mead’s Energy Academy. Will Thomas, Energy Systems Specialist, presented on the future of battery storage technology for Energy Academy students in September. Students also later participated in a high voltage safety demonstration and toured one of the co-op’s battery storage facilities.
United Power also hosted students from 27J’s Career and Technical Education program for a “Day in the Boots” event in October. Students were able to move through stations and learn the day-to-day responsibilities of the cooperative’s operations team. The cooperative also supports career fairs for students of all ages.
Although much of the service territory is becoming suburban, the co-op still serves large agricultural areas. Each year, United Power supports local youth in agriculture through livestock sales at county fairs.
United Power supports the local community in all these ways and many more, including charity events that benefit nonprofits or educational foundations. It is why we exist, and it is why we will remain...Here for Good.
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High Heat Can Lead to High Bills
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Wednesday | June 15, 2022
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How to stay on top of energy use before your bill arrives.
Nothing affects your energy use and your bill like extremely low or extremely high temperatures. Especially when those temperatures stay high for an extended period, as we’ve experienced over the last month.
Heating and cooling are the largest contributors to your energy use, so when the temperature drastically rises, usage and bills go up. Your home’s age, how many people live there, and how cool you keep your home all play a part.
So, what can you do? United Power offers a variety of tools and programs to help you manage your budget and be more energy-efficient.
Monitor Your Daily Usage
Through the United Power mobile app and the Power Portal, you can watch for trends in your usage to see how much energy you’ve used before your bill arrives.
Make Your Smart Thermostat Work
Enroll your Nest or Honeywell smart thermostat in our Smart Rewards program and you’ll help us curb energy during peak times. This saves the cooperative from purchasing expensive peak power, reduces your energy use, and we pay you $25 at the end of the summer for participating.
Enroll in Pay As You Go
Never receive a bill after the fact. With Pay As You Go, you pay for electricity the same way you pay for gas or groceries, keeping you well informed of how much energy you’re using and what it is costing daily.
Energy-Saving Tips
Check out these energy-saving tips to help lower your bill:
Keep your thermostat setting as high as you can. Every degree below 78 can increase your bill three percent or more.
Have your air conditioner serviced regularly and don’t forget to change the filters. Dirty filters reduce air flow and cause your system to work harder, which can increase your cooling costs and lead to costly repairs.
Plug those leaks! Use weather stripping, caulk or foam insulation to fill in the leaks around windows, doors, or under your sinks where the pipes go into the wall.
Block the sun! During the day, close your blinds or curtains, especially on windows that face the sun to avoid extra heat gain.
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Hodge, Whitmore Honored
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Friday | November 3, 2017
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Mary Hodge, Adams County Commissioner, and Troy Whitmore, United Power Public Affairs Officer received the distinguished Alumni of the Plains award from Pro 15 at their annual Fall Conference held in October.
Mary Hodge, Adams County Commissioner, and Troy Whitmore, United Power Public Affairs Officer received the distinguished Alumni of the Plains award from Pro 15 at their annual Fall Conference held in October. Commissioner Hodge was also inducted into the Pro 15 Legislative Hall of Fame.
Hodge, a United Power member, graduated from high school in Idalia, Colo., and prior to serving as an Adams County Commissioner, she served in the Colorado State Legislature in both the House and Senate. Whitmore graduated from high school in Haxtun, Colo. and has been with United Power for 31 years. He has served the community on the Thornton City Council, Brighton Economic Development Council, MetroNorth Chamber of Commerce Board and Government Affairs Committee, Northeastern Junior College Alumni Association and the Colorado 4-H and Colorado FFA Foundations.
The Alumni of the Plains award was established eleven years ago to recognize individuals who graduated from a high school in one of the 15 counties in Northeast Colorado, and who have excelled in their profession. Progressive 15 (Pro 15) is the collective voice of 15 counties in Northeast Colorado—advocating for legislation and policy that impact the economic vitality of the region.
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Home Appliances: 6 Ways to Save
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Friday | February 25, 2022
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Take some easy steps to save on the operation of your appliances, or boost your savings with a new appliance rebate from your co-op.
Our appliances make life easier and help tackle the manual tasks of housework, but there’s a cost to this convenience. Many newer models are designed to be energy efficient, but why not take measures that will help you save even more energy and money?
Run a full load. Wash clothes and dishes with a full load only; partial loads waste energy and water. Load your dishwasher according to the manufacturer's instructions. Fill the racks completely to maximize water and energy use but allow for adequate water circulation to ensure clean dishes.
Stay cool and fresh. Set refrigerator and freezer thermostats at the recommended temperature settings: 37°F to 40°F for the refrigerator, and 5°F for the freezer. It will help optimize energy savings while keeping foods fresh.
Stock the fridge. A fully stocked unit uses less energy because there is less air to cool. Avoid overfilling; too many items packed together closely will reduce air circulation.
Keep your dryer dry. Clean the lint filter after each dryer load; this will increase air circulation and improve dryer efficiency. Inspect your dryer vent periodically to ensure that it's not blocked.
Air your clean laundry. When doing laundry, why not air-dry your clothes? It will reduce energy costs, and it may help to keep clothes looking new.
Get cooking efficiently. Use your microwave or toaster oven rather than the stovetop or oven. These smaller appliances often heat food more quickly, while using less energy. If you do use the stovetop, match the pan size to the burner size, and cover pots and pans.
Boost your Savings with an Energy Smart Rebate
Looking to upgrade to more efficient appliances? Replace older appliances with new ENERGY STAR®-certified efficient models. These products are the best of the best, delivering cutting-edge energy efficiency along with the latest in technological innovation.
United Power members can boost their savings with rebates on a variety of ENERGY STAR® and select efficient electric appliances. View the complete menu of Energy Smart Rebates to reduce the cost your new appliance purchase.
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How to Modernize the Electric Grid: Rethinking Our Vision
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Monday | August 2, 2021
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Modernization of the electric grid should not be the singular focus of spending in the United States, rather we should also be targeting our efforts and dollars at specific projects that will make the most immediate impacts.
Modernization of the electric grid should not be the singular focus of spending in the United States, rather we should also be targeting our efforts and dollars at specific projects that will make the most immediate impacts. Billions are spent every year on upgrading the system and adding intelligence to the grid and are always balanced against the impacts on rates and customers. Even with unlimited checkbooks on transmission – California and Texas are great examples – system issues can occur.
As a country, we should dream big but equally critical are to make improvements that can have an immediate impact on improving the nation’s infrastructure. The vision of seven hundred and sixty-five megawatt lines crisscrossing the U.S. is a “BHAG” – big, hairy audacious goal – that should be pursued.
However, with even the simplest transmission project taking a decade or more, we should take some specific, short- and medium-term actions.
It is also important to realize while permitting is slow, money is currently available to invest in transmission. The hang up is in assuring the line will be used and commitments made to guarantee the offtake of power. In other words, if no demand backed by financial arrangements, no construction. So, what projects do I believe can and should be done today?
Rebuild the seven AC/DC ties between the Eastern and Western grid. At a cost of roughly thirty million, this project could be complete in less than eighteen months.
Expand the Mead Substation at Hoover Dam into a renewable energy hub. This project will take between twenty-four to thirty-six months to complete. It is at the base of the El Dorado Valley, connects to California, and is the ideal spot for a robust hub.
Complete the Intertie Project started in 1964. In forty-eight months or less, the two hundred and seventy-five miles of transmission could be built that would loop the Pacific Northwest across the west and into the Southwest Power Pool.
Widen our focus and fund technology that benefits the nation and not just a single region. Concentrate those efforts on grid cybersecurity, as well as advanced system sensing to anticipate and avoid issues.
Another key area is to create a cohesive national effort to enhance wildfire tools and technology, including the expansion of right-of-way tree clearing. Encourage or standardize the use of coated cables, especially in areas when undergrounding is limited by terrain or cost.
Create an incentive structure that supports our end goals for improvements in the grid. Pay higher incentives for the power solutions that are really needed: pay a higher rate of return for lines that serve grids wider than a single state, quit paying for redundant infrastructure, and guarantee offtake as a fundamental component of the incentive structure.
Create real markets that span time zones and weather conditions and empower those entities to support. This should also include an RTO to coordinate offshore wind and provide the trading and management platform.
Finally, recognize that transmission is best suited to fix the growing energy divide. The digital divide is often spoken of in our country when the energy divide is an even greater one to navigate for underserved or unserved communities. The “haves” can afford solar panels and storage, while the “have nots” are paying the price. The haves can create microgrids – which serve a purpose – but also serve to create a balkanized electrical system.
Our current business models hang on an engineering measurement – the kilowatt/megawatt hour paradigm. This paradigm is no longer valid when the haves can move their energy supply off the grid for a portion of the day while the have nots pay the carrying costs. We need to move beyond a simple engineering focus on our grid and the delivery of power and understand the far-reaching effects being created with our inherently uneven system.
The question to be asking is how can we effectively grow our grid to realize all the intrinsic potential, and bring all our citizens along to enjoy those benefits? Let us dream for the future and act for today.
This article recently appeared in August 2021 Public Utilities Fortnightly. Read the original article here.Â
