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Operation Round-Up Commits $20,000 in Support to Local Food Banks
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Wednesday | May 13, 2020
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The board of directors selected Food Bank of the Rockies and the Weld County Food Bank to receive grants of $10,000 each to offset their growing costs during the COVID-19 situation.
BRIGHTON – United Power’s Operation Round-Up Foundation will donate a total of $20,000 to large food banks that provide food to members throughout the United Power service territory. The board of directors selected Food Bank of the Rockies and the Weld County Food Bank to receive grants of $10,000 each to offset their growing costs during the COVID-19 situation.
“On behalf of the entire Round-Up board of directors, we are very pleased to be able to provide these generous grants to these two organizations,” stated Dale McCall, United Power Operation Round-Up President. “This support, coupled with our ongoing support of our partner organizations, provides direct relief to members of United Power who are being impacted by either health or economic concerns during the COVID-19 pandemic.”
In addition to this one-time grant, the organization has been providing on-going support to several groups that provide essential services to community members over the last three years. Almost Home in Brighton, Catholic Charities in Ft. Lupton, the Carbon Valley Help Center in Firestone, and Canyon Cares in the Coal Creek Canyon area receive quarterly grants to provide assistance to United Power members who may need help paying utility, rent, and other critical expenses.
The Round-Up board is charged with the oversight and distribution of funds collected from members who support the foundation. The foundation is funded by members who “round-up” their bills to the next full dollar amount. The average donation is 50¢ per month, but those pennies add up to really make a substantial impact in United Power’s service territory. Since the foundation was established it has funneled more than $2.5 million back into the community to fund programs that support United Power members. To learn more about United Power’s Operation Round-Up Foundation, visit our website at www.unitedpower.com, or call us at 303-637-1300.
About United Power and the Operation Round-Up Foundation
United Power is a member-owned, not-for-profit electric cooperative delivering electricity to more than 95,000 meters at homes, businesses and farms in Colorado's north-central front range. The United Power Operation Round-Up Foundation, funded by United Power members, supports the needs of cooperative members through grants to local organizations providing critical services. For more information about the cooperative, visit www.unitedpower.com or follow them on social media at facebook.com/unitedpower or twitter.com/unitedpowercoop.###
Our Salute to Veterans
Friday | November 18, 2022
United Power is proud to celebrate veterans working in our offices, living in our communities, and t...
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Our Superheros
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Monday | April 2, 2018
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Every day heroes may not wear capes and fly around the city, but they know when the going gets tough, it’s time for them to get going.
When darkness befalls a city, superheroes lace up their boots, throw on their capes and race into danger without a moment’s hesitation. Everyone knows the classic Spider-Man quote, “With great power comes great responsibility.” Every day heroes may not wear capes and fly around the city, but they know when the going gets tough, it’s time for them to get going.
The Denver area is synonymous with winter storms, and when the metro last experienced the most trying pitfalls of living at the base of the Rocky Mountains in October 2009, United Power linemen were prepped and ready to go as snow blanketed the metro area. Schools and businesses took preemptive action, closing before the storm hit. By the time the last snowflake nestled in with its brethren, snow had been falling for more than 24 hours.
While area youth enjoyed a day away from the classroom, a different picture unfolded in the Front Range. Coal Creek Canyon, a community within United Power’s mountain service area, had accumulated nearly four feet of snow.
To put that number into perspective, Chicago’s average annual snowfall is around three feet.
Calm winds allowed the snow to gingerly build on tree branches, poles, yard ornaments and fences, bringing with it a massive burden. Each new snowflake resting precariously on unsuspecting surfaces brought weight inching toward disaster, like the dastardly plan of a supervillain. Before the storm faded, thousands of Coal Creek residents were without power as tree branches, cross arms and power lines succumbed to the weight of the snow.
Within moments of the outage, United Power had begun mobilizing crews to diagnose the situation and restore power. Operations Superintendent Mike Lanckriet, a lineman of 32 years, and his crew were among the first to respond.
“We took careful steps to monitor the storm as it moved into our territory, but we never expected the amount of snow we got,” Lanckriet said. “At times the snow was deeper than our linemen were tall. But we didn’t think of it in terms of challenges. When we arrived, our first focus was what needed to be done to get the power back on.”
United Power linemen wouldn’t let the enormity of the task ahead deter them from accomplishing their goal. They laced up their boots, threw on their tools and raced headfirst into our worst winter storm in more than 12 years.
Crews spent nearly a week battling dense snow, bitter cold and physical and mental fatigue while alternating 14 hour shifts to restore power to Coal Creek. Final repairs, however, took more than two weeks to complete.
“You try to be as prepared as possible before a large storm, but there’s always a level of unpredictability,” said Kurt Eisenbarth, another United Power superintendent and former lineman. “It takes a different mentality to thrive on that in the most critical situations.”
Living along the Front Range means each winter brings the possibility of another debilitating winter storm, but in reality critical situations come few and far between. Most of the time, linemen are working when the weather’s calm and the sun is shining. It’s easy to forget the service they provide when the situation isn’t seen as “critical,” easy to divorce their role from the danger linemen face each day.
“It doesn’t take lightning or snow for our job to be dangerous,” said Operations Manager Brent Sydow. “The most routine task requires a high level of care and safety.”
Being a lineman requires hard work, dedication and commitment – to their crew and their work – to doing dangerous work, knowing the fruits of their labor are often misunderstood or unrecognized.
Residents in a comic book rest easy knowing a superhero is there to save the day when danger rears its head, much like we confidently trust in the unimpeded flow of electricity to power our lives. But when the power fails, our linemen spring into action.
We invite our members to join us in celebrating National Lineman Appreciation Day on April 18th. Use #ThankALineman on social media to show your support, or take a moment to drop a kind note in the mail.
Outages can come without warning, from a variety of different situations, but one thing you can count on: when the power goes out, a United Power line crew is already on its way.
“When the power goes out, it’s about a brotherhood coming together to accomplish a goal, working shoulder to shoulder through blood, sweat and tears,” Eisenbarth said. “At night, they get to be the superheroes.”
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Our Time to Shine
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Thursday | March 1, 2018
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When severe weather hits, there’s one group United Power and its members rely on to keep the power on. Join us in celebrating National Lineman Appreciation Day on April 18th.
When severe weather hits, there’s one group United Power and its members rely on to keep the power on. On April 18th, we will join in celebrating National Lineman Appreciation Day, honoring the hard work, innovation and dedication of America’s electrical lineworkers.
Linemen must be prepared to face daily situations that may be less than ideal, regularly tasked with resolving intricate and hazardous problems in unknown or perilous conditions. It requires a strong commitment to one another and doing dangerous work, knowing the fruits of their labor are often misunderstood or unrecognized.
In the line of duty, the smallest mistake could be the difference between life and death. When our linemen lace up their boots, they understand the dedication they must have to safely complete their work in the quickest possible way.
“Electric linemen are the backbone of what we do,” said Bryant Robbins, United Power Chief Operations Officer. “They go above and beyond on a daily basis, often in hazardous conditions far from their families, to restore power to their communities.”
Our linemen are on call 24 hours a day, ready to respond to any situation in any type of weather. So next time you lose power, rest assured a highly trained United Power crew is on the way, dedicated to getting the lights back on quickly and safely.
“When the power is off, that’s when we’re at our best and it’s our time to shine,” said Mark Keith, United Power foreman. “We get out there no matter the weather, and get to work figuring out how to solve the problem.”
Regularly facing difficult situations, it’s no surprise electrical lineworkers have one of the most dangerous jobs in the country. In 2017, electrical powerline installers and repairers were noted to have the 15th most dangerous profession.
Without our linemen, the power that makes our member’s homes comfortable wouldn’t be possible. We invite our members to take a moment to thank our United Power linemen for the work they do. Use #ThankALineman on social media to show your support, or take a moment to drop a kind note in the mail.
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Pastor's Pantry Received Round-Up Grant
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Monday | June 29, 2020
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Pastor’s Pantry is an available resource for anyone in need in the canyon, and provides both food and essential items, such as toiletries and paper products.
Over the course of the COVID-19 pandemic, the United Power Operation Round-Up Foundation has responded to the needs of many nonprofits in the cooperative’s service territory. With many individuals and families economically impacted due to workplace shutdowns, the board has given above and beyond its normal contributions to area food banks to help meet the needs of those impacted in various corners of the territory.
The Operation Round-Up board recently announced a $3,000 donation to Pastor’s Pantry, which operates out of Whispering Pines Church in the Coal Creek Canyon. Founded in 2001, Pastor’s Pantry is an available resource for anyone in need in the canyon, and provides both food and essential items, such as toiletries and paper products.
While the food bank has remained open, donations from food sources decreased as a result of diminishing overstock at places like King Soopers. The Round-Up donation will be used to restock shelves with essential items.
Pastor’s Pantry is open every Thursday from 3:00 - 5:00 p.m. or by appointment for emergency needs. Individual donations are also being accepted via a donation box outside the church, 73 Gross Dam Road.
In May, the foundation committed $20,000 to food banks in the cooperative’s territory.
Operation Round-Up is funded by members who voluntarily elect to have their bills rounded up to the next whole dollar, on average just $6 per year. Members may enroll in the program by going to www.unitedpower.com/round-up
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Payment Kiosk Installed at Brighton Office
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Thursday | April 16, 2020
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United Power recently installed a new payment kiosk at its Brighton office location, available now for member use.
United Power recently installed a new payment kiosk at its Brighton office location, available now for member use. The installation of the new kiosk adds a third location for members to make payments via kiosk, joining the Carbon Valley Service Center and the Coal Creek Canyon office. Payments made using a kiosk at any of the three locations are quick, simple and hassle-free.
Payment kiosks accept cash, credit card or check payments. Cash and credit card payments made using a kiosk are applied to your account immediately, and accounts subject to disconnection are restored immediately upon payment.
Set Up Your Fast Pass for Quick Access
To make your transactions faster, there is an option to set up a “Fast Pass,” which will be prompted once you complete a successful transaction. You’ll create a 4-digit PIN and receive a printed barcode.
Bring your barcode next time you visit a United Power payment kiosk, select “Fast Pass” and quickly find your account with the barcode/PIN or the phone number you used when setting up your Fast Pass.
Please be careful to enter the correct phone and account numbers when making a payment because your Fast Pass will reflect these numbers exactly as you input them.
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Please Keep a Safe Distance From Crews While They're Working
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Tuesday | April 28, 2020
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We're asking employees and members to practice social distancing.
For your safety, and ours, please maintain a safe distance from our crews. They're on the front line keeping the lights on and we'd appreciate your help keeping them safe and healthy. Approaching lineworkers can compromise their health during this pandemic and it also distracts them while they are performing critical work.
Recently, more members have been approaching our crews while they continue to work to keep the electric grid maintained and powered. We realize this may be a stressful time, and more of our members are home to observe this work near their property. But please keep in mind that the health and safety of these essential workers is paramount to keeping your power flowing.
To protect our essential workers, we have closed our offices to walk-in traffic and dispersed our office personnel to remote work stations. We have temporarily suspended any in-home visits like energy audits, and our crews should not need access to the inside of your homes to complete their work. Field crews are wearing masks made of the same fire-resistant material as their uniform shirts, and our crews will maintain a safe distance from our members while working near your property.
Please also keep in mind that the electric system serving you delivers high-voltage electricity and our trained linemen can often be working on or near energized electrical equipment. To keep you safe from electrical dangers, and to protect the health of our vital field crews, please keep a safe distance from equipment and anyone working in the area.
We are happy to answer your questions about work being completed, so instead of approaching crews, please call our office at 303-637-1300. We're here at a safe distance with the same commitment to power what matters to you.
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Powering the Future
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Tuesday | May 1, 2018
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United Power has spent the past year engaging in innovative solutions to bring members more reliable and efficient energy with an eye toward “Powering the Future,” the theme of the 79th Annual Meeting and Director Election held on April 18th.
United Power has spent the past year engaging in innovative solutions to bring members more reliable and efficient energy with an eye toward “Powering the Future,” the theme of the 79th Annual Meeting and Director Election held on April 18th. More than 700 people were represented at the annual member event held at the Adams County Fairgrounds in Brighton, Colo. With seats up for election in each of United Power’s four districts, members were asked to cast ballots to decide who would represent them in those seats for the next three years. For the first time since 2005, however, each of the incumbent directors ran for re-election unopposed. In a cost-saving decision, the cooperative’s board voted to have an onsite election instead of mailing ballots to members.
Members cast more than 300 votes in the election, and results were announced during the course of the business meeting. South District incumbent, Susan Petrocco, received 321 votes to retain her seat for another term. Rick Newman, Mountain District, and Brian A. McCormick, West District, retained their seats with 311 votes each. In the East District, Tim Erickson also retained his seat with 310 votes.
Balloting began shortly after member registration at 4:30 p.m. in the Exhibit Hall. Members were then able to enjoy a Three Tomatoes catered dinner, visit informational exhibit booths and enjoy live entertainment. The business meeting began at approximately 6:30 p.m. in the Waymire Dome and was streamed to overflow seating in the Exhibit Hall.
Once the meeting was called to order, Board President James Vigesaa discussed some of the exciting new projects, developments and initiatives United Power has pursued over the past year.
United Power has been making moves in renewable energy generation and energy efficiency over the course of the past year with several exciting projects and programs on the horizon. The evening’s highlight came when Vigesaa announced United Power had reached an agreement with officials from the Town of Frederick to purchase the municipal electric utility, Frederick Power & Light, serving approximately 2,400 customers. Those customers will become members of the cooperative in the coming months.
The addition of these new members comes at an exciting time for United Power. In October, the cooperative announced plans to construct a battery storage system at its new western facility located along Interstate 25. Developed in collaboration with SoCore Energy, the battery storage system would become the largest such system in Colorado and one of the largest systems owned and operated by a cooperative in the country.
In the previous year, the board named a new Chief Executive Officer, John Parker, and appointed Keith Alquist II to fill the seat left vacant when Bob Grant resigned in August. United Power also completed construction on its third solar farm. The Platte Solar Farm, energized in November, adds 16 additional megawatts of energy to United Power’s renewable energy portfolio and joins existing farms in Ft. Lupton and Mead.
Through developments and initiatives like these, United Power continues to aim high and set the standard for others to follow, and has been rewarded with continued economic stability. The cooperative’s operating expenses totaled $226 million in 2017, an increase of nearly $14 million from 2016, nearly all due to higher purchased power costs, Board Secretary/Treasurer Beth Martin reported. Purchased power represents more than 76 percent of operating costs.
The strong financial standing allowed United Power to retire more than $5 million in capital credits this past year compared to $4 million the previous year. In the past five years, United Power has retired nearly $24 million in capital credits.
The Annual Meeting continued with the CEO’s Report, including two special video presentations. The first demonstrated some of the ways United Power has innovatively restructured departments to make processes more efficient. The second video detailed the use of UAVs (or drones) to inspect power lines and poles in our mountain territory in a way that makes identifying issues quicker, safer and cheaper. The program will soon launch in the plains territory.
“Our Annual Meeting is more than an event to inform our members,” Parker said. “It’s a chance for them to celebrate our accomplishments with us. Everything we’re doing is an effort to bring them safe, reliable and sustainable power.”
For members who were unable to attend but are still interested in how United Power continues to serve them, these videos are available on the cooperative’s website, social media and YouTube channel.
The evening also included a special check presentation to 2018 scholarship winners. United Power is proud to provide more than $18,000 in scholarships to deserving high school seniors within our service territory who are intent on pursing postsecondary education.
The meeting concluded with a member forum and drawing for door prizes. United Power looks forward to monitoring trends and innovations that allow us to best serve our members as we also look forward to celebrating our 80th anniversary in the coming year.
2018 Director Election Results
United Power members cast more than 300 ballots, and the following results were certified by the Election and Credentials Committee at the 2018 Annual Meeting:
South District
Susan Petrocco, 321
West District
Brian A. McCormick, 311
East District
Tim Erickson, 310
Mountain District
Rick Newman, 311
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Powering You Back to Business
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Thursday | June 11, 2020
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United Power is here to help power our community and support our small businesses.
The COVID19 pandemic has impacted many of our local small business members, and we wanted to take a moment to provide resources to help you. Whether you're operating with modified business practices or trying to re-open on a shoestring budget, your electric co-op is here to help connect you with information and to be your trusted energy advisor.
ENERGY INFORMATION & RESOURCES
As your electric provider, we are here to help you use your energy as efficiently as possible. Your electric bills shouldn’t be among the many challenges your business is facing right now, so here are some ways you can save energy and money.
Tips to Help You Save During Downtime: Here are some helpful things to remember while you’re operating on reduced hours or services.
Analyze Your Usage: Use the Power Portal to monitor your energy use and keep those bills down.
Rate Analysis: Our Energy Management team can review your energy usage and make a rate recommendation.
Virtual Energy Audit: We are practicing social distancing, but we are available to provide virtual energy audits. Now, more than ever, let us help you find ways to save on your energy costs.
FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE
If you’re a small business owner looking for relief, you may qualify for financial assistance through the following resources. In addition to these national and statewide organizations, your local cities and chambers of commerce may be able to help you navigate federal programs or secure local grants.
Local Colorado Resources for Small Businesses
PAYMENT OPTIONS & ASSISTANCE
We offer several convenient ways for you to pay your bills at a safe distance and may be able to assist you with your electric bill payments.
Online & Mobile App: Pay online or with the United Power mobile app.
Pay Now: We know you’re busy. Pay Now allows you to make a quick, secure payment online without a password.
Payment Kiosk: Still prefer to pay in person, or make a cash payment? Use one of our kiosks open from 5 am – 10 pm.
Payment Arrangements & Co-op Cares Fund: If you are having trouble making your payments, please reach out to us. We can help schedule a payment arrangement and if you are economically impacted by the pandemic, you may qualify for an energy bill assistance grant from our Co-op Cares Fund.
United Power proudly stands with our locally owned small business members, and we are here to power you back into business. For energy information, expert advice, or billing questions, please reach out to us at 303-637-1300.
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Powering Your Community: Amy Clement
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Wednesday | August 11, 2021
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United Power is deeply rooted in the communities it serves and committed to their success. We manage our resources in a way that allows us to give back to our communities and empowers our employees to do the same.
The hallmark of an electric cooperative is not simply providing reliable power to its members. United Power is deeply rooted in the communities it serves and committed to their success. We manage our resources in a way that allows us to give back to our communities and empowers our employees to do the same.
Many United Power employees have volunteered their own time and resources to local nonprofits and educational foundations throughout the service territory. They have been able to leverage both their professional experience with the cooperative and personal interests to become leaders who are critical to powering these organizations.
Amy Clement, a Senior Human Resources Generalist at United Power, has been serving on the Adams County Workforce Development Board since 2017. She is the current board chair and serves on the executive committee. The Workforce Development Board’s mission is to create opportunities for success by connecting businesses to a quality workforce in Adams County. The board is composed of community leaders who represent private industry, nonprofits and public agencies.
The individuals on the board represent a variety of industry roles, backgrounds and interests, helping generate quality discussions when determining goals and direction.
Clement said her involvement with the Workforce Development Board represents United Power as an employee of the cooperative, but that it also reflects her desire as a local resident to see community growth.
“My professional background in human resources has afforded me opportunities in workforce development and training that are beneficial to the board” she said. “At the same time, I enjoy personally serving not only the community I live in, but also the people that are looking to better their own lives through employment and career progression.”
When the position on the board opened in 2017, Tom Green, the district representative for United Power in Adams County, said he instantly recommended Clement.
“I believe it’s important for United Power employees to take part in local community organizations, especially when it relates to their role with the cooperative,” Green said. “Amy is a talented professional who I thought could provide fresh input on the workforce in Adams County and be a meaningful contributor on the Workforce Development Board.”
As executive committee chair, Clement is personally involved with policy updates and responsible for communications with state representatives, as well as managing board meetings each month. She recently worked with the board to establish an adult internship program to place Adams County residents in businesses to gain experience and advance their careers.
“This is an exciting opportunity to give back to the community,” she said. “I am hopeful we will be able to place an intern with United Power in the future.”
The board’s responsibilities are accomplished through the activities of the Adams County Workforce and Business Center. For more information, go to www.adcogove.org/WBC.
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Operation Round-Up Commits $20,000 in Support to Local Food Banks
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Wednesday | May 13, 2020
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The board of directors selected Food Bank of the Rockies and the Weld County Food Bank to receive grants of $10,000 each to offset their growing costs during the COVID-19 situation.
BRIGHTON – United Power’s Operation Round-Up Foundation will donate a total of $20,000 to large food banks that provide food to members throughout the United Power service territory. The board of directors selected Food Bank of the Rockies and the Weld County Food Bank to receive grants of $10,000 each to offset their growing costs during the COVID-19 situation.
“On behalf of the entire Round-Up board of directors, we are very pleased to be able to provide these generous grants to these two organizations,” stated Dale McCall, United Power Operation Round-Up President. “This support, coupled with our ongoing support of our partner organizations, provides direct relief to members of United Power who are being impacted by either health or economic concerns during the COVID-19 pandemic.”
In addition to this one-time grant, the organization has been providing on-going support to several groups that provide essential services to community members over the last three years. Almost Home in Brighton, Catholic Charities in Ft. Lupton, the Carbon Valley Help Center in Firestone, and Canyon Cares in the Coal Creek Canyon area receive quarterly grants to provide assistance to United Power members who may need help paying utility, rent, and other critical expenses.
The Round-Up board is charged with the oversight and distribution of funds collected from members who support the foundation. The foundation is funded by members who “round-up” their bills to the next full dollar amount. The average donation is 50¢ per month, but those pennies add up to really make a substantial impact in United Power’s service territory. Since the foundation was established it has funneled more than $2.5 million back into the community to fund programs that support United Power members. To learn more about United Power’s Operation Round-Up Foundation, visit our website at www.unitedpower.com, or call us at 303-637-1300.
About United Power and the Operation Round-Up Foundation
United Power is a member-owned, not-for-profit electric cooperative delivering electricity to more than 95,000 meters at homes, businesses and farms in Colorado's north-central front range. The United Power Operation Round-Up Foundation, funded by United Power members, supports the needs of cooperative members through grants to local organizations providing critical services. For more information about the cooperative, visit www.unitedpower.com or follow them on social media at facebook.com/unitedpower or twitter.com/unitedpowercoop.###
Our Salute to Veterans
Friday | November 18, 2022
United Power is proud to celebrate veterans working in our offices, living in our communities, and t...
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Our Superheros
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Monday | April 2, 2018
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Every day heroes may not wear capes and fly around the city, but they know when the going gets tough, it’s time for them to get going.
When darkness befalls a city, superheroes lace up their boots, throw on their capes and race into danger without a moment’s hesitation. Everyone knows the classic Spider-Man quote, “With great power comes great responsibility.” Every day heroes may not wear capes and fly around the city, but they know when the going gets tough, it’s time for them to get going.
The Denver area is synonymous with winter storms, and when the metro last experienced the most trying pitfalls of living at the base of the Rocky Mountains in October 2009, United Power linemen were prepped and ready to go as snow blanketed the metro area. Schools and businesses took preemptive action, closing before the storm hit. By the time the last snowflake nestled in with its brethren, snow had been falling for more than 24 hours.
While area youth enjoyed a day away from the classroom, a different picture unfolded in the Front Range. Coal Creek Canyon, a community within United Power’s mountain service area, had accumulated nearly four feet of snow.
To put that number into perspective, Chicago’s average annual snowfall is around three feet.
Calm winds allowed the snow to gingerly build on tree branches, poles, yard ornaments and fences, bringing with it a massive burden. Each new snowflake resting precariously on unsuspecting surfaces brought weight inching toward disaster, like the dastardly plan of a supervillain. Before the storm faded, thousands of Coal Creek residents were without power as tree branches, cross arms and power lines succumbed to the weight of the snow.
Within moments of the outage, United Power had begun mobilizing crews to diagnose the situation and restore power. Operations Superintendent Mike Lanckriet, a lineman of 32 years, and his crew were among the first to respond.
“We took careful steps to monitor the storm as it moved into our territory, but we never expected the amount of snow we got,” Lanckriet said. “At times the snow was deeper than our linemen were tall. But we didn’t think of it in terms of challenges. When we arrived, our first focus was what needed to be done to get the power back on.”
United Power linemen wouldn’t let the enormity of the task ahead deter them from accomplishing their goal. They laced up their boots, threw on their tools and raced headfirst into our worst winter storm in more than 12 years.
Crews spent nearly a week battling dense snow, bitter cold and physical and mental fatigue while alternating 14 hour shifts to restore power to Coal Creek. Final repairs, however, took more than two weeks to complete.
“You try to be as prepared as possible before a large storm, but there’s always a level of unpredictability,” said Kurt Eisenbarth, another United Power superintendent and former lineman. “It takes a different mentality to thrive on that in the most critical situations.”
Living along the Front Range means each winter brings the possibility of another debilitating winter storm, but in reality critical situations come few and far between. Most of the time, linemen are working when the weather’s calm and the sun is shining. It’s easy to forget the service they provide when the situation isn’t seen as “critical,” easy to divorce their role from the danger linemen face each day.
“It doesn’t take lightning or snow for our job to be dangerous,” said Operations Manager Brent Sydow. “The most routine task requires a high level of care and safety.”
Being a lineman requires hard work, dedication and commitment – to their crew and their work – to doing dangerous work, knowing the fruits of their labor are often misunderstood or unrecognized.
Residents in a comic book rest easy knowing a superhero is there to save the day when danger rears its head, much like we confidently trust in the unimpeded flow of electricity to power our lives. But when the power fails, our linemen spring into action.
We invite our members to join us in celebrating National Lineman Appreciation Day on April 18th. Use #ThankALineman on social media to show your support, or take a moment to drop a kind note in the mail.
Outages can come without warning, from a variety of different situations, but one thing you can count on: when the power goes out, a United Power line crew is already on its way.
“When the power goes out, it’s about a brotherhood coming together to accomplish a goal, working shoulder to shoulder through blood, sweat and tears,” Eisenbarth said. “At night, they get to be the superheroes.”
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Our Time to Shine
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Thursday | March 1, 2018
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When severe weather hits, there’s one group United Power and its members rely on to keep the power on. Join us in celebrating National Lineman Appreciation Day on April 18th.
When severe weather hits, there’s one group United Power and its members rely on to keep the power on. On April 18th, we will join in celebrating National Lineman Appreciation Day, honoring the hard work, innovation and dedication of America’s electrical lineworkers.
Linemen must be prepared to face daily situations that may be less than ideal, regularly tasked with resolving intricate and hazardous problems in unknown or perilous conditions. It requires a strong commitment to one another and doing dangerous work, knowing the fruits of their labor are often misunderstood or unrecognized.
In the line of duty, the smallest mistake could be the difference between life and death. When our linemen lace up their boots, they understand the dedication they must have to safely complete their work in the quickest possible way.
“Electric linemen are the backbone of what we do,” said Bryant Robbins, United Power Chief Operations Officer. “They go above and beyond on a daily basis, often in hazardous conditions far from their families, to restore power to their communities.”
Our linemen are on call 24 hours a day, ready to respond to any situation in any type of weather. So next time you lose power, rest assured a highly trained United Power crew is on the way, dedicated to getting the lights back on quickly and safely.
“When the power is off, that’s when we’re at our best and it’s our time to shine,” said Mark Keith, United Power foreman. “We get out there no matter the weather, and get to work figuring out how to solve the problem.”
Regularly facing difficult situations, it’s no surprise electrical lineworkers have one of the most dangerous jobs in the country. In 2017, electrical powerline installers and repairers were noted to have the 15th most dangerous profession.
Without our linemen, the power that makes our member’s homes comfortable wouldn’t be possible. We invite our members to take a moment to thank our United Power linemen for the work they do. Use #ThankALineman on social media to show your support, or take a moment to drop a kind note in the mail.
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Pastor's Pantry Received Round-Up Grant
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Monday | June 29, 2020
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Pastor’s Pantry is an available resource for anyone in need in the canyon, and provides both food and essential items, such as toiletries and paper products.
Over the course of the COVID-19 pandemic, the United Power Operation Round-Up Foundation has responded to the needs of many nonprofits in the cooperative’s service territory. With many individuals and families economically impacted due to workplace shutdowns, the board has given above and beyond its normal contributions to area food banks to help meet the needs of those impacted in various corners of the territory.
The Operation Round-Up board recently announced a $3,000 donation to Pastor’s Pantry, which operates out of Whispering Pines Church in the Coal Creek Canyon. Founded in 2001, Pastor’s Pantry is an available resource for anyone in need in the canyon, and provides both food and essential items, such as toiletries and paper products.
While the food bank has remained open, donations from food sources decreased as a result of diminishing overstock at places like King Soopers. The Round-Up donation will be used to restock shelves with essential items.
Pastor’s Pantry is open every Thursday from 3:00 - 5:00 p.m. or by appointment for emergency needs. Individual donations are also being accepted via a donation box outside the church, 73 Gross Dam Road.
In May, the foundation committed $20,000 to food banks in the cooperative’s territory.
Operation Round-Up is funded by members who voluntarily elect to have their bills rounded up to the next whole dollar, on average just $6 per year. Members may enroll in the program by going to www.unitedpower.com/round-up
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Payment Kiosk Installed at Brighton Office
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Thursday | April 16, 2020
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United Power recently installed a new payment kiosk at its Brighton office location, available now for member use.
United Power recently installed a new payment kiosk at its Brighton office location, available now for member use. The installation of the new kiosk adds a third location for members to make payments via kiosk, joining the Carbon Valley Service Center and the Coal Creek Canyon office. Payments made using a kiosk at any of the three locations are quick, simple and hassle-free.
Payment kiosks accept cash, credit card or check payments. Cash and credit card payments made using a kiosk are applied to your account immediately, and accounts subject to disconnection are restored immediately upon payment.
Set Up Your Fast Pass for Quick Access
To make your transactions faster, there is an option to set up a “Fast Pass,” which will be prompted once you complete a successful transaction. You’ll create a 4-digit PIN and receive a printed barcode.
Bring your barcode next time you visit a United Power payment kiosk, select “Fast Pass” and quickly find your account with the barcode/PIN or the phone number you used when setting up your Fast Pass.
Please be careful to enter the correct phone and account numbers when making a payment because your Fast Pass will reflect these numbers exactly as you input them.
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Please Keep a Safe Distance From Crews While They're Working
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Tuesday | April 28, 2020
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We're asking employees and members to practice social distancing.
For your safety, and ours, please maintain a safe distance from our crews. They're on the front line keeping the lights on and we'd appreciate your help keeping them safe and healthy. Approaching lineworkers can compromise their health during this pandemic and it also distracts them while they are performing critical work.
Recently, more members have been approaching our crews while they continue to work to keep the electric grid maintained and powered. We realize this may be a stressful time, and more of our members are home to observe this work near their property. But please keep in mind that the health and safety of these essential workers is paramount to keeping your power flowing.
To protect our essential workers, we have closed our offices to walk-in traffic and dispersed our office personnel to remote work stations. We have temporarily suspended any in-home visits like energy audits, and our crews should not need access to the inside of your homes to complete their work. Field crews are wearing masks made of the same fire-resistant material as their uniform shirts, and our crews will maintain a safe distance from our members while working near your property.
Please also keep in mind that the electric system serving you delivers high-voltage electricity and our trained linemen can often be working on or near energized electrical equipment. To keep you safe from electrical dangers, and to protect the health of our vital field crews, please keep a safe distance from equipment and anyone working in the area.
We are happy to answer your questions about work being completed, so instead of approaching crews, please call our office at 303-637-1300. We're here at a safe distance with the same commitment to power what matters to you.
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Powering the Future
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Tuesday | May 1, 2018
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United Power has spent the past year engaging in innovative solutions to bring members more reliable and efficient energy with an eye toward “Powering the Future,” the theme of the 79th Annual Meeting and Director Election held on April 18th.
United Power has spent the past year engaging in innovative solutions to bring members more reliable and efficient energy with an eye toward “Powering the Future,” the theme of the 79th Annual Meeting and Director Election held on April 18th. More than 700 people were represented at the annual member event held at the Adams County Fairgrounds in Brighton, Colo. With seats up for election in each of United Power’s four districts, members were asked to cast ballots to decide who would represent them in those seats for the next three years. For the first time since 2005, however, each of the incumbent directors ran for re-election unopposed. In a cost-saving decision, the cooperative’s board voted to have an onsite election instead of mailing ballots to members.
Members cast more than 300 votes in the election, and results were announced during the course of the business meeting. South District incumbent, Susan Petrocco, received 321 votes to retain her seat for another term. Rick Newman, Mountain District, and Brian A. McCormick, West District, retained their seats with 311 votes each. In the East District, Tim Erickson also retained his seat with 310 votes.
Balloting began shortly after member registration at 4:30 p.m. in the Exhibit Hall. Members were then able to enjoy a Three Tomatoes catered dinner, visit informational exhibit booths and enjoy live entertainment. The business meeting began at approximately 6:30 p.m. in the Waymire Dome and was streamed to overflow seating in the Exhibit Hall.
Once the meeting was called to order, Board President James Vigesaa discussed some of the exciting new projects, developments and initiatives United Power has pursued over the past year.
United Power has been making moves in renewable energy generation and energy efficiency over the course of the past year with several exciting projects and programs on the horizon. The evening’s highlight came when Vigesaa announced United Power had reached an agreement with officials from the Town of Frederick to purchase the municipal electric utility, Frederick Power & Light, serving approximately 2,400 customers. Those customers will become members of the cooperative in the coming months.
The addition of these new members comes at an exciting time for United Power. In October, the cooperative announced plans to construct a battery storage system at its new western facility located along Interstate 25. Developed in collaboration with SoCore Energy, the battery storage system would become the largest such system in Colorado and one of the largest systems owned and operated by a cooperative in the country.
In the previous year, the board named a new Chief Executive Officer, John Parker, and appointed Keith Alquist II to fill the seat left vacant when Bob Grant resigned in August. United Power also completed construction on its third solar farm. The Platte Solar Farm, energized in November, adds 16 additional megawatts of energy to United Power’s renewable energy portfolio and joins existing farms in Ft. Lupton and Mead.
Through developments and initiatives like these, United Power continues to aim high and set the standard for others to follow, and has been rewarded with continued economic stability. The cooperative’s operating expenses totaled $226 million in 2017, an increase of nearly $14 million from 2016, nearly all due to higher purchased power costs, Board Secretary/Treasurer Beth Martin reported. Purchased power represents more than 76 percent of operating costs.
The strong financial standing allowed United Power to retire more than $5 million in capital credits this past year compared to $4 million the previous year. In the past five years, United Power has retired nearly $24 million in capital credits.
The Annual Meeting continued with the CEO’s Report, including two special video presentations. The first demonstrated some of the ways United Power has innovatively restructured departments to make processes more efficient. The second video detailed the use of UAVs (or drones) to inspect power lines and poles in our mountain territory in a way that makes identifying issues quicker, safer and cheaper. The program will soon launch in the plains territory.
“Our Annual Meeting is more than an event to inform our members,” Parker said. “It’s a chance for them to celebrate our accomplishments with us. Everything we’re doing is an effort to bring them safe, reliable and sustainable power.”
For members who were unable to attend but are still interested in how United Power continues to serve them, these videos are available on the cooperative’s website, social media and YouTube channel.
The evening also included a special check presentation to 2018 scholarship winners. United Power is proud to provide more than $18,000 in scholarships to deserving high school seniors within our service territory who are intent on pursing postsecondary education.
The meeting concluded with a member forum and drawing for door prizes. United Power looks forward to monitoring trends and innovations that allow us to best serve our members as we also look forward to celebrating our 80th anniversary in the coming year.
2018 Director Election Results
United Power members cast more than 300 ballots, and the following results were certified by the Election and Credentials Committee at the 2018 Annual Meeting:
South District
Susan Petrocco, 321
West District
Brian A. McCormick, 311
East District
Tim Erickson, 310
Mountain District
Rick Newman, 311
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Powering You Back to Business
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Thursday | June 11, 2020
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United Power is here to help power our community and support our small businesses.
The COVID19 pandemic has impacted many of our local small business members, and we wanted to take a moment to provide resources to help you. Whether you're operating with modified business practices or trying to re-open on a shoestring budget, your electric co-op is here to help connect you with information and to be your trusted energy advisor.
ENERGY INFORMATION & RESOURCES
As your electric provider, we are here to help you use your energy as efficiently as possible. Your electric bills shouldn’t be among the many challenges your business is facing right now, so here are some ways you can save energy and money.
Tips to Help You Save During Downtime: Here are some helpful things to remember while you’re operating on reduced hours or services.
Analyze Your Usage: Use the Power Portal to monitor your energy use and keep those bills down.
Rate Analysis: Our Energy Management team can review your energy usage and make a rate recommendation.
Virtual Energy Audit: We are practicing social distancing, but we are available to provide virtual energy audits. Now, more than ever, let us help you find ways to save on your energy costs.
FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE
If you’re a small business owner looking for relief, you may qualify for financial assistance through the following resources. In addition to these national and statewide organizations, your local cities and chambers of commerce may be able to help you navigate federal programs or secure local grants.
Local Colorado Resources for Small Businesses
PAYMENT OPTIONS & ASSISTANCE
We offer several convenient ways for you to pay your bills at a safe distance and may be able to assist you with your electric bill payments.
Online & Mobile App: Pay online or with the United Power mobile app.
Pay Now: We know you’re busy. Pay Now allows you to make a quick, secure payment online without a password.
Payment Kiosk: Still prefer to pay in person, or make a cash payment? Use one of our kiosks open from 5 am – 10 pm.
Payment Arrangements & Co-op Cares Fund: If you are having trouble making your payments, please reach out to us. We can help schedule a payment arrangement and if you are economically impacted by the pandemic, you may qualify for an energy bill assistance grant from our Co-op Cares Fund.
United Power proudly stands with our locally owned small business members, and we are here to power you back into business. For energy information, expert advice, or billing questions, please reach out to us at 303-637-1300.
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Powering Your Community: Amy Clement
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Wednesday | August 11, 2021
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United Power is deeply rooted in the communities it serves and committed to their success. We manage our resources in a way that allows us to give back to our communities and empowers our employees to do the same.
The hallmark of an electric cooperative is not simply providing reliable power to its members. United Power is deeply rooted in the communities it serves and committed to their success. We manage our resources in a way that allows us to give back to our communities and empowers our employees to do the same.
Many United Power employees have volunteered their own time and resources to local nonprofits and educational foundations throughout the service territory. They have been able to leverage both their professional experience with the cooperative and personal interests to become leaders who are critical to powering these organizations.
Amy Clement, a Senior Human Resources Generalist at United Power, has been serving on the Adams County Workforce Development Board since 2017. She is the current board chair and serves on the executive committee. The Workforce Development Board’s mission is to create opportunities for success by connecting businesses to a quality workforce in Adams County. The board is composed of community leaders who represent private industry, nonprofits and public agencies.
The individuals on the board represent a variety of industry roles, backgrounds and interests, helping generate quality discussions when determining goals and direction.
Clement said her involvement with the Workforce Development Board represents United Power as an employee of the cooperative, but that it also reflects her desire as a local resident to see community growth.
“My professional background in human resources has afforded me opportunities in workforce development and training that are beneficial to the board” she said. “At the same time, I enjoy personally serving not only the community I live in, but also the people that are looking to better their own lives through employment and career progression.”
When the position on the board opened in 2017, Tom Green, the district representative for United Power in Adams County, said he instantly recommended Clement.
“I believe it’s important for United Power employees to take part in local community organizations, especially when it relates to their role with the cooperative,” Green said. “Amy is a talented professional who I thought could provide fresh input on the workforce in Adams County and be a meaningful contributor on the Workforce Development Board.”
As executive committee chair, Clement is personally involved with policy updates and responsible for communications with state representatives, as well as managing board meetings each month. She recently worked with the board to establish an adult internship program to place Adams County residents in businesses to gain experience and advance their careers.
“This is an exciting opportunity to give back to the community,” she said. “I am hopeful we will be able to place an intern with United Power in the future.”
The board’s responsibilities are accomplished through the activities of the Adams County Workforce and Business Center. For more information, go to www.adcogove.org/WBC.
