Title
Powering Your Night at the Fair
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Friday | July 2, 2021
Card Teaser
Enter to win one of four ticket packages to the Adams County Fair from United Power. The fair will be from August 4-8, 2021.
The Adams County Fair, August 4-8, will be packed with family friendly entertainment, and as the presenting sponsor, United Power is giving away ticket packages to some lucky members. Enter to win one of four prize packages below by completing the entry form.
Contest Entry FormFriday, August 6 | 7 p.m.
4 Tickets, Demolition Derby & Fireworks (x2)
2 Unlimited Carnival Arm Bands
$25 Concessions Gift Card
Saturday, August 7 | 7 p.m.
4 Tickets, NSPA Truck Pull
2 Unlimited Carnival Arm Bands
$25 Concessions Gift Card
Sunday, August 8 | 3 p.m.
4 Tickets, Dia de la Familia
2 Unlimited Carnival Arm Bands
$25 Concessions Gift Card
To learn more about the fair, go to www.adamscountyfair.com.
To enter by mail, mail a postcard with your name, address, phone and email to:
United Power
Attn: Adams County Fair Ticket Package Giveaway
500 Cooperative Way
Brighton, CO 80603
Entries must be received by July 28, 2021 to be eligible. United Power is not responsible for lost or misdirected mail.
Title
Powering Your Night at the Fair
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Monday | July 15, 2019
Card Teaser
Enter to Win Adams County Fair Tickets
The Adams County Fair, July 31 – August 4, will be packed with family-friendly events and entertainment, and as the presenting sponsor, United Power is giving away ticket packages to some lucky members. Enter to win one of four prize packages by visiting our Facebook page.
Visit us on Facebook and tell us your favorite memory of the fair to be entered to win a ticket package to ONE of the following:
• Aug. 1: PBR & Aaron Watson with special guest Ned Ledoux
• Aug. 2: Demolition Derby & Fireworks
• Aug. 3: NSPA Truck Pull
• Aug. 4: Charreada Y La Original Banda El Limon
Prize packages include 4 event tickets, 2 carnival wristbands, and a $30 concessions gift card. Entries must be received by July 24. Winners will be notified on July 26.
See you at the Adams County Fair!
July 31 - Aug 4, 2019
Tickets for the various United Power Grandstand Events at the Adams County Fair are on sale now. Buy your tickets online.
Paid parking and shuttle rides are available. Fair admission is free.
Special Days:
Thursday, Aug. 1 – Senior Day
Friday, Aug. 2 – 9NEWS Kids Day
Title
Practical EV Driving
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Monday | September 25, 2023
Card Teaser
National Drive Electric Week is Sept. 22 - Oct. 1.
National Drive Electric Week is Sept. 22 - Oct. 1
The Colorado Energy Office announced an ambitious grant program in 2018 to develop several electric vehicle (EV) fast-charging corridors throughout the state, making travel possible even across its large rural and mountainous areas. Many of these corridors have started to come into shape over the past couple years, which is a large part of why the state has consistently been ranked among the best places to own an EV as a daily driver.
Once completed, several of those corridors will traverse along interstate, state, and U.S. highways that intersect United Power’s suburban territory north and northeast of Denver. The cooperative proactively launched its own fast-charging network in conjunction with ChargePoint in 2019, and received a grant from the Colorado Energy Office to install its second location in Keenesburg in 2021. A third was also added at the Carbon Valley office last year. The network was designed to bridge gaps in available charging options and make rural EV ownership more practical and feasible.
Members who are still unsure about EVs may be interested in learning more about new programs United Power has introduced in the past year, including United EV, a pilot program that provides cost-effective at-home charging solutions, and make-ready wiring rebates, providing up to $1,000 toward the cost of preparing your home for an EV charger.
United EV enrollment provides a complete service package including installation and setup of a wall-mounted ChargePoint Home Flex level 2 charger and maintenance and repairs for the duration of the enrollment period. All this is available for a $19 monthly service fee.
For more information about United EV, available wiring rebates, and charging network locations, visit the cooperative’s EV Home or reach out to the Energy Management team at 303-637-1233.
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President & CEO Speaks on Co-op’s Role in a DSO Energy Delivery Model
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Monday | January 10, 2022
Card Teaser
Presentation Delivered at National Co-op CEO Conference
United Power President and Chief Executive Officer, Mark A. Gabriel, recently joined co-op CEOs Brian Heithoff, of Trico Electric Cooperative, and Eric Hobbie of Prairie Power, Inc. in a panel discussion about electric cooperatives’ role as Distribution System Operators (DSO) at the NRECA CEO Close-Up Conference in Phoenix, Arizona. The conference is attended by hundreds of cooperative CEOs and General Managers and held annually to provide CEOs with insight into industry trends and best practices for managing key challenges.
A growing number of electric cooperatives, including United Power, are moving toward a DSO model, which allows the utility to enhance its relationships with members, provide added services and proactively manage the grid with automation and smart technology. At United Power, continued projected growth and an opportunity to purchase cleaner and more affordable power from a variety of resources combined with the desire for more member-owned and locally generated renewable energy puts the cooperative in a position to take a more integrated and dynamic approach to delivering electricity.
“The energy landscape is undergoing a dramatic shift and the relationship that cooperatives like United Power already have with their member communities has us primed to lead this energy transition,” said Mark A. Gabriel, United Power President & CEO. “A locally-owned cooperative is nimble, innovative and responsive—and is exactly how utilities will need to operate in order to manage a resilient distribution system, efficiently integrate local micro-grids and facilitate the local exchange of energy.”
Gabriel discussed United Power’s 10 Year Working Plan and the strategic considerations the cooperative is undertaking as they move toward a DSO model. The working plan was developed by key staff at the cooperative and it serves as a comprehensive guide to align the board, employees, and members through this dramatic operational shift. By leveraging new technology, expansive energy resources, and updated operations, and new technology, United Power is actively advancing the local distribution system to adapt to the new ways it will provide value and reliable power for members.
“The 10 Year Plan is our playbook outlining the allocation of people, resources, and leadership attention as we drive toward an increasingly dynamic, sustainable, and complex energy future,” said Gabriel. “While we are working to deliver reliable power today, we are planning for the utility of tomorrow. We have started the conversations with our board and our members about what the future of energy will look like and the opportunities that lie ahead.”
Slidedeck from 2022 CEO Close-Up by Mark A. Gabriel
Title
Questions about Demand?
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Friday | January 25, 2019
Card Teaser
United Power’s new rate structure went into effect on January 1st, and members will begin to see the 2019 rates reflected as separate demand and energy charges on their February bills. While energy is the total power used, demand refers to the capacity needed to serve your location. The new rates break apart the costs for demand and energy to more fairly charge each member for their impact on the electric system and the energy they use.
United Power’s new rate structure went into effect on January 1st, and members will begin to see the 2019 rates reflected as separate demand and energy charges on their February bills. While energy is the total power used, demand refers to the capacity needed to serve your location. The new rates break apart the costs for demand and energy to more fairly charge each member for their impact on the electric system and the energy they use.
Why did you change to this rate structure?
The way our members use power has changed, and we now have more detailed information about how each member uses that power. On the blended rate, some members were paying more than they should, while others were not paying enough. The demand component allows us to more fairly charge each member in a way that is more closely aligned with our costs to provide that service.
How do I see when I hit my demand?
Demand measures the highest 15-minute interval of power consumption over the billing period and your bill will show you the kilowatt (kW) demand measurement of that highest interval. If you’d like to investigate what contributed to your demand charge, the Power Portal will show you the day and time that your demand peaked. Pinpointing the day and time will give you the information to reflect on how you were using energy.
Perhaps your demand was highest on a cold Saturday afternoon when you had soup on the stove, bread in the oven, the kids were downstairs gaming with a space heater on, and it was marathon laundry and cleaning day for the family. Operating all of these appliances at once required more system capacity for United Power to serve you, and your demand charge for the month is a fairer representation of how you used the electric system.
How can I reduce my demand?
Monitoring your use in the Power Portal will help you understand what is driving your demand. You’ll see the effect of using multiple appliances at once and what your energy profile looks like when you stagger appliances. If you’d like to keep your demand charges as low as possible, small changes in the way you use energy can make a difference. Here are some easy ways to reduce your demand:
Spread out the use of major appliances. Major electrical appliances that may contribute to high demand costs include air conditioners, electric clothes dryers, electric water heaters, electric ranges and ovens.
Use small cooking appliances or an outdoor grill.
Use a programmable or smart thermostat to pre-heat or pre-cool your home before you get home and operate kitchen appliances.
Use a timer on your water heater, dishwasher and pool pump.
Set a timer on your electric vehicle charger for the middle of the night after other major appliances are not in use.
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Quick Thinking Walgreens Clerk Saves United Power Member from Scam
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Friday | October 12, 2018
Card Teaser
The proactive actions of Brighton Walgreens employees prevented a United Power member from becoming the victim of an attempted utility scam—saving the customer hundreds of dollars.
The proactive actions of Brighton Walgreens employees prevented a United Power member from becoming the victim of an attempted utility scam—saving the customer hundreds of dollars. United Power teamed up with the Brighton Police Department Friday afternoon to present Scam Stopper awards to the attentive store employees.
“We commend Walgreens and your employees for looking out for your customers, and stopping this scam attempt,” said Troy Whitmore, United Power Public Affairs Officer. “Unfortunately, this type of scam happens more frequently than we’d like, and not all of our members are this lucky. Proactive efforts by local businesses like Walgreens are one of our best defenses against these scams.”
This phone scam attempt surfaces regularly in the United Power territory. A member is contacted over the phone by a utility imposter who instructs the member to purchase a pre-paid debit card to pay an overdue electric bill. The caller threatens disconnection of electric service if they don’t pay immediately. One lucky member who came close to becoming a victim received a similar call Friday morning. After receiving demands to pay right away, the member visited the Brighton Walgreens to deposit $400 onto a pre-paid debit card.
Walgreens employee, Kathy Olson, was running the register Friday morning and felt uneasy about the transaction after the customer mentioned she was instructed to load the pre-paid card. She consulted with the store’s assistant manager, Jessie Porter, and they advised the member of this type of scam. They encouraged the customer to verify with United Power before giving anyone money over the phone, and the member went straight to United Power’s office.
United Power warns members to be alert to this type of fraudulent activity, and to stay informed of their account status. United Power reminds members that the cooperative will never call in person to collect payment, will never demand pre-paid debit cards as payment for overdue electric bills, and will never visit a member in person to collect money. If ever in doubt, call United Power at the phone number printed on your statement, or log-in to your account online through the SmartHub Billing & Payment portal.
Brighton Police Department encourages residents to always report suspicious activity. Even if you don’t become a victim of a scam, your information helps law enforcement in their efforts to stop the perpetrators of these sophisticated scams.
Title
Rate Increase Approved
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Friday | November 3, 2023
Card Teaser
The rate increase adjusts for inflation and higher wholesale power costs.
Impact to be Spread Across All Rate Classes
United Power members will see a rate increase effective for usage beginning Jan. 1, 2024. United Power Board members and staff recently reviewed the cooperative’s costs and determined that rates need to be raised an average of 9.5% to help the cooperative maintain a healthy financial profile.
“These decisions are always difficult, and the Board carefully scrutinized spending in all areas across the cooperative before reaching the conclusion that rates need to be increased,” stated Mark A. Gabriel, President and CEO. “Your cooperative has worked hard to keep costs as low as possible for members during the last three years, especially when inflation began to impact the cost of nearly everything we need to maintain normal day-to-day operations. While we knew this effort was only a delay tactic, we really aimed to keep rates stable for members while costs for everything else in their households were rising.”
Average Household to See $10-$15 Increase Monthly
The average residential member will see increases in both the demand charge and in the energy charge, while the fixed charge will remain the same. The demand charge will increase from $1.50 to $2.50 per kW, while the energy charge will increase from 9.95 cents per kwh to 10.39 cents.
The average household on the standard residential rate using about 850 kwh per month with a demand of 7 kW will see their bill rise from $114.08 to $124.82, an increase of $10.74.
Residential time-of-use members will see a similar increase, with an increase in demand from $1.50 to $2.50 per kW. On-peak energy charges will rise from 15.4 cents to 16.07, and off-peak energy charges will increase from 5.25 cents per kwh to 5.5 cents. All other rates will see similar increases. See full menu of rate changes here.
The cooperative’s rate model forecasts that most households will see a $10-$15 per month increase in their electric bill. However, the structure of United Power’s rates provides members the ability to keep costs lower by controlling demand. Reducing demand is as simple as not using electric appliances at the same time. Additionally, setting timers on dryers and dishwashers so they start after the family goes to sleep moves the demand of that appliance to a lower use period and actively reduces demand costs.
Learn more about demand and how you can reduce the impact of this portion of your bill..
Why are rates rising now?
It is important to understand that the cost of wholesale power makes up approximately 75% of a member’s bill. United Power’s current wholesale power supplier is planning a large rate increase in 2024, including a significant change in their rate structure. Once approved, the new rate structure will shift expenses from generation to transmission, which will have a considerable impact on United Power even after our exit. In other words, the cost to deliver power to our members will increase next year — regardless of who is generating and supplying that power. Fortunately, the cooperative will begin purchasing and managing its own wholesale power supply on May 1, 2024, giving us greater control over this portion of our power cost.
United Power staff has kept a watchful eye on spending, particularly over the past three years, but our operation is challenged by rising costs just like most households and businesses. Unavoidable increases in property taxes and insurance premiums are impacting the cooperative. Add to this the rising cost of construction materials and critical components like transformers and wire, and it has been a challenge to balance our budgets. Even the costs for attracting and retaining talented employees continues to climb in both wages and benefits.
How Can Your Cooperative Support You?
United Power has numerous resources to help our members manage their energy usage. Weatherization information to make your home envelope tighter, energy audits to provide tips on energy efficiency measures, rebates to support purchasing energy efficient appliances, and information on lifestyle changes that can help reduce costs are all ways we put the power to control costs in our members’ hands.
If you need help managing your electric costs, please feel free to contact us for assistance. Members may reach United Power by phone at 303-637-1300, via email, or by chat at www.unitedpower.com during normal business hours.
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Rebate Requirements Changing in 2018 on Heat Pump Air Conditioners
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Thursday | November 9, 2017
Card Teaser
Beginning next year, members will see some changes to the rebate requirements on heat pump air conditioners as well as an increase in rebate amounts.
Beginning next year, members will see some changes to the rebate requirements on heat pump air conditioners as well as an increase in rebate amounts. Beginning on January 1, 2018, air source heat pumps must have a SEER rating of at least 15 in order to receive a rebate. Air source heat pumps with a 15-17 SEER rating, will receive a $300 per ton rebate from Tri-State Generation and Transmission, and air source heat pumps with a SEER rating above 17 will receive a $450 per ton rebate from Tri-State. Members will continue to receive an additional $100 per unit rebate on air source heat pumps from United Power, if attached to an existing ETS forced air furnace. Ground-source heat pump rebates from Tri-State are increasing from $250 to $500 per ton starting on January 1, 2018. An inspection by United Power is required to qualify for rebates and members are encouraged to call United Power’s Energy Management Team prior to making any purchases to discuss rebate requirements. Learn more about our rebates here.
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Residential, Irrigation Rates to See Small Increase
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Wednesday | December 4, 2019
Card Teaser
The United Power board of directors proposed a modest increase in residential rates at their November 8th regulatory meeting.
The United Power board of directors proposed a modest increase in residential rates at their November 8th regulatory meeting. The rate increase will vary from 1.5–2% for residential members. Members on the standard residential rate will see a 1.5% rate increase beginning with their January 1st usage, which amounts to an average increase of $1.58 per month. Members on the residential time-of-day rate and irrigation rate will see a 2% increase – an average monthly increase of $3.23 per month.
An additional time-of-day rate was added in response to concerns raised by members utilizing the time-of-day rate. The additional time-of-day rate gives members who utilize specialized equipment and shift their consumption to off-peak periods another rate option. (See Rates Chart attachment below)
“As we move forward with the rate changes, it’s important that we listen to our members, and our newest rate is a response to their concerns,” stated Dean Hubbock, Director of Power Supply and Rates. “The new rates should have a minimal impact on members, and we now have several rates that members can consider when determining the best rate for their lifestyle.”
Last year, United Power instituted a new rate structure that allowed the cooperative to more fairly bill members for not only the power they use, but also for their impact on the electrical system delivering power. The new rate structure charges for energy and demand, breaking apart two costs that had been previously blended together. The new structure even allows members to have more control over the components of their bill that raise their costs. For example, in the residential rate, the demand charge increased by 50¢ per kW, while the energy charge drops from 10.15¢ per kWh to 9.95¢ per kWh.
“We understand that everyone has a different way they use power in their home, and by expanding our rate offerings, members can select a rate that best fits their usage patterns,” stated Hubbock.
In addition to the changes to the residential rates, the board proposed a couple additional changes. Irrigation rates will see a 2% monthly increase for 2020 – an increase of about $1.79 per month. Small and large commercial customers and large industrial primary customers will see an overall 2% monthly decrease in 2020.
“The small reduction for commercial customers was warranted according to our most recent cost-of-service study,” stated Hubbock. “We will be conducting another full study in 2020, and that will help us continue to refine the rates we charge members in different rate classes.”
The new rates will go into effect for usage beginning January 1, 2020, so members will not see the increase on their bills until their February billing. Members can learn more about how to control their demand and lower their overall electric costs by visiting the Understanding Demand page. There are many helpful resources and videos to help you understand how the two components of your power are billed and how to control these costs.
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Resources Offer Closer Look at Your Demand
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Monday | September 3, 2018
Card Teaser
The Power Portal is United Power’s newest resource for members, and offers a detailed look at monthly energy consumption data and overall usage history. This free resource allows members to view monthly, daily and hourly energy use in 15 minute intervals.
In the past few issues of the United Newsline, United Power has been discussing the new residential demand rate that will go into effect in 2019. This month, members will begin seeing a new line on their monthly bills: a Demand Charge. This new line is appearing ahead of next year’s rate change to prepare and educate members on this shift in thinking about their electric consumption.
For the remainder of 2018, your bill will show a Demand Charge with an associated kilowatt (kW) measurement, reflecting the highest 15 minute interval of power use over that month’s billing period. There is currently no charge associated with the Demand Charge (kW) line item, but by printing this new item on member’s electric statements and presenting a new online resource – the Power Portal – members have the information to pinpoint what drives their monthly demand and take steps to control their energy consumption.
The Power Portal is United Power’s newest resource for members, and offers a detailed look at monthly energy consumption data and overall usage history. This free resource allows members to view monthly, daily and hourly energy use in 15 minute intervals. By graphing and making notes of highest usage intervals, members can determine what activities contribute to their energy and demand, and monitor any impact changing behaviors can make. For instance, by looking at the portal data you may see that your highest demand corresponded with a big dinner you hosted for family or a day when you were baking and doing laundry at the end of a long week. The Portal provides the records to determine what activities had the most affect on your demand.
The Board will review proposed rate changes this fall, with the intention of introducing the rate slowly and incrementally over a four-year period. The process includes an extensive Cost of Service study, so rates are designed to reflect how the members affect our costs. Residential demand charges will be lower than commercial members.
“Since we have detailed information about how members use power in their homes, the new demand rate will be a fairer way for us to bill members for their use,” stated Dean Hubbuck, Power Supply & Rates Director. “Residential users maximum impact on the system is lower than commercial customers, and their rates will reflect the difference. We believe a modest demand charge with a reasonable energy rate is the best way to recover our costs.”
Beginning in 2019, bills will show a charge for demand, accompanied by a corresponding reduction in the Energy Charge (kWh). The Demand Charge is figured by multiplying the highest demand interval (kW) by the per kW rate. Before final demand rates are approved, United Power is encouraging members to learn more about their personal electric usage and how they can make subtle changes to save even more.
You Have the Power
Curious to see when you used the most energy this past month? Was it the high temps or maybe your new hot tub using more energy than you expected? Use the Power Portal to pinpoint what’s driving your energy use. Access your complete energy consumption portfolio in 15-minute increments throughout the day to get a clear look at how you use energy.
To use the Power Portal, login and click on My Consumption Data. Under the Usage Dashboard, select the Account to view, choose Current Month from the drop-down and select Billing Month. Under the blue bar chart, you may need to click the Demand option to turn on the orange Demand line in the graph. The orange diamond indicates the interval with the highest demand. Click the blue bar to display each 15-minute interval from that day. Hover over the graph for more detail.
Learn more about the Power Portal and how to register at www.unitedpower.com/powerportal.
The monthly view in the Power Portal presents your energy use for each day. Choose to view the month by calendar month to see the first through the last day of the month, or view by billing month to view from the first day through the last day of that billing cycle. Viewing your monthly usage helps highlight trends in when you use the most energy.
By clicking on any blue bar representing daily energy use, you can zoom in to see every hour of the day by 15-minute intervals. This view can help you pinpoint the interval driving your peak and help you recall activities in your home that contributed.
Title
Powering Your Night at the Fair
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Friday | July 2, 2021
Card Teaser
Enter to win one of four ticket packages to the Adams County Fair from United Power. The fair will be from August 4-8, 2021.
The Adams County Fair, August 4-8, will be packed with family friendly entertainment, and as the presenting sponsor, United Power is giving away ticket packages to some lucky members. Enter to win one of four prize packages below by completing the entry form.
Contest Entry FormFriday, August 6 | 7 p.m.
4 Tickets, Demolition Derby & Fireworks (x2)
2 Unlimited Carnival Arm Bands
$25 Concessions Gift Card
Saturday, August 7 | 7 p.m.
4 Tickets, NSPA Truck Pull
2 Unlimited Carnival Arm Bands
$25 Concessions Gift Card
Sunday, August 8 | 3 p.m.
4 Tickets, Dia de la Familia
2 Unlimited Carnival Arm Bands
$25 Concessions Gift Card
To learn more about the fair, go to www.adamscountyfair.com.
To enter by mail, mail a postcard with your name, address, phone and email to:
United Power
Attn: Adams County Fair Ticket Package Giveaway
500 Cooperative Way
Brighton, CO 80603
Entries must be received by July 28, 2021 to be eligible. United Power is not responsible for lost or misdirected mail.
Title
Powering Your Night at the Fair
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Monday | July 15, 2019
Card Teaser
Enter to Win Adams County Fair Tickets
The Adams County Fair, July 31 – August 4, will be packed with family-friendly events and entertainment, and as the presenting sponsor, United Power is giving away ticket packages to some lucky members. Enter to win one of four prize packages by visiting our Facebook page.
Visit us on Facebook and tell us your favorite memory of the fair to be entered to win a ticket package to ONE of the following:
• Aug. 1: PBR & Aaron Watson with special guest Ned Ledoux
• Aug. 2: Demolition Derby & Fireworks
• Aug. 3: NSPA Truck Pull
• Aug. 4: Charreada Y La Original Banda El Limon
Prize packages include 4 event tickets, 2 carnival wristbands, and a $30 concessions gift card. Entries must be received by July 24. Winners will be notified on July 26.
See you at the Adams County Fair!
July 31 - Aug 4, 2019
Tickets for the various United Power Grandstand Events at the Adams County Fair are on sale now. Buy your tickets online.
Paid parking and shuttle rides are available. Fair admission is free.
Special Days:
Thursday, Aug. 1 – Senior Day
Friday, Aug. 2 – 9NEWS Kids Day
Title
Practical EV Driving
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Monday | September 25, 2023
Card Teaser
National Drive Electric Week is Sept. 22 - Oct. 1.
National Drive Electric Week is Sept. 22 - Oct. 1
The Colorado Energy Office announced an ambitious grant program in 2018 to develop several electric vehicle (EV) fast-charging corridors throughout the state, making travel possible even across its large rural and mountainous areas. Many of these corridors have started to come into shape over the past couple years, which is a large part of why the state has consistently been ranked among the best places to own an EV as a daily driver.
Once completed, several of those corridors will traverse along interstate, state, and U.S. highways that intersect United Power’s suburban territory north and northeast of Denver. The cooperative proactively launched its own fast-charging network in conjunction with ChargePoint in 2019, and received a grant from the Colorado Energy Office to install its second location in Keenesburg in 2021. A third was also added at the Carbon Valley office last year. The network was designed to bridge gaps in available charging options and make rural EV ownership more practical and feasible.
Members who are still unsure about EVs may be interested in learning more about new programs United Power has introduced in the past year, including United EV, a pilot program that provides cost-effective at-home charging solutions, and make-ready wiring rebates, providing up to $1,000 toward the cost of preparing your home for an EV charger.
United EV enrollment provides a complete service package including installation and setup of a wall-mounted ChargePoint Home Flex level 2 charger and maintenance and repairs for the duration of the enrollment period. All this is available for a $19 monthly service fee.
For more information about United EV, available wiring rebates, and charging network locations, visit the cooperative’s EV Home or reach out to the Energy Management team at 303-637-1233.
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President & CEO Speaks on Co-op’s Role in a DSO Energy Delivery Model
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Monday | January 10, 2022
Card Teaser
Presentation Delivered at National Co-op CEO Conference
United Power President and Chief Executive Officer, Mark A. Gabriel, recently joined co-op CEOs Brian Heithoff, of Trico Electric Cooperative, and Eric Hobbie of Prairie Power, Inc. in a panel discussion about electric cooperatives’ role as Distribution System Operators (DSO) at the NRECA CEO Close-Up Conference in Phoenix, Arizona. The conference is attended by hundreds of cooperative CEOs and General Managers and held annually to provide CEOs with insight into industry trends and best practices for managing key challenges.
A growing number of electric cooperatives, including United Power, are moving toward a DSO model, which allows the utility to enhance its relationships with members, provide added services and proactively manage the grid with automation and smart technology. At United Power, continued projected growth and an opportunity to purchase cleaner and more affordable power from a variety of resources combined with the desire for more member-owned and locally generated renewable energy puts the cooperative in a position to take a more integrated and dynamic approach to delivering electricity.
“The energy landscape is undergoing a dramatic shift and the relationship that cooperatives like United Power already have with their member communities has us primed to lead this energy transition,” said Mark A. Gabriel, United Power President & CEO. “A locally-owned cooperative is nimble, innovative and responsive—and is exactly how utilities will need to operate in order to manage a resilient distribution system, efficiently integrate local micro-grids and facilitate the local exchange of energy.”
Gabriel discussed United Power’s 10 Year Working Plan and the strategic considerations the cooperative is undertaking as they move toward a DSO model. The working plan was developed by key staff at the cooperative and it serves as a comprehensive guide to align the board, employees, and members through this dramatic operational shift. By leveraging new technology, expansive energy resources, and updated operations, and new technology, United Power is actively advancing the local distribution system to adapt to the new ways it will provide value and reliable power for members.
“The 10 Year Plan is our playbook outlining the allocation of people, resources, and leadership attention as we drive toward an increasingly dynamic, sustainable, and complex energy future,” said Gabriel. “While we are working to deliver reliable power today, we are planning for the utility of tomorrow. We have started the conversations with our board and our members about what the future of energy will look like and the opportunities that lie ahead.”
Slidedeck from 2022 CEO Close-Up by Mark A. Gabriel
Title
Questions about Demand?
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Friday | January 25, 2019
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United Power’s new rate structure went into effect on January 1st, and members will begin to see the 2019 rates reflected as separate demand and energy charges on their February bills. While energy is the total power used, demand refers to the capacity needed to serve your location. The new rates break apart the costs for demand and energy to more fairly charge each member for their impact on the electric system and the energy they use.
United Power’s new rate structure went into effect on January 1st, and members will begin to see the 2019 rates reflected as separate demand and energy charges on their February bills. While energy is the total power used, demand refers to the capacity needed to serve your location. The new rates break apart the costs for demand and energy to more fairly charge each member for their impact on the electric system and the energy they use.
Why did you change to this rate structure?
The way our members use power has changed, and we now have more detailed information about how each member uses that power. On the blended rate, some members were paying more than they should, while others were not paying enough. The demand component allows us to more fairly charge each member in a way that is more closely aligned with our costs to provide that service.
How do I see when I hit my demand?
Demand measures the highest 15-minute interval of power consumption over the billing period and your bill will show you the kilowatt (kW) demand measurement of that highest interval. If you’d like to investigate what contributed to your demand charge, the Power Portal will show you the day and time that your demand peaked. Pinpointing the day and time will give you the information to reflect on how you were using energy.
Perhaps your demand was highest on a cold Saturday afternoon when you had soup on the stove, bread in the oven, the kids were downstairs gaming with a space heater on, and it was marathon laundry and cleaning day for the family. Operating all of these appliances at once required more system capacity for United Power to serve you, and your demand charge for the month is a fairer representation of how you used the electric system.
How can I reduce my demand?
Monitoring your use in the Power Portal will help you understand what is driving your demand. You’ll see the effect of using multiple appliances at once and what your energy profile looks like when you stagger appliances. If you’d like to keep your demand charges as low as possible, small changes in the way you use energy can make a difference. Here are some easy ways to reduce your demand:
Spread out the use of major appliances. Major electrical appliances that may contribute to high demand costs include air conditioners, electric clothes dryers, electric water heaters, electric ranges and ovens.
Use small cooking appliances or an outdoor grill.
Use a programmable or smart thermostat to pre-heat or pre-cool your home before you get home and operate kitchen appliances.
Use a timer on your water heater, dishwasher and pool pump.
Set a timer on your electric vehicle charger for the middle of the night after other major appliances are not in use.
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Quick Thinking Walgreens Clerk Saves United Power Member from Scam
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Friday | October 12, 2018
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The proactive actions of Brighton Walgreens employees prevented a United Power member from becoming the victim of an attempted utility scam—saving the customer hundreds of dollars.
The proactive actions of Brighton Walgreens employees prevented a United Power member from becoming the victim of an attempted utility scam—saving the customer hundreds of dollars. United Power teamed up with the Brighton Police Department Friday afternoon to present Scam Stopper awards to the attentive store employees.
“We commend Walgreens and your employees for looking out for your customers, and stopping this scam attempt,” said Troy Whitmore, United Power Public Affairs Officer. “Unfortunately, this type of scam happens more frequently than we’d like, and not all of our members are this lucky. Proactive efforts by local businesses like Walgreens are one of our best defenses against these scams.”
This phone scam attempt surfaces regularly in the United Power territory. A member is contacted over the phone by a utility imposter who instructs the member to purchase a pre-paid debit card to pay an overdue electric bill. The caller threatens disconnection of electric service if they don’t pay immediately. One lucky member who came close to becoming a victim received a similar call Friday morning. After receiving demands to pay right away, the member visited the Brighton Walgreens to deposit $400 onto a pre-paid debit card.
Walgreens employee, Kathy Olson, was running the register Friday morning and felt uneasy about the transaction after the customer mentioned she was instructed to load the pre-paid card. She consulted with the store’s assistant manager, Jessie Porter, and they advised the member of this type of scam. They encouraged the customer to verify with United Power before giving anyone money over the phone, and the member went straight to United Power’s office.
United Power warns members to be alert to this type of fraudulent activity, and to stay informed of their account status. United Power reminds members that the cooperative will never call in person to collect payment, will never demand pre-paid debit cards as payment for overdue electric bills, and will never visit a member in person to collect money. If ever in doubt, call United Power at the phone number printed on your statement, or log-in to your account online through the SmartHub Billing & Payment portal.
Brighton Police Department encourages residents to always report suspicious activity. Even if you don’t become a victim of a scam, your information helps law enforcement in their efforts to stop the perpetrators of these sophisticated scams.
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Rate Increase Approved
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Friday | November 3, 2023
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The rate increase adjusts for inflation and higher wholesale power costs.
Impact to be Spread Across All Rate Classes
United Power members will see a rate increase effective for usage beginning Jan. 1, 2024. United Power Board members and staff recently reviewed the cooperative’s costs and determined that rates need to be raised an average of 9.5% to help the cooperative maintain a healthy financial profile.
“These decisions are always difficult, and the Board carefully scrutinized spending in all areas across the cooperative before reaching the conclusion that rates need to be increased,” stated Mark A. Gabriel, President and CEO. “Your cooperative has worked hard to keep costs as low as possible for members during the last three years, especially when inflation began to impact the cost of nearly everything we need to maintain normal day-to-day operations. While we knew this effort was only a delay tactic, we really aimed to keep rates stable for members while costs for everything else in their households were rising.”
Average Household to See $10-$15 Increase Monthly
The average residential member will see increases in both the demand charge and in the energy charge, while the fixed charge will remain the same. The demand charge will increase from $1.50 to $2.50 per kW, while the energy charge will increase from 9.95 cents per kwh to 10.39 cents.
The average household on the standard residential rate using about 850 kwh per month with a demand of 7 kW will see their bill rise from $114.08 to $124.82, an increase of $10.74.
Residential time-of-use members will see a similar increase, with an increase in demand from $1.50 to $2.50 per kW. On-peak energy charges will rise from 15.4 cents to 16.07, and off-peak energy charges will increase from 5.25 cents per kwh to 5.5 cents. All other rates will see similar increases. See full menu of rate changes here.
The cooperative’s rate model forecasts that most households will see a $10-$15 per month increase in their electric bill. However, the structure of United Power’s rates provides members the ability to keep costs lower by controlling demand. Reducing demand is as simple as not using electric appliances at the same time. Additionally, setting timers on dryers and dishwashers so they start after the family goes to sleep moves the demand of that appliance to a lower use period and actively reduces demand costs.
Learn more about demand and how you can reduce the impact of this portion of your bill..
Why are rates rising now?
It is important to understand that the cost of wholesale power makes up approximately 75% of a member’s bill. United Power’s current wholesale power supplier is planning a large rate increase in 2024, including a significant change in their rate structure. Once approved, the new rate structure will shift expenses from generation to transmission, which will have a considerable impact on United Power even after our exit. In other words, the cost to deliver power to our members will increase next year — regardless of who is generating and supplying that power. Fortunately, the cooperative will begin purchasing and managing its own wholesale power supply on May 1, 2024, giving us greater control over this portion of our power cost.
United Power staff has kept a watchful eye on spending, particularly over the past three years, but our operation is challenged by rising costs just like most households and businesses. Unavoidable increases in property taxes and insurance premiums are impacting the cooperative. Add to this the rising cost of construction materials and critical components like transformers and wire, and it has been a challenge to balance our budgets. Even the costs for attracting and retaining talented employees continues to climb in both wages and benefits.
How Can Your Cooperative Support You?
United Power has numerous resources to help our members manage their energy usage. Weatherization information to make your home envelope tighter, energy audits to provide tips on energy efficiency measures, rebates to support purchasing energy efficient appliances, and information on lifestyle changes that can help reduce costs are all ways we put the power to control costs in our members’ hands.
If you need help managing your electric costs, please feel free to contact us for assistance. Members may reach United Power by phone at 303-637-1300, via email, or by chat at www.unitedpower.com during normal business hours.
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Rebate Requirements Changing in 2018 on Heat Pump Air Conditioners
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Thursday | November 9, 2017
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Beginning next year, members will see some changes to the rebate requirements on heat pump air conditioners as well as an increase in rebate amounts.
Beginning next year, members will see some changes to the rebate requirements on heat pump air conditioners as well as an increase in rebate amounts. Beginning on January 1, 2018, air source heat pumps must have a SEER rating of at least 15 in order to receive a rebate. Air source heat pumps with a 15-17 SEER rating, will receive a $300 per ton rebate from Tri-State Generation and Transmission, and air source heat pumps with a SEER rating above 17 will receive a $450 per ton rebate from Tri-State. Members will continue to receive an additional $100 per unit rebate on air source heat pumps from United Power, if attached to an existing ETS forced air furnace. Ground-source heat pump rebates from Tri-State are increasing from $250 to $500 per ton starting on January 1, 2018. An inspection by United Power is required to qualify for rebates and members are encouraged to call United Power’s Energy Management Team prior to making any purchases to discuss rebate requirements. Learn more about our rebates here.
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Residential, Irrigation Rates to See Small Increase
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Wednesday | December 4, 2019
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The United Power board of directors proposed a modest increase in residential rates at their November 8th regulatory meeting.
The United Power board of directors proposed a modest increase in residential rates at their November 8th regulatory meeting. The rate increase will vary from 1.5–2% for residential members. Members on the standard residential rate will see a 1.5% rate increase beginning with their January 1st usage, which amounts to an average increase of $1.58 per month. Members on the residential time-of-day rate and irrigation rate will see a 2% increase – an average monthly increase of $3.23 per month.
An additional time-of-day rate was added in response to concerns raised by members utilizing the time-of-day rate. The additional time-of-day rate gives members who utilize specialized equipment and shift their consumption to off-peak periods another rate option. (See Rates Chart attachment below)
“As we move forward with the rate changes, it’s important that we listen to our members, and our newest rate is a response to their concerns,” stated Dean Hubbock, Director of Power Supply and Rates. “The new rates should have a minimal impact on members, and we now have several rates that members can consider when determining the best rate for their lifestyle.”
Last year, United Power instituted a new rate structure that allowed the cooperative to more fairly bill members for not only the power they use, but also for their impact on the electrical system delivering power. The new rate structure charges for energy and demand, breaking apart two costs that had been previously blended together. The new structure even allows members to have more control over the components of their bill that raise their costs. For example, in the residential rate, the demand charge increased by 50¢ per kW, while the energy charge drops from 10.15¢ per kWh to 9.95¢ per kWh.
“We understand that everyone has a different way they use power in their home, and by expanding our rate offerings, members can select a rate that best fits their usage patterns,” stated Hubbock.
In addition to the changes to the residential rates, the board proposed a couple additional changes. Irrigation rates will see a 2% monthly increase for 2020 – an increase of about $1.79 per month. Small and large commercial customers and large industrial primary customers will see an overall 2% monthly decrease in 2020.
“The small reduction for commercial customers was warranted according to our most recent cost-of-service study,” stated Hubbock. “We will be conducting another full study in 2020, and that will help us continue to refine the rates we charge members in different rate classes.”
The new rates will go into effect for usage beginning January 1, 2020, so members will not see the increase on their bills until their February billing. Members can learn more about how to control their demand and lower their overall electric costs by visiting the Understanding Demand page. There are many helpful resources and videos to help you understand how the two components of your power are billed and how to control these costs.
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Resources Offer Closer Look at Your Demand
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Monday | September 3, 2018
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The Power Portal is United Power’s newest resource for members, and offers a detailed look at monthly energy consumption data and overall usage history. This free resource allows members to view monthly, daily and hourly energy use in 15 minute intervals.
In the past few issues of the United Newsline, United Power has been discussing the new residential demand rate that will go into effect in 2019. This month, members will begin seeing a new line on their monthly bills: a Demand Charge. This new line is appearing ahead of next year’s rate change to prepare and educate members on this shift in thinking about their electric consumption.
For the remainder of 2018, your bill will show a Demand Charge with an associated kilowatt (kW) measurement, reflecting the highest 15 minute interval of power use over that month’s billing period. There is currently no charge associated with the Demand Charge (kW) line item, but by printing this new item on member’s electric statements and presenting a new online resource – the Power Portal – members have the information to pinpoint what drives their monthly demand and take steps to control their energy consumption.
The Power Portal is United Power’s newest resource for members, and offers a detailed look at monthly energy consumption data and overall usage history. This free resource allows members to view monthly, daily and hourly energy use in 15 minute intervals. By graphing and making notes of highest usage intervals, members can determine what activities contribute to their energy and demand, and monitor any impact changing behaviors can make. For instance, by looking at the portal data you may see that your highest demand corresponded with a big dinner you hosted for family or a day when you were baking and doing laundry at the end of a long week. The Portal provides the records to determine what activities had the most affect on your demand.
The Board will review proposed rate changes this fall, with the intention of introducing the rate slowly and incrementally over a four-year period. The process includes an extensive Cost of Service study, so rates are designed to reflect how the members affect our costs. Residential demand charges will be lower than commercial members.
“Since we have detailed information about how members use power in their homes, the new demand rate will be a fairer way for us to bill members for their use,” stated Dean Hubbuck, Power Supply & Rates Director. “Residential users maximum impact on the system is lower than commercial customers, and their rates will reflect the difference. We believe a modest demand charge with a reasonable energy rate is the best way to recover our costs.”
Beginning in 2019, bills will show a charge for demand, accompanied by a corresponding reduction in the Energy Charge (kWh). The Demand Charge is figured by multiplying the highest demand interval (kW) by the per kW rate. Before final demand rates are approved, United Power is encouraging members to learn more about their personal electric usage and how they can make subtle changes to save even more.
You Have the Power
Curious to see when you used the most energy this past month? Was it the high temps or maybe your new hot tub using more energy than you expected? Use the Power Portal to pinpoint what’s driving your energy use. Access your complete energy consumption portfolio in 15-minute increments throughout the day to get a clear look at how you use energy.
To use the Power Portal, login and click on My Consumption Data. Under the Usage Dashboard, select the Account to view, choose Current Month from the drop-down and select Billing Month. Under the blue bar chart, you may need to click the Demand option to turn on the orange Demand line in the graph. The orange diamond indicates the interval with the highest demand. Click the blue bar to display each 15-minute interval from that day. Hover over the graph for more detail.
Learn more about the Power Portal and how to register at www.unitedpower.com/powerportal.
The monthly view in the Power Portal presents your energy use for each day. Choose to view the month by calendar month to see the first through the last day of the month, or view by billing month to view from the first day through the last day of that billing cycle. Viewing your monthly usage helps highlight trends in when you use the most energy.
By clicking on any blue bar representing daily energy use, you can zoom in to see every hour of the day by 15-minute intervals. This view can help you pinpoint the interval driving your peak and help you recall activities in your home that contributed.
