Title
Safe Zones Around Pad-Mounted Transformers
/sites/default/files/styles/news_card_553x430_/public/news/June2018_NL_PadTransformer.png?h=45932144&itok=8nsv7dib
Friday | June 1, 2018
Card Teaser
Though pad-mounted transformers may appear safe to use as workbenches and climbing obstacles, electrical equipment can still pose a risk to anyone who may come in contact with it. Members should always use caution and keep a safe distance.
Pad-mounted transformers, those big green utility boxes commonly seen around town, serve the purpose of lowering high voltage to standard household voltage used to power electronics, appliances and lighting. These transformers are not protected in the way overhead lines and substations are. Though they may appear safe to use as workbenches and climbing obstacles, electrical equipment can still pose a risk to anyone who may come in contact with it. Members should always use caution and keep a safe distance.
United Power crews also need safe access for repairs and maintenance. Barriers, such as landscaping and fencing, should be kept clear of electrical equipment. While it may be tempting to “camouflage” transformers with landscaping, please remember cooperative crews need at least 10-feet of clearance at the opening of a pad-mounted transformer and four-feet at the rear and sides of the housing. The distance allows crews to safely use tools required for working with energized equipment. It also ensures crews have the ability to move about safely should problems arise.
In many newer subdivisions and residential developments pad-mounted transformers are more common – and in many cases are located on consumer property. These transformers are connected to primary high voltage lines, and secondary lines can extend from the transform in several directions underground. Remember this before planting shrubs or trees, setting fence posts, installing sprinkler systems or digging anywhere near a transformer. You should always dial 811 before you dig to ensure lines are located so your project doesn’t disrupt utility service, cause serious injury or worse.
Title
September Message from Mark. A. Gabriel
/sites/default/files/styles/news_card_553x430_/public/news/CEO_Message.jpg?h=45932144&itok=pNegmSzP
Tuesday | September 5, 2023
Card Teaser
A message to United Power members from the cooperative's President & Chief Executive Officer.
It is hard to believe we are already entering the fall season. Summer flew by while your cooperative employees were hard at work on a number of fronts — improving service, working toward an energy future outlined in Our Cooperative Roadmap, and managing the tremendous growth in our communities.
We spent much of the summer finalizing our power supply portfolio — one that will provide members with a mix of traditional and low-carbon power and storage solutions. The break from our current power supplier will allow significant freedom and flexibility, representing the rapidly changing energy industry, in a reasonable time frame, as opposed to waiting until the end of the decade.
We are blessed to have a strong mix of residential, commercial, and industrial members in our small 900-square mile service territory, as well as consistent and significant growth. Our system’s diversity means we are a highly desirable partner for companies wishing to locate here and work with United Power to deploy new and innovative technologies.
The future is not just about adding more generation — although necessary to meet growing demand — but also operating our system differently (and more efficiently) than the past. For example, five years after launching what was Colorado’s largest battery storage facility at the time, we have entered an agreement to deploy nearly 80 additional megawatts of battery storage across our footprint, one of the nation’s first dispersed storage projects. This will allow us to charge the batteries when energy costs are low and reduce the demand on our system during peak hours.
The rise in electric vehicle sales has led to a curious conversation that today’s grid cannot handle the load without massive investments in infrastructure or significant control options. We have among the highest penetrations of EVs and plug-in hybrids in the nation. Here at United Power, we constantly monitor our transformers and energy consumption, proactively managing and improving our system in advance of challenges. Each year, we strategically plan our maintenance to target the worst performing feeders — those lines supporting our members in their neighborhoods — and carefully focus our investments. Your Board of Directors not only supports these activities but works closely with management to ensure we are making the right investments to keep this most critical infrastructure strong.
This is not to say there will never be outages. Sadly, critters, crashes, storms, and lightning wreak havoc on electric grids, no matter how well built. United Power crews work diligently through some of the most terrible conditions to restore power quickly — and safely. The addition of our Carbon Valley Service Center in 2019 has also allowed us to cut down outage response times in our western territory.
We continue to lead the nation in residential solar installations and support members who want to add solar, as well as storage. Last year, the Colorado Solar and Storage Association recognized United Power as a Solar & Storage Champion for its member interconnection process and rooftop solar saturation.
We do caution members to be selective in choosing their solar contractor. Several door-to-door salespeople have been reported using unscrupulous tactics, including lies and fabrications, to sell their services. Be leery of any representative mentioning United Power. Our team is available to provide unbiased information and all the tools you need to make the right decision when it comes to solar. Simply call us at 303-637-1300 or visit Going Solar.
As a United Power member-owner, you have a special relationship with the cooperative. Please feel free to reach out to me personally with any questions or comments. I appreciate the honor to serve you.
Enjoy our beautiful fall weather.
Title
September/October Message from Mark A. Gabriel
/sites/default/files/styles/news_card_553x430_/public/news/CEO_Message.jpg?h=45932144&itok=pNegmSzP
Monday | September 20, 2021
Card Teaser
A message to United Power members from the cooperative's President & Chief Executive Officer.
Recently, two solar salesmen came to my home in Brighton offering to convince me of the value of adding solar. Their main sales pitch was a false narrative that United Power rates were slated to increase “dramatically” over the next several years due to our ongoing conversations with our power supplier, Tri-State G&T, about a contract modification. Ironically, just that day at our board of directors meeting, we presented a first look at our budget for 2022 which showed no immediate increase and a potential decrease in rates at some point in the foreseeable future. Their sales pitch was an out-and-out lie.
There are many factors driving the decision to add solar or storage, including economics, environmental responsibility or the desire for energy independence. We wholeheartedly support your decisions, whatever the rationale, but want to make sure the decision is being made with a full knowledge of the costs. Sadly, there are many unscrupulous salespeople who do not have your best financial interests at heart as we do at United Power. Please contact us for the facts as you make these significant investment decisions. You can also visit our website for more information about installing a solar system on your home, including questions to ask potential solar contractors, at Going Solar.
As a member-owner, it is important to realize the professionals at United Power are here to serve your needs with unbiased, fact-based information to make sure every electron is used in the most cost-effective way possible. This covers critical opportunities, such as our Rush Hour Rewards program, energy efficiency measures and rebates on everything from appliances to battery-powered lawn equipment. We are honored to serve as a resource for our members to help calculate the benefit of any decision when it comes to alternative energy options. We support decisions to add rooftop solar or storage to your home or business and are proud that nearly 7,000 of our members have made the decision to add solar to their homes. Another 3,000 of us are now driving electric vehicles, and soon members will be able to lease an electric vehicle charger for your home or business at a low monthly cost.
These are exciting times in the electricity business as technology expands its reach into everything from automobiles and vertical/indoor farming to advanced manufacturing and lawn tools. In this era of beneficial electrification, United Power is at the forefront of these amazing opportunities.
The growth at United Power – we are now more than 100,000 meters strong – has meant an influx of new members to our communities and a new relationship with your electricity provider. If you are new to the concept of an electric cooperative, as part of the “family” you are a part owner and reap the benefits in several ways:
As a member-owner, you will share in any excess margin in the form of capital credits, determined annually by the board of directors. Capital credits are returned to our members as either a check or a credit on your billing statement.
Participating in a uniquely cooperative process of democratic engagement in our governance. Members vote for who sits on our board or may even run as a candidate themselves.
Having a utility partner that directly supports community activities like the Adams County Fair. United Power also sponsors events like Summerfest in Brighton, Trappers Days in Fort Lupton and Miners Day in Frederick.
Being treated as a member – not just a customer – if you have any questions, comments or concerns.
Finally, as I outlined in my letter to members in August, we are continuing to find a happy medium in our power supply with Tri-State G&T. It is critical that Tri-State continues to provide valuable transmission-related services, especially as we enter the new era of electricity markets. It is equally critical that United Power be able to follow its own destiny when it comes to the choice in at least a portion of its energy supply in order to lower our rates and be competitive in this changing market.
As winter approaches, we stand by to work with all our members on the efficient, sustainable use of the precious resource of electricity. Please call or email me at any time.
Email Mark A. Gabriel
Title
Shrinking the Window
/sites/default/files/styles/news_card_553x430_/public/news/AnalogClock_1320x860.jpg?h=45932144&itok=dgWeVT4W
Monday | January 26, 2026
Card Teaser
Four more off-peak hours for time of use rates.
Four More Off-Peak Hours for Time of Use Rates
Members on a time of use rate will get the benefit of four more hours of off-peak power in 2026. Rate changes that went into effect on Jan. 1 shortened the on-peak energy window from 2-10 p.m. to 5-9 p.m., giving members more control over how their energy consumption impacts their billing statements.
United Power’s voluntary time of use rates feature two energy usage periods — on-peak and off-peak — with two different energy charges depending on when power is used. Members on a time of use rate are rewarded with a lower energy charge for switching energy use to off-peak hours.
Moving your energy usage away from peak hours may be easier than you think. You can use a smart thermostat to pre-cool your home in the summer or set timers on appliances to run overnight. If you do not have smart appliances, you could start them before you go to bed or first thing in the morning, depending on your schedule. You could also consider meal prepping on Sundays, which are considered off-peak.
All United Power rates, including the time of use options, include a demand charge. If you can stagger the use of high-energy appliances, such as your washer/dryer, air conditioner, and electric oven, you can control one more component of your bill.
Visit Residential Rates to review all the rate options and help decide if switching to a time of use rate is right for you.
Title
Sol Partners Celebrates 10 Years
/sites/default/files/styles/news_card_553x430_/public/news/JulyAug2019_NL_SolPartners.jpg?itok=AoOlXVoM
Monday | July 8, 2019
Card Teaser
United Power powered the state's first community solar farm in May 2009 at its Brighton headquarters.
Over the past several years, solar panels have become a mainstay of the push for more renewable energy. Utilities, large and small, across the country have unveiled plans to add thousands of megawatts of solar-generated energy to portfolios as they aim for a net zero carbon-emission future.
In May 2009, United Power jumpstarted its renewable energy program when it powered a new, innovative concept for its members – the state’s first community solar farm, Sol Partners – at its Brighton headquarters facility.
The solar farm offered the cooperative’s members leasable solar panels and allowed members to dip their toes in the pool of renewable energy without making a costly commitment on a home installation. Panels were leased to members on a 25-year period for a small initial investment, and those members would receive a credit for power generated on the panels. In addition, the cooperative agreed to maintain the solar farm.
The innovative model received immediate adoption and quickly sold out. In August 2010, the cooperative launched its second community solar module. Its instant success incentivized other co-ops to invest in community solar projects of their own.
“The community solar model was initially meant as a tool for the local co-op and their members to bring more solar onto the system,” said New Business Director Jerry Marizza. “What was a unique concept 10 years ago has now blossomed throughout Colorado and the nation.
Title
State Senate Designates April 18 as Colorado Lineworker Appreciation Day
/sites/default/files/styles/news_card_553x430_/public/news/230410_Senate_LAD.jpg?h=45932144&itok=A2eERmx5
Wednesday | April 12, 2023
Card Teaser
The day will be observed on April 18 each year to honor and recognize the crucial role that lineworkers play in providing safe and reliable electricity to communities throughout Colorado.
DENVER, COLO. APRIL 11, 2023 – On Monday, April 10, 2023, Sen. Chris Hansen (D-Denver) and Sen. Cleave Simpson (R-Alamosa) read a resolution at the Capitol to establish Colorado Electrical Lineworker Appreciation Day. The day will be observed on April 18 each year to honor and recognize the crucial role that lineworkers play in providing safe and reliable electricity to communities throughout Colorado.
The resolution, recognizing lineworkers as the first responders for utilities, received unanimous bipartisan support from the Colorado Senate.
Sen. Hansen expressed gratitude for lineworkers, stating that as Colorado works toward a clean energy transition, lineworkers are essential to maintaining a reliable electric grid. The State Senate also recognizes the need to continue the support of private and public programs that train a sufficient number of electrical lineworkers.
CREA Executive Director Kent Singer reflects on the resolution saying, “Electric lineworkers are the unsung heroes of our modern society. Everything we rely on for a comfortable life, from food and shelter to computers, televisions and cellphones, is dependent on a functioning electric grid. Electric lineworkers are the ones who keep that grid in service at all times of the day and night and through every weather condition imaginable. We owe all of them a huge debt of gratitude.”
The resolution was supported by a coalition of energy industry groups, including the Colorado Rural Electric Association, Colorado Association of Municipal Utilities, Xcel Energy and Black Hills Energy. Lineworkers and representatives from Colorado’s electric cooperatives and Black Hills Energy attended the resolution reading at the Capitol.
Students Attend D.C. Youth Tour
Wednesday | August 1, 2018
In June, United Power proudly joined with local electric cooperatives from around the country to sponsor teenagers from small towns and cities to spend a week in the nation’s capital learning about the political process and interacting with their elected officials.
Read more >
Title
Summer Air Conditioning and the Demand Rate
/sites/default/files/styles/news_card_553x430_/public/news/JulyAug2019_NL_AirConditioning.jpg?itok=Bka7-6IY
Monday | July 22, 2019
Card Teaser
Your air conditioner is probably one of the most demand intensive appliances in your home. This means members will begin to see their demand charge rise to include this additional appliance as the summer heat arrives.
Your air conditioner is probably one of the most demand intensive appliances in your home. This means members will begin to see their demand charge rise to include this additional appliance as the summer heat arrives. There is good news if you like keeping your home cool, though. When United Power instituted the demand charge, there was a corresponding REDUCTION in the cost of energy. Since you use a lot of energy to keep your home cool, you will probably see very little change from prior summers in your average bill.
When United Power moved to a demand rate we uncoupled costs that had previously been blended into the rate. This new structure gives you more control over your electric costs, by allowing you to avoid stacking appliance use. It also reduced the cost you pay for the actual energy you use.
The change is helping to make sure you pay a more accurate portion of your costs for the distribution system that brings power to your home.
Demand is the total of all electric appliances that are running at one time. United Power bases their demand charge on your highest demand in a 15-minute period throughout the month. In the summer this is going to happen when you run your air conditioner, and perhaps an additional appliance like your washer or oven. For example, a 24,000 BTU air conditioner creates a demand of about 3.8 kW, which translates to a demand charge of $3.80 plus the demand of any other appliances running at the same time.
United Power made sure that our members can access the information they need to better understand their power consumption. All United Power members can look at their power consumption and see when you reach your peak demand via the Power Portal. If you need help accessing the Power Portal give Member Services a call at 303-637-1300. Remember that our website, www.unitedpower.com, has lots of great information about how you can reduce demand and how demand billing works.
Summer Heat Sets Record Peak
Monday | September 23, 2019
In July, the cooperative hit its record peak demand at more than 520 megawatts, the highest demand of any cooperative in the state.
Read more >
Title
Safe Zones Around Pad-Mounted Transformers
/sites/default/files/styles/news_card_553x430_/public/news/June2018_NL_PadTransformer.png?h=45932144&itok=8nsv7dib
Friday | June 1, 2018
Card Teaser
Though pad-mounted transformers may appear safe to use as workbenches and climbing obstacles, electrical equipment can still pose a risk to anyone who may come in contact with it. Members should always use caution and keep a safe distance.
Pad-mounted transformers, those big green utility boxes commonly seen around town, serve the purpose of lowering high voltage to standard household voltage used to power electronics, appliances and lighting. These transformers are not protected in the way overhead lines and substations are. Though they may appear safe to use as workbenches and climbing obstacles, electrical equipment can still pose a risk to anyone who may come in contact with it. Members should always use caution and keep a safe distance.
United Power crews also need safe access for repairs and maintenance. Barriers, such as landscaping and fencing, should be kept clear of electrical equipment. While it may be tempting to “camouflage” transformers with landscaping, please remember cooperative crews need at least 10-feet of clearance at the opening of a pad-mounted transformer and four-feet at the rear and sides of the housing. The distance allows crews to safely use tools required for working with energized equipment. It also ensures crews have the ability to move about safely should problems arise.
In many newer subdivisions and residential developments pad-mounted transformers are more common – and in many cases are located on consumer property. These transformers are connected to primary high voltage lines, and secondary lines can extend from the transform in several directions underground. Remember this before planting shrubs or trees, setting fence posts, installing sprinkler systems or digging anywhere near a transformer. You should always dial 811 before you dig to ensure lines are located so your project doesn’t disrupt utility service, cause serious injury or worse.
Title
September Message from Mark. A. Gabriel
/sites/default/files/styles/news_card_553x430_/public/news/CEO_Message.jpg?h=45932144&itok=pNegmSzP
Tuesday | September 5, 2023
Card Teaser
A message to United Power members from the cooperative's President & Chief Executive Officer.
It is hard to believe we are already entering the fall season. Summer flew by while your cooperative employees were hard at work on a number of fronts — improving service, working toward an energy future outlined in Our Cooperative Roadmap, and managing the tremendous growth in our communities.
We spent much of the summer finalizing our power supply portfolio — one that will provide members with a mix of traditional and low-carbon power and storage solutions. The break from our current power supplier will allow significant freedom and flexibility, representing the rapidly changing energy industry, in a reasonable time frame, as opposed to waiting until the end of the decade.
We are blessed to have a strong mix of residential, commercial, and industrial members in our small 900-square mile service territory, as well as consistent and significant growth. Our system’s diversity means we are a highly desirable partner for companies wishing to locate here and work with United Power to deploy new and innovative technologies.
The future is not just about adding more generation — although necessary to meet growing demand — but also operating our system differently (and more efficiently) than the past. For example, five years after launching what was Colorado’s largest battery storage facility at the time, we have entered an agreement to deploy nearly 80 additional megawatts of battery storage across our footprint, one of the nation’s first dispersed storage projects. This will allow us to charge the batteries when energy costs are low and reduce the demand on our system during peak hours.
The rise in electric vehicle sales has led to a curious conversation that today’s grid cannot handle the load without massive investments in infrastructure or significant control options. We have among the highest penetrations of EVs and plug-in hybrids in the nation. Here at United Power, we constantly monitor our transformers and energy consumption, proactively managing and improving our system in advance of challenges. Each year, we strategically plan our maintenance to target the worst performing feeders — those lines supporting our members in their neighborhoods — and carefully focus our investments. Your Board of Directors not only supports these activities but works closely with management to ensure we are making the right investments to keep this most critical infrastructure strong.
This is not to say there will never be outages. Sadly, critters, crashes, storms, and lightning wreak havoc on electric grids, no matter how well built. United Power crews work diligently through some of the most terrible conditions to restore power quickly — and safely. The addition of our Carbon Valley Service Center in 2019 has also allowed us to cut down outage response times in our western territory.
We continue to lead the nation in residential solar installations and support members who want to add solar, as well as storage. Last year, the Colorado Solar and Storage Association recognized United Power as a Solar & Storage Champion for its member interconnection process and rooftop solar saturation.
We do caution members to be selective in choosing their solar contractor. Several door-to-door salespeople have been reported using unscrupulous tactics, including lies and fabrications, to sell their services. Be leery of any representative mentioning United Power. Our team is available to provide unbiased information and all the tools you need to make the right decision when it comes to solar. Simply call us at 303-637-1300 or visit Going Solar.
As a United Power member-owner, you have a special relationship with the cooperative. Please feel free to reach out to me personally with any questions or comments. I appreciate the honor to serve you.
Enjoy our beautiful fall weather.
Title
September/October Message from Mark A. Gabriel
/sites/default/files/styles/news_card_553x430_/public/news/CEO_Message.jpg?h=45932144&itok=pNegmSzP
Monday | September 20, 2021
Card Teaser
A message to United Power members from the cooperative's President & Chief Executive Officer.
Recently, two solar salesmen came to my home in Brighton offering to convince me of the value of adding solar. Their main sales pitch was a false narrative that United Power rates were slated to increase “dramatically” over the next several years due to our ongoing conversations with our power supplier, Tri-State G&T, about a contract modification. Ironically, just that day at our board of directors meeting, we presented a first look at our budget for 2022 which showed no immediate increase and a potential decrease in rates at some point in the foreseeable future. Their sales pitch was an out-and-out lie.
There are many factors driving the decision to add solar or storage, including economics, environmental responsibility or the desire for energy independence. We wholeheartedly support your decisions, whatever the rationale, but want to make sure the decision is being made with a full knowledge of the costs. Sadly, there are many unscrupulous salespeople who do not have your best financial interests at heart as we do at United Power. Please contact us for the facts as you make these significant investment decisions. You can also visit our website for more information about installing a solar system on your home, including questions to ask potential solar contractors, at Going Solar.
As a member-owner, it is important to realize the professionals at United Power are here to serve your needs with unbiased, fact-based information to make sure every electron is used in the most cost-effective way possible. This covers critical opportunities, such as our Rush Hour Rewards program, energy efficiency measures and rebates on everything from appliances to battery-powered lawn equipment. We are honored to serve as a resource for our members to help calculate the benefit of any decision when it comes to alternative energy options. We support decisions to add rooftop solar or storage to your home or business and are proud that nearly 7,000 of our members have made the decision to add solar to their homes. Another 3,000 of us are now driving electric vehicles, and soon members will be able to lease an electric vehicle charger for your home or business at a low monthly cost.
These are exciting times in the electricity business as technology expands its reach into everything from automobiles and vertical/indoor farming to advanced manufacturing and lawn tools. In this era of beneficial electrification, United Power is at the forefront of these amazing opportunities.
The growth at United Power – we are now more than 100,000 meters strong – has meant an influx of new members to our communities and a new relationship with your electricity provider. If you are new to the concept of an electric cooperative, as part of the “family” you are a part owner and reap the benefits in several ways:
As a member-owner, you will share in any excess margin in the form of capital credits, determined annually by the board of directors. Capital credits are returned to our members as either a check or a credit on your billing statement.
Participating in a uniquely cooperative process of democratic engagement in our governance. Members vote for who sits on our board or may even run as a candidate themselves.
Having a utility partner that directly supports community activities like the Adams County Fair. United Power also sponsors events like Summerfest in Brighton, Trappers Days in Fort Lupton and Miners Day in Frederick.
Being treated as a member – not just a customer – if you have any questions, comments or concerns.
Finally, as I outlined in my letter to members in August, we are continuing to find a happy medium in our power supply with Tri-State G&T. It is critical that Tri-State continues to provide valuable transmission-related services, especially as we enter the new era of electricity markets. It is equally critical that United Power be able to follow its own destiny when it comes to the choice in at least a portion of its energy supply in order to lower our rates and be competitive in this changing market.
As winter approaches, we stand by to work with all our members on the efficient, sustainable use of the precious resource of electricity. Please call or email me at any time.
Email Mark A. Gabriel
Title
Shrinking the Window
/sites/default/files/styles/news_card_553x430_/public/news/AnalogClock_1320x860.jpg?h=45932144&itok=dgWeVT4W
Monday | January 26, 2026
Card Teaser
Four more off-peak hours for time of use rates.
Four More Off-Peak Hours for Time of Use Rates
Members on a time of use rate will get the benefit of four more hours of off-peak power in 2026. Rate changes that went into effect on Jan. 1 shortened the on-peak energy window from 2-10 p.m. to 5-9 p.m., giving members more control over how their energy consumption impacts their billing statements.
United Power’s voluntary time of use rates feature two energy usage periods — on-peak and off-peak — with two different energy charges depending on when power is used. Members on a time of use rate are rewarded with a lower energy charge for switching energy use to off-peak hours.
Moving your energy usage away from peak hours may be easier than you think. You can use a smart thermostat to pre-cool your home in the summer or set timers on appliances to run overnight. If you do not have smart appliances, you could start them before you go to bed or first thing in the morning, depending on your schedule. You could also consider meal prepping on Sundays, which are considered off-peak.
All United Power rates, including the time of use options, include a demand charge. If you can stagger the use of high-energy appliances, such as your washer/dryer, air conditioner, and electric oven, you can control one more component of your bill.
Visit Residential Rates to review all the rate options and help decide if switching to a time of use rate is right for you.
Title
Sol Partners Celebrates 10 Years
/sites/default/files/styles/news_card_553x430_/public/news/JulyAug2019_NL_SolPartners.jpg?itok=AoOlXVoM
Monday | July 8, 2019
Card Teaser
United Power powered the state's first community solar farm in May 2009 at its Brighton headquarters.
Over the past several years, solar panels have become a mainstay of the push for more renewable energy. Utilities, large and small, across the country have unveiled plans to add thousands of megawatts of solar-generated energy to portfolios as they aim for a net zero carbon-emission future.
In May 2009, United Power jumpstarted its renewable energy program when it powered a new, innovative concept for its members – the state’s first community solar farm, Sol Partners – at its Brighton headquarters facility.
The solar farm offered the cooperative’s members leasable solar panels and allowed members to dip their toes in the pool of renewable energy without making a costly commitment on a home installation. Panels were leased to members on a 25-year period for a small initial investment, and those members would receive a credit for power generated on the panels. In addition, the cooperative agreed to maintain the solar farm.
The innovative model received immediate adoption and quickly sold out. In August 2010, the cooperative launched its second community solar module. Its instant success incentivized other co-ops to invest in community solar projects of their own.
“The community solar model was initially meant as a tool for the local co-op and their members to bring more solar onto the system,” said New Business Director Jerry Marizza. “What was a unique concept 10 years ago has now blossomed throughout Colorado and the nation.
Title
State Senate Designates April 18 as Colorado Lineworker Appreciation Day
/sites/default/files/styles/news_card_553x430_/public/news/230410_Senate_LAD.jpg?h=45932144&itok=A2eERmx5
Wednesday | April 12, 2023
Card Teaser
The day will be observed on April 18 each year to honor and recognize the crucial role that lineworkers play in providing safe and reliable electricity to communities throughout Colorado.
DENVER, COLO. APRIL 11, 2023 – On Monday, April 10, 2023, Sen. Chris Hansen (D-Denver) and Sen. Cleave Simpson (R-Alamosa) read a resolution at the Capitol to establish Colorado Electrical Lineworker Appreciation Day. The day will be observed on April 18 each year to honor and recognize the crucial role that lineworkers play in providing safe and reliable electricity to communities throughout Colorado.
The resolution, recognizing lineworkers as the first responders for utilities, received unanimous bipartisan support from the Colorado Senate.
Sen. Hansen expressed gratitude for lineworkers, stating that as Colorado works toward a clean energy transition, lineworkers are essential to maintaining a reliable electric grid. The State Senate also recognizes the need to continue the support of private and public programs that train a sufficient number of electrical lineworkers.
CREA Executive Director Kent Singer reflects on the resolution saying, “Electric lineworkers are the unsung heroes of our modern society. Everything we rely on for a comfortable life, from food and shelter to computers, televisions and cellphones, is dependent on a functioning electric grid. Electric lineworkers are the ones who keep that grid in service at all times of the day and night and through every weather condition imaginable. We owe all of them a huge debt of gratitude.”
The resolution was supported by a coalition of energy industry groups, including the Colorado Rural Electric Association, Colorado Association of Municipal Utilities, Xcel Energy and Black Hills Energy. Lineworkers and representatives from Colorado’s electric cooperatives and Black Hills Energy attended the resolution reading at the Capitol.
Students Attend D.C. Youth Tour
Wednesday | August 1, 2018
In June, United Power proudly joined with local electric cooperatives from around the country to sponsor teenagers from small towns and cities to spend a week in the nation’s capital learning about the political process and interacting with their elected officials.
Read more >
Title
Summer Air Conditioning and the Demand Rate
/sites/default/files/styles/news_card_553x430_/public/news/JulyAug2019_NL_AirConditioning.jpg?itok=Bka7-6IY
Monday | July 22, 2019
Card Teaser
Your air conditioner is probably one of the most demand intensive appliances in your home. This means members will begin to see their demand charge rise to include this additional appliance as the summer heat arrives.
Your air conditioner is probably one of the most demand intensive appliances in your home. This means members will begin to see their demand charge rise to include this additional appliance as the summer heat arrives. There is good news if you like keeping your home cool, though. When United Power instituted the demand charge, there was a corresponding REDUCTION in the cost of energy. Since you use a lot of energy to keep your home cool, you will probably see very little change from prior summers in your average bill.
When United Power moved to a demand rate we uncoupled costs that had previously been blended into the rate. This new structure gives you more control over your electric costs, by allowing you to avoid stacking appliance use. It also reduced the cost you pay for the actual energy you use.
The change is helping to make sure you pay a more accurate portion of your costs for the distribution system that brings power to your home.
Demand is the total of all electric appliances that are running at one time. United Power bases their demand charge on your highest demand in a 15-minute period throughout the month. In the summer this is going to happen when you run your air conditioner, and perhaps an additional appliance like your washer or oven. For example, a 24,000 BTU air conditioner creates a demand of about 3.8 kW, which translates to a demand charge of $3.80 plus the demand of any other appliances running at the same time.
United Power made sure that our members can access the information they need to better understand their power consumption. All United Power members can look at their power consumption and see when you reach your peak demand via the Power Portal. If you need help accessing the Power Portal give Member Services a call at 303-637-1300. Remember that our website, www.unitedpower.com, has lots of great information about how you can reduce demand and how demand billing works.
Summer Heat Sets Record Peak
Monday | September 23, 2019
In July, the cooperative hit its record peak demand at more than 520 megawatts, the highest demand of any cooperative in the state.
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