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United Power and Xcel Energy Announce Strategic Relationship for Power Supply
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Thursday | September 14, 2023
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Xcel Energy to provide United Power and its members with excess low-carbon, renewable electricity.
Xcel Energy to provide United Power and its members with excess low-carbon, renewable electricityBrighton, CO – United Power an electric cooperative serving Colorado’s northern Front Range, and Xcel Energy, one of the nation’s largest investor-owned utilities, entered into a strategic relationship to explore opportunities for maximizing the value of their combined portfolios and advancing the State of Colorado’s progress toward a low-carbon energy footprint. The utilities are entering a power supply arrangement that would provide United Power access to Xcel Energy’s increasingly carbon neutral portfolio to the benefit of Xcel Energy customers and United Power members. The working agreement will allow both utilities to leverage cost savings through power purchases while continuing to invest in new, clean renewable resources.
“This is a win-win for both utilities,” stated Mark A. Gabriel, President and CEO of United Power. “The ability of two large utilities working toward a common goal will benefit everyone. Together we will plan our energy needs, negotiate lower pricing, and assure reliability for our members and customers. This is an important step as we enter the new future of electric procurement and delivery.”
The agreement aims to facilitate a shared strategic vision for electric power delivery. Xcel Energy seeks to leverage its renewable energy resources by making sales to United Power at times when excess energy is available, providing United Power with access to Xcel Energy’s significant portfolio at attractive prices. The two utilities hope to develop a long-term relationship in which both will work in tandem to drive down power costs, understand how best to serve the future load of the cooperative’s members and Xcel Energy’s customers, and work toward the mutual goal of integrating more renewable energy in support of the State of Colorado’s renewable resource goals.
“The electric industry is changing, and United Power is working with Xcel Energy to help lead this revolution,” stated Gabriel. “Meeting federal and state requirements, keeping costs economical, and making certain our load is predicable are planned outcomes of this strategic relationship.”
United Power is preparing for an exit from its current wholesale power contract with another power supplier on May 1, 2024. The electric cooperative has been securing a variety of power generation contracts to continue to supply its members following its exit from the contract.
“Today’s announcement solidifies our close working relationship with United Power, one of the largest and fastest-growing cooperative utilities in Colorado, by supplying increasingly carbon-free energy from Xcel Energy’s generation resources,” said Robert Kenney, President of Xcel Energy-Colorado. “Our strategic relationship will maximize the value of both companies’ combined generation towards achieving our goal of reducing carbon emissions by 80% by 2030, from 2005 levels, and providing 100% carbon-free electricity by 2050.”
United Power serves nearly 110,000 meters and maintains and operates over 6,500 miles of distribution line. The 900-square mile service territory wraps around the north and west borders of the Denver International Airport. It includes the north and northeast metropolitan development corridors along Interstate 25, Interstate 76, State Highway 85, and E-470 and the Golden Gate and Coal Creek canyons, two of Colorado’s most iconic and historic mountain canyons. As a result of its geographic location, United Power’s system is experiencing significant demand and energy growth, averaging approximately 6% annually.
To learn more about United Power’s power supply transition, visit Power Supply.
About United PowerUnited Power is a member-owned, not-for-profit electric cooperative, delivering electricity to homes, farms, and businesses throughout Colorado’s northern Front Range. The cooperative is one of the fastest-growing electric co-ops in the nation, and in June 2021 joined the elite ranks of cooperatives serving more than 100,000 meters. The 900-square mile service territory extends from the mountains of Coal Creek and Golden Gate Canyon, along the I-25 corridor and Carbon Valley region, to the farmlands of Brighton, Hudson, and Keenesburg. United Power is also a founding member of the NextGen Co-op Alliance, which is dedicated to expanding the power supply and procurement options available to distribution co-ops and reforming the traditional generation and transmission business model. For more information about United Power, visit www.unitedpower.com or follow the cooperative on Facebook, X (formerly known as Twitter), LinkedIn, YouTube, and Instagram.About Xcel EnergyXcel Energy (NASDAQ: XEL) provides the energy that powers millions of homes and businesses across eight Western and Midwestern states. Headquartered in Minneapolis, the company is an industry leader in responsibly reducing carbon emissions and producing and delivering clean energy solutions from a variety of renewable sources at competitive prices. For more information, visit xcelenergy.com or follow us on X, formerly known as Twitter, and Facebook. ###
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United Power Announces 2018 Youth Tour and Youth Leadership Camp Delegates
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Monday | April 2, 2018
2018 D.C. Youth Tour Delegates
United Power selected three local students to represent the cooperative at this year’s Cooperative Youth Tour in Washington D.C in June. Hannah Rockwell of Brighton, Megan Lewis from Firestone and Jordyn Saffy of Brighton were selected based on academic performance, extracurricular activities, volunteer efforts and a brief essay.
Local electric cooperatives throughout the country sponsor approximately 1,500 ambitious high school students from small towns and cities for an incredible week in the nation’s capital with the objective of providing an educational experience for young people on the organization and operation of a cooperative. Cooperatives are committed to educating America’s rural youth about the country and the role electric cooperatives play in developing strong rural communities.
Hannah Rockwell is a student at Weld Central High School where she is an athlete in cross country and track. She is a member of the National Honor Society and president of her school’s Future Business Leaders of America Club. Hannah loves school and her future plans include pursuing a career in medicine.
Megan Lewis attends Frederick High School, where she is a member of the National Honor Society and the Student Advisory Committee. Megan is active in musicals/plays at her school, and is on both the varsity cross country and tennis teams. Her future plans include college and medical school.
Jordyn Saffy attends high school at Eagle Ridge Academy. Jordan is captain of the volleyball team, president of the spirit team and participates in track and field. Her future plans include a degree in health sciences, which she intends to use to help those in need.
2018 Youth Leadership Camp Winners
United Power has also selected Brooklyn Stubby of Mapleton Early College in Commerce City and Catera Gagna of Brighton to represent the cooperative at the 2018 Cooperative Youth Leadership Camp in Steamboat Springs, Colorado this July. The camp is offered to high school juniors and seniors in the United Power service area. Interested students are asked to apply, and winners are selected based on academic performance, extracurriculr activities and volunteer efforts.
The primary objective of the camp is to provide an educational experience for youth on the organization and operation of a cooperative. The camp strives to help develop leadership skills that will assist students with challenges they will face in the future.
Brooklyn Stubby attends Mapleton Early College and is active in student council, swimming and student mentoring. Brooklyn is keeping her options open, but is considering physical therapy, detective work or personal training/nutrition.
Catera Gagna is a student at Brighton High School and plays softball. She is a member of the principal’s honor roll, student government and volunteers at a local elementary school. Catera plans to attend college and pursue a career in engineering.
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United Power Announces 2019 Scholarship Recipients
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Wednesday | April 17, 2019
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United Power proudly announces its scholarship recipients for 2019.
United Power proudly announces its scholarship recipients for 2019. Each year, the cooperative awards more than $19,000 in scholarships to outstanding students in its service territory. The United Power Scholarship Committee selected seventeen high school seniors based on grades, test scores, extracurricular activities and a brief essay. Applications are made available at the end of each year.
United Power’s 2019 scholarship recipients will be announced during the cooperative’s Annual Meeting & Director Election on April 17 and recognized in its monthly newsletter to members. The 2019 scholarship recipients are:
• Daniel Smith, Weld Central, United Power Colorado College Scholarship, $2,000
• Alexx McMillan, Prairie View High School, United Power Colorado College Scholarship, $2,000
• Amanda Ruybal, Brighton High School, United Power Youth Leadership Scholarship, $1,500
• Megan Lewis, Frederick High School, Basin Electric Power Cooperative Scholarship, $1,000
• Alexia Simonton, Holy Family, Tri-State Generation & Transmission Scholarship, $1,000
• Kaylee Speer, Frederick High School, Lois Lesser Education Scholarship, $1,000
• Amanda Schmidt, Frederick High School, Bill Berens Memorial Scholarship, $1,000
United Power dedicates a book scholarship to each high school within its service territory, provided it receives an application. This year, United Power distributed ten $1,000 book scholarships, including one “at-large” selection.
Book scholarships for 2019 were awarded to Ayaka Hayashi, Brighton High School; Elena Pocs, Prairie View High School; Scott Hampton, Eagle Ridge Academy; Hailee Hurtado, Frederick High School; Joanna Santibanez, Ft. Lupton High School; Kelley McAmis, Mead High School; Hannah Rockwell, Weld Central High School; Anna Yocom, Mountain Territory; Emily Thoren, Erie High School; and Sophia Kate Thompson, at-large selection.
Congratulations to all the scholarship recipients, and thank you to all the students who submitted their application. United Power is committed to supporting the postsecondary education efforts of students it serves.
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United Power Announces 2020 Scholarship Recipients
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Friday | May 1, 2020
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United Power proudly announces its scholarship recipients for 2020.
United Power proudly announces its scholarship recipients for 2020. Each year, the cooperative awards more than $19,000 in scholarships to outstanding students in its service territory. The United Power Scholarship Committee selected seventeen high school seniors based on grades, test scores, extracurricular activities and a brief essay. Applications are made available at the end of each year.
United Power’s 2020 scholarship recipients will be announced during the cooperative’s Annual Meeting & Director Election on April 15 and recognized in its monthly newsletter to members. The 2020 scholarship recipients are:
• Jade Glaister, Legacy High School, United Power Colorado College Scholarship, $2,000
• Wesley Swieter, Weld Central High School, United Power Colorado College Scholarship, $2,000
• Madison Harper, Erie High School, United Power Youth Leadership Scholarship, $1,500
• Skylar Tempel, Erie High School, Basin Electric Power Cooperative Scholarship, $1,000
• Calla Winner, Peak to Peak Charter, Tri-State Generation & Transmission Scholarship, $1,000
• Elizabeth Dexter, Fort Lupton High School, Lois Lesser Education Scholarship, $1,000
• Rylie James, Prospect Ridge Academy, Bill Berens Memorial Scholarship, $1,000
United Power dedicates a book scholarship to each high school within its service territory, provided it receives an application. This year, United Power distributed ten $1,000 book scholarships, including one “at-large” selection. Book scholarships for 2020 were awarded to Brianna Diaz, Brighton High School; Angelica Fletcher, Prairie View High School; Megan Harrison, Eagle Ridge Academy; Michael Clementson, Frederick High School; Dina Zito, Ft. Lupton High School; Blake LaVanchy, Mead High School; Ivonne Olivas, Weld Central High School; Claire Diekman, Mountain Territory; Jeffrey Fitzjohn, Erie High School; and Claire Fisk, at-large selection.
Congratulations to all the scholarship recipients, and thank you to all the students who submitted their application. United Power is committed to supporting the postsecondary education efforts of students it serves.
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United Power Announces 2021 Scholarship Recipients
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Wednesday | May 12, 2021
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Each year, the cooperative awards more than $19,000 in scholarships to outstanding students in its service territory.
Brighton, CO – United Power proudly announces its scholarship recipients for 2021. Each year, the cooperative awards more than $19,000 in scholarships to outstanding students in its service territory. The United Power Scholarship Committee selected seventeen high school seniors based on grades, test scores, extracurricular activities and a brief essay. Applications are made available at the end of each year.
More information about United Power’s 2021 scholarship recipients can be found in the co-op’s monthly newsletter to members. The 2021 scholarship recipients are:
Sejal Goud, Standley Lake High School, United Power Colorado College Scholarship, $2,000
Lucas Stanford, Prairie View High School, United Power Colorado College Scholarship, $2,000
Elena Marraudino, Prairie View High School, United Power Youth Leadership Scholarship, $1,500
Alexander Juenemann, Erie High School, Basin Electric Power Cooperative Scholarship, $1,000
Dominic Gittlein, Frederick High School, Tri-State Generation & Transmission Scholarship, $1,000
Ashley Settergren, Brighton High School, Lois Lesser Education Scholarship, $1,000
Emily Pira, Prairie View High School, Bill Berens Memorial Scholarship, $1,000
United Power dedicates a book scholarship to each high school within its service territory, provided it receives an application. This year, United Power distributed ten $1,000 book scholarships, including one “at-large” selection. Book scholarships for 2021 were awarded to:
Claire Asmussen, Brighton High School
Morgan Barba, Prairie View High School
Walker Bargmann, Eagle Ridge Academy
MacKenzie Umberger, Frederick High School
Gabriela Tijerina, Ft. Lupton High School
Jacob Choksey, Mead High School
Brooke Dowdy, Weld Central High School
Nolan Lindberg, Mountain Territory
Isabelle Bieber, Erie High School
Audrey Thompson, at-large selection
Congratulations to all the scholarship recipients and thank you to all the students who submitted their application. United Power is committed to supporting the postsecondary education efforts of students it serves.
United Power is a member-owned, not-for-profit electric cooperative, delivering electricity to homes, farms and businesses throughout Colorado’s northern front range. As one of the fastest-growing electric cooperatives in the nation, the utility will join the elite ranks of cooperatives serving more than 100,000 meters by the end of this summer. The 900 square mile service territory extends from the mountains of Coal Creek and Golden Gate Canyon, along the I-25 corridor and Carbon Valley region, to the farmlands of Brighton, Hudson and Keenesburg. For more information about the cooperative, visit www.unitedpower.com or follow them on social media Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, YouTube and Instagram.###
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United Power Announces 2023 Scholarship Recipients
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Tuesday | May 23, 2023
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Each year, the cooperative awards more than $20,000 in scholarships to outstanding students in its service territory.
Brighton, CO – United Power proudly announces its scholarship recipients for 2023. Each year, the cooperative awards more than $20,000 in scholarships to outstanding students in its service territory. The United Power Scholarship Committee selected 20 high school seniors based on grades, test scores, extracurricular activities, community involvement, and a written essay. Applications are made available by December each year.
2023 scholarship recipients:
Kaden Rademacher, Mead High School, United Power Colorado College Scholarship, $2,000
Gavin Walker, Prairie View High School, United Power Colorado College Scholarship, $2,000
Lauren Brown, Frederick High School, United Power Youth Leadership Scholarship, $1,500
Hayley Howell, Frederick High School, Basin Electric Power Cooperative Scholarship, $1,000
Gwendolyn Hanks, Frederick High School, Tri-State Generation & Transmission Scholarship, $1,000
Otis Kindvall, Frederick High School, Lois Lesser Education Scholarship, $1,000
Dylan Leonard, Brighton High School, Bill Berens Memorial Scholarship, $1,000
Jolene Her, Prairie View High School, United Power Community College Scholarship, $1,000
Additionally, United Power dedicates a book scholarship to each high school within its service territory, provided students from those schools submit applications. This year, United Power distributed 12 of these $1,000 scholarships, including four “at-large” selections.
Dedicated book scholarships for 2023 were awarded to Brooklyn Yates, Brighton High School; Megan Derby, Eagle Ridge Academy; Cullen Aasmund-Williams, Frederick High School; Trisha Hammen, Fort Lupton High School; Gabriel Pemberton, Mead High School; Margaret Anne McEldowney, Prairie View High School; Jaden Atencio, Riverdale Ridge High School; Zayne Blair, Cherokee Trail High School; Grace Finnegan, Holy Family High School; Andrew Sawyer, Stargate Academy; Austin Hane, Northglenn High School; and Bailey Chess, Colorado Early Colleges Fort Collins High School.
More information about United Power’s 2023 scholarship recipients can be found in the May/June issue of the United Newsline.
United Power is a member-owned, not-for-profit electric cooperative, delivering electricity to homes, farms, and businesses throughout Colorado’s northern front range. The cooperative is one of the fastest-growing electric cooperatives in the nation, and in June 2021 joined the elite ranks of cooperatives serving more than 100,000 meters. The 900-square mile service territory extends from the mountains of Coal Creek and Golden Gate Canyon, along the I-25 corridor and Carbon Valley region, to the farmlands of Brighton, Hudson, and Keenesburg. United Power is also a founding member of the NextGen Cooperative Alliance, which is dedicated to expanding the power supply and procurement options available to distribution co-ops, reforming the traditional generation and transmission business model. For more information about United Power, visit www.unitedpower.com or follow the cooperative on Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, YouTube, and Instagram.###
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United Power Announces 2025 Scholarship Recipients
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Tuesday | June 3, 2025
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This year, the cooperative awarded more than $35,000 in scholarships.
Brighton, CO – United Power proudly announces its scholarship recipients for 2025. This year, the cooperative awarded more than $35,000 in scholarships to outstanding students in its service territory. The United Power Scholarship Committee selected 20 high school seniors based on grades, test scores, extracurricular activities, community involvement, and a written essay.
2025 Cooperative Scholarship recipients:
Ryan Brown, Frederick High School, Bill Berens Memorial Scholarship, $1,000
Kennedy Cardillo, Weld Central High School, Lois Lesser Education Scholarship, $1,000
Alora Tortorelli Cruz, Riverdale Ridge High School, Colorado College Scholarship, $2,000
Isaac Griffith, Rocky Mountain Lutheran High School, United Power Community College Scholarship, $1,000
Trevor Kurtz, Mead High School, Colorado College Scholarship, $2,000
Madison Miller, Mead High School, United Power Technical/Vocational Scholarship, $1,000
Adisyn Rademacher, Mead High School, United Power Youth Leadership Scholarship, $1,500
Additionally, United Power dedicates a Bright Futures Scholarship to a student from each high school within its service territory, provided the cooperative receives an application. This year, United Power awarded 13 scholarships for $2,000 each, including three “at-large” selections.
Bright Futures Scholarships for 2025 were awarded to Ava Allen, Frontier Academy; Arely Chavez, Weld Central High School; Olivia Cornelius, Riverdale Ridge High School; Ethan DeBoo, Legacy High School; Kalei Dreiling, Prairie View High School; Carina DuLong, Fairview High School; Laneya Harris, Fort Lupton High School; Anna Jorstad, Brighton High School; Rolando Mijares Miranda, Frederick High School; Taryn Petruncola, Erie High School; Matthew Pineda, Stargate Charter School; Nicole Price, Mead High School; and Arnav Sudheer, Prospect Ridge Academy.
More information about United Power’s scholarships, including a video recognizing this year’s recipients, can be found here. Scholarship applications are made available on the United Power’s website by December each year.
United Power is a member-owned, not-for-profit electric cooperative, delivering electricity to homes, farms, and businesses throughout Colorado’s northern front range. The cooperative is one of the fastest-growing electric co-ops in the nation, serving more than 115,000 meters. Its 900-square mile service territory extends from the mountains of Coal Creek and Golden Gate Canyon, along the I-25 corridor and Carbon Valley region, to the farmlands of Brighton, Hudson, and Keenesburg. For more information about United Power, visit www.unitedpower.com or follow the cooperative on Facebook, X, LinkedIn, YouTube, and Instagram.###
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United Power Announces Construction of Colorado’s Largest Battery Storage System
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Wednesday | October 25, 2017
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United Power announced plans to construct its first commercial scale energy storage project.
United Power announced plans to construct its first commercial scale energy storage project. Located in Firestone, CO and developed in collaboration with Chicago based SoCore Energy, the 4 MW / 16 MWh battery storage system will be the largest facility in the State of Colorado and one of the largest systems owned and operated by an electric co-op anywhere in the country.
“As one of the fastest growing co-ops in Colorado, United Power wants to stay ahead of the curve when it comes to integrating new technology that can help boost reliability and keep costs down. Energy storage will play an important role in the grid of the future, and we’re excited to be starting now,” said John Parker, CEO of United Power.
United Power partnered with SoCore Energy to develop the project, which will be located at United Power’s west office on I-25, just south of Highway 119. SoCore is a leading solar PV and energy storage developer with a special focus on serving rural electric cooperatives. SoCore and United Power selected Tesla to supply the 4 MW / 16 MWh Powerpack system.
“SoCore worked closely with United Power to understand the objectives of the project, siting and design considerations, and performance requirements. This has been a terrific partnership so far, and we’re looking forward to getting construction underway,” said SoCore President Rob Scheuermann.
The battery storage system will store energy generated in the overnight hours, when demand is low, and discharge it during peak hours to reduce demand. Curbing peak demand will reduce costs and help improve the overall efficiency of United Power’s electric grid as it serves its more than 82,000 meters.
The Firestone system is the first of several energy storage projects that United Power will roll out, piloting an innovative “community battery” strategy, allowing users to purchase a share of the battery system’s output to directly reduce demand charges on their monthly electric bills.
“United Power was one of the first utilities in the country to experiment with the ‘community solar’ concept with our Sol Partners™ program, and now there are community solar projects all over the country. ‘Community batteries’ are the next big trend,” said United Power’s New Business Director, Jerry Marizza.
SoCore Energy’s Scheuermann agrees. “Community batteries allow co-ops and their members to address the demand components of the utility bill – the portion that can’t easily be addressed with solar energy alone. Batteries provide opportunities to reduce costs, increase choices for co-ops and their members while improving resiliency of the grid.”
Construction on the system is expected to begin in the first half of 2018.
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United Power Announces EV Charging Station in Carbon Valley
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Wednesday | April 20, 2022
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The newest charging station is located at its Carbon Valley office along Interstate 25 and fills a 30-mile gap in available charging options between Thornton and Loveland.
New Fast Charger is Third in Cooperative’s Network
Brighton, CO – United Power announced its third public electric vehicle (EV) fast charging station at a ribbon cutting event on Wednesday. The newest charging station in the cooperative’s growing network is located at its Carbon Valley office along Interstate 25, just south of Longmont, and fills a 30-mile gap in available charging options between Thornton and Loveland. All three charging stations are part of the ChargePoint network.
“Nearly 5,000 United Power members own electric vehicles,” said Mark A. Gabriel, United Power’s President and Chief Executive Officer. “We stand committed to strategically deploying a charging network capable of supporting our members and the thousands of others who commute daily throughout our territory.”
The charging station at United Power’s Carbon Valley Service Center is a 62.5 kW direct current (DC) fast charger available for anyone who has set up a ChargePoint account. Individuals may create an account using ChargePoint’s mobile app or an activation card available through the mail. The charging station was installed with the help of a grant from Tri-State Generation & Transmission.
United Power has paid careful attention to the growing electric and plug-in hybrid vehicle markets and rapid adoption of the technology among its members. The cooperative’s first charging station was installed at its Coal Creek office in 2019, and its second was added at Keenesburg’s Market Street Mart in 2021. These strategic locations fill gaps where charging was previously unavailable and made EV ownership more feasible for rural members. An online educational portal, savings calculator and additional resources are available for members interested in EVs at ChooseEV.
“Our goal is making electric vehicle ownership more practical and accessible for more of our members, especially those who live in rural areas,” Gabriel said. “We do that by considering the appropriate opportunities and the right programs that meet the needs of our members.”
United Power is a member-owned, not-for-profit electric cooperative, delivering electricity to homes, farms and businesses throughout Colorado’s northern front range. The cooperative is one of the fastest-growing electric cooperatives in the nation, and in June 2021 joined the elite ranks of cooperatives serving more than 100,000 meters. The 900-square mile service territory extends from the mountains of Coal Creek and Golden Gate Canyon, along the I-25 corridor and Carbon Valley region, to the farmlands of Brighton, Hudson and Keenesburg. United Power is also a founding member of the NextGen Cooperative Alliance, which is dedicated to expanding the power supply and procurement options available to distribution co-ops and reforming the traditional generation and transmission business model. For more information about United Power, visit www.unitedpower.com or follow the cooperative on Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, YouTube and Instagram.###
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United Power and Xcel Energy Announce Strategic Relationship for Power Supply
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Thursday | September 14, 2023
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Xcel Energy to provide United Power and its members with excess low-carbon, renewable electricity.
Xcel Energy to provide United Power and its members with excess low-carbon, renewable electricityBrighton, CO – United Power an electric cooperative serving Colorado’s northern Front Range, and Xcel Energy, one of the nation’s largest investor-owned utilities, entered into a strategic relationship to explore opportunities for maximizing the value of their combined portfolios and advancing the State of Colorado’s progress toward a low-carbon energy footprint. The utilities are entering a power supply arrangement that would provide United Power access to Xcel Energy’s increasingly carbon neutral portfolio to the benefit of Xcel Energy customers and United Power members. The working agreement will allow both utilities to leverage cost savings through power purchases while continuing to invest in new, clean renewable resources.
“This is a win-win for both utilities,” stated Mark A. Gabriel, President and CEO of United Power. “The ability of two large utilities working toward a common goal will benefit everyone. Together we will plan our energy needs, negotiate lower pricing, and assure reliability for our members and customers. This is an important step as we enter the new future of electric procurement and delivery.”
The agreement aims to facilitate a shared strategic vision for electric power delivery. Xcel Energy seeks to leverage its renewable energy resources by making sales to United Power at times when excess energy is available, providing United Power with access to Xcel Energy’s significant portfolio at attractive prices. The two utilities hope to develop a long-term relationship in which both will work in tandem to drive down power costs, understand how best to serve the future load of the cooperative’s members and Xcel Energy’s customers, and work toward the mutual goal of integrating more renewable energy in support of the State of Colorado’s renewable resource goals.
“The electric industry is changing, and United Power is working with Xcel Energy to help lead this revolution,” stated Gabriel. “Meeting federal and state requirements, keeping costs economical, and making certain our load is predicable are planned outcomes of this strategic relationship.”
United Power is preparing for an exit from its current wholesale power contract with another power supplier on May 1, 2024. The electric cooperative has been securing a variety of power generation contracts to continue to supply its members following its exit from the contract.
“Today’s announcement solidifies our close working relationship with United Power, one of the largest and fastest-growing cooperative utilities in Colorado, by supplying increasingly carbon-free energy from Xcel Energy’s generation resources,” said Robert Kenney, President of Xcel Energy-Colorado. “Our strategic relationship will maximize the value of both companies’ combined generation towards achieving our goal of reducing carbon emissions by 80% by 2030, from 2005 levels, and providing 100% carbon-free electricity by 2050.”
United Power serves nearly 110,000 meters and maintains and operates over 6,500 miles of distribution line. The 900-square mile service territory wraps around the north and west borders of the Denver International Airport. It includes the north and northeast metropolitan development corridors along Interstate 25, Interstate 76, State Highway 85, and E-470 and the Golden Gate and Coal Creek canyons, two of Colorado’s most iconic and historic mountain canyons. As a result of its geographic location, United Power’s system is experiencing significant demand and energy growth, averaging approximately 6% annually.
To learn more about United Power’s power supply transition, visit Power Supply.
About United PowerUnited Power is a member-owned, not-for-profit electric cooperative, delivering electricity to homes, farms, and businesses throughout Colorado’s northern Front Range. The cooperative is one of the fastest-growing electric co-ops in the nation, and in June 2021 joined the elite ranks of cooperatives serving more than 100,000 meters. The 900-square mile service territory extends from the mountains of Coal Creek and Golden Gate Canyon, along the I-25 corridor and Carbon Valley region, to the farmlands of Brighton, Hudson, and Keenesburg. United Power is also a founding member of the NextGen Co-op Alliance, which is dedicated to expanding the power supply and procurement options available to distribution co-ops and reforming the traditional generation and transmission business model. For more information about United Power, visit www.unitedpower.com or follow the cooperative on Facebook, X (formerly known as Twitter), LinkedIn, YouTube, and Instagram.About Xcel EnergyXcel Energy (NASDAQ: XEL) provides the energy that powers millions of homes and businesses across eight Western and Midwestern states. Headquartered in Minneapolis, the company is an industry leader in responsibly reducing carbon emissions and producing and delivering clean energy solutions from a variety of renewable sources at competitive prices. For more information, visit xcelenergy.com or follow us on X, formerly known as Twitter, and Facebook. ###
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United Power Announces 2018 Youth Tour and Youth Leadership Camp Delegates
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Monday | April 2, 2018
2018 D.C. Youth Tour Delegates
United Power selected three local students to represent the cooperative at this year’s Cooperative Youth Tour in Washington D.C in June. Hannah Rockwell of Brighton, Megan Lewis from Firestone and Jordyn Saffy of Brighton were selected based on academic performance, extracurricular activities, volunteer efforts and a brief essay.
Local electric cooperatives throughout the country sponsor approximately 1,500 ambitious high school students from small towns and cities for an incredible week in the nation’s capital with the objective of providing an educational experience for young people on the organization and operation of a cooperative. Cooperatives are committed to educating America’s rural youth about the country and the role electric cooperatives play in developing strong rural communities.
Hannah Rockwell is a student at Weld Central High School where she is an athlete in cross country and track. She is a member of the National Honor Society and president of her school’s Future Business Leaders of America Club. Hannah loves school and her future plans include pursuing a career in medicine.
Megan Lewis attends Frederick High School, where she is a member of the National Honor Society and the Student Advisory Committee. Megan is active in musicals/plays at her school, and is on both the varsity cross country and tennis teams. Her future plans include college and medical school.
Jordyn Saffy attends high school at Eagle Ridge Academy. Jordan is captain of the volleyball team, president of the spirit team and participates in track and field. Her future plans include a degree in health sciences, which she intends to use to help those in need.
2018 Youth Leadership Camp Winners
United Power has also selected Brooklyn Stubby of Mapleton Early College in Commerce City and Catera Gagna of Brighton to represent the cooperative at the 2018 Cooperative Youth Leadership Camp in Steamboat Springs, Colorado this July. The camp is offered to high school juniors and seniors in the United Power service area. Interested students are asked to apply, and winners are selected based on academic performance, extracurriculr activities and volunteer efforts.
The primary objective of the camp is to provide an educational experience for youth on the organization and operation of a cooperative. The camp strives to help develop leadership skills that will assist students with challenges they will face in the future.
Brooklyn Stubby attends Mapleton Early College and is active in student council, swimming and student mentoring. Brooklyn is keeping her options open, but is considering physical therapy, detective work or personal training/nutrition.
Catera Gagna is a student at Brighton High School and plays softball. She is a member of the principal’s honor roll, student government and volunteers at a local elementary school. Catera plans to attend college and pursue a career in engineering.
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United Power Announces 2019 Scholarship Recipients
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Wednesday | April 17, 2019
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United Power proudly announces its scholarship recipients for 2019.
United Power proudly announces its scholarship recipients for 2019. Each year, the cooperative awards more than $19,000 in scholarships to outstanding students in its service territory. The United Power Scholarship Committee selected seventeen high school seniors based on grades, test scores, extracurricular activities and a brief essay. Applications are made available at the end of each year.
United Power’s 2019 scholarship recipients will be announced during the cooperative’s Annual Meeting & Director Election on April 17 and recognized in its monthly newsletter to members. The 2019 scholarship recipients are:
• Daniel Smith, Weld Central, United Power Colorado College Scholarship, $2,000
• Alexx McMillan, Prairie View High School, United Power Colorado College Scholarship, $2,000
• Amanda Ruybal, Brighton High School, United Power Youth Leadership Scholarship, $1,500
• Megan Lewis, Frederick High School, Basin Electric Power Cooperative Scholarship, $1,000
• Alexia Simonton, Holy Family, Tri-State Generation & Transmission Scholarship, $1,000
• Kaylee Speer, Frederick High School, Lois Lesser Education Scholarship, $1,000
• Amanda Schmidt, Frederick High School, Bill Berens Memorial Scholarship, $1,000
United Power dedicates a book scholarship to each high school within its service territory, provided it receives an application. This year, United Power distributed ten $1,000 book scholarships, including one “at-large” selection.
Book scholarships for 2019 were awarded to Ayaka Hayashi, Brighton High School; Elena Pocs, Prairie View High School; Scott Hampton, Eagle Ridge Academy; Hailee Hurtado, Frederick High School; Joanna Santibanez, Ft. Lupton High School; Kelley McAmis, Mead High School; Hannah Rockwell, Weld Central High School; Anna Yocom, Mountain Territory; Emily Thoren, Erie High School; and Sophia Kate Thompson, at-large selection.
Congratulations to all the scholarship recipients, and thank you to all the students who submitted their application. United Power is committed to supporting the postsecondary education efforts of students it serves.
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United Power Announces 2020 Scholarship Recipients
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Friday | May 1, 2020
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United Power proudly announces its scholarship recipients for 2020.
United Power proudly announces its scholarship recipients for 2020. Each year, the cooperative awards more than $19,000 in scholarships to outstanding students in its service territory. The United Power Scholarship Committee selected seventeen high school seniors based on grades, test scores, extracurricular activities and a brief essay. Applications are made available at the end of each year.
United Power’s 2020 scholarship recipients will be announced during the cooperative’s Annual Meeting & Director Election on April 15 and recognized in its monthly newsletter to members. The 2020 scholarship recipients are:
• Jade Glaister, Legacy High School, United Power Colorado College Scholarship, $2,000
• Wesley Swieter, Weld Central High School, United Power Colorado College Scholarship, $2,000
• Madison Harper, Erie High School, United Power Youth Leadership Scholarship, $1,500
• Skylar Tempel, Erie High School, Basin Electric Power Cooperative Scholarship, $1,000
• Calla Winner, Peak to Peak Charter, Tri-State Generation & Transmission Scholarship, $1,000
• Elizabeth Dexter, Fort Lupton High School, Lois Lesser Education Scholarship, $1,000
• Rylie James, Prospect Ridge Academy, Bill Berens Memorial Scholarship, $1,000
United Power dedicates a book scholarship to each high school within its service territory, provided it receives an application. This year, United Power distributed ten $1,000 book scholarships, including one “at-large” selection. Book scholarships for 2020 were awarded to Brianna Diaz, Brighton High School; Angelica Fletcher, Prairie View High School; Megan Harrison, Eagle Ridge Academy; Michael Clementson, Frederick High School; Dina Zito, Ft. Lupton High School; Blake LaVanchy, Mead High School; Ivonne Olivas, Weld Central High School; Claire Diekman, Mountain Territory; Jeffrey Fitzjohn, Erie High School; and Claire Fisk, at-large selection.
Congratulations to all the scholarship recipients, and thank you to all the students who submitted their application. United Power is committed to supporting the postsecondary education efforts of students it serves.
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United Power Announces 2021 Scholarship Recipients
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Wednesday | May 12, 2021
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Each year, the cooperative awards more than $19,000 in scholarships to outstanding students in its service territory.
Brighton, CO – United Power proudly announces its scholarship recipients for 2021. Each year, the cooperative awards more than $19,000 in scholarships to outstanding students in its service territory. The United Power Scholarship Committee selected seventeen high school seniors based on grades, test scores, extracurricular activities and a brief essay. Applications are made available at the end of each year.
More information about United Power’s 2021 scholarship recipients can be found in the co-op’s monthly newsletter to members. The 2021 scholarship recipients are:
Sejal Goud, Standley Lake High School, United Power Colorado College Scholarship, $2,000
Lucas Stanford, Prairie View High School, United Power Colorado College Scholarship, $2,000
Elena Marraudino, Prairie View High School, United Power Youth Leadership Scholarship, $1,500
Alexander Juenemann, Erie High School, Basin Electric Power Cooperative Scholarship, $1,000
Dominic Gittlein, Frederick High School, Tri-State Generation & Transmission Scholarship, $1,000
Ashley Settergren, Brighton High School, Lois Lesser Education Scholarship, $1,000
Emily Pira, Prairie View High School, Bill Berens Memorial Scholarship, $1,000
United Power dedicates a book scholarship to each high school within its service territory, provided it receives an application. This year, United Power distributed ten $1,000 book scholarships, including one “at-large” selection. Book scholarships for 2021 were awarded to:
Claire Asmussen, Brighton High School
Morgan Barba, Prairie View High School
Walker Bargmann, Eagle Ridge Academy
MacKenzie Umberger, Frederick High School
Gabriela Tijerina, Ft. Lupton High School
Jacob Choksey, Mead High School
Brooke Dowdy, Weld Central High School
Nolan Lindberg, Mountain Territory
Isabelle Bieber, Erie High School
Audrey Thompson, at-large selection
Congratulations to all the scholarship recipients and thank you to all the students who submitted their application. United Power is committed to supporting the postsecondary education efforts of students it serves.
United Power is a member-owned, not-for-profit electric cooperative, delivering electricity to homes, farms and businesses throughout Colorado’s northern front range. As one of the fastest-growing electric cooperatives in the nation, the utility will join the elite ranks of cooperatives serving more than 100,000 meters by the end of this summer. The 900 square mile service territory extends from the mountains of Coal Creek and Golden Gate Canyon, along the I-25 corridor and Carbon Valley region, to the farmlands of Brighton, Hudson and Keenesburg. For more information about the cooperative, visit www.unitedpower.com or follow them on social media Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, YouTube and Instagram.###
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United Power Announces 2023 Scholarship Recipients
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Tuesday | May 23, 2023
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Each year, the cooperative awards more than $20,000 in scholarships to outstanding students in its service territory.
Brighton, CO – United Power proudly announces its scholarship recipients for 2023. Each year, the cooperative awards more than $20,000 in scholarships to outstanding students in its service territory. The United Power Scholarship Committee selected 20 high school seniors based on grades, test scores, extracurricular activities, community involvement, and a written essay. Applications are made available by December each year.
2023 scholarship recipients:
Kaden Rademacher, Mead High School, United Power Colorado College Scholarship, $2,000
Gavin Walker, Prairie View High School, United Power Colorado College Scholarship, $2,000
Lauren Brown, Frederick High School, United Power Youth Leadership Scholarship, $1,500
Hayley Howell, Frederick High School, Basin Electric Power Cooperative Scholarship, $1,000
Gwendolyn Hanks, Frederick High School, Tri-State Generation & Transmission Scholarship, $1,000
Otis Kindvall, Frederick High School, Lois Lesser Education Scholarship, $1,000
Dylan Leonard, Brighton High School, Bill Berens Memorial Scholarship, $1,000
Jolene Her, Prairie View High School, United Power Community College Scholarship, $1,000
Additionally, United Power dedicates a book scholarship to each high school within its service territory, provided students from those schools submit applications. This year, United Power distributed 12 of these $1,000 scholarships, including four “at-large” selections.
Dedicated book scholarships for 2023 were awarded to Brooklyn Yates, Brighton High School; Megan Derby, Eagle Ridge Academy; Cullen Aasmund-Williams, Frederick High School; Trisha Hammen, Fort Lupton High School; Gabriel Pemberton, Mead High School; Margaret Anne McEldowney, Prairie View High School; Jaden Atencio, Riverdale Ridge High School; Zayne Blair, Cherokee Trail High School; Grace Finnegan, Holy Family High School; Andrew Sawyer, Stargate Academy; Austin Hane, Northglenn High School; and Bailey Chess, Colorado Early Colleges Fort Collins High School.
More information about United Power’s 2023 scholarship recipients can be found in the May/June issue of the United Newsline.
United Power is a member-owned, not-for-profit electric cooperative, delivering electricity to homes, farms, and businesses throughout Colorado’s northern front range. The cooperative is one of the fastest-growing electric cooperatives in the nation, and in June 2021 joined the elite ranks of cooperatives serving more than 100,000 meters. The 900-square mile service territory extends from the mountains of Coal Creek and Golden Gate Canyon, along the I-25 corridor and Carbon Valley region, to the farmlands of Brighton, Hudson, and Keenesburg. United Power is also a founding member of the NextGen Cooperative Alliance, which is dedicated to expanding the power supply and procurement options available to distribution co-ops, reforming the traditional generation and transmission business model. For more information about United Power, visit www.unitedpower.com or follow the cooperative on Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, YouTube, and Instagram.###
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United Power Announces 2025 Scholarship Recipients
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Tuesday | June 3, 2025
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This year, the cooperative awarded more than $35,000 in scholarships.
Brighton, CO – United Power proudly announces its scholarship recipients for 2025. This year, the cooperative awarded more than $35,000 in scholarships to outstanding students in its service territory. The United Power Scholarship Committee selected 20 high school seniors based on grades, test scores, extracurricular activities, community involvement, and a written essay.
2025 Cooperative Scholarship recipients:
Ryan Brown, Frederick High School, Bill Berens Memorial Scholarship, $1,000
Kennedy Cardillo, Weld Central High School, Lois Lesser Education Scholarship, $1,000
Alora Tortorelli Cruz, Riverdale Ridge High School, Colorado College Scholarship, $2,000
Isaac Griffith, Rocky Mountain Lutheran High School, United Power Community College Scholarship, $1,000
Trevor Kurtz, Mead High School, Colorado College Scholarship, $2,000
Madison Miller, Mead High School, United Power Technical/Vocational Scholarship, $1,000
Adisyn Rademacher, Mead High School, United Power Youth Leadership Scholarship, $1,500
Additionally, United Power dedicates a Bright Futures Scholarship to a student from each high school within its service territory, provided the cooperative receives an application. This year, United Power awarded 13 scholarships for $2,000 each, including three “at-large” selections.
Bright Futures Scholarships for 2025 were awarded to Ava Allen, Frontier Academy; Arely Chavez, Weld Central High School; Olivia Cornelius, Riverdale Ridge High School; Ethan DeBoo, Legacy High School; Kalei Dreiling, Prairie View High School; Carina DuLong, Fairview High School; Laneya Harris, Fort Lupton High School; Anna Jorstad, Brighton High School; Rolando Mijares Miranda, Frederick High School; Taryn Petruncola, Erie High School; Matthew Pineda, Stargate Charter School; Nicole Price, Mead High School; and Arnav Sudheer, Prospect Ridge Academy.
More information about United Power’s scholarships, including a video recognizing this year’s recipients, can be found here. Scholarship applications are made available on the United Power’s website by December each year.
United Power is a member-owned, not-for-profit electric cooperative, delivering electricity to homes, farms, and businesses throughout Colorado’s northern front range. The cooperative is one of the fastest-growing electric co-ops in the nation, serving more than 115,000 meters. Its 900-square mile service territory extends from the mountains of Coal Creek and Golden Gate Canyon, along the I-25 corridor and Carbon Valley region, to the farmlands of Brighton, Hudson, and Keenesburg. For more information about United Power, visit www.unitedpower.com or follow the cooperative on Facebook, X, LinkedIn, YouTube, and Instagram.###
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United Power Announces Construction of Colorado’s Largest Battery Storage System
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Wednesday | October 25, 2017
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United Power announced plans to construct its first commercial scale energy storage project.
United Power announced plans to construct its first commercial scale energy storage project. Located in Firestone, CO and developed in collaboration with Chicago based SoCore Energy, the 4 MW / 16 MWh battery storage system will be the largest facility in the State of Colorado and one of the largest systems owned and operated by an electric co-op anywhere in the country.
“As one of the fastest growing co-ops in Colorado, United Power wants to stay ahead of the curve when it comes to integrating new technology that can help boost reliability and keep costs down. Energy storage will play an important role in the grid of the future, and we’re excited to be starting now,” said John Parker, CEO of United Power.
United Power partnered with SoCore Energy to develop the project, which will be located at United Power’s west office on I-25, just south of Highway 119. SoCore is a leading solar PV and energy storage developer with a special focus on serving rural electric cooperatives. SoCore and United Power selected Tesla to supply the 4 MW / 16 MWh Powerpack system.
“SoCore worked closely with United Power to understand the objectives of the project, siting and design considerations, and performance requirements. This has been a terrific partnership so far, and we’re looking forward to getting construction underway,” said SoCore President Rob Scheuermann.
The battery storage system will store energy generated in the overnight hours, when demand is low, and discharge it during peak hours to reduce demand. Curbing peak demand will reduce costs and help improve the overall efficiency of United Power’s electric grid as it serves its more than 82,000 meters.
The Firestone system is the first of several energy storage projects that United Power will roll out, piloting an innovative “community battery” strategy, allowing users to purchase a share of the battery system’s output to directly reduce demand charges on their monthly electric bills.
“United Power was one of the first utilities in the country to experiment with the ‘community solar’ concept with our Sol Partners™ program, and now there are community solar projects all over the country. ‘Community batteries’ are the next big trend,” said United Power’s New Business Director, Jerry Marizza.
SoCore Energy’s Scheuermann agrees. “Community batteries allow co-ops and their members to address the demand components of the utility bill – the portion that can’t easily be addressed with solar energy alone. Batteries provide opportunities to reduce costs, increase choices for co-ops and their members while improving resiliency of the grid.”
Construction on the system is expected to begin in the first half of 2018.
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United Power Announces EV Charging Station in Carbon Valley
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Wednesday | April 20, 2022
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The newest charging station is located at its Carbon Valley office along Interstate 25 and fills a 30-mile gap in available charging options between Thornton and Loveland.
New Fast Charger is Third in Cooperative’s Network
Brighton, CO – United Power announced its third public electric vehicle (EV) fast charging station at a ribbon cutting event on Wednesday. The newest charging station in the cooperative’s growing network is located at its Carbon Valley office along Interstate 25, just south of Longmont, and fills a 30-mile gap in available charging options between Thornton and Loveland. All three charging stations are part of the ChargePoint network.
“Nearly 5,000 United Power members own electric vehicles,” said Mark A. Gabriel, United Power’s President and Chief Executive Officer. “We stand committed to strategically deploying a charging network capable of supporting our members and the thousands of others who commute daily throughout our territory.”
The charging station at United Power’s Carbon Valley Service Center is a 62.5 kW direct current (DC) fast charger available for anyone who has set up a ChargePoint account. Individuals may create an account using ChargePoint’s mobile app or an activation card available through the mail. The charging station was installed with the help of a grant from Tri-State Generation & Transmission.
United Power has paid careful attention to the growing electric and plug-in hybrid vehicle markets and rapid adoption of the technology among its members. The cooperative’s first charging station was installed at its Coal Creek office in 2019, and its second was added at Keenesburg’s Market Street Mart in 2021. These strategic locations fill gaps where charging was previously unavailable and made EV ownership more feasible for rural members. An online educational portal, savings calculator and additional resources are available for members interested in EVs at ChooseEV.
“Our goal is making electric vehicle ownership more practical and accessible for more of our members, especially those who live in rural areas,” Gabriel said. “We do that by considering the appropriate opportunities and the right programs that meet the needs of our members.”
United Power is a member-owned, not-for-profit electric cooperative, delivering electricity to homes, farms and businesses throughout Colorado’s northern front range. The cooperative is one of the fastest-growing electric cooperatives in the nation, and in June 2021 joined the elite ranks of cooperatives serving more than 100,000 meters. The 900-square mile service territory extends from the mountains of Coal Creek and Golden Gate Canyon, along the I-25 corridor and Carbon Valley region, to the farmlands of Brighton, Hudson and Keenesburg. United Power is also a founding member of the NextGen Cooperative Alliance, which is dedicated to expanding the power supply and procurement options available to distribution co-ops and reforming the traditional generation and transmission business model. For more information about United Power, visit www.unitedpower.com or follow the cooperative on Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, YouTube and Instagram.###
