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United Power Resumes In-Person Services and Collection of Late Fees, Reconnect Fees
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Wednesday | May 12, 2021
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United Power is phasing in a return to standard operating and billing procedures.
Now that COVID vaccinations are widely available and restrictions are lifting, United Power is phasing in a return to standard operating and billing procedures. Beginning on May 18th, late fees and reconnect fees, which were temporarily waived during the height of the COVID shutdowns, will be reinstated. On June 1st, select teams of United Power employees will return to the office, and United Power will open its Brighton lobby to walk-in visitors and for in-person payments.
United Power was one of the first Colorado utilities to pause disconnections for non-payment and waive late fees and disconnect fees when the initial pandemic stay-at-home orders were issued. Disconnections for non-payment resumed in July 2020, and on May 18th, late fees for payments not received by the due date and reconnection fees to restore electric service will resume. United Power offers several ways to avoid fees, including payment arrangements, enrolling in Pay As You Go pre-paid electric service, and applying for Co-op Cares Funds. The cooperative allocated $550,000 in relief funds to help members financially impacted by COVID. Any member struggling to make their payments in full or on time is encouraged to call United Power to access resources for assistance.
“We want to help our members avoid additional fees and disconnections, but they need to reach out to us before they are past due on their payments,” said Francis Ashu, United Power Director of Member Services. “Through our Co-op Cares fund, we have been able to help almost two thousand members financially impacted by COVID, and there are still funds available for members who are facing hardships.”
On June 1st, United Power’s Brighton Headquarters lobby at 500 Cooperative Way will re-open. While we will continue providing a suite of remote options to assist members, our Representatives will be available to assist members in person during regular business hours of Monday-Friday, 7:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Masks and social distancing will be required for all visitors and employees as directed by local health code mandates. The Carbon Valley and Coal Creek offices remain closed to visitors. Payment kiosks accept cash, check, and card payments and are available at all United Power offices and the Bank of Colorado Operations Center in Ft Lupton.
“Our dedicated employees are anxious to see our members and interact with them in person again. We are glad that a safe return to normal operations is possible,” said Mark A. Gabriel, United Power President, and Chief Executive Officer. “United Power has taken every precaution to protect employees from being affected by COVID. With one office re-opening, we will continue to adhere to health department guidelines in the office, and some teams will continue to work remotely. To further protect our employees and ensure they are here to serve our members, we are offering an on-site vaccine clinic for employees and family members.”
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United Power Signs Power Purchase Agreement with OneEnergy
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Tuesday | August 22, 2023
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Output from 10 megawatt solar system added to cooperative power mix.
Output from 10 MW Solar System Added to Cooperative Power MixBrighton, CO – United Power, Inc. (United Power), an electric cooperative serving Colorado’s northern Front Range, and OneEnergy announce the signing of a power purchase agreement on Aug. 17. Under the 25-year agreement, United Power will receive all the output of OneEnergy’s planned Overland Solar project beginning in 2024.
“This agreement is attractive because it leverages solar production right here in the cooperative’s service territory,” stated Mark A. Gabriel, President and CEO of United Power. “The 10 megawatt (MW) project will be directly tied into one of the co-op’s existing substations. That means clean, renewable power will be generated nearby and delivered to United Power members.”
OneEnergy develops solar energy projects across the United States for community solar, distributed generation, and large utility-scale project segments. OneEnergy is based in Seattle, WA, and has offices in Wisconsin, Washington, D.C., Oregon, and locally in Boulder, CO. When siting and building new renewable facilities, they work closely with all stakeholders – utility companies, neighbors, and other interested parties – to build projects that best serve consumers’ needs.
“We are honored to partner with United Power on their journey to deliver more renewable, affordable energy to their members. With the addition of the Overland Solar project to their portfolio, they are leading the way to a cleaner energy future for electric cooperatives,” said Gavin Berg, Vice President of Development at OneEnergy.
The Overland Solar project will be located north of Hudson and will feed directly into United Power’s distribution system. The project will produce 10 MW of noncarbon energy. Large energy projects like Overland Solar not only provide an economical energy source, but also generate tax revenues for the local community.
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.
United Power is building a power portfolio ahead of leaving its current power supplier on May 1, 2024. The cooperative recently announced agreements with Whetstone Power LLC, Guzman Energy, and Ameresco for portfolio assets related to this exit. To learn more about United Power’s power supply transition, visit www.unitedpower.com/powersupply.
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 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.About OneEnergyOneEnergy’s mission is to fight climate change by making clean energy the number one electricity choice for consumers and utilities. With a 4+ GW pipeline across 19 states, OneEnergy is a leading developer, owner, and operator of solar and energy storage projects across the United States. The company has developed and sold 122 project sites, totaling more than 1.2GW of assets, in its 14-year history. OneEnergy is committed to elevating people and empowering communities to create a sustainable energy future. The company is based in Seattle, WA, with offices in Madison, WI; Boulder, CO; Portland, OR; and Washington, D.C. ###
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United Power Signs Power Purchase Agreement with Solar of Alamosa LLC
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Monday | July 31, 2023
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Cooperative will receive full 30 MW of output for 25 years.
Cooperative Will Receive Full 30 MW of Output for 25 Years
United Power, Inc. (United Power), an electric cooperative serving Colorado’s northern Front Range, and Whetstone Power LLC (Whetstone) announce the signing of a power purchase agreement on July 27. Under the 25-year agreement, United Power will receive all the output of Whetstone’s Solar of Alamosa project beginning in May 2024.
“United Power is excited to commit to purchase the power generated by this proven solar project, at an attractive and stable price,” stated Mark A. Gabriel, President and CEO of United Power. “United Power will be able to immediately add 30 MW of renewable energy to our power portfolio, without having to go through the process of developing a new greenfield generation facility. The mix of power that cooperative members receive will be cleaner and more economical from day one of this contract.”
Whetstone and funds managed by Rosemawr Management acquired the 30 MW-ac Solar of Alamosa project in June 2022. Located in Alamosa in Colorado’s San Luis Valley, the innovative project used concentrated solar technology when it was initially developed in 2012. The facility’s current panels, inverters, and other components are scheduled to be replaced and modernized throughout 2024 to achieve optimum power output going forward.
“We are proud of the opportunity to serve United Power and the long-term partnership we have developed to provide renewable energy from the Solar of Alamosa facility,” said Collin Franceschi, Whetstone founding partner.
The solar project has been producing clean, renewable power for more than a decade, converting solar energy to electricity on one of Colorado’s highest elevation plateaus. The installation boasts that, at an elevation of approximately 7,500 feet above sea level, it receives some of the highest irradiance in the country.
“Rosemawr continues to be excited about the opportunities in renewable energy, and we very much look forward to this next chapter for the Solar of Alamosa facility with United Power,” said Josh Herlands, Rosemawr’s Head of Renewable Energy and Sustainable Infrastructure.
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.
United Power is building a power portfolio ahead of leaving its current power supplier on May 1, 2024. The cooperative recently announced agreements with Guzman Energy and Ameresco for portfolio assets related to this exit. 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 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.About Whetstone PowerWhetstone Power shapes and facilitates the sustainable energy transition one project at a time through project development, asset management, and advisory services. Whetstone thrives on solving complex problems by leveraging the experience of its leadership to provide comprehensive and unique solutions to solve utility, institutional, commercial, and industrial customer energy supply and infrastructure needs. This includes solar, storage, and conventional generation assets in both greenfield development and project redevelopment opportunities. For more information, visit www.whetstonepower.com; and for inquiries, please contact collin@whetstonepower.com.About Rosemawr ManagementRosemawr Management is an established investment firm focused on the sustainable infrastructure, municipal, not-for-profit, and charter school sectors. Rosemawr was founded in 2008 and currently has approximately $1.3 billion in assets under management. The firm's solar project portfolio currently includes investments in over 100 sustainable infrastructure energy projects located across 14 states, plus numerous investments across property assessed clean energy (PACE), wind energy, and other technologies. For more information, visit www.rosemawr.com; and for inquiries, please contact sustainable@rosemawr.com.
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United Power Signs Power Purchase Agreement with Whetstone Power
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Thursday | November 16, 2023
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Storage agreement will help create flexibility for the cooperative.
Storage Agreement Will Help Create Flexibility for the CooperativeBrighton, CO — United Power, Inc. (United Power), an electric cooperative serving Colorado’s northern Front Range, and Whetstone Power, a developer of sustainable energy infrastructure, announce a new partnership for the construction of a battery energy storage system.
The battery energy storage system will be located in United Power’s service territory, giving the cooperative the ability to balance load and further integrate renewable resources into its operations. This 20-year agreement provides for 34 megawatts (MW) of power to be stored and discharged up to six hours for a total discharge capability of approximately 74 gigawatt-hours (GWh) in year one of operation.
“The use of batteries on our distribution network is essential to a resilient and responsive power system and we are excited to be moving ahead aggressively with Whetstone to get this system online,” stated Mark A. Gabriel, President and CEO of United Power. “These battery arrays will give us the ability to balance our power needs throughout the day and incorporate local renewables more efficiently. This furthers our efforts in hyper-localizing our power supply.”
Whetstone’s battery system will be located at a United Power substation and grid-charged, enabling the system to store energy during off-peak periods and discharge during periods of higher consumption. Further, the system will be operated as a six-hour solution, allowing it to discharge over a fairly long duration and thereby providing additional grid stability. This should allow United Power to use more renewable energy, further reducing its carbon footprint while ensuring reliable service to its membership. “We are proud to be a partner with United Power on this unique battery storage project,” said Collin Franceschi, Whetstone Power’s founding partner. “It was a real pleasure to work with the experienced team at United Power and find the ideal solution to meet their needs for helping to ensure clean, sustainable, and resilient energy for years to come.”
Whetstone anticipates that the asset will be placed into service in 2024.
United Power serves nearly 110,000 meters and maintains and operates more than 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.
United Power is building a power portfolio ahead of leaving its current power supplier on May 1, 2024. The cooperative recently announced a prior agreement with Whetstone, in addition to agreements with Guzman Energy, OneEnergy, and Ameresco for portfolio assets related to this exit.
Learn more about United Power’s power supply transition.
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 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, X, LinkedIn, YouTube, and Instagram.About Whetstone PowerWhetstone Power shapes and facilitates the sustainable energy transition one project at a time through project development, ownership, asset management, and advisory services. Whetstone thrives on solving complex problems by leveraging the experience of its leadership to provide comprehensive and unique solutions to solve utility, institutional, commercial, and industrial customer energy supply and infrastructure needs. This includes solar, storage, and conventional generation assets in both greenfield development and project redevelopment opportunities. For more information, visit www.whetstonepower.com. ###
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United Power Statement on Tri-State Announcement to Reduce Rates & Implement Partial Requirements Contracts
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Thursday | October 8, 2020
Tri-State Generation and Transmission, United Power’s power supplier, announced a plan to reduce rates by 8% over the next three years, as well as allow for partial requirements contracts with certain requirements. The improvements are part of the power supplier’s goals to meet the guidelines of their Responsible Energy Plan. United Power’s interim CEO, Bryant Robbins issued the following statement in response to the components of the proposed plan:
“United Power is very supportive of Tri-State’s efforts to lower rates. We think this is a great step in the right direction for the future of Tri-State and congratulate their efforts in trying to make this happen. Unfortunately for United Power, we serve an area in which our competitors’ rates are as much 25% to 35% less than ours. We are going to need much more than the proposed 8% reduction in Wholesale Power to be competitive,” stated interim CEO, Bryant Robbins.
“Based upon our preliminary analysis, we don’t think the Partial Requirements/added flexibility has a positive impact on our needs. The approved plan is not what we proposed a couple of years ago and just doesn’t appear to viable to United Power and its membership,” added Robbins. “However, we hope it does meet the needs of the other [Tri-State] cooperatives.”
“United Power will continue to pursue a just, reasonable, and non-discriminatory exit charge,” Robbins concluded. “Once received, our Board can then determine the appropriate direction and future of our Power Supply that is in the best interest of our membership. We also remain available to Tri-State for discussions to potentially resolve the issues.”
United Power is continuing to work on this. Read more on our Power Supply page.
United Power Students Leave for D.C.
Monday | July 1, 2019
Colorado students boarded a bus from United Power on Friday, June 14 to join nearly 2,000 other high school students for the 2019 Youth Leadership Tour in Washington D.C.
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United Power Supports Local Students
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Sunday | November 19, 2023
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Demonstrating our commitment to local schools and communities through support and engagement.
Demonstrating Our Commitment to Local Schools Through Support and Engagement
As an electric cooperative, we understand — and appreciate — the value education adds to the communities we serve. United Power partners with local high schools, helping equip students for success on the field, in the classroom, and after they graduate and pursue a postsecondary education or a rewarding career.
Friday Night Lights
United Power serves nearly two dozen local high schools and some of the most dedicated student athletes in Colorado.
The cooperative presented $1,000 donations to the athletic programs at Prairie View and Brighton High Schools during their annual crosstown rivalry game on Sept. 29. The first 1,000 attendees at the football game also received clear stadium bags.
Mead Energy Academy
United Power and the Mead Energy Academy have a long-standing partnership. The cooperative’s Mavericks Solar Farm, named after the high school’s mascot, provides education opportunities for students to learn more about the role solar energy plays in a diversified energy mix.
Students from Mead Energy Academy were able to witness a live public safety demonstration from United Power lineworkers in October to learn about electrical safety and careers in the energy industry.
Day in the Boots
United Power would not be able to keep members’ lights on without its dedicated and hardworking team in operations. Construction students from the Careers and Technical Education (CTE) programs at 27J, RE-3J, and Adams 12 school districts got to spend a day in the boots of these essential workers, experiencing the various career options that are available within the energy industry first-hand.
Careers in Energy
Cooperatives provide various career opportunities spanning many fields and specialties, including engineering, finance, human resources, information technology, communications, and more. Each year, United Power supports local career fairs where students can learn about all the career pathways available at cooperatives.
Leadership Training Trips
Students are the future leaders in our communities. The cooperative provides leadership training opportunities for local students at the Youth Leadership Camp in Steamboat Springs and Cooperative Youth Tour in Washington, D.C. Applications for the annual youth trips open soon.
Learn more about youth trips and apply online.
United Power Suspending Disconnects
Tuesday | March 17, 2020
Out of concern for our members and the communities they call home, United Power is suspending service disconnects and late fees for our residential members.
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United Power to Close Fort Lupton Office
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Wednesday | September 16, 2020
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Members who wish to conduct business in person can visit our Brighton headquarters.
After several years operating a storefront in Fort Lupton, United Power is closing its office located on Dexter Street in the Fort Lupton Safeway shopping center. All United Power lobbies have been closed to the public since March due to the coronavirus pandemic, and the Fort Lupton office will not reopen. When conditions allow and offices reopen to the public, members who wish to conduct business in person will be able to visit our Brighton office, located just nine miles from Fort Lupton. The cooperative is also planning to open a self-serve payment kiosk in Fort Lupton to ensure members still have a local payment station that accepts cash, check, and card.
“The way our members want to conduct business with us is evolving. Before the pandemic, we were noticing a decline in the number of members visiting us in person. The pandemic stopped all in-person services, and our members quickly adapted to using remote tools to manage their accounts,” said Francis Ashu, Member Services Director. “Now more of our members are consistently interacting with us over the phone or online and leveraging self-serve payment options instead of visiting our front counters. Through these options, members have easy and safe access to account information from the comfort of their home, and we are able to provide the same level of quality service without the costs associated with operating a storefront location.”
Over the last few years, United Power has seen a steady increase in demand from members who prefer to use self-serve and digital account and payment options, and a corresponding reduction in visits to our offices. The co-op has responded by offering more ways for members to access their accounts and make quick and secure payments without visiting an office. Members can easily review account information and make payments through our online portal, mobile app and pay by phone features. Self-serve payment kiosks that accept cash, check and card payments are available in our Carbon Valley, Coal Creek and Brighton office with expanded hours beyond the business day. Since the pandemic related closures, our online, over the phone and self-serve support options have allowed United Power to continue to serve our members at a safe distance.
United Power member services representatives and other office personnel have also been working remotely while handling support inquiries. When employees return to the office, member services representatives from the Fort Lupton location will transfer to the Brighton Headquarters, and eventually in-person service will resume from the Brighton Headquarters lobby. The Brighton, Coal Creek and Carbon Valley offices house a consolidated mix of line crews, vehicle maintenance, member services, engineering and new construction teams. Whereas, the Fort Lupton office has been a member services-only storefront. Consolidating employee teams to these primary office locations will improve efficiency and save money for the cooperative and our members.
“The co-op has a long history of partnership with the town of Fort Lupton and the town has always welcomed our storefront location. We thank you for your hospitality over the years,” said Bryant Robbins, Acting Chief Executive Officer. “Be assured that this office closure doesn’t diminish our commitment to serving the Fort Lupton community—we remain as dedicated as ever to providing you with co-op power and supporting the community you call home.”
United Power remains committed to serving the Fort Lupton area with more than just electricity. Our crews continue to be dispatched from our Carbon Valley Service Center and our Brighton Headquarters for outages, and you will still see us working in the area to conduct system maintenance. You’ll still see our employees involved in the community, and our name on banners at ball parks and as a supporter of local organizations and community events. As your electric cooperative, we’re here to power what matters, no matter where you live in the service territory.
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United Power Resumes In-Person Services and Collection of Late Fees, Reconnect Fees
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Wednesday | May 12, 2021
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United Power is phasing in a return to standard operating and billing procedures.
Now that COVID vaccinations are widely available and restrictions are lifting, United Power is phasing in a return to standard operating and billing procedures. Beginning on May 18th, late fees and reconnect fees, which were temporarily waived during the height of the COVID shutdowns, will be reinstated. On June 1st, select teams of United Power employees will return to the office, and United Power will open its Brighton lobby to walk-in visitors and for in-person payments.
United Power was one of the first Colorado utilities to pause disconnections for non-payment and waive late fees and disconnect fees when the initial pandemic stay-at-home orders were issued. Disconnections for non-payment resumed in July 2020, and on May 18th, late fees for payments not received by the due date and reconnection fees to restore electric service will resume. United Power offers several ways to avoid fees, including payment arrangements, enrolling in Pay As You Go pre-paid electric service, and applying for Co-op Cares Funds. The cooperative allocated $550,000 in relief funds to help members financially impacted by COVID. Any member struggling to make their payments in full or on time is encouraged to call United Power to access resources for assistance.
“We want to help our members avoid additional fees and disconnections, but they need to reach out to us before they are past due on their payments,” said Francis Ashu, United Power Director of Member Services. “Through our Co-op Cares fund, we have been able to help almost two thousand members financially impacted by COVID, and there are still funds available for members who are facing hardships.”
On June 1st, United Power’s Brighton Headquarters lobby at 500 Cooperative Way will re-open. While we will continue providing a suite of remote options to assist members, our Representatives will be available to assist members in person during regular business hours of Monday-Friday, 7:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Masks and social distancing will be required for all visitors and employees as directed by local health code mandates. The Carbon Valley and Coal Creek offices remain closed to visitors. Payment kiosks accept cash, check, and card payments and are available at all United Power offices and the Bank of Colorado Operations Center in Ft Lupton.
“Our dedicated employees are anxious to see our members and interact with them in person again. We are glad that a safe return to normal operations is possible,” said Mark A. Gabriel, United Power President, and Chief Executive Officer. “United Power has taken every precaution to protect employees from being affected by COVID. With one office re-opening, we will continue to adhere to health department guidelines in the office, and some teams will continue to work remotely. To further protect our employees and ensure they are here to serve our members, we are offering an on-site vaccine clinic for employees and family members.”
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United Power Signs Power Purchase Agreement with OneEnergy
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Tuesday | August 22, 2023
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Output from 10 megawatt solar system added to cooperative power mix.
Output from 10 MW Solar System Added to Cooperative Power MixBrighton, CO – United Power, Inc. (United Power), an electric cooperative serving Colorado’s northern Front Range, and OneEnergy announce the signing of a power purchase agreement on Aug. 17. Under the 25-year agreement, United Power will receive all the output of OneEnergy’s planned Overland Solar project beginning in 2024.
“This agreement is attractive because it leverages solar production right here in the cooperative’s service territory,” stated Mark A. Gabriel, President and CEO of United Power. “The 10 megawatt (MW) project will be directly tied into one of the co-op’s existing substations. That means clean, renewable power will be generated nearby and delivered to United Power members.”
OneEnergy develops solar energy projects across the United States for community solar, distributed generation, and large utility-scale project segments. OneEnergy is based in Seattle, WA, and has offices in Wisconsin, Washington, D.C., Oregon, and locally in Boulder, CO. When siting and building new renewable facilities, they work closely with all stakeholders – utility companies, neighbors, and other interested parties – to build projects that best serve consumers’ needs.
“We are honored to partner with United Power on their journey to deliver more renewable, affordable energy to their members. With the addition of the Overland Solar project to their portfolio, they are leading the way to a cleaner energy future for electric cooperatives,” said Gavin Berg, Vice President of Development at OneEnergy.
The Overland Solar project will be located north of Hudson and will feed directly into United Power’s distribution system. The project will produce 10 MW of noncarbon energy. Large energy projects like Overland Solar not only provide an economical energy source, but also generate tax revenues for the local community.
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.
United Power is building a power portfolio ahead of leaving its current power supplier on May 1, 2024. The cooperative recently announced agreements with Whetstone Power LLC, Guzman Energy, and Ameresco for portfolio assets related to this exit. To learn more about United Power’s power supply transition, visit www.unitedpower.com/powersupply.
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 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.About OneEnergyOneEnergy’s mission is to fight climate change by making clean energy the number one electricity choice for consumers and utilities. With a 4+ GW pipeline across 19 states, OneEnergy is a leading developer, owner, and operator of solar and energy storage projects across the United States. The company has developed and sold 122 project sites, totaling more than 1.2GW of assets, in its 14-year history. OneEnergy is committed to elevating people and empowering communities to create a sustainable energy future. The company is based in Seattle, WA, with offices in Madison, WI; Boulder, CO; Portland, OR; and Washington, D.C. ###
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United Power Signs Power Purchase Agreement with Solar of Alamosa LLC
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Monday | July 31, 2023
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Cooperative will receive full 30 MW of output for 25 years.
Cooperative Will Receive Full 30 MW of Output for 25 Years
United Power, Inc. (United Power), an electric cooperative serving Colorado’s northern Front Range, and Whetstone Power LLC (Whetstone) announce the signing of a power purchase agreement on July 27. Under the 25-year agreement, United Power will receive all the output of Whetstone’s Solar of Alamosa project beginning in May 2024.
“United Power is excited to commit to purchase the power generated by this proven solar project, at an attractive and stable price,” stated Mark A. Gabriel, President and CEO of United Power. “United Power will be able to immediately add 30 MW of renewable energy to our power portfolio, without having to go through the process of developing a new greenfield generation facility. The mix of power that cooperative members receive will be cleaner and more economical from day one of this contract.”
Whetstone and funds managed by Rosemawr Management acquired the 30 MW-ac Solar of Alamosa project in June 2022. Located in Alamosa in Colorado’s San Luis Valley, the innovative project used concentrated solar technology when it was initially developed in 2012. The facility’s current panels, inverters, and other components are scheduled to be replaced and modernized throughout 2024 to achieve optimum power output going forward.
“We are proud of the opportunity to serve United Power and the long-term partnership we have developed to provide renewable energy from the Solar of Alamosa facility,” said Collin Franceschi, Whetstone founding partner.
The solar project has been producing clean, renewable power for more than a decade, converting solar energy to electricity on one of Colorado’s highest elevation plateaus. The installation boasts that, at an elevation of approximately 7,500 feet above sea level, it receives some of the highest irradiance in the country.
“Rosemawr continues to be excited about the opportunities in renewable energy, and we very much look forward to this next chapter for the Solar of Alamosa facility with United Power,” said Josh Herlands, Rosemawr’s Head of Renewable Energy and Sustainable Infrastructure.
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.
United Power is building a power portfolio ahead of leaving its current power supplier on May 1, 2024. The cooperative recently announced agreements with Guzman Energy and Ameresco for portfolio assets related to this exit. 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 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.About Whetstone PowerWhetstone Power shapes and facilitates the sustainable energy transition one project at a time through project development, asset management, and advisory services. Whetstone thrives on solving complex problems by leveraging the experience of its leadership to provide comprehensive and unique solutions to solve utility, institutional, commercial, and industrial customer energy supply and infrastructure needs. This includes solar, storage, and conventional generation assets in both greenfield development and project redevelopment opportunities. For more information, visit www.whetstonepower.com; and for inquiries, please contact collin@whetstonepower.com.About Rosemawr ManagementRosemawr Management is an established investment firm focused on the sustainable infrastructure, municipal, not-for-profit, and charter school sectors. Rosemawr was founded in 2008 and currently has approximately $1.3 billion in assets under management. The firm's solar project portfolio currently includes investments in over 100 sustainable infrastructure energy projects located across 14 states, plus numerous investments across property assessed clean energy (PACE), wind energy, and other technologies. For more information, visit www.rosemawr.com; and for inquiries, please contact sustainable@rosemawr.com.
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United Power Signs Power Purchase Agreement with Whetstone Power
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Thursday | November 16, 2023
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Storage agreement will help create flexibility for the cooperative.
Storage Agreement Will Help Create Flexibility for the CooperativeBrighton, CO — United Power, Inc. (United Power), an electric cooperative serving Colorado’s northern Front Range, and Whetstone Power, a developer of sustainable energy infrastructure, announce a new partnership for the construction of a battery energy storage system.
The battery energy storage system will be located in United Power’s service territory, giving the cooperative the ability to balance load and further integrate renewable resources into its operations. This 20-year agreement provides for 34 megawatts (MW) of power to be stored and discharged up to six hours for a total discharge capability of approximately 74 gigawatt-hours (GWh) in year one of operation.
“The use of batteries on our distribution network is essential to a resilient and responsive power system and we are excited to be moving ahead aggressively with Whetstone to get this system online,” stated Mark A. Gabriel, President and CEO of United Power. “These battery arrays will give us the ability to balance our power needs throughout the day and incorporate local renewables more efficiently. This furthers our efforts in hyper-localizing our power supply.”
Whetstone’s battery system will be located at a United Power substation and grid-charged, enabling the system to store energy during off-peak periods and discharge during periods of higher consumption. Further, the system will be operated as a six-hour solution, allowing it to discharge over a fairly long duration and thereby providing additional grid stability. This should allow United Power to use more renewable energy, further reducing its carbon footprint while ensuring reliable service to its membership. “We are proud to be a partner with United Power on this unique battery storage project,” said Collin Franceschi, Whetstone Power’s founding partner. “It was a real pleasure to work with the experienced team at United Power and find the ideal solution to meet their needs for helping to ensure clean, sustainable, and resilient energy for years to come.”
Whetstone anticipates that the asset will be placed into service in 2024.
United Power serves nearly 110,000 meters and maintains and operates more than 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.
United Power is building a power portfolio ahead of leaving its current power supplier on May 1, 2024. The cooperative recently announced a prior agreement with Whetstone, in addition to agreements with Guzman Energy, OneEnergy, and Ameresco for portfolio assets related to this exit.
Learn more about United Power’s power supply transition.
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 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, X, LinkedIn, YouTube, and Instagram.About Whetstone PowerWhetstone Power shapes and facilitates the sustainable energy transition one project at a time through project development, ownership, asset management, and advisory services. Whetstone thrives on solving complex problems by leveraging the experience of its leadership to provide comprehensive and unique solutions to solve utility, institutional, commercial, and industrial customer energy supply and infrastructure needs. This includes solar, storage, and conventional generation assets in both greenfield development and project redevelopment opportunities. For more information, visit www.whetstonepower.com. ###
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United Power Statement on Tri-State Announcement to Reduce Rates & Implement Partial Requirements Contracts
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Thursday | October 8, 2020
Tri-State Generation and Transmission, United Power’s power supplier, announced a plan to reduce rates by 8% over the next three years, as well as allow for partial requirements contracts with certain requirements. The improvements are part of the power supplier’s goals to meet the guidelines of their Responsible Energy Plan. United Power’s interim CEO, Bryant Robbins issued the following statement in response to the components of the proposed plan:
“United Power is very supportive of Tri-State’s efforts to lower rates. We think this is a great step in the right direction for the future of Tri-State and congratulate their efforts in trying to make this happen. Unfortunately for United Power, we serve an area in which our competitors’ rates are as much 25% to 35% less than ours. We are going to need much more than the proposed 8% reduction in Wholesale Power to be competitive,” stated interim CEO, Bryant Robbins.
“Based upon our preliminary analysis, we don’t think the Partial Requirements/added flexibility has a positive impact on our needs. The approved plan is not what we proposed a couple of years ago and just doesn’t appear to viable to United Power and its membership,” added Robbins. “However, we hope it does meet the needs of the other [Tri-State] cooperatives.”
“United Power will continue to pursue a just, reasonable, and non-discriminatory exit charge,” Robbins concluded. “Once received, our Board can then determine the appropriate direction and future of our Power Supply that is in the best interest of our membership. We also remain available to Tri-State for discussions to potentially resolve the issues.”
United Power is continuing to work on this. Read more on our Power Supply page.
United Power Students Leave for D.C.
Monday | July 1, 2019
Colorado students boarded a bus from United Power on Friday, June 14 to join nearly 2,000 other high school students for the 2019 Youth Leadership Tour in Washington D.C.
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United Power Supports Local Students
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Sunday | November 19, 2023
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Demonstrating our commitment to local schools and communities through support and engagement.
Demonstrating Our Commitment to Local Schools Through Support and Engagement
As an electric cooperative, we understand — and appreciate — the value education adds to the communities we serve. United Power partners with local high schools, helping equip students for success on the field, in the classroom, and after they graduate and pursue a postsecondary education or a rewarding career.
Friday Night Lights
United Power serves nearly two dozen local high schools and some of the most dedicated student athletes in Colorado.
The cooperative presented $1,000 donations to the athletic programs at Prairie View and Brighton High Schools during their annual crosstown rivalry game on Sept. 29. The first 1,000 attendees at the football game also received clear stadium bags.
Mead Energy Academy
United Power and the Mead Energy Academy have a long-standing partnership. The cooperative’s Mavericks Solar Farm, named after the high school’s mascot, provides education opportunities for students to learn more about the role solar energy plays in a diversified energy mix.
Students from Mead Energy Academy were able to witness a live public safety demonstration from United Power lineworkers in October to learn about electrical safety and careers in the energy industry.
Day in the Boots
United Power would not be able to keep members’ lights on without its dedicated and hardworking team in operations. Construction students from the Careers and Technical Education (CTE) programs at 27J, RE-3J, and Adams 12 school districts got to spend a day in the boots of these essential workers, experiencing the various career options that are available within the energy industry first-hand.
Careers in Energy
Cooperatives provide various career opportunities spanning many fields and specialties, including engineering, finance, human resources, information technology, communications, and more. Each year, United Power supports local career fairs where students can learn about all the career pathways available at cooperatives.
Leadership Training Trips
Students are the future leaders in our communities. The cooperative provides leadership training opportunities for local students at the Youth Leadership Camp in Steamboat Springs and Cooperative Youth Tour in Washington, D.C. Applications for the annual youth trips open soon.
Learn more about youth trips and apply online.
United Power Suspending Disconnects
Tuesday | March 17, 2020
Out of concern for our members and the communities they call home, United Power is suspending service disconnects and late fees for our residential members.
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United Power to Close Fort Lupton Office
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Wednesday | September 16, 2020
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Members who wish to conduct business in person can visit our Brighton headquarters.
After several years operating a storefront in Fort Lupton, United Power is closing its office located on Dexter Street in the Fort Lupton Safeway shopping center. All United Power lobbies have been closed to the public since March due to the coronavirus pandemic, and the Fort Lupton office will not reopen. When conditions allow and offices reopen to the public, members who wish to conduct business in person will be able to visit our Brighton office, located just nine miles from Fort Lupton. The cooperative is also planning to open a self-serve payment kiosk in Fort Lupton to ensure members still have a local payment station that accepts cash, check, and card.
“The way our members want to conduct business with us is evolving. Before the pandemic, we were noticing a decline in the number of members visiting us in person. The pandemic stopped all in-person services, and our members quickly adapted to using remote tools to manage their accounts,” said Francis Ashu, Member Services Director. “Now more of our members are consistently interacting with us over the phone or online and leveraging self-serve payment options instead of visiting our front counters. Through these options, members have easy and safe access to account information from the comfort of their home, and we are able to provide the same level of quality service without the costs associated with operating a storefront location.”
Over the last few years, United Power has seen a steady increase in demand from members who prefer to use self-serve and digital account and payment options, and a corresponding reduction in visits to our offices. The co-op has responded by offering more ways for members to access their accounts and make quick and secure payments without visiting an office. Members can easily review account information and make payments through our online portal, mobile app and pay by phone features. Self-serve payment kiosks that accept cash, check and card payments are available in our Carbon Valley, Coal Creek and Brighton office with expanded hours beyond the business day. Since the pandemic related closures, our online, over the phone and self-serve support options have allowed United Power to continue to serve our members at a safe distance.
United Power member services representatives and other office personnel have also been working remotely while handling support inquiries. When employees return to the office, member services representatives from the Fort Lupton location will transfer to the Brighton Headquarters, and eventually in-person service will resume from the Brighton Headquarters lobby. The Brighton, Coal Creek and Carbon Valley offices house a consolidated mix of line crews, vehicle maintenance, member services, engineering and new construction teams. Whereas, the Fort Lupton office has been a member services-only storefront. Consolidating employee teams to these primary office locations will improve efficiency and save money for the cooperative and our members.
“The co-op has a long history of partnership with the town of Fort Lupton and the town has always welcomed our storefront location. We thank you for your hospitality over the years,” said Bryant Robbins, Acting Chief Executive Officer. “Be assured that this office closure doesn’t diminish our commitment to serving the Fort Lupton community—we remain as dedicated as ever to providing you with co-op power and supporting the community you call home.”
United Power remains committed to serving the Fort Lupton area with more than just electricity. Our crews continue to be dispatched from our Carbon Valley Service Center and our Brighton Headquarters for outages, and you will still see us working in the area to conduct system maintenance. You’ll still see our employees involved in the community, and our name on banners at ball parks and as a supporter of local organizations and community events. As your electric cooperative, we’re here to power what matters, no matter where you live in the service territory.
