Title
United Power Warns Members About Rooftop Solar Scams
/sites/default/files/styles/news_card_553x430_/public/news/Jan2023_NL_Solar.jpg?h=45932144&itok=GMjjc4rk
Thursday | May 23, 2024
Card Teaser
United Power is not affiliated with any solar vendors. Please contact us if you have concerns.
United Power is not Affiliated with any Solar Vendors; Please Contact Us if you have Concerns
United Power is proud to be ranked among the top electric utilities across the country in member-owned rooftop solar installations. In fact, we have surpassed 12,000 net metering agreements. While we empower our members to pursue solar if it suits their energy needs and lifestyle, we do not contract or partner with any company that sells solar panels.
Some members have recently reported door-to-door salespeople who are claiming to represent the cooperative and are using intentionally misleading promises to persuade members into making costly decisions about installing solar panels. One company, Sign and Shine, has gone a step further and is using the United Power logo in their online advertising efforts. We understand that this may cause confusion, so we are setting the record straight. United Power is not affiliated with this company. If approached by Sign and Shine or any other company claiming to work with or on behalf of United Power, we encourage members to conduct due diligence with the Colorado Secretary of State and the Better Business Bureau. Likewise, members may contact United Power’s Energy Solutions team at 303-637-1300 for information regarding United Power's solar programs or the process to install solar panels on their homes.
Title
United Power Warns of Spam Calls
/sites/default/files/styles/news_card_553x430_/public/news/06_27_2018_PhoneScams.png?itok=EuwMTsy2
Wednesday | June 27, 2018
Card Teaser
United Power members have reported receiving phone calls from individuals claiming to be representatives of the cooperative and demanding payment for past due account balances.
United Power members have reported receiving phone calls from individuals claiming to be representatives of the cooperative and demanding payment for past due account balances. In an effort to protect its members, United Power proactively warns about the potential for phone scams.
The cooperative never calls members in person to collect overdue payments on account balances. Notice of delinquency or disconnection is sent via mail and followed up with an automated phone message instructing members to initiate payment at the closest United Power office, online or through the SmartHub app on their phone. The cooperative will also never require or demand prepaid debit or MoneyPak as the only forms of payment.
Some scammers use sophisticated software to disguise their phone number so that it appears to be coming from a recognized United Power service line. This is known as “caller ID spoofing.” Others instruct members to call a 1-800 number, which may also use United Power messaging. The cooperative does not maintain a 1-800 number, and warns members not to be fooled by false messaging from scammers.
To keep up with the current status of your electric account, reference your monthly statement, check your account via SmartHub (available free to members as a smart phone app, as well) or call United Power’s Member Services Department at 303-637-1300. If you are ever in doubt about a potential scam call, hang up and call United Power at 303-659-0551.
Title
United Power Welcomes Travis Storin as Senior Vice President and Chief Financial Officer
/sites/default/files/styles/news_card_553x430_/public/images/Images_News/_DSC8999.jpg?h=2d828ae9&itok=cjSLqr09
Wednesday | November 20, 2024
Card Teaser
Storin will join the cooperative on Dec. 9.
Brighton, CO – United Power is pleased to announce the hiring of Travis Storin as its Senior Vice President and Chief Financial Officer. He will join the cooperative on Dec. 9.
“Travis brings a broad mix of expertise and experience to the cooperative,” said Mark A. Gabriel, United Power President and Chief Executive Officer. “His background demonstrates a unique ability to work with a variety of initiatives within a diverse operation. Coupled with his extensive management and accounting background, Travis will help to direct United Power as we continue our energy transition.”
Storin, a certified public accountant, earned his Bachelor of Business Administration in accounting and Master of Accountancy from the University of Georgia. He joins the cooperative after nearly 10 years at the City of Fort Collins, where he rose to the position of Chief Financial Officer in 2020. During his time working for the city, he led a capital effort to fund its broadband internet startup, led a successful ballot initiative raising approximately $1 billion for municipal projects, and implemented large software automation efforts to streamline and enhance financial services operations. Storin also worked in financial planning and analysis at Kaiser Permanente in Georgia, and as a senior audit associate for KPMG, LLP.
“Travis is the ideal candidate to fill this critical role on United Power’s leadership team,” said Gabriel. “After exiting our wholesale power contract earlier this year, it is vital that we have the right person in this key position. I am confident that Travis brings the leadership and expertise that our growing cooperative needs to continue to be successful. He is a talented addition to our team and will provide the oversight and guidance that our members expect.”
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, serving more than 113,000 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. 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.###
Title
United Power will not Mail Director Ballots in 2018
/sites/default/files/styles/news_card_553x430_/public/news/2018_03_15_UPNotMailingBallots.jpg?itok=sfS83auQ
Thursday | March 15, 2018
Card Teaser
Brighton, CO — For the first time since 2005, the four incumbents in United Power’s upcoming director election will run unopposed.
Brighton, CO — For the first time since 2005, the four incumbents in United Power’s upcoming director election will run unopposed. Due to the lack of challengers, the board of directors has decided to conduct a simplified, cost-saving balloting process this year.
In previous elections, ballots were mailed to members who could then submit their votes via return mail; however, ballots this year will be cast in person at the Annual Meeting and Director Election on April 18 at the Adams County Fairgrounds in Brighton, 9755 Henderson Road.
During registration, members in attendance at the annual meeting will receive a ballot and be able to cast their votes for candidates in each of the director seats up for election. Although directors run in geographic districts in order to accurately represent United Power members, they are elected at-large, meaning members are able to cast a vote in each district.
The candidates for director are Susan Petrocco in the South District, Tim Erickson in the East District, Brian A. McCormick in the West District and Rick Newman in the Mountain District.
Members are encouraged to attend the Annual Meeting not only to cast their vote in this year’s director election, but also to engage with the cooperative’s leadership and learn about ways United Power is implementing innovative processes to provide the most reliable power across its service area.
This year’s Annual Meeting includes a free barbecue dinner, live music and a presentation from United Power’s CEO, John Parker. Following the conclusion of the meeting, members are eligible to win one of many available door prizes, including a Kitchen Aid mixer, Keurig and more.
Member registration opens at 4:30 p.m., and the official business meeting begins at approximately 6:30 p.m. Election results will be announced at the conclusion of the business meeting. For more information about this year’s meeting, including candidate profiles, dinner menu and a list of door prizes, go to www.unitedpower.com/annualmeeting.
Title
United Power’s 85th Annual Meeting Serves as Backdrop for Exciting Future
/sites/default/files/styles/news_card_553x430_/public/news/2024_04_17_FundingAgreement.jpg?h=45932144&itok=vC3K-SGu
Monday | April 22, 2024
Card Teaser
United Power signed a historic funding agreement as members were welcomed to the cooperative’s 85th Annual Meeting on April 17.
Brighton, CO –- United Power President and CEO Mark A. Gabriel was joined by the cooperative’s board of directors for the historic signing of a funding agreement as members were welcomed to the cooperative’s 85th Annual Meeting on April 17. The funding agreement, scheduled to close later this month, will provide the cooperative with $627 million toward its exit fee for its current wholesale power contract, with at least $179 million of that amount for prepayment for use of Tri-State Generation and Transmission’s transmission system. The prepayment amount will be credited back monthly with interest against United Power’s transmission bills.
“This year’s annual meeting marked a key celebration for our cooperative,” stated Gabriel. “And it is especially meaningful to know we have the support of investors as we leave our restrictive wholesale power contract and create a new energy portfolio that better meets the needs of our members. Remaining nimble and responsive to the needs of our membership and the energy market will help to create a more predictable power supply and more stable costs into the future.”
United Power filed its intent to leave its wholesale power supplier two years ago, starting the countdown clock on the required notice period to terminate the contract. The cooperative executed a withdrawal agreement on April 11, and will exit the wholesale power contract on May 1. The decision to leave the contract was driven by a desire to exercise control over the cooperative’s wholesale power mix, to better leverage local generation opportunities, and to cut additional costs that were disproportionately allocated to United Power’s members.
“United Power had very little control over our power supplier, even though we were their largest member,” stated Beth Martin, United Power Board Chair. “The decisions they made about power supply, financing, even day-to-day spending did not align with what we believe our membership needs. Today’s agreement ensures that we can be better stewards of the investment our members have made in the cooperative. Today we are taking back our cooperative.”
The historic agreement was signed by United Power as the annual meeting doors opened and the cooperative celebrated its 85th anniversary with more than 500 members and guests in attendance. The annual event provides members with updates about the accomplishments of the past year, as well as a report on the financial health of the cooperative. Martin and Gabriel shared a video presentation highlighting the cooperative’s significant achievements over the previous year. Highlights included reporting on the many new power contracts United Power has in place to provide a mix of local generation and new renewable resources. The power mix will be supplemented by innovative energy projects, such as localized utility-scale battery storage, which will mitigate expensive energy purchases during peak power windows. These projects were the result of long-term planning laid out in United Power’s Our Cooperative Roadmap.
“Our vision of generating power close to where it is consumed – known as hyper localization – is one of the key strategies we are using in developing our power supply,” Gabriel said. “Why not use power generated next door or in your neighborhood, rather than transporting it hundreds of miles from centralized generation plants? It is an efficient, reliable, and cost-effective power delivery system.”
The cooperative also continued its excellent record in system reliability and resiliency in 2023. United Power’s outage duration and response rates rank among the best when measured against electric utilities nationwide, including other cooperatives and investor-owned utilities.
“Our excellent service record can be tied to several important factors,” Gabriel said. “Our crews’ focus on maintenance of existing infrastructure, coupled with identification and targeting of aging or damaged equipment before it causes an outage, is key to keeping the lights on.”
The presentation also highlighted the expansion of United Power’s electric vehicle programs and rebates and the launch of its all-new battery storage pilot program; celebrated the success of its online member chat feature, with its intuitive navigation connecting members to the information they need quickly and efficiently; and acknowledged the cooperative’s first Sustainability Report, which highlights key operational areas, provides performance metrics, and recaps several important cooperative focus areas.
“There are a lot of exciting developments on the horizon, and we are looking forward to a new energy future,” Martin said. “But it’s important to know that we are still concentrating on the core business of being a utility.”
Keith Alquist, United Power’s Board Treasurer, presented the cooperative’s financials and reported another strong year. The efforts of the co-op over the past year resulted in United Power receiving an ‘A’ rating and stable outlook from Fitch Ratings. Fitch is one of the three nationally recognized credit rating agencies and publishes forward-looking opinions on the relative ability of an entity to meet financial commitments.
Gabriel concluded the business meeting with a presentation about the innovative steps the cooperative is taking to embrace the industry’s shifting direction. His presentation highlighted the cooperative’s plans to meet the future energy needs of its members, and how the co-op plans to respond to growth on its system.
“The resolution of the issue with our power supplier is really a new beginning for United Power’s exciting and bold vision for the future,” Gabriel said.
Results of the Director Election were announced at the conclusion of the meeting. Voting in the Director Election was conducted via mail-in and electronic balloting. Nearly 5,500 member ballots were cast in the election, which also introduced new, redrawn district boundaries. Mountain District incumbent Stephen Whiteside retained his seat with 4,819 votes in an uncontested race. North District incumbent Brian A. McCormick and South District incumbent Brad Case also ran unopposed and retained their seats with 4,776 votes and 4,767 votes, respectively. Paige Wagner-Maul received 3,064 votes to win election in the Central District. Incumbent Tim Erickson received 2,197 votes.
Members also voted to approve a bylaw amendment on this year’s ballot to extend director term lengths from three years to four years.
Videos and information presented at the 2024 Annual Meeting, including the cooperative’s 2023 Annual Report, are available here.
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, 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.###
Title
Update to United Power Text Notifications
/sites/default/files/styles/news_card_553x430_/public/news/PhoneMessage.jpg?itok=xMVZ7k5q
Thursday | June 10, 2021
Card Teaser
Text messages had been coming from a short code. Starting today, text messages from the cooperative will come from a new toll-free number.
United Power members who have enrolled to receive text message notifications from the cooperative about their account may have received a text this afternoon. This message was to alert members about a change in now notifications are delivered.
Text messaging is an important method for us to communicate with. From billing alerts to service updates, text messaging is an effective way for us to help keep you updated on your service and news regarding United Power.
We wanted to let you know of a small change to our text messaging. When you receive a text message from United Power it has previously come from a short code. Starting today, text messages from the cooperative will come from a new toll-free number, 844-980-3030. We're making this change to help ensure we continue to communicate with you effectively through text.
This change will not affect your service or communication from us in any way. If you have questions, please contact a member services representative at 303-637-1300.
To change your notification preferences, login to your SmartHub account and select Manage Contacts from the Notifications menu. From there you can add, edit or delete voice, email and text notifications.
Title
UPDATED: Official Notice of Nominations for 2018 Director Petitions
/sites/default/files/styles/news_card_553x430_/public/news/2018_02_16_DirectorPetitions.jpg?itok=Y0Q1Zz6D
Friday | February 16, 2018
Card Teaser
The following persons have been nominated by petition to run for Director of United Power, Inc., in conjunction with the Annual Meeting of Members scheduled April 18, 2018.
UPDATED FEBRUARY 21, 2018
OFFICIAL POSTING OF NOMINATIONS FOR DIRECTOR BY PETITION
The following persons have been nominated by petition to run for Director of United Power, Inc., in conjunction with the Annual Meeting of Members scheduled April 18, 2018. Districts E (East), S (South), W (West), and M (Mountain) are all up for three-year terms.
District E (East)
Tim Erickson
District S (South)
Bradley Joseph Case – WITHDRAWN
Susan Petrocco
District W (West)
Brian Anthony McCormick
District M (Mtn)
Richard Earnest Newman
This notice is posted pursuant to Section 4.06 of the Bylaws of United Power, Inc.
Re-Posted: 2-21-18 Headquarters Office
Coal Creek Office
Ft. Lupton Office
Member Website
OFFICIAL POSTING OF NOMINATIONS FOR DIRECTOR BY PETITION
The following persons have been nominated by petition to run for Director of United Power, Inc., in conjunction with the Annual Meeting of Members scheduled April 18, 2018. Districts E (East), S (South), W (West), and M (Mountain) are all up for three-year terms.
District E (East) Tim Erickson
District S (South) Bradley Joseph Case
Susan Petrocco
District W (West) Brian Anthony McCormick
District M (Mtn) Richard Earnest Newman
This notice is posted pursuant to Section 4.06 of the Bylaws of United Power, Inc.
Posted: 2-16-18 Headquarters Office
Coal Creek Office
Ft. Lupton Office
Member Website
Title
Vestas Benefits from LED Rebate
/sites/default/files/styles/news_card_553x430_/public/news/Nov2018_NL_VestasRebate.png?itok=GkPB4CMp
Thursday | November 1, 2018
Card Teaser
In October, the cooperative presented Vestas, one of its largest commercial members, with a rebate check for $94,000 following a large-scale LED retrofit completed earlier this year.
Providing commercial members with efficient ways to help them save money and conserve energy is one of the many ways United Power partners with and gives back to its communities. In October, the cooperative presented Vestas, one of its largest commercial members, with a rebate check for $94,000 following a large-scale LED retrofit completed earlier this year.
The rebate program is in partnership with Tri-State Generation & Transmission, the cooperative’s wholesale power provider.
Before the installation of new lighting, the facility was using fluorescent lighting, which can dim over time creating “dark spots” throughout the work floor. This can result in inadequate lighting for workers and cause potential safety concerns.
In total, Vestas replaced lighting in five sections of its plant, including the main work areas. The clean quality of LED lighting provides workers with more consistent, reliable light, and because LED lighting is so efficient, also cuts energy use. The overhaul cut energy use in some areas of the plant nearly in half.
United Power makes energy savings easy through its commercial energy audit programs and rebates on select energy improvement projects. The cooperative also offers no-cost services to commercial members, including energy efficiency walkthroughs and analyses.
These incentives and programs from Tri-State G&T and United Power are available to all commercial and industrial members. Similar rebates are also available to residential members. Learn more at www.unitedpower.com/rebates.
Title
Watt Drives Demand
/sites/default/files/styles/news_card_553x430_/public/news/Aug2018_NL_WattDrivesDemand.png?itok=5KmV77nR
Wednesday | August 1, 2018
Card Teaser
Demand is measured in kilowatts (kW). One kilowatt equals 1,000 watts, which is the equivalent of turning on ten 100-watt light bulbs at once. Understanding the wattage of your household appliances will help you take control of your energy bill, but where can you learn more about this information?
This past month, United Power announced a new line item would be appearing on member electric bills to prepare them for a new rate structure taking effect next year. The new line item, a Demand Charge, will not have a cost associated immediately, but will show the member’s highest usage interval in kilowatts (kW) from the previous month. The Demand Charge line item is appearing on bills now with no charge to give members an opportunity to understand how this new rate can help them better manage their energy costs.
Members on the standard residential rate are very familiar with total energy used, which is billed in kilowatt-hours (kWh). But the new residential demand rate will also measure the power, or demand component of electricity consumption, which is measured in kilowatts (kW). This demand component is something that many customers are less familiar with, so let’s talk about “watt” drives your demand.
Demand is measured in kilowatts (kW). One kilowatt equals 1,000 watts, which is the equivalent of turning on ten 100-watt light bulbs at once. Understanding the wattage of your household appliances will help you take control of your energy bill, but where can you learn more about this information?
Common wattage ratings can be found online, or by using tools like a Kill-A-Watt monitor. Below are some sample wattage ratings for common household appliances. Remember: the larger the wattage of an appliance, and the more appliances you operate at once, the higher the impact it can have on the energy usage and demand on your overall electric bill.
Now is the time to pay attention to your energy use patterns. Staggering the use of higher wattage appliances will be the easiest way to manage your electric bill under the new rate structure. How many appliances do you run at once? Do you come home and turn everything on after the house has been empty all day? Are you using technology to help you remember to offset energy use like timers, delay start settings and programmable thermostats? Focusing on how you’re using your household appliances will help you see the corresponding affect to your energy and demand, and United Power’s new Demand rate will put you in the driver’s seat of your electric bill.
Title
We All Need the Utility System
/sites/default/files/styles/news_card_553x430_/public/news/JulyAug2021_Demand.jpg?itok=bOjwW9nn
Monday | August 9, 2021
Card Teaser
United Power switched to a demand rate in January 2019 as a way to more fairly charge its members for their electric usage and impact on the cooperative’s system.
Demand Rate Addresses How We Use it Differently
United Power switched to a demand rate in January 2019 as a way to more fairly charge its members for their electric usage and impact on the cooperative’s system. Since its roll out, some members have asked why the switch was made and requested more information about demand and how to understand it.
Electric utilities like United Power often use terms like “distribution system,” “electric infrastructure” and “grid.” These terms refer to the interconnected network of poles, wires, transformers and substations that work to deliver — or distribute — power to members. The system is carefully engineered to meet the needs of more than 100,000 meters and the homes and businesses served off those meters.
Like any other household appliance or electronic device, pieces of our system wear out over time and need to be repaired, replaced or even upgraded to improve reliability. These maintenance costs aren’t based solely on how much power you use, however, but how and when you use it.
When you use more power at once, you’re creating a higher demand on the system. These demand surges have a greater impact on the grid.
For example, a member in a small apartment with a window air conditioning unit doesn’t have the same impact on the grid as a household with two air conditioning units and a hot tub.
Some devices on the system have capacity limitations, for example, meaning they can only maintain a certain amount of power at a given time. The cooperative places these devices strategically to ensure power reliability. When one household served off that device uses a larger share of energy, it causes more wear on it. In some cases, the cooperative may need to replace existing devices with higher capacity ones to accommodate increases in energy usage.
With the traditional blended rate, which bundles demand and energy usage, each United Power member shares an equal cost in the maintenance of the system despite using it in vastly different ways. This means some members have been paying more than they should, while others aren’t paying enough. Whether you use a lot of energy or a little, or even generate your own, a reliable grid is something we all depend on and need available to us.
By separating the demand and energy components on your bill, we are more fairly distributing these costs to members based on how they use power. Each member now pays their fair share of the cooperative distribution system they rely on.
United Power offers a free online resource for members who want to know more about how they use power. Power Portal breaks down your energy usage in 15-minute intervals so you can easily tell what habits are contributing to your demand. Visit Power Portal to learn more about this member resource.
If you have additional questions about the demand rate, you can go to Understanding Demand or reach one of our dedicated energy management specialists at 303-637-1300.
Demand for Electricity is like Demand for Water
You can fill the same 5-gallon bucket with either a garden hose, or a fire hose. A garden hose will not fill as quickly – but the hose costs less to operate, and the impact on the water system is minimal. Fill that same bucket with a fire hose, and it will fill up very quickly, but the surge of water from a fire hose requires larger pipes and a more expensive hose. In the end, both buckets would be full with the same amount of water, but filling a bucket more slowly – smoothing the water use over time – creates less demand on the system and costs less to do.
Title
We all Need the Utility System
/sites/default/files/styles/news_card_553x430_/public/news/Nov2018_NL_DemandSystem.png?itok=k-t5U7wJ
Thursday | November 1, 2018
Card Teaser
Utilities throw around terms like distribution system, electric infrastructure and “the grid.” But as an electric consumer – and cooperative member – have you given much thought into how you use the electric system, and your role in maintaining that system?
Utilities throw around terms like distribution system, electric infrastructure and “the grid.” But as an electric consumer – and cooperative member – have you given much thought into how you use the electric system, and your role in maintaining that system?
Our distribution electric system, or grid, is a network of poles, wires, transformers and substations – all interconnected to deliver the power you need, when you need it. The system is carefully engineered to meet the needs of the energy consumers connected to it, while ensuring the installation, operation and maintenance is economical.
Costs to maintain the system aren’t just based on the power you buy, system infrastructure costs are also attributed to how much power you use at a given time. When you use more power at once, you’re creating a higher demand on the system. These surges in demand have a greater impact on the grid, so they cost more money.
With the traditional blended rate where the impact of demand surges is rolled up into a charge based on the power used, some members have been paying more than they should, while others aren’t paying enough. But here’s the thing: whether you use a lot of energy, a little energy, or generate your own, we all need a reliable grid to be there when we need it.
By separating demand and energy components on your bill, we are more fairly distributing these costs to members based on how they use power. Each member will now pay their fair share of the cooperative distribution system they rely on.
If you want more information on how you use power, login to the Power Portal to view your usage and demand trends. Visit www.unitedpower.com/powerportal to begin. Find your high demand periods, think back to what was running in your home, and then stagger those appliances moving forward. The grid, and your wallet, will thank you.
If you have additional questions about the demand rate and how it will impact you, email unitednewsline@unitedpower.com.
Demand for Electricity is like Demand for Water
You can fill the same 5-gallon bucket with either a garden hose, or a fire hose. A garden hose will not fill as quickly – but the hose costs less to operate, and the impact on the water system is minimal. Fill that same bucket with a fire hose, and it will fill up very quickly, but the surge of water from a fire hose requires larger pipes and a more expensive hose. In the end, both buckets would be full with the same amount of water, but filling a bucket more slowly – smoothing the water use over time – creates less demand on the system and costs less to do.
Title
United Power Warns Members About Rooftop Solar Scams
/sites/default/files/styles/news_card_553x430_/public/news/Jan2023_NL_Solar.jpg?h=45932144&itok=GMjjc4rk
Thursday | May 23, 2024
Card Teaser
United Power is not affiliated with any solar vendors. Please contact us if you have concerns.
United Power is not Affiliated with any Solar Vendors; Please Contact Us if you have Concerns
United Power is proud to be ranked among the top electric utilities across the country in member-owned rooftop solar installations. In fact, we have surpassed 12,000 net metering agreements. While we empower our members to pursue solar if it suits their energy needs and lifestyle, we do not contract or partner with any company that sells solar panels.
Some members have recently reported door-to-door salespeople who are claiming to represent the cooperative and are using intentionally misleading promises to persuade members into making costly decisions about installing solar panels. One company, Sign and Shine, has gone a step further and is using the United Power logo in their online advertising efforts. We understand that this may cause confusion, so we are setting the record straight. United Power is not affiliated with this company. If approached by Sign and Shine or any other company claiming to work with or on behalf of United Power, we encourage members to conduct due diligence with the Colorado Secretary of State and the Better Business Bureau. Likewise, members may contact United Power’s Energy Solutions team at 303-637-1300 for information regarding United Power's solar programs or the process to install solar panels on their homes.
Title
United Power Warns of Spam Calls
/sites/default/files/styles/news_card_553x430_/public/news/06_27_2018_PhoneScams.png?itok=EuwMTsy2
Wednesday | June 27, 2018
Card Teaser
United Power members have reported receiving phone calls from individuals claiming to be representatives of the cooperative and demanding payment for past due account balances.
United Power members have reported receiving phone calls from individuals claiming to be representatives of the cooperative and demanding payment for past due account balances. In an effort to protect its members, United Power proactively warns about the potential for phone scams.
The cooperative never calls members in person to collect overdue payments on account balances. Notice of delinquency or disconnection is sent via mail and followed up with an automated phone message instructing members to initiate payment at the closest United Power office, online or through the SmartHub app on their phone. The cooperative will also never require or demand prepaid debit or MoneyPak as the only forms of payment.
Some scammers use sophisticated software to disguise their phone number so that it appears to be coming from a recognized United Power service line. This is known as “caller ID spoofing.” Others instruct members to call a 1-800 number, which may also use United Power messaging. The cooperative does not maintain a 1-800 number, and warns members not to be fooled by false messaging from scammers.
To keep up with the current status of your electric account, reference your monthly statement, check your account via SmartHub (available free to members as a smart phone app, as well) or call United Power’s Member Services Department at 303-637-1300. If you are ever in doubt about a potential scam call, hang up and call United Power at 303-659-0551.
Title
United Power Welcomes Travis Storin as Senior Vice President and Chief Financial Officer
/sites/default/files/styles/news_card_553x430_/public/images/Images_News/_DSC8999.jpg?h=2d828ae9&itok=cjSLqr09
Wednesday | November 20, 2024
Card Teaser
Storin will join the cooperative on Dec. 9.
Brighton, CO – United Power is pleased to announce the hiring of Travis Storin as its Senior Vice President and Chief Financial Officer. He will join the cooperative on Dec. 9.
“Travis brings a broad mix of expertise and experience to the cooperative,” said Mark A. Gabriel, United Power President and Chief Executive Officer. “His background demonstrates a unique ability to work with a variety of initiatives within a diverse operation. Coupled with his extensive management and accounting background, Travis will help to direct United Power as we continue our energy transition.”
Storin, a certified public accountant, earned his Bachelor of Business Administration in accounting and Master of Accountancy from the University of Georgia. He joins the cooperative after nearly 10 years at the City of Fort Collins, where he rose to the position of Chief Financial Officer in 2020. During his time working for the city, he led a capital effort to fund its broadband internet startup, led a successful ballot initiative raising approximately $1 billion for municipal projects, and implemented large software automation efforts to streamline and enhance financial services operations. Storin also worked in financial planning and analysis at Kaiser Permanente in Georgia, and as a senior audit associate for KPMG, LLP.
“Travis is the ideal candidate to fill this critical role on United Power’s leadership team,” said Gabriel. “After exiting our wholesale power contract earlier this year, it is vital that we have the right person in this key position. I am confident that Travis brings the leadership and expertise that our growing cooperative needs to continue to be successful. He is a talented addition to our team and will provide the oversight and guidance that our members expect.”
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, serving more than 113,000 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. 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.###
Title
United Power will not Mail Director Ballots in 2018
/sites/default/files/styles/news_card_553x430_/public/news/2018_03_15_UPNotMailingBallots.jpg?itok=sfS83auQ
Thursday | March 15, 2018
Card Teaser
Brighton, CO — For the first time since 2005, the four incumbents in United Power’s upcoming director election will run unopposed.
Brighton, CO — For the first time since 2005, the four incumbents in United Power’s upcoming director election will run unopposed. Due to the lack of challengers, the board of directors has decided to conduct a simplified, cost-saving balloting process this year.
In previous elections, ballots were mailed to members who could then submit their votes via return mail; however, ballots this year will be cast in person at the Annual Meeting and Director Election on April 18 at the Adams County Fairgrounds in Brighton, 9755 Henderson Road.
During registration, members in attendance at the annual meeting will receive a ballot and be able to cast their votes for candidates in each of the director seats up for election. Although directors run in geographic districts in order to accurately represent United Power members, they are elected at-large, meaning members are able to cast a vote in each district.
The candidates for director are Susan Petrocco in the South District, Tim Erickson in the East District, Brian A. McCormick in the West District and Rick Newman in the Mountain District.
Members are encouraged to attend the Annual Meeting not only to cast their vote in this year’s director election, but also to engage with the cooperative’s leadership and learn about ways United Power is implementing innovative processes to provide the most reliable power across its service area.
This year’s Annual Meeting includes a free barbecue dinner, live music and a presentation from United Power’s CEO, John Parker. Following the conclusion of the meeting, members are eligible to win one of many available door prizes, including a Kitchen Aid mixer, Keurig and more.
Member registration opens at 4:30 p.m., and the official business meeting begins at approximately 6:30 p.m. Election results will be announced at the conclusion of the business meeting. For more information about this year’s meeting, including candidate profiles, dinner menu and a list of door prizes, go to www.unitedpower.com/annualmeeting.
Title
United Power’s 85th Annual Meeting Serves as Backdrop for Exciting Future
/sites/default/files/styles/news_card_553x430_/public/news/2024_04_17_FundingAgreement.jpg?h=45932144&itok=vC3K-SGu
Monday | April 22, 2024
Card Teaser
United Power signed a historic funding agreement as members were welcomed to the cooperative’s 85th Annual Meeting on April 17.
Brighton, CO –- United Power President and CEO Mark A. Gabriel was joined by the cooperative’s board of directors for the historic signing of a funding agreement as members were welcomed to the cooperative’s 85th Annual Meeting on April 17. The funding agreement, scheduled to close later this month, will provide the cooperative with $627 million toward its exit fee for its current wholesale power contract, with at least $179 million of that amount for prepayment for use of Tri-State Generation and Transmission’s transmission system. The prepayment amount will be credited back monthly with interest against United Power’s transmission bills.
“This year’s annual meeting marked a key celebration for our cooperative,” stated Gabriel. “And it is especially meaningful to know we have the support of investors as we leave our restrictive wholesale power contract and create a new energy portfolio that better meets the needs of our members. Remaining nimble and responsive to the needs of our membership and the energy market will help to create a more predictable power supply and more stable costs into the future.”
United Power filed its intent to leave its wholesale power supplier two years ago, starting the countdown clock on the required notice period to terminate the contract. The cooperative executed a withdrawal agreement on April 11, and will exit the wholesale power contract on May 1. The decision to leave the contract was driven by a desire to exercise control over the cooperative’s wholesale power mix, to better leverage local generation opportunities, and to cut additional costs that were disproportionately allocated to United Power’s members.
“United Power had very little control over our power supplier, even though we were their largest member,” stated Beth Martin, United Power Board Chair. “The decisions they made about power supply, financing, even day-to-day spending did not align with what we believe our membership needs. Today’s agreement ensures that we can be better stewards of the investment our members have made in the cooperative. Today we are taking back our cooperative.”
The historic agreement was signed by United Power as the annual meeting doors opened and the cooperative celebrated its 85th anniversary with more than 500 members and guests in attendance. The annual event provides members with updates about the accomplishments of the past year, as well as a report on the financial health of the cooperative. Martin and Gabriel shared a video presentation highlighting the cooperative’s significant achievements over the previous year. Highlights included reporting on the many new power contracts United Power has in place to provide a mix of local generation and new renewable resources. The power mix will be supplemented by innovative energy projects, such as localized utility-scale battery storage, which will mitigate expensive energy purchases during peak power windows. These projects were the result of long-term planning laid out in United Power’s Our Cooperative Roadmap.
“Our vision of generating power close to where it is consumed – known as hyper localization – is one of the key strategies we are using in developing our power supply,” Gabriel said. “Why not use power generated next door or in your neighborhood, rather than transporting it hundreds of miles from centralized generation plants? It is an efficient, reliable, and cost-effective power delivery system.”
The cooperative also continued its excellent record in system reliability and resiliency in 2023. United Power’s outage duration and response rates rank among the best when measured against electric utilities nationwide, including other cooperatives and investor-owned utilities.
“Our excellent service record can be tied to several important factors,” Gabriel said. “Our crews’ focus on maintenance of existing infrastructure, coupled with identification and targeting of aging or damaged equipment before it causes an outage, is key to keeping the lights on.”
The presentation also highlighted the expansion of United Power’s electric vehicle programs and rebates and the launch of its all-new battery storage pilot program; celebrated the success of its online member chat feature, with its intuitive navigation connecting members to the information they need quickly and efficiently; and acknowledged the cooperative’s first Sustainability Report, which highlights key operational areas, provides performance metrics, and recaps several important cooperative focus areas.
“There are a lot of exciting developments on the horizon, and we are looking forward to a new energy future,” Martin said. “But it’s important to know that we are still concentrating on the core business of being a utility.”
Keith Alquist, United Power’s Board Treasurer, presented the cooperative’s financials and reported another strong year. The efforts of the co-op over the past year resulted in United Power receiving an ‘A’ rating and stable outlook from Fitch Ratings. Fitch is one of the three nationally recognized credit rating agencies and publishes forward-looking opinions on the relative ability of an entity to meet financial commitments.
Gabriel concluded the business meeting with a presentation about the innovative steps the cooperative is taking to embrace the industry’s shifting direction. His presentation highlighted the cooperative’s plans to meet the future energy needs of its members, and how the co-op plans to respond to growth on its system.
“The resolution of the issue with our power supplier is really a new beginning for United Power’s exciting and bold vision for the future,” Gabriel said.
Results of the Director Election were announced at the conclusion of the meeting. Voting in the Director Election was conducted via mail-in and electronic balloting. Nearly 5,500 member ballots were cast in the election, which also introduced new, redrawn district boundaries. Mountain District incumbent Stephen Whiteside retained his seat with 4,819 votes in an uncontested race. North District incumbent Brian A. McCormick and South District incumbent Brad Case also ran unopposed and retained their seats with 4,776 votes and 4,767 votes, respectively. Paige Wagner-Maul received 3,064 votes to win election in the Central District. Incumbent Tim Erickson received 2,197 votes.
Members also voted to approve a bylaw amendment on this year’s ballot to extend director term lengths from three years to four years.
Videos and information presented at the 2024 Annual Meeting, including the cooperative’s 2023 Annual Report, are available here.
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, 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.###
Title
Update to United Power Text Notifications
/sites/default/files/styles/news_card_553x430_/public/news/PhoneMessage.jpg?itok=xMVZ7k5q
Thursday | June 10, 2021
Card Teaser
Text messages had been coming from a short code. Starting today, text messages from the cooperative will come from a new toll-free number.
United Power members who have enrolled to receive text message notifications from the cooperative about their account may have received a text this afternoon. This message was to alert members about a change in now notifications are delivered.
Text messaging is an important method for us to communicate with. From billing alerts to service updates, text messaging is an effective way for us to help keep you updated on your service and news regarding United Power.
We wanted to let you know of a small change to our text messaging. When you receive a text message from United Power it has previously come from a short code. Starting today, text messages from the cooperative will come from a new toll-free number, 844-980-3030. We're making this change to help ensure we continue to communicate with you effectively through text.
This change will not affect your service or communication from us in any way. If you have questions, please contact a member services representative at 303-637-1300.
To change your notification preferences, login to your SmartHub account and select Manage Contacts from the Notifications menu. From there you can add, edit or delete voice, email and text notifications.
Title
UPDATED: Official Notice of Nominations for 2018 Director Petitions
/sites/default/files/styles/news_card_553x430_/public/news/2018_02_16_DirectorPetitions.jpg?itok=Y0Q1Zz6D
Friday | February 16, 2018
Card Teaser
The following persons have been nominated by petition to run for Director of United Power, Inc., in conjunction with the Annual Meeting of Members scheduled April 18, 2018.
UPDATED FEBRUARY 21, 2018
OFFICIAL POSTING OF NOMINATIONS FOR DIRECTOR BY PETITION
The following persons have been nominated by petition to run for Director of United Power, Inc., in conjunction with the Annual Meeting of Members scheduled April 18, 2018. Districts E (East), S (South), W (West), and M (Mountain) are all up for three-year terms.
District E (East)
Tim Erickson
District S (South)
Bradley Joseph Case – WITHDRAWN
Susan Petrocco
District W (West)
Brian Anthony McCormick
District M (Mtn)
Richard Earnest Newman
This notice is posted pursuant to Section 4.06 of the Bylaws of United Power, Inc.
Re-Posted: 2-21-18 Headquarters Office
Coal Creek Office
Ft. Lupton Office
Member Website
OFFICIAL POSTING OF NOMINATIONS FOR DIRECTOR BY PETITION
The following persons have been nominated by petition to run for Director of United Power, Inc., in conjunction with the Annual Meeting of Members scheduled April 18, 2018. Districts E (East), S (South), W (West), and M (Mountain) are all up for three-year terms.
District E (East) Tim Erickson
District S (South) Bradley Joseph Case
Susan Petrocco
District W (West) Brian Anthony McCormick
District M (Mtn) Richard Earnest Newman
This notice is posted pursuant to Section 4.06 of the Bylaws of United Power, Inc.
Posted: 2-16-18 Headquarters Office
Coal Creek Office
Ft. Lupton Office
Member Website
Title
Vestas Benefits from LED Rebate
/sites/default/files/styles/news_card_553x430_/public/news/Nov2018_NL_VestasRebate.png?itok=GkPB4CMp
Thursday | November 1, 2018
Card Teaser
In October, the cooperative presented Vestas, one of its largest commercial members, with a rebate check for $94,000 following a large-scale LED retrofit completed earlier this year.
Providing commercial members with efficient ways to help them save money and conserve energy is one of the many ways United Power partners with and gives back to its communities. In October, the cooperative presented Vestas, one of its largest commercial members, with a rebate check for $94,000 following a large-scale LED retrofit completed earlier this year.
The rebate program is in partnership with Tri-State Generation & Transmission, the cooperative’s wholesale power provider.
Before the installation of new lighting, the facility was using fluorescent lighting, which can dim over time creating “dark spots” throughout the work floor. This can result in inadequate lighting for workers and cause potential safety concerns.
In total, Vestas replaced lighting in five sections of its plant, including the main work areas. The clean quality of LED lighting provides workers with more consistent, reliable light, and because LED lighting is so efficient, also cuts energy use. The overhaul cut energy use in some areas of the plant nearly in half.
United Power makes energy savings easy through its commercial energy audit programs and rebates on select energy improvement projects. The cooperative also offers no-cost services to commercial members, including energy efficiency walkthroughs and analyses.
These incentives and programs from Tri-State G&T and United Power are available to all commercial and industrial members. Similar rebates are also available to residential members. Learn more at www.unitedpower.com/rebates.
Title
Watt Drives Demand
/sites/default/files/styles/news_card_553x430_/public/news/Aug2018_NL_WattDrivesDemand.png?itok=5KmV77nR
Wednesday | August 1, 2018
Card Teaser
Demand is measured in kilowatts (kW). One kilowatt equals 1,000 watts, which is the equivalent of turning on ten 100-watt light bulbs at once. Understanding the wattage of your household appliances will help you take control of your energy bill, but where can you learn more about this information?
This past month, United Power announced a new line item would be appearing on member electric bills to prepare them for a new rate structure taking effect next year. The new line item, a Demand Charge, will not have a cost associated immediately, but will show the member’s highest usage interval in kilowatts (kW) from the previous month. The Demand Charge line item is appearing on bills now with no charge to give members an opportunity to understand how this new rate can help them better manage their energy costs.
Members on the standard residential rate are very familiar with total energy used, which is billed in kilowatt-hours (kWh). But the new residential demand rate will also measure the power, or demand component of electricity consumption, which is measured in kilowatts (kW). This demand component is something that many customers are less familiar with, so let’s talk about “watt” drives your demand.
Demand is measured in kilowatts (kW). One kilowatt equals 1,000 watts, which is the equivalent of turning on ten 100-watt light bulbs at once. Understanding the wattage of your household appliances will help you take control of your energy bill, but where can you learn more about this information?
Common wattage ratings can be found online, or by using tools like a Kill-A-Watt monitor. Below are some sample wattage ratings for common household appliances. Remember: the larger the wattage of an appliance, and the more appliances you operate at once, the higher the impact it can have on the energy usage and demand on your overall electric bill.
Now is the time to pay attention to your energy use patterns. Staggering the use of higher wattage appliances will be the easiest way to manage your electric bill under the new rate structure. How many appliances do you run at once? Do you come home and turn everything on after the house has been empty all day? Are you using technology to help you remember to offset energy use like timers, delay start settings and programmable thermostats? Focusing on how you’re using your household appliances will help you see the corresponding affect to your energy and demand, and United Power’s new Demand rate will put you in the driver’s seat of your electric bill.
Title
We All Need the Utility System
/sites/default/files/styles/news_card_553x430_/public/news/JulyAug2021_Demand.jpg?itok=bOjwW9nn
Monday | August 9, 2021
Card Teaser
United Power switched to a demand rate in January 2019 as a way to more fairly charge its members for their electric usage and impact on the cooperative’s system.
Demand Rate Addresses How We Use it Differently
United Power switched to a demand rate in January 2019 as a way to more fairly charge its members for their electric usage and impact on the cooperative’s system. Since its roll out, some members have asked why the switch was made and requested more information about demand and how to understand it.
Electric utilities like United Power often use terms like “distribution system,” “electric infrastructure” and “grid.” These terms refer to the interconnected network of poles, wires, transformers and substations that work to deliver — or distribute — power to members. The system is carefully engineered to meet the needs of more than 100,000 meters and the homes and businesses served off those meters.
Like any other household appliance or electronic device, pieces of our system wear out over time and need to be repaired, replaced or even upgraded to improve reliability. These maintenance costs aren’t based solely on how much power you use, however, but how and when you use it.
When you use more power at once, you’re creating a higher demand on the system. These demand surges have a greater impact on the grid.
For example, a member in a small apartment with a window air conditioning unit doesn’t have the same impact on the grid as a household with two air conditioning units and a hot tub.
Some devices on the system have capacity limitations, for example, meaning they can only maintain a certain amount of power at a given time. The cooperative places these devices strategically to ensure power reliability. When one household served off that device uses a larger share of energy, it causes more wear on it. In some cases, the cooperative may need to replace existing devices with higher capacity ones to accommodate increases in energy usage.
With the traditional blended rate, which bundles demand and energy usage, each United Power member shares an equal cost in the maintenance of the system despite using it in vastly different ways. This means some members have been paying more than they should, while others aren’t paying enough. Whether you use a lot of energy or a little, or even generate your own, a reliable grid is something we all depend on and need available to us.
By separating the demand and energy components on your bill, we are more fairly distributing these costs to members based on how they use power. Each member now pays their fair share of the cooperative distribution system they rely on.
United Power offers a free online resource for members who want to know more about how they use power. Power Portal breaks down your energy usage in 15-minute intervals so you can easily tell what habits are contributing to your demand. Visit Power Portal to learn more about this member resource.
If you have additional questions about the demand rate, you can go to Understanding Demand or reach one of our dedicated energy management specialists at 303-637-1300.
Demand for Electricity is like Demand for Water
You can fill the same 5-gallon bucket with either a garden hose, or a fire hose. A garden hose will not fill as quickly – but the hose costs less to operate, and the impact on the water system is minimal. Fill that same bucket with a fire hose, and it will fill up very quickly, but the surge of water from a fire hose requires larger pipes and a more expensive hose. In the end, both buckets would be full with the same amount of water, but filling a bucket more slowly – smoothing the water use over time – creates less demand on the system and costs less to do.
Title
We all Need the Utility System
/sites/default/files/styles/news_card_553x430_/public/news/Nov2018_NL_DemandSystem.png?itok=k-t5U7wJ
Thursday | November 1, 2018
Card Teaser
Utilities throw around terms like distribution system, electric infrastructure and “the grid.” But as an electric consumer – and cooperative member – have you given much thought into how you use the electric system, and your role in maintaining that system?
Utilities throw around terms like distribution system, electric infrastructure and “the grid.” But as an electric consumer – and cooperative member – have you given much thought into how you use the electric system, and your role in maintaining that system?
Our distribution electric system, or grid, is a network of poles, wires, transformers and substations – all interconnected to deliver the power you need, when you need it. The system is carefully engineered to meet the needs of the energy consumers connected to it, while ensuring the installation, operation and maintenance is economical.
Costs to maintain the system aren’t just based on the power you buy, system infrastructure costs are also attributed to how much power you use at a given time. When you use more power at once, you’re creating a higher demand on the system. These surges in demand have a greater impact on the grid, so they cost more money.
With the traditional blended rate where the impact of demand surges is rolled up into a charge based on the power used, some members have been paying more than they should, while others aren’t paying enough. But here’s the thing: whether you use a lot of energy, a little energy, or generate your own, we all need a reliable grid to be there when we need it.
By separating demand and energy components on your bill, we are more fairly distributing these costs to members based on how they use power. Each member will now pay their fair share of the cooperative distribution system they rely on.
If you want more information on how you use power, login to the Power Portal to view your usage and demand trends. Visit www.unitedpower.com/powerportal to begin. Find your high demand periods, think back to what was running in your home, and then stagger those appliances moving forward. The grid, and your wallet, will thank you.
If you have additional questions about the demand rate and how it will impact you, email unitednewsline@unitedpower.com.
Demand for Electricity is like Demand for Water
You can fill the same 5-gallon bucket with either a garden hose, or a fire hose. A garden hose will not fill as quickly – but the hose costs less to operate, and the impact on the water system is minimal. Fill that same bucket with a fire hose, and it will fill up very quickly, but the surge of water from a fire hose requires larger pipes and a more expensive hose. In the end, both buckets would be full with the same amount of water, but filling a bucket more slowly – smoothing the water use over time – creates less demand on the system and costs less to do.
