United Power CEO Darryl Schriver Tenders Resignation
Thursday | June 8, 2017
Darryl Schriver is leaving United Power as the cooperative’s CEO to take a position at Tri-County Electric in the Azle, Texas, located near the Dallas/Ft. Worth metroplex
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United Power Complaint Against Tri-State Can Proceed
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Wednesday | March 25, 2020
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United Power’s Complaint Against Wholesale Power Supplier Tri-State Generation and Transmission Can Proceed Following Ruling by Federal Energy Regulatory Commission.
United Power’s Complaint Against Wholesale Power Supplier Tri-State Generation and Transmission Can Proceed Following Ruling by Federal Energy Regulatory Commission
Brighton, CO – A ruling by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) on Friday was a mixed bag for Tri-State Generation and Transmission, but a potential win for United Power and its members. The ruling stated that a complaint filed by United Power at the Colorado Public Utilities Commission (PUC) can proceed. The complaint, filed in November of 2019, asks the PUC to help determine “reasonable and non-discriminatory exit charges” for United Power to leave its contract with Tri-State. In addition, FERC concluded that Tri-State has been FERC regulated since September 3, 2019 when Tri-State added their first non-utility member. However, the ruling also stated, should the Colorado PUC or its courts find the addition of this non-utility member a violation of State law, FERC could reconsider this ruling.
“United Power has been very methodical in our approach to determining our course forward in regard to wholesale power,” stated Dean Hubbuck, Chief Energy Resource Officer. “We are weighing the cost and mix of power we receive from Tri-State with other options in the energy marketplace, and we need the PUC to provide an accurate and fair exit charge so we can make good decisions for our Cooperative’s future on behalf of our membership.”
United Power is Tri-State’s largest wholesale power purchaser, comprising approximately 16% of their total energy sales. Under the current Tri-State contract, United Power has struggled to exercise more control over their costs of wholesale power, and the limits in place for the integration of more renewable energy resources. In filing the complaint with the PUC, United Power is hoping to finally determine an accurate and reasonable cost to exit their power contract, should they choose to do so.
“From the beginning, United Power has tried to partner with Tri-State by providing several suggested paths for these discussions to continue in a productive manner. However, we have not been able to agree on a method suitable to both parties,” stated Bryant Robbins, CEO. “Simply put, United Power wants to lower costs to our members and integrate more local renewable resources into our power mix. One option to achieve this goal is through exiting our contract with Tri-State. We hope a ruling by the PUC will help us clarify the costs and provide an exit pricing methodology that is both clear and fair to our membership and the membership of Tri-State.”
Considering the FERC ruling, on March 23, 2020, United Power filed a request for a status conference with the PUC and plans to move forward in obtaining the information requested.
“As a cooperative we have a duty to advocate on behalf of our local membership,” stated Robbins. “We will continue to work through the PUC to get an accurate and fair exit price so we can better understand our path forward.”
United Power is a member-owned, not-for-profit electric cooperative delivering electricity to nearly 95,000 meters at homes, business, and farms in Colorado's north central front range. For more information about the cooperative, visit www.unitedpower.com or follow them on social media at facebook.com/unitedpower or twitter.com/unitedpowercoop. ###
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United Power Conducting Pole Inspections
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Tuesday | March 14, 2017
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Over the next few months, United Power is conducting annual pole inspections throughout the cooperative service area.
Over the next few months, United Power is conducting annual pole inspections throughout the cooperative service area. This essential maintenance helps to keep our electric delivery system performing at the highest possible level. United Power has contracted this inspection service with Utility Asset Management Inc. While contract crews are working in your area, you may see this marked contractor vehicle and their employees visually inspecting the utility poles serving you.
In a few instances, Utility Asset Management crews may need access to poles located in yards. Should they need access into a fenced yard, they will work directly with the member to schedule an appointment. Contractors will not need access into any homes to complete this maintenance work.
United Power also uses our automated phone system to send out a recording alerting members when we will be working in your area. To ensure you receive these important updates, please confirm the phone number on your account by calling United Power at 303-637-1300 or by logging into your account via SmartHub.
If you have any questions about this maintenance work, please call our Member Services department at 303-637-1300.
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United Power Connects 10,000th Rooftop Solar System
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Wednesday | March 29, 2023
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On Saturday, United Power recognized Cory and Jaime Wagner of Keenesburg for connecting the utility’s 10,000th rooftop solar system.
Co-op Members Double National Average in Solar Installations
Brighton, CO – On Saturday, United Power recognized Cory and Jaime Wagner of Keenesburg for connecting the utility’s 10,000th rooftop solar system. Rooftop solar has quickly become a preferred solution for electric utility customers who are looking to offset their regular energy usage with more renewable options. The growth rate for solar installations on United Power’s system has increased at a rapid pace over the last three years, placing the cooperative at the forefront in connected solar across electric utilities nationwide.
United Power has added more than 1,000 rooftop solar installations in less than eight months and doubled the number connected to its system in the last three years. Nearly 11% of United Power’s residential members now generate power from solar systems at their homes, which is higher than both the state and regional solar penetration averages and more than double the national average. The combined generation potential of these systems is approximately 62 megawatts (MW), which represents a significant part of the cooperative’s 600 MW peak.
“More than 5,000 residential solar systems have been connected to our grid since early 2020, demonstrating our members’ desire to make autonomous energy choices that fit their daily needs,” said Mark A. Gabriel, United Power’s President & Chief Executive Officer. “We are constantly working in our communities and behind the scenes to develop programs and processes that empower member choice as the energy landscape evolves.”
United Power Board members and cooperative leadership, along with Colorado Solar and Storage Association (COSSA) President Mike Kruger, gathered Saturday to congratulate the Wagner family. United Power presented them with a prize package recognizing the achievement.
“We are really excited to be in our first home, and happy to be generating our own solar power,” said Jaime Wagner. “Being a United Power member has been great. Once we got our system installed, United Power came right out and connected it, and we are ready to watch the panels start producing.”
United Power is proud to support a robust solar community and is committed to providing a member-friendly connection process. To ensure members like the Wagners realize the most value out of their solar systems, the cooperative offers additional resources like MyGen, an online tool where members can track their system’s production alongside energy use in their Power Portal account. For more information about going solar with United Power or to answer questions about how to size a solar system and choose a contractor, members may visit www.unitedpower.com/going-solar.
“I’m excited to be here with United Power to celebrate the cooperative’s 10,000th residential solar member,” said Kruger. “It’s phenomenal how many of its members are generating solar power from their homes. United Power is beating large investor-owned utilities, municipals, and other Colorado cooperatives in interconnected solar.”
Since powering Colorado’s first community solar farm – Sol Partners – in 2009, United Power has added five utility-scale solar farms and one of the state’s largest battery storage facilities. The solar farms generate a combined 50 MW, enough to power more than 10,000 homes. United Power’s energy portfolio also includes a 3.2 MW methane-capture project at the Erie Landfill. In recognition of these efforts, the cooperative was named one of COSSA’s 2022 Solar and Storage Champions. The cooperative continues to explore renewable and innovative energy projects with the greatest member benefits, including reliability, resiliency, and affordability.
“We appreciate the vision that the United Power community has put forth for a clean future and the ability to partner with them in that,” said Kruger. “I’m happy to celebrate today, and I think it’s a bright future for us all.”
United Power is a member-owned, not-for-profit electric cooperative, delivering electricity to homes, farms, and businesses throughout Colorado’s northern front range. The cooperative is one of the fastest-growing electric cooperatives in the nation, and in June 2021 joined the elite ranks of cooperatives serving more than 100,000 meters. The 900-square mile service territory extends from the mountains of Coal Creek and Golden Gate Canyon, along the I-25 corridor and Carbon Valley region, to the farmlands of Brighton, Hudson, and Keenesburg. United Power is also a founding member of the NextGen Cooperative Alliance, which is dedicated to expanding the power supply and procurement options available to distribution co-ops, reforming the traditional generation and transmission business model. For more information about United Power, visit www.unitedpower.com or follow the cooperative on Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, YouTube, and Instagram.###
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United Power Director Candidates Announced
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Thursday | February 22, 2024
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Five candidates are running for election to the United Power Board of Directors in this year's Director Election.
Members Invited to Meet the Candidates Event on March 19Brighton, CO – Five candidates are running for election to the United Power Board of Directors. This year, four positions on the board are up for election. The director candidates are Stephen Whiteside (incumbent) in the Mountain District; Brian A. McCormick (incumbent) in the North District; Tim Erickson (incumbent) and Paige Wagner-Maul in the Central District; and Brad Case (incumbent) in the South District.
United Power will host a Meet the Candidates event at its Brighton Headquarters where members can learn more about each candidate vying to serve on the Board of Directors. The event is open to all members and does not require an RSVP. Event details are as follows:
Tuesday, March 19 at 6 p.m. (doors open at 5:30 p.m.)
United Power Headquarters Office
500 Cooperative Way, Brighton, CO 80603
The Meet the Candidates event will be livestreamed here, with the event video available on the cooperative’s website the following day.
Directors represent all members and are therefore elected on an “at-large” basis. This means members may cast a vote for a director in each district and not just their own. United Power encourages all members to vote online or return their mail ballots prior to the April 16 deadline.
Statements from each of the candidates will be published in the cooperative’s newsletter, the United Newsline, delivered in March, and on its website. Director candidate contribution reports will also be available online.
A bylaw amendment is included on this year’s ballot regarding the length of a director’s term. A vote in favor of the amendment (“yes”) will lengthen the term from three years to four years.
Ballots will be mailed to all members on March 15, and online balloting opens through the member portal the same day. Members may vote electronically through their online account or via mail ballots. A drop box will be available for members to return their ballots in person at Riverdale Regional Park between noon and 4 p.m. the day of the Annual Meeting. Members may also vote in person beginning at 4:30 p.m.
Results of the director election will be announced at the 2024 Annual Meeting and 85th Anniversary Celebration, which will be held on April 17 at the Riverdale Regional Park & Fairgrounds and livestreamed on United Power’s website. Registration opens at 4:30 p.m. and on-site balloting closes at the beginning of the official business meeting at 6:30 p.m. All members are invited to attend and engage with cooperative leadership, connect with fellow members, and celebrate the cooperative’s 85th anniversary.
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.###
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United Power Enters Agreement with Aypa Power for Fortress Solar-Plus-Storage Project in Morgan County
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Tuesday | October 14, 2025
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The Fortress project that will combine 200 MW of solar with 150 MW/600 MWh of battery storage.
Brighton, CO –United Power, Inc. today announced it has entered into an agreement with Aypa Power for the Fortress project, a hybrid renewable energy project that will combine 200 megawatts (MW) of solar with 150 MW / 600 megawatt-hours (MWh) of battery energy storage near the City of Brush in Morgan County.
Scheduled to come online in 2027, Fortress will generate and store power for United Power members under a long-term power purchase agreement. The project supports the cooperative’s ongoing efforts to strengthen grid reliability and manage long-term power supply costs through a more diverse and locally sourced energy portfolio.
“United Power continues on a path to diversify and localize the power we purchase and deliver to our members,” said Mark A. Gabriel, United Power President and CEO. “We are investing in local projects that create a more robust generation system, which, in turn, will help us stabilize electric costs while investing in area economies. As the country grapples with the rising price of electricity, the cooperative is actively managing costs and seeking additional local generation resources. We believe our vision of a hyperlocalized electric system is the future of power production and it is an investment that will benefit all our members.”
Since leaving its former wholesale power provider in May of 2024, United Power has continued to invest in a portfolio of locally produced power sources, including several renewable energy and battery storage projects. Projects like Fortress represent significant investments in the state, helping ensure tax revenue and job creation benefit the communities United Power serves, while supporting a more resilient and member-focused energy network.
“Aypa Power is pleased to partner with United Power to bring the first phase of a 600 MW solar and battery storage complex online in Colorado,” said Dan Santelli, Chief Commercial Operator at Aypa Power. “Fortress will deliver low-cost energy and provide critical reliability, while supporting United Power’s commitment to dependable and locally sourced power.”
To learn more about United Power’s energy transition and its power portfolio, visit the cooperative’s website at www.unitedpower.com.
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 115,000 meters. Its 900-square mile service territory extends from the mountains of Coal Creek and Golden Gate Canyon, along the I-25 corridor and Carbon Valley region, to the farmlands of Brighton, Hudson, and Keenesburg. For more information about United Power, visit www.unitedpower.com or follow the cooperative on Facebook, X, LinkedIn, YouTube, and InstagramAbout Aypa PowerAypa Power, a Blackstone portfolio company, develops, owns, and operates utility-scale energy storage and hybrid renewable energy projects across North America. With 30 projects currently in operation or under construction, and a development pipeline exceeding 22 gigawatts, Aypa delivers solutions that strengthen grid reliability, integrate renewable energy, and reduce dependence on fossil fuels. Aypa has been at the forefront of energy storage development since its first energy storage project came online in 2018. For more information, follow Aypa Power on LinkedIn or visit www.aypapower.com.###
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United Power Executes Letter of Commitment for Nearly $262 Million in New ERA Grant Funding
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Monday | December 30, 2024
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In September, the co-op was announced as an awardee for $261.6 million in grant funding to offset the cost of new, clean energy generation.
Brighton, CO – United Power executed a letter of commitment with the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) Rural Utilities Services today for the Empowering Rural America (New ERA) program. In September, the cooperative was announced as an awardee for $261.6 million in grant funding to offset the cost of new generation for its transition to a strategic portfolio of clean energy that includes power purchase agreements that will provide more than 760 megawatts of renewable resources to its members by 2030. USDA staff is currently working with the cooperative to complete underwriting to fully fund the award.
The New ERA funding requires submission of a comprehensive Community Benefit Plan (CBP). United Power’s CBP was submitted and accepted in November, allowing the cooperative to move to the next step in the New ERA process.
“These grant funds will be used to offset a portion of the costs United Power has and will incur for seven different power purchase agreements,” said Mark A. Gabriel, United Power’s President and CEO. “The projects represent new, clean energy sources that have already significantly reduced our greenhouse gas emissions since the exit from our former wholesale power supplier on May 1. Additionally, the projects are bringing tax dollars and jobs to each of the areas where the systems are located.”
United Power’s CBP expands assistance to the communities it serves, with a commitment to invest an additional $1 million into a variety of community projects and programs. The goal of the CBP is to enhance life for members and communities through support of targeted programs, providing dollars for a wide range of needs. Assisting members on fixed incomes, investing in beneficial electrification efforts, supporting farmers and ranchers, and directing funding to communities where New ERA project facilities are located are all included in the extensive list of CBP initiatives.
The first initiative funded under the CBP is the award of four lineworker scholarships of $7,500 each. There is a critical need for trained lineworkers, and the scholarships will help to boost opportunities for students working toward certification at local colleges in Colorado.
“Receiving this scholarship means a lot to me,” said Kate Killinen, one of the United Power lineworker scholarship recipients. “It means that I can go through the Mesa Lineworker Program without going into any school debt and focus more on my studies rather than how to get the money I need to get through it. Receiving this scholarship will help my long-term career goals of working for an electric cooperative by helping me get through an amazing program that is the foundation to my whole career.”
The CBP commitments will be distributed throughout the 10 years of the planned grant period and represent a substantial increase over the dollars already earmarked by the cooperative for its numerous annual community support efforts.
“As a cooperative, supporting our communities and investing in education have always been key directives in our annual planning,” said Gabriel. “We have been awarding scholarships, supporting education in our industry, and providing leadership and investment dollars to assistance organizations that serve our members for decades. Now we will be able to do even more.”
To learn more about United Power’s industry leading energy transition outlined in its long-term vision for the future, read Our Cooperative Roadmap.
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.###
United Power CEO Darryl Schriver Tenders Resignation
Thursday | June 8, 2017
Darryl Schriver is leaving United Power as the cooperative’s CEO to take a position at Tri-County Electric in the Azle, Texas, located near the Dallas/Ft. Worth metroplex
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United Power Complaint Against Tri-State Can Proceed
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Wednesday | March 25, 2020
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United Power’s Complaint Against Wholesale Power Supplier Tri-State Generation and Transmission Can Proceed Following Ruling by Federal Energy Regulatory Commission.
United Power’s Complaint Against Wholesale Power Supplier Tri-State Generation and Transmission Can Proceed Following Ruling by Federal Energy Regulatory Commission
Brighton, CO – A ruling by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) on Friday was a mixed bag for Tri-State Generation and Transmission, but a potential win for United Power and its members. The ruling stated that a complaint filed by United Power at the Colorado Public Utilities Commission (PUC) can proceed. The complaint, filed in November of 2019, asks the PUC to help determine “reasonable and non-discriminatory exit charges” for United Power to leave its contract with Tri-State. In addition, FERC concluded that Tri-State has been FERC regulated since September 3, 2019 when Tri-State added their first non-utility member. However, the ruling also stated, should the Colorado PUC or its courts find the addition of this non-utility member a violation of State law, FERC could reconsider this ruling.
“United Power has been very methodical in our approach to determining our course forward in regard to wholesale power,” stated Dean Hubbuck, Chief Energy Resource Officer. “We are weighing the cost and mix of power we receive from Tri-State with other options in the energy marketplace, and we need the PUC to provide an accurate and fair exit charge so we can make good decisions for our Cooperative’s future on behalf of our membership.”
United Power is Tri-State’s largest wholesale power purchaser, comprising approximately 16% of their total energy sales. Under the current Tri-State contract, United Power has struggled to exercise more control over their costs of wholesale power, and the limits in place for the integration of more renewable energy resources. In filing the complaint with the PUC, United Power is hoping to finally determine an accurate and reasonable cost to exit their power contract, should they choose to do so.
“From the beginning, United Power has tried to partner with Tri-State by providing several suggested paths for these discussions to continue in a productive manner. However, we have not been able to agree on a method suitable to both parties,” stated Bryant Robbins, CEO. “Simply put, United Power wants to lower costs to our members and integrate more local renewable resources into our power mix. One option to achieve this goal is through exiting our contract with Tri-State. We hope a ruling by the PUC will help us clarify the costs and provide an exit pricing methodology that is both clear and fair to our membership and the membership of Tri-State.”
Considering the FERC ruling, on March 23, 2020, United Power filed a request for a status conference with the PUC and plans to move forward in obtaining the information requested.
“As a cooperative we have a duty to advocate on behalf of our local membership,” stated Robbins. “We will continue to work through the PUC to get an accurate and fair exit price so we can better understand our path forward.”
United Power is a member-owned, not-for-profit electric cooperative delivering electricity to nearly 95,000 meters at homes, business, and farms in Colorado's north central front range. For more information about the cooperative, visit www.unitedpower.com or follow them on social media at facebook.com/unitedpower or twitter.com/unitedpowercoop. ###
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United Power Conducting Pole Inspections
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Tuesday | March 14, 2017
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Over the next few months, United Power is conducting annual pole inspections throughout the cooperative service area.
Over the next few months, United Power is conducting annual pole inspections throughout the cooperative service area. This essential maintenance helps to keep our electric delivery system performing at the highest possible level. United Power has contracted this inspection service with Utility Asset Management Inc. While contract crews are working in your area, you may see this marked contractor vehicle and their employees visually inspecting the utility poles serving you.
In a few instances, Utility Asset Management crews may need access to poles located in yards. Should they need access into a fenced yard, they will work directly with the member to schedule an appointment. Contractors will not need access into any homes to complete this maintenance work.
United Power also uses our automated phone system to send out a recording alerting members when we will be working in your area. To ensure you receive these important updates, please confirm the phone number on your account by calling United Power at 303-637-1300 or by logging into your account via SmartHub.
If you have any questions about this maintenance work, please call our Member Services department at 303-637-1300.
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United Power Connects 10,000th Rooftop Solar System
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Wednesday | March 29, 2023
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On Saturday, United Power recognized Cory and Jaime Wagner of Keenesburg for connecting the utility’s 10,000th rooftop solar system.
Co-op Members Double National Average in Solar Installations
Brighton, CO – On Saturday, United Power recognized Cory and Jaime Wagner of Keenesburg for connecting the utility’s 10,000th rooftop solar system. Rooftop solar has quickly become a preferred solution for electric utility customers who are looking to offset their regular energy usage with more renewable options. The growth rate for solar installations on United Power’s system has increased at a rapid pace over the last three years, placing the cooperative at the forefront in connected solar across electric utilities nationwide.
United Power has added more than 1,000 rooftop solar installations in less than eight months and doubled the number connected to its system in the last three years. Nearly 11% of United Power’s residential members now generate power from solar systems at their homes, which is higher than both the state and regional solar penetration averages and more than double the national average. The combined generation potential of these systems is approximately 62 megawatts (MW), which represents a significant part of the cooperative’s 600 MW peak.
“More than 5,000 residential solar systems have been connected to our grid since early 2020, demonstrating our members’ desire to make autonomous energy choices that fit their daily needs,” said Mark A. Gabriel, United Power’s President & Chief Executive Officer. “We are constantly working in our communities and behind the scenes to develop programs and processes that empower member choice as the energy landscape evolves.”
United Power Board members and cooperative leadership, along with Colorado Solar and Storage Association (COSSA) President Mike Kruger, gathered Saturday to congratulate the Wagner family. United Power presented them with a prize package recognizing the achievement.
“We are really excited to be in our first home, and happy to be generating our own solar power,” said Jaime Wagner. “Being a United Power member has been great. Once we got our system installed, United Power came right out and connected it, and we are ready to watch the panels start producing.”
United Power is proud to support a robust solar community and is committed to providing a member-friendly connection process. To ensure members like the Wagners realize the most value out of their solar systems, the cooperative offers additional resources like MyGen, an online tool where members can track their system’s production alongside energy use in their Power Portal account. For more information about going solar with United Power or to answer questions about how to size a solar system and choose a contractor, members may visit www.unitedpower.com/going-solar.
“I’m excited to be here with United Power to celebrate the cooperative’s 10,000th residential solar member,” said Kruger. “It’s phenomenal how many of its members are generating solar power from their homes. United Power is beating large investor-owned utilities, municipals, and other Colorado cooperatives in interconnected solar.”
Since powering Colorado’s first community solar farm – Sol Partners – in 2009, United Power has added five utility-scale solar farms and one of the state’s largest battery storage facilities. The solar farms generate a combined 50 MW, enough to power more than 10,000 homes. United Power’s energy portfolio also includes a 3.2 MW methane-capture project at the Erie Landfill. In recognition of these efforts, the cooperative was named one of COSSA’s 2022 Solar and Storage Champions. The cooperative continues to explore renewable and innovative energy projects with the greatest member benefits, including reliability, resiliency, and affordability.
“We appreciate the vision that the United Power community has put forth for a clean future and the ability to partner with them in that,” said Kruger. “I’m happy to celebrate today, and I think it’s a bright future for us all.”
United Power is a member-owned, not-for-profit electric cooperative, delivering electricity to homes, farms, and businesses throughout Colorado’s northern front range. The cooperative is one of the fastest-growing electric cooperatives in the nation, and in June 2021 joined the elite ranks of cooperatives serving more than 100,000 meters. The 900-square mile service territory extends from the mountains of Coal Creek and Golden Gate Canyon, along the I-25 corridor and Carbon Valley region, to the farmlands of Brighton, Hudson, and Keenesburg. United Power is also a founding member of the NextGen Cooperative Alliance, which is dedicated to expanding the power supply and procurement options available to distribution co-ops, reforming the traditional generation and transmission business model. For more information about United Power, visit www.unitedpower.com or follow the cooperative on Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, YouTube, and Instagram.###
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United Power Director Candidates Announced
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Thursday | February 22, 2024
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Five candidates are running for election to the United Power Board of Directors in this year's Director Election.
Members Invited to Meet the Candidates Event on March 19Brighton, CO – Five candidates are running for election to the United Power Board of Directors. This year, four positions on the board are up for election. The director candidates are Stephen Whiteside (incumbent) in the Mountain District; Brian A. McCormick (incumbent) in the North District; Tim Erickson (incumbent) and Paige Wagner-Maul in the Central District; and Brad Case (incumbent) in the South District.
United Power will host a Meet the Candidates event at its Brighton Headquarters where members can learn more about each candidate vying to serve on the Board of Directors. The event is open to all members and does not require an RSVP. Event details are as follows:
Tuesday, March 19 at 6 p.m. (doors open at 5:30 p.m.)
United Power Headquarters Office
500 Cooperative Way, Brighton, CO 80603
The Meet the Candidates event will be livestreamed here, with the event video available on the cooperative’s website the following day.
Directors represent all members and are therefore elected on an “at-large” basis. This means members may cast a vote for a director in each district and not just their own. United Power encourages all members to vote online or return their mail ballots prior to the April 16 deadline.
Statements from each of the candidates will be published in the cooperative’s newsletter, the United Newsline, delivered in March, and on its website. Director candidate contribution reports will also be available online.
A bylaw amendment is included on this year’s ballot regarding the length of a director’s term. A vote in favor of the amendment (“yes”) will lengthen the term from three years to four years.
Ballots will be mailed to all members on March 15, and online balloting opens through the member portal the same day. Members may vote electronically through their online account or via mail ballots. A drop box will be available for members to return their ballots in person at Riverdale Regional Park between noon and 4 p.m. the day of the Annual Meeting. Members may also vote in person beginning at 4:30 p.m.
Results of the director election will be announced at the 2024 Annual Meeting and 85th Anniversary Celebration, which will be held on April 17 at the Riverdale Regional Park & Fairgrounds and livestreamed on United Power’s website. Registration opens at 4:30 p.m. and on-site balloting closes at the beginning of the official business meeting at 6:30 p.m. All members are invited to attend and engage with cooperative leadership, connect with fellow members, and celebrate the cooperative’s 85th anniversary.
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.###
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United Power Enters Agreement with Aypa Power for Fortress Solar-Plus-Storage Project in Morgan County
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Tuesday | October 14, 2025
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The Fortress project that will combine 200 MW of solar with 150 MW/600 MWh of battery storage.
Brighton, CO –United Power, Inc. today announced it has entered into an agreement with Aypa Power for the Fortress project, a hybrid renewable energy project that will combine 200 megawatts (MW) of solar with 150 MW / 600 megawatt-hours (MWh) of battery energy storage near the City of Brush in Morgan County.
Scheduled to come online in 2027, Fortress will generate and store power for United Power members under a long-term power purchase agreement. The project supports the cooperative’s ongoing efforts to strengthen grid reliability and manage long-term power supply costs through a more diverse and locally sourced energy portfolio.
“United Power continues on a path to diversify and localize the power we purchase and deliver to our members,” said Mark A. Gabriel, United Power President and CEO. “We are investing in local projects that create a more robust generation system, which, in turn, will help us stabilize electric costs while investing in area economies. As the country grapples with the rising price of electricity, the cooperative is actively managing costs and seeking additional local generation resources. We believe our vision of a hyperlocalized electric system is the future of power production and it is an investment that will benefit all our members.”
Since leaving its former wholesale power provider in May of 2024, United Power has continued to invest in a portfolio of locally produced power sources, including several renewable energy and battery storage projects. Projects like Fortress represent significant investments in the state, helping ensure tax revenue and job creation benefit the communities United Power serves, while supporting a more resilient and member-focused energy network.
“Aypa Power is pleased to partner with United Power to bring the first phase of a 600 MW solar and battery storage complex online in Colorado,” said Dan Santelli, Chief Commercial Operator at Aypa Power. “Fortress will deliver low-cost energy and provide critical reliability, while supporting United Power’s commitment to dependable and locally sourced power.”
To learn more about United Power’s energy transition and its power portfolio, visit the cooperative’s website at www.unitedpower.com.
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 115,000 meters. Its 900-square mile service territory extends from the mountains of Coal Creek and Golden Gate Canyon, along the I-25 corridor and Carbon Valley region, to the farmlands of Brighton, Hudson, and Keenesburg. For more information about United Power, visit www.unitedpower.com or follow the cooperative on Facebook, X, LinkedIn, YouTube, and InstagramAbout Aypa PowerAypa Power, a Blackstone portfolio company, develops, owns, and operates utility-scale energy storage and hybrid renewable energy projects across North America. With 30 projects currently in operation or under construction, and a development pipeline exceeding 22 gigawatts, Aypa delivers solutions that strengthen grid reliability, integrate renewable energy, and reduce dependence on fossil fuels. Aypa has been at the forefront of energy storage development since its first energy storage project came online in 2018. For more information, follow Aypa Power on LinkedIn or visit www.aypapower.com.###
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United Power Executes Letter of Commitment for Nearly $262 Million in New ERA Grant Funding
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Monday | December 30, 2024
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In September, the co-op was announced as an awardee for $261.6 million in grant funding to offset the cost of new, clean energy generation.
Brighton, CO – United Power executed a letter of commitment with the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) Rural Utilities Services today for the Empowering Rural America (New ERA) program. In September, the cooperative was announced as an awardee for $261.6 million in grant funding to offset the cost of new generation for its transition to a strategic portfolio of clean energy that includes power purchase agreements that will provide more than 760 megawatts of renewable resources to its members by 2030. USDA staff is currently working with the cooperative to complete underwriting to fully fund the award.
The New ERA funding requires submission of a comprehensive Community Benefit Plan (CBP). United Power’s CBP was submitted and accepted in November, allowing the cooperative to move to the next step in the New ERA process.
“These grant funds will be used to offset a portion of the costs United Power has and will incur for seven different power purchase agreements,” said Mark A. Gabriel, United Power’s President and CEO. “The projects represent new, clean energy sources that have already significantly reduced our greenhouse gas emissions since the exit from our former wholesale power supplier on May 1. Additionally, the projects are bringing tax dollars and jobs to each of the areas where the systems are located.”
United Power’s CBP expands assistance to the communities it serves, with a commitment to invest an additional $1 million into a variety of community projects and programs. The goal of the CBP is to enhance life for members and communities through support of targeted programs, providing dollars for a wide range of needs. Assisting members on fixed incomes, investing in beneficial electrification efforts, supporting farmers and ranchers, and directing funding to communities where New ERA project facilities are located are all included in the extensive list of CBP initiatives.
The first initiative funded under the CBP is the award of four lineworker scholarships of $7,500 each. There is a critical need for trained lineworkers, and the scholarships will help to boost opportunities for students working toward certification at local colleges in Colorado.
“Receiving this scholarship means a lot to me,” said Kate Killinen, one of the United Power lineworker scholarship recipients. “It means that I can go through the Mesa Lineworker Program without going into any school debt and focus more on my studies rather than how to get the money I need to get through it. Receiving this scholarship will help my long-term career goals of working for an electric cooperative by helping me get through an amazing program that is the foundation to my whole career.”
The CBP commitments will be distributed throughout the 10 years of the planned grant period and represent a substantial increase over the dollars already earmarked by the cooperative for its numerous annual community support efforts.
“As a cooperative, supporting our communities and investing in education have always been key directives in our annual planning,” said Gabriel. “We have been awarding scholarships, supporting education in our industry, and providing leadership and investment dollars to assistance organizations that serve our members for decades. Now we will be able to do even more.”
To learn more about United Power’s industry leading energy transition outlined in its long-term vision for the future, read Our Cooperative Roadmap.
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.###
