We All Need the Utility System
Monday | August 9, 2021
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.
Read more >
We all Need the Utility System
Thursday | November 1, 2018
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?
Read more >
We are Dedicated to Keeping the Lights On
Monday | April 4, 2022
On April 18th, we will celebrate National Lineman Appreciation Day, to recognize and honor our lineworkers for their hard work and dedication.
Read more >
Title
We May Have Money For You
/sites/default/files/styles/news_card_553x430_/public/news/UnclaimedCapitalCredits.jpg?h=45932144&itok=J00brWxz
Wednesday | November 8, 2023
Card Teaser
United Power is attempting to return unclaimed capital credit retirements to members.
United Power is attempting to return unclaimed capital credit retirements to members who received electric service from the cooperative prior to 2020. If you were a member up to Dec. 31, 2019, you may be eligible to claim a previously issued but unclaimed capital credit refund.
What Are Capital Credits?
Cooperative members periodically receive capital credit allocations based on their electric usage during a specified time period. The amount you receive is based on the amount of power you used and the margins earned for the time period being allocated. In subsequent years, at the Board of Director’s discretion, previously allocated capital credits may be retired and returned to members.
Who May be Eligible?
Please look for your name on the list of unclaimed capital credit retirements.
If you were a United Power member for any period of time through Dec. 31, 2019 AND you were issued a capital credit retirement check in 2020 or earlier that you did not cash;
If you are the family member or estate representative of a deceased member who had an uncashed capital credit retirement check issued in 2020 or earlier;
If you are a current member who:
Changed your name;
Added your name to an existing account;
Or did not cash a capital credit retirement check issued in 2020 or earlier.
How Can I Find Out If I Am Due a Refund?
A copy of the unclaimed retired capital credit list is posted in the lobby of United Power’s Brighton office. The list can also be viewed here.
The Brighton office is located at 500 Cooperative Way, off the I-76 service road. Lobby hours are:
Monday-Friday, 8:30 a.m. - 5 p.m.My Name is On The List. How Do I Claim My Refund?
If you find your name on the list of unclaimed capital credit retirements, download and complete the Unclaimed Retired Capital Credit Refund Request form. A copy of the form may also be requested by emailing United Power or calling the Member Services department at 303-637-1300. Submitting a form does not guarantee a disbursement will be made. Proper documentation and valid proof of membership during the applicable time period is required. No refund checks will be issued for unclaimed retirement amounts below $5. Once claimed, an individual may opt to donate their capital credit refunds to the United Power Round Up Foundation, which provides assistance to community organizations within the cooperative’s service territory. After the notification period closes on April 30, 2024, all unclaimed retired capital credits for the applicable time period will be considered an assignment and contribution of capital to United Power.
Refund Request forms must be received by United Power by April 30, 2024.
Title
What are Vampire Loads?
/sites/default/files/styles/news_card_553x430_/public/news/Feb2019_NL_Vampire.png?itok=lR6w03eY
Friday | January 25, 2019
Card Teaser
All of these items are responsible for contributing to your “vampire load,” also known as the “phantom load.” Vampire loads come from devices that use electricity even when they appear to be off.
The desktop computer in your office. The living room TV and gaming console in standby or rest mode. Even the cell phone charger you keep plugged in throughout the day. All of these items are responsible for contributing to your “vampire load,” also known as the “phantom load.” Vampire loads come from devices that use electricity even when they appear to be off. These loads are approaching 10 percent of the average household electric use, according to the Environmental Protection Agency.
Electronics and appliances in standby or rest modes require a little electricity to maintain minimal function of the device so it’s ready to go when you return to using it. The primary culprits are televisions, desktop computers and, particularly, gaming consoles which can use as much electricity as a refrigerator even when not in use thanks to frequent system updates. Chargers are another contributor to the phantom load. A single charger might not be a drain on your bill, but in an increasingly plugged in world, the impact can begin to add up.
So how can you limit your vampire loads? The obvious solution is to simply unplug devices when not in use and disabling auto-update features that draw power when in rest mode. If you want a limited impact on your daily routine, consider investing in smart power strips. These devices can usually connect to your phone through WiFi or Bluetooth so you can turn them off and on automatically. Many of them even come with surge protection to keep your devices safe during storms or other events that may cause a surge.
In the digital, connected age, these vampire, or phantom, loads can become a real problem. A little investment and some small changes can end up saving you on your bill. For more energy efficiency information, check out My Energy.
Title
Why Members Round Up
/sites/default/files/styles/news_card_553x430_/public/news/Dec2020_NL_RoundUp.jpg?itok=YdOl3AGv
Thursday | December 10, 2020
Card Teaser
In November, we asked our members to tell us why they round up, and we received some tremendous responses.
When United Power founded Operation Round-Up in 1995 as a way for members to voluntarily help each other through a small monthly contribution built right into their billing statement, we envisioned being able to help vulnerable and struggling members in the communities we serve make ends meet. We couldn’t have imagined then that a nationwide pandemic would stretch the foundation to its limits as we celebrate our 25th anniversary this year.
It hasn’t been an easy year for anyone, and some have felt the impacts more than others. Although many more members are in need of assistance, the Round-Up board has remained committed to finding the most effective ways to help meet needs throughout this time.
For those not familiar with Operation Round-Up, it is a foundation funded entirely by members who “round up” their monthly billing statements to the next whole dollar. Participation is voluntary, and average yearly contributions are only $6, or approximately $.50 per month. Those funds are then redistributed to nonprofits in various parts of the service territory to ensure as many members receive help as possible. The Round-Up Board selected these nonprofits because they have more resources and are better equipped to provide for members in need. The Board is made up of fellow United Power members who also live within the various parts of the service territory and are familiar with the specific needs of their respective areas.
This unusual year hasn’t prevented the board from going above and beyond to meet increased needs, which created an added burden on the foundation. Without the generous contributions of more than 20,000 members who have elected to round up their bill, this wouldn’t have been possible.
In November, we asked our members to tell us why they round up, and we received some tremendous responses:
“Yes, been rounding up for at least a decade. One of a list of gratifying things to give. Maximum of $12 a year. A feel good thing!”
Larry W., Commerce City
“I haven’t participated in Round-Up before, but I am signing up today. Sounds like a great program and I can see that even a little bit helps.”
Sam G., Firestone
“Yes we do. We have dealt with hardships and want to contribute to help others in need.”
Brad L., Frederick
“We participate in Round-Up to ensure that our little contribution helps members who are less fortunate, especially in these times of COVID-19.”
James D., Black Hawk
“Yes! We do participate in the Round-Up program. We are grateful for the opportunity to assist members of our and the greater United Power community when the need arises.”
Michelle B., Golden
“I haven’t yet, I did not know what it was! But will be signing up now.”
Terry H., Brighton
Why United Power Plans Outages
Monday | March 9, 2020
You may have at one time or another received a recorded message from United Power informing you of a “preplanned” outage in your area.
Read more >
Title
Why We Plan Outages
/sites/default/files/styles/news_card_553x430_/public/news/2018_02_02_PlannedOutages.jpg?itok=3GEM8PdY
Friday | February 2, 2018
Card Teaser
Have you ever received a notification from United Power informing you of a “planned outage?”
Have you ever received a notification from United Power informing you of a “planned outage?” You may have wondered, “What is a planned outage?” and “Why does my electric utility need to perform one?” Occasionally, the equipment we use to bring power to your home needs to be replaced, repaired, or updated. When this happens, as a way to keep our crews and you safe, we plan an interruption to electric service.
We do our best to plan these outages during times when members will be the least inconvenienced. We also try to avoid planning these outages during winter or summer months. We understand these are peak times of the year when you depend on running your heating and cooling units the most.
While they may sound slightly inconvenient, planned outages are actually beneficial to you. Regular system upgrades are necessary for optimal performance, and they increase reliability. Repairing and upgrading our equipment is also critical to maintaining public safety. If older lines need to be replaced, we plan for it, repair or replace it, and that keeps everyone safe.
Planned outages also allow us to keep you informed of when and how long you will be without power. In most cases, we will notify you in advance, by telephone, before an outage, so you can be prepared.
We will also keep you aware of when line crews will be working in your area. Here at United Power, we want to make sure we are doing everything we can to keep you safe and to keep our system running smoothly. So the next time you hear about a planned outage, know that it is one of the best ways we can provide you with quality electric service.
We All Need the Utility System
Monday | August 9, 2021
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.
Read more >
We all Need the Utility System
Thursday | November 1, 2018
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?
Read more >
We are Dedicated to Keeping the Lights On
Monday | April 4, 2022
On April 18th, we will celebrate National Lineman Appreciation Day, to recognize and honor our lineworkers for their hard work and dedication.
Read more >
Title
We May Have Money For You
/sites/default/files/styles/news_card_553x430_/public/news/UnclaimedCapitalCredits.jpg?h=45932144&itok=J00brWxz
Wednesday | November 8, 2023
Card Teaser
United Power is attempting to return unclaimed capital credit retirements to members.
United Power is attempting to return unclaimed capital credit retirements to members who received electric service from the cooperative prior to 2020. If you were a member up to Dec. 31, 2019, you may be eligible to claim a previously issued but unclaimed capital credit refund.
What Are Capital Credits?
Cooperative members periodically receive capital credit allocations based on their electric usage during a specified time period. The amount you receive is based on the amount of power you used and the margins earned for the time period being allocated. In subsequent years, at the Board of Director’s discretion, previously allocated capital credits may be retired and returned to members.
Who May be Eligible?
Please look for your name on the list of unclaimed capital credit retirements.
If you were a United Power member for any period of time through Dec. 31, 2019 AND you were issued a capital credit retirement check in 2020 or earlier that you did not cash;
If you are the family member or estate representative of a deceased member who had an uncashed capital credit retirement check issued in 2020 or earlier;
If you are a current member who:
Changed your name;
Added your name to an existing account;
Or did not cash a capital credit retirement check issued in 2020 or earlier.
How Can I Find Out If I Am Due a Refund?
A copy of the unclaimed retired capital credit list is posted in the lobby of United Power’s Brighton office. The list can also be viewed here.
The Brighton office is located at 500 Cooperative Way, off the I-76 service road. Lobby hours are:
Monday-Friday, 8:30 a.m. - 5 p.m.My Name is On The List. How Do I Claim My Refund?
If you find your name on the list of unclaimed capital credit retirements, download and complete the Unclaimed Retired Capital Credit Refund Request form. A copy of the form may also be requested by emailing United Power or calling the Member Services department at 303-637-1300. Submitting a form does not guarantee a disbursement will be made. Proper documentation and valid proof of membership during the applicable time period is required. No refund checks will be issued for unclaimed retirement amounts below $5. Once claimed, an individual may opt to donate their capital credit refunds to the United Power Round Up Foundation, which provides assistance to community organizations within the cooperative’s service territory. After the notification period closes on April 30, 2024, all unclaimed retired capital credits for the applicable time period will be considered an assignment and contribution of capital to United Power.
Refund Request forms must be received by United Power by April 30, 2024.
Title
What are Vampire Loads?
/sites/default/files/styles/news_card_553x430_/public/news/Feb2019_NL_Vampire.png?itok=lR6w03eY
Friday | January 25, 2019
Card Teaser
All of these items are responsible for contributing to your “vampire load,” also known as the “phantom load.” Vampire loads come from devices that use electricity even when they appear to be off.
The desktop computer in your office. The living room TV and gaming console in standby or rest mode. Even the cell phone charger you keep plugged in throughout the day. All of these items are responsible for contributing to your “vampire load,” also known as the “phantom load.” Vampire loads come from devices that use electricity even when they appear to be off. These loads are approaching 10 percent of the average household electric use, according to the Environmental Protection Agency.
Electronics and appliances in standby or rest modes require a little electricity to maintain minimal function of the device so it’s ready to go when you return to using it. The primary culprits are televisions, desktop computers and, particularly, gaming consoles which can use as much electricity as a refrigerator even when not in use thanks to frequent system updates. Chargers are another contributor to the phantom load. A single charger might not be a drain on your bill, but in an increasingly plugged in world, the impact can begin to add up.
So how can you limit your vampire loads? The obvious solution is to simply unplug devices when not in use and disabling auto-update features that draw power when in rest mode. If you want a limited impact on your daily routine, consider investing in smart power strips. These devices can usually connect to your phone through WiFi or Bluetooth so you can turn them off and on automatically. Many of them even come with surge protection to keep your devices safe during storms or other events that may cause a surge.
In the digital, connected age, these vampire, or phantom, loads can become a real problem. A little investment and some small changes can end up saving you on your bill. For more energy efficiency information, check out My Energy.
Title
Why Members Round Up
/sites/default/files/styles/news_card_553x430_/public/news/Dec2020_NL_RoundUp.jpg?itok=YdOl3AGv
Thursday | December 10, 2020
Card Teaser
In November, we asked our members to tell us why they round up, and we received some tremendous responses.
When United Power founded Operation Round-Up in 1995 as a way for members to voluntarily help each other through a small monthly contribution built right into their billing statement, we envisioned being able to help vulnerable and struggling members in the communities we serve make ends meet. We couldn’t have imagined then that a nationwide pandemic would stretch the foundation to its limits as we celebrate our 25th anniversary this year.
It hasn’t been an easy year for anyone, and some have felt the impacts more than others. Although many more members are in need of assistance, the Round-Up board has remained committed to finding the most effective ways to help meet needs throughout this time.
For those not familiar with Operation Round-Up, it is a foundation funded entirely by members who “round up” their monthly billing statements to the next whole dollar. Participation is voluntary, and average yearly contributions are only $6, or approximately $.50 per month. Those funds are then redistributed to nonprofits in various parts of the service territory to ensure as many members receive help as possible. The Round-Up Board selected these nonprofits because they have more resources and are better equipped to provide for members in need. The Board is made up of fellow United Power members who also live within the various parts of the service territory and are familiar with the specific needs of their respective areas.
This unusual year hasn’t prevented the board from going above and beyond to meet increased needs, which created an added burden on the foundation. Without the generous contributions of more than 20,000 members who have elected to round up their bill, this wouldn’t have been possible.
In November, we asked our members to tell us why they round up, and we received some tremendous responses:
“Yes, been rounding up for at least a decade. One of a list of gratifying things to give. Maximum of $12 a year. A feel good thing!”
Larry W., Commerce City
“I haven’t participated in Round-Up before, but I am signing up today. Sounds like a great program and I can see that even a little bit helps.”
Sam G., Firestone
“Yes we do. We have dealt with hardships and want to contribute to help others in need.”
Brad L., Frederick
“We participate in Round-Up to ensure that our little contribution helps members who are less fortunate, especially in these times of COVID-19.”
James D., Black Hawk
“Yes! We do participate in the Round-Up program. We are grateful for the opportunity to assist members of our and the greater United Power community when the need arises.”
Michelle B., Golden
“I haven’t yet, I did not know what it was! But will be signing up now.”
Terry H., Brighton
Why United Power Plans Outages
Monday | March 9, 2020
You may have at one time or another received a recorded message from United Power informing you of a “preplanned” outage in your area.
Read more >
Title
Why We Plan Outages
/sites/default/files/styles/news_card_553x430_/public/news/2018_02_02_PlannedOutages.jpg?itok=3GEM8PdY
Friday | February 2, 2018
Card Teaser
Have you ever received a notification from United Power informing you of a “planned outage?”
Have you ever received a notification from United Power informing you of a “planned outage?” You may have wondered, “What is a planned outage?” and “Why does my electric utility need to perform one?” Occasionally, the equipment we use to bring power to your home needs to be replaced, repaired, or updated. When this happens, as a way to keep our crews and you safe, we plan an interruption to electric service.
We do our best to plan these outages during times when members will be the least inconvenienced. We also try to avoid planning these outages during winter or summer months. We understand these are peak times of the year when you depend on running your heating and cooling units the most.
While they may sound slightly inconvenient, planned outages are actually beneficial to you. Regular system upgrades are necessary for optimal performance, and they increase reliability. Repairing and upgrading our equipment is also critical to maintaining public safety. If older lines need to be replaced, we plan for it, repair or replace it, and that keeps everyone safe.
Planned outages also allow us to keep you informed of when and how long you will be without power. In most cases, we will notify you in advance, by telephone, before an outage, so you can be prepared.
We will also keep you aware of when line crews will be working in your area. Here at United Power, we want to make sure we are doing everything we can to keep you safe and to keep our system running smoothly. So the next time you hear about a planned outage, know that it is one of the best ways we can provide you with quality electric service.
