Tri State's clean energy plan promises economic boost for rural Colorado

In a recent government meeting, Eric Francowski, director of the Western Clean Energy Campaign, addressed the significant implications of Tri State's resource planning for rural Colorado families and businesses. He emphasized the importance of community engagement, highlighting both an in-person comment session in Craig and a virtual session for co-op members beyond Moffett County.

Francowski praised Tri State for its commitment to accelerating the clean energy transition, noting that the agreement under discussion represents a substantial increase in clean energy capacity—over 1,000 megawatts. This move positions Tri State as a leader among Colorado power providers, contributing to the state's ongoing efforts in decarbonization. He pointed out that the plan not only aims to keep electricity affordable but also promises economic benefits for rural communities that have historically been sidelined in the clean energy shift.

He commended Tri State's decision to facilitate the early closure of the Craig plant, recognizing it as a positive step towards supporting local transitions. However, Francowski raised concerns regarding the inclusion of new gas capacity in the settlement agreement. He warned that such developments could burden Tri State customers with significant debt for a facility that may struggle to compete with renewable energy sources.

Francowski urged the commission to approve the agreement while remaining vigilant in the next phase of discussions, ensuring that any new gas plant is deemed absolutely necessary. His comments reflect a broader commitment to balancing energy needs with environmental responsibilities, as Tri State navigates its path towards a cleaner energy future.