The Colorado Public Utilities Commission (PUC) is hearing public comments on Xcel Energy’s Just Transition Plan as it pertains to next steps for Hayden Station, and this is an important time to engage. The PUC is statutorily mandated to give consideration to public interest, so what the three Commissioners will influence their decisions.
The plan, which covers Xcel Energy’s transition away from coal-fired power plants across Colorado, will have an immense impact on the future of our region, from determining potential renewable energy resources at Hayden Station to replacing lost tax revenues that impact our schools, to replacing jobs and other vital community infrastructure.
Make a public comment to ensure that Hayden’s Just Transition maximizes benefits to our communities and our environment. Your public comment helps the Commission understand what our community needs and deserves.
Suggested talking points include:
- Ensure that all new energy generation sources are clean energy sources that solve, rather than contribute to, a warming climate. Namely, support geothermal at Hayden Station.
- Support the funding of local schools and replace lost property tax revenues.
- Create opportunities for investments in continued economic development and job creation.
YVSC recently submitted a guest commentary to The Steamboat Pilot that urges the Commission to pursue geothermal energy as its preferred, clean energy generation option, which has additional benefits like heat that can be used in the town of Hayden to heat buildings.
Routt County Commissioners and Town of Hayden are urging the PUC to provide $89 million in transition assistance that will provide a decade of support to rebuild post-coal economic development opportunities, according to the Yampa Valley Bugle.
There will be a virtual meeting on June 5 from 5-7p.m. Click here to register. You can also submit a written comment to the PUC through their online form. Select “electric”>”Xcel Energy”> “24A-0442E – Application for approval of Phase 1 of the 2024 Just Transition Solicitation (JTS)”.
Or, submit a comment by phone by leaving a voicemail at 303-869-3490. Be sure to reference “Xcel Energy’s Just Transition Solicitation” or “Docket No. 24A-0442E” in your message.
To learn more about the Public Utilities Commission Hearing and the future of Hayden Station, check out these resources:
- Creating a renewable energy future for Routt County, Sonja Macys and Ryan Banks guest column, Steamboat Pilot
- Deal with Xcel could pay off government debt, save average Hayden taxpayer $1,300 a year, Yampa Valley Bugle
- Routt County Commissioners invite you to give your opinion to the PUC, Steamboat Radio
