AUGUST 20 - 27, 2025
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PUC weighs Xcel plan Brandon Leuallen
C
The Business Times
olorado is in the midst of a sweeping transformation of its energy system. The state is shutting down coal plants, reducing its reliance on natural gas in homes and businesses, and increasing reliance on electricity. The shift is guided in part by the state’s “Just Transition Action Plan,” which seeks to replace fossil-fuel generation with cleaner resources while supporting affected communities and workers. The 2019 “Just Transition Action Plan” requires coal-dependent communities and workers to receive assistance as plants close, according to House Bill 19-1314 (signed May 28, 2019). Xcel Energy’s proposed investment plan, now before the Colorado Public Utilities Commission (PUC), would set both a minimum and maximum spending level for new power generation and infrastructure. Xcel has submitted a plan requesting what it deems enough energy to meet the demands of grid reliability with increased electricity in homes, EVs and large projects such as data centers, according to Xcel’s Dec. 19, 2024, news release. The debate over that request unfolded at a recent PUC meeting. See story on Page 5
VOLUME 32, ISSUE 32
THEBUSINESSTIMES.COM
A Burning Need? Clifton Fire District looks to ask voters for a 1 percent sales tax to meet growing demands. — See story, Page 2
Firefighting gear sits in front of a burned home and Clifton Fire Engine 21 after crews responded to a residential structure fire. Photo courtesy of Clifton Fire Protection District. PRSRT STD U.S. POSTAGE PAID PERMIT NO. 67 The Business Times 609 North Ave., Suite 5 Grand Junction, CO 81501