By Shannon Lukens.

Routt County is inviting the public to hear Xcel Energy’s Just Transition Solicitation Plan. It is to address the acquisition of new utility resources to meet future electricity needs on its system.

This has to do with the closing of the coal-fired facilities in Craig and Hayden in 2028.

The application specifically wants to hear from communities impacted, since as Hayden and Routt County.

Here’s Routt County Commissioner Tim Redmond, who recently asked to speak with local media about the importance of the meetings.

“I would encourage our communities to come out to this meeting. It’s going to be a presentation from the Office of Utility Consumer Advocates, an independent state agency whose sole job is to advocate for utility customers in the state of Colorado and they will give you the best way to go ahead and  have your voice heard. I want to encourage you to come out because I need to hear your voice, too.”

 

Local media was invited to a recent meeting with commissioners to answer any questions.

The town of Hayden is a partner with Routt County in the filing of the solicitation plan, which requests $89 million over ten years from Xcel Energy. Right now, $16 million has been offered. Commissioners say this is the beginning of the process to replace the value of losing the Hayden power plant. Commissioner Redmond said jobs will have to be replaced and new businesses will have to come in and get set up to hire people. “We stepped up and provided electricity. Now it is time to support our standard of living.”

Another discuss is what will be done with the Hayden station. Commissioner Angelica Salinas said that will depend on what the final payment will be, and that they are working on options.

Commissioner Redmond said it is an opportunity to come together and “learn as elected officials how to work with each other better every day and have a mutually beneficial outcome. What is best for our communities?”

Upcoming Meetings

• 11 a.m. – 1 p.m. Monday, April 28 Virtually. Register here
• 11:30 a.m.-1 p.m. Tuesday, April 29, in the Routt County Commissioners Hearing Room, Historic Routt County Courthouse, 522 Lincoln Ave., Steamboat Springs. Who Should Attend: All local residents, community leaders, and anyone interested in participating in the upcoming public hearings
• 4-6 p.m. Thursday, May 1, in Hayden at the Hayden Community Center, 495 W. Jefferson Ave. Services: Light refreshments and a children’s play area. ASL or Spanish interpretation services can be requested by contacting Holly Bise at 303-894-2024 or holly.bise@state.co.us by Thursday, April 17.

 

• From the Colorado Department of Regulatory Agencies — Xcel Energy’s Just Transition Plan, Proceeding 24A-0442E
• From the Colorado Department of Regulatory Agencies — Colorado Public Utilities Commission Announces Upcoming April Public Comment Opportunities
• From the Yampa Valley Bugle — Routt County seeking $89 million from Xcel Energy in potential Hayden Station settlement

 

Press Release from Routt County; April 2025.

Office of the Utility Consumer Advocate to Host Presentation on Public Utility Commission and Public Testimony Ahead of Xcel’s Just Transition Plan Hearings

Routt County, CO, April 18, 2025 – As the Colorado Public Utilities Commission (PUC) prepares for public comment hearings on Xcel Energy’s Just Transition Plan (JTP), the Office of the Utility Consumer Advocate (UCA) is coming to Routt County to help community members better understand how the Commission works—and how to make their voices heard.

The UCA will provide a community presentation and Q&A session explaining the role of the Public Utilities Commission, how decisions are made, and how to provide compelling and impactful public testimony. This is an opportunity for residents to learn how to navigate the regulatory process and ensure their concerns and perspectives are heard by decision-makers.

Why This Matters:
Xcel Energy’s JTP (Proceeding 24A-0442E) addresses the retirement of coal-fired generation assets across the state, including Hayden’s local facility, set to close in 2028. The plan is intended to ensure reliable service, cut emissions, and support a just economic transition in affected communities. The PUC is seeking direct input from residents, workers, and stakeholders as it evaluates the proposal.

Join the UCA Presentation:

• When: Tuesday, April 29, 2025 | 11:30 a.m.-1 p.m.
• Where: Commissioners Hearing Room, Historic Routt County Courthouse, 522 Lincoln Ave., Steamboat Springs
• Who Should Attend: All local residents, community leaders, and anyone interested in participating in the upcoming public hearings

Then, provide testimony at the PUC’s Public Comment Hearing in Routt County:

• When: Thursday, May 1, 2025 | 4-6 p.m.
• Where: Hayden Community Center, 495 W. Jefferson Ave., Hayden
• Services Provided: Light refreshments and a children’s play area.

Or Attend the Virtual Public Comment Hearing:

• When: Monday, April 28, 11 a.m. – 1 p.m.
• Register online

 

Submit Comments Anytime (Reference Proceeding 24A-0442E):

• Online via the PUC’s E-Filings system or comment form
• By email: dora_puc_website@state.co.us
• By mail: Colorado Public Utilities Commission, 1560 Broadway, Suite 250, Denver, CO 80202
• By phone (English or Spanish): (303) 869-3490

The PUC is expected to make a final decision on the JTP in August 2025.

Contact: info@co.routt.co.us

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