“A deadline without a plan”: how rural Colorado is building the energy future the state won’t
By Jen Schumann | Rocky Mountain Voice
In May 2023, Gov. Jared Polis signed HB 23‑1247, directing the Colorado Energy Office to study advanced energy solutions — from nuclear and geothermal to long-duration storage — in regions facing coal-plant closures like Craig Station. The law included $50,000 from the Just Transition Fund and federal support to study firm energy options in northwest Colorado.
Within months, coal facilities began closing across the state—including Craig Station, now set to shutter by 2028. While studies are underway, comprehensive transition plans are still being reviewed. Facing job losses and shrinking tax bases, rural communities are taking charge.
“There’s a closing schedule—but no roadmap,” said Matt Solomon, project manager for the Northwest Colorado En...
