Environment

Overview

Platte River Power Authority is committed to delivering reliable, financially sustainable and environmentally responsible energy to the communities of Estes Park, Fort Collins, Longmont and Loveland. Environmental responsibility is not a single program at Platte River — it is a guiding principle that shapes planning, operations and long‑term investment in the region’s energy future. This approach balances long‑term resource planning, operational excellence and a shared vision for a cleaner, more sustainable future.

Our commitment to
a noncarbon future

The 2026 Strategic Plan reaffirms Platte River’s commitment to a noncarbon energy future while recognizing the importance of maintaining reliability, affordability and environmental responsibility. Since the Resource Diversification Policy was adopted in 2018, Platte River has made significant progress through investments in renewable energy, energy storage, distributed energy resources and regional market participation. The updated Resource Diversification Policy aligns with the strategic plan and provides policy guidance for continuing this work. By 2030, Platte River expects its portfolio to exceed 80% noncarbon energy while continuing to balance the evolving needs of the communities it serves.

Responsible
operations

Environmental responsibility also includes operating today’s resources safely and efficiently. Rawhide Unit 1 has long been one of the nation’s lowest SO₂‑emitting coal units, supported by state‑of‑the‑art emissions controls and a comprehensive Environmental Management System. Platte River consistently meets or exceeds regulatory requirements and invests in improvements when they provide measurable environmental benefits. This supports responsible, transparent operations that remain aligned with community expectations as the organization transitions to a noncarbon portfolio.

Organizational sustainability

Environmental responsibility extends beyond power generation. Platte River integrates sustainable practices into daily operations, including its LEED Gold‑certified headquarters building in Fort Collins with rooftop solar and battery storage, a zero net‑carbon campus, electric fleet vehicles and other initiatives that reduce environmental impact.

Stewardship beyond operations

Platte River’s commitment to the environment includes the land and wildlife surrounding its facilities. The bison herd at Rawhide Energy Station and the diverse wildlife that live on site demonstrate how responsible operations and natural ecosystems can coexist. These efforts highlight Platte River’s long‑standing dedication to land stewardship and habitat protection.

Accessibility notice:
Per the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), Platte River Power Authority will provide reasonable accommodation to qualified individuals with a disability who need assistance. Please email us at [email protected] or call 970-226-4000. “Walk-in” requests for auxiliary aids and services may be honored to the extent possible but can be unavailable if advance notice is not provided.

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