Platte River Power Authority continually demonstrates a strong commitment to environmental responsibility while safely providing reliable and financially sustainable energy and services to the owner communities of Estes Park, Fort Collins, Longmont and Loveland.
Responsible operation
Since commercial operation began in 1984, Rawhide Unit 1 consistently serves as the most reliable source of electricity for Platte River. The unit features state-of-the-art emissions controls, consistently positioned among the lowest SO2-emitting coal-fired plants in the country, according to data available from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. Learn more about Platte River’s responsible operations and environmental management.
Environmental management100% noncarbon by 2030
In 2018, the Platte River Power Authority Board of Directors unanimously passed the Resource Diversification Policy, setting the standard as a clean energy leader by calling for the pursuit of a 100% noncarbon energy mix by 2030. Since then, Platte River has added significant noncarbon resources, completed a DER strategy and announced the early retirements of all coal resources. Learn more about Platte River’s energy future.
Our energy futureRawhide bison herds
Two herds of American bison reside on the land surrounding the Rawhide Energy Station, their ancestors roaming the plains in northern Colorado, Wyoming and South Dakota. The bison herds serve as Platte River’s environmental ambassadors, demonstrating that wildlife can coexist in harmony with responsibly operated generation facilities.
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Wildlife at Rawhide
The use of a manmade reservoir instead of cooling towers makes the Rawhide Energy Station a year-round attraction for wildlife. The National Audubon Society has held an annual Christmas bird count since 1986. A great place to view birds at Rawhide is the visitors’ overlook.