Trump's Directive Keeps Colorado Coal Plant Operational Past Closure Date

The Trump administration has instructed the operators of the Craig Station coal-fired power facility in northwestern Colorado to extend its operations beyond the previously scheduled closure on December 31, 2025. This directive specifically affects Unit 1, a 446-megawatt generator that has been inactive since December 19 due to a malfunctioning valve.

Tri-State Generation and Transmission Association, which manages the plant and holds partial ownership, has acknowledged this order and indicated that fixing the valve to restart operations would involve extra costs. Tri-State CEO Duane Highley remarked that as a nonprofit cooperative, the financial implications will initially rest on its members unless regional cost-sharing solutions can be established.

This action aligns with the recent decisions made by the U.S. Department of Energy aimed at extending the life of coal-fired plants in states like Indiana, Washington, and Michigan. The directive also supports President Donald Trump’s wider vision to rejuvenate the American coal sector amid ongoing shifts towards more affordable and cleaner energy sources like natural gas and renewables. At the same time, restrictions have been placed on the growth of renewable energy projects, such as wind power.

Craig Station’s Unit 1, which began operations in 1980, was slated for closure due to economic factors and adherence to federal and state regulations. Its sister units, No. 2 and No. 3, are expected to shut down by 2028. The coal for the facility is sourced from the nearby Trapper Mine, also heading toward closure.

Energy Secretary Chris Wright issued the emergency order, citing a lack of electricity generation capacity in the northwestern United States. “The Trump Administration is dedicated to reducing energy expenses and ensuring the safety of American families,” Wright commented.

Local reactions show a mix of uncertainty and concern. Wade Gerber, an employee at Craig Station, described the coal town as being embroiled in a “dizzying political battle,” questioning the long-term prospects for coal in the area. On the other hand, Colorado Democratic Senator Michael Bennet criticized the directive as an unfair burden on consumers, labeling it “unacceptable” to impose additional costs on ratepayers.

As Colorado shifts away from coal as a core economic force, the future for facilities like Craig Station remains tenuous, emphasizing the challenging balance between energy security, economic repercussions, and environmental issues.