La Plata Electric Association (LPEA) recently announced it has successfully completed its energy supply transition, formally departing Tri-State Generation and Transmission Association (Tri-State) and joining the Southwest Power Pool (SPP) Regional Transmission Organization (RTO), effective April 1, 2026. With this transition, LPEA expects to achieve an additional 20% reduction in greenhouse gas emissions, while delivering lower wholesale power costs, greater reliability, and increased local control for its members.
“This is a defining moment for our cooperative,” said Chris Hansen, CEO of LPEA. “We’ve built a power supply portfolio that is more flexible, more local, more resilient, and more affordable while staying grounded in our mission to serve our members.”
A Board-Led Decision Delivering Results
The transition follows a multi-year effort led by LPEA’s Board of Directors to secure a more sustainable and cost-effective energy future.
“This is exactly why we made the decision to leave,” said Board President Nicole Pitcher. “I was proud to be part of that Board vote, and we’re already seeing it pay off for our members with lower costs, stable rates, and a cleaner, locally controlled power supply.”
Lower Costs and Rate Stability for Members
Through its new power supply strategy and participation in SPP’s competitive wholesale market, LPEA expects to realize more than a 10% reduction in wholesale power costs. These savings allow LPEA to hold base rates stable for 2026, even as broader power supply costs across the region have increased.
“Affordability is a long-term commitment,” Hansen said. “This transition gives us the tools to manage costs responsibly while continuing to improve service.” Members can expect continued investment in local energy resources, expanded programs to manage energy use and costs, and a system designed to adapt to the region’s evolving needs.
“We are building the future grid for Southwest Colorado,” Hansen said. “And we’re doing it in a way that puts our members first.”
This transition marks a new chapter for LPEA; one focused on local control, innovation, and long-term value.
Continue the Conversation: CommunityPowerX on April 23
To help members better understand what this transition means for reliability, costs, and the future of the grid, LPEA will host CommunityPowerX: The Regional Energy Future Forum on Thursday, April 23, at the Durango Arts Center.
The public event will bring together regional energy leaders to discuss the future of the grid, how new energy resources work together, and what members can expect in the years ahead.
“This transition is just the beginning,” Hansen said. “CommunityPowerX is an opportunity for members to ask questions, hear directly from experts, and be part of the conversation about our energy future.”
Members are encouraged to attend. Additional details and registration information are available at LPEA.coop.