Craig Mayor seeks community support plan from Excel Energy for coal transition

In a pivotal government meeting held in Colorado, discussions centered around the future of energy and the economic impact of coal transitions on local communities. The atmosphere was charged with urgency as local leaders voiced their concerns about the implications of energy policy on their towns.

Mayor Chris Nichols of Craig took the floor, urging the Public Utilities Commission (PUC) to closely examine the economic ramifications of coal industry shifts in Moffat County. He highlighted the significant loss of tax revenue and workforce stability that Craig and Moffat face compared to other coal transition communities in Colorado. Nichols pointed out that while Excel Energy is a major taxpayer in the region, its contributions are not sufficient to offset the economic challenges posed by the decline of coal operations.

Nichols made a compelling case for community assistance, requesting a total of $28.8 million to support local economic development. This figure includes $114 million representing ten years of property tax payments from Craig Station, along with additional funds to address labor income losses from the potential closure of Hayden Station. He emphasized that Excel, as a part-owner of these facilities, has both a statutory and moral obligation to support the community during this transition.

The meeting also saw contributions from other stakeholders, including Nina Waters, a Summit County Commissioner, who echoed the need for a robust response to the challenges posed by the energy transition. The discussions underscored a collective call for the PUC to ensure that the interests of communities like Craig and Moffat are prioritized in future energy policies.

As Colorado navigates its path toward a cleaner energy future, the voices of local leaders reflect a deep concern for the economic well-being of their communities. The outcome of these discussions could shape not only the energy landscape but also the livelihoods of those who have relied on coal for generations. The PUC's decisions in the coming months will be crucial in determining how effectively these communities can adapt to the changing energy environment.