The Trump Administration intervened to keep a retiring Colorado coal plant open. Energy Secretary Chris Wright issued the order Tuesday. Craig Station's Unit 1, slated to close this year, must remain available.
The Department of Energy cited a potential energy emergency. They claim the plant is vital for grid stability. However, the Colorado Public Utilities Commission previously found Unit 1 unnecessary for reliability.
The order doesn't mandate electricity production. It ensures availability in case of shortages. The remaining two units at Craig Station are scheduled to close in 2028.
This action echoes previous interventions to prop up coal plants. Critics argue these moves undermine market forces. They also question the justification for overriding state-level assessments.
The plant will remain on standby. The situation will be reassessed as the closure date approaches. Legal challenges to the order are possible.
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