The Trump Administration intervened again to keep a retiring coal plant operational. Energy Secretary Chris Wright issued an order Tuesday forcing Craig Station Unit 1 in Colorado to remain open. The plant was slated to close at the end of 2024.
The Department of Energy cited a potential energy emergency due to generating capacity shortages. They claim the plant is essential for grid stability. The order requires the plant to be available, not necessarily producing power.
Colorado's Public Utilities Commission previously assessed the closure impact. Their analysis concluded Craig Unit 1 was not needed for reliability. The Colorado Sun reported on this discrepancy.
This action mirrors past efforts to prop up struggling coal facilities. Critics argue these interventions distort the energy market. They also raise concerns about environmental impact.
The plant's future remains uncertain. Legal challenges to the order are possible. The remaining two units at Craig Station are scheduled to close in 2028.
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