Breaking News: The Trump Administration intervened again to keep a retiring coal plant operational. Energy Secretary Chris Wright issued an order Tuesday. It forces 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. They claim the plant's power is vital for grid stability. However, the Colorado Public Utilities Commission previously found the unit unnecessary for reliability. The order mandates availability, not necessarily electricity production.
The immediate impact is a delay in Colorado's clean energy transition. Critics argue this intervention undermines market forces. Environmental groups are expected to challenge the order.
This action mirrors previous attempts to prop up struggling coal plants. The administration has repeatedly invoked national security concerns. These concerns are often disputed by state regulators and energy experts.
The plant will remain on standby unless further legal action occurs. The situation highlights ongoing tensions between federal energy policy and state-level climate goals. The future of Craig Station's other units remains uncertain.
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