Trump orders Tri-State Generation to keep Colorado coal plant open

The Trump administration has issued an emergency order to keep an aging coal-fired power plant in Craig operating, despite being broken and out of operation. This move has put Tri-State Generation and Transmission Association in a difficult situation as they had planned to shutter the plant. The order has been criticized by Governor Jared Polis and environmentalists, who argue that reopening the plant will harm public health and go against Colorado’s plan to reduce greenhouse gas emissions.

The emergency order will keep Unit 1 at the Craig Station open for at least another 90 days, with Tri-State having until Jan. 20 to explain how they plan to get the unit running again. President Trump’s agenda to increase the use of fossil fuels has led to this decision, which has faced backlash from environmental groups and state officials.

The decision to keep the coal plant operational has been met with criticism, with concerns raised about the impact on Colorado ratepayers and the environment. Environmental advocates have denounced the order, stating that it will make the state’s air dirtier and harm public health. Earthjustice has expressed readiness to take action to defend Colorado and push for a transition to cleaner energy sources.

In conclusion, the decision to keep the aging coal plant in Craig operational has sparked controversy and raised concerns about its impact on the environment and public health. The push to boost fossil fuels by the Trump administration has faced opposition from environmental groups and state officials, who are advocating for a transition to cleaner energy sources.