Dear LPEA Members,
LPEA is undergoing a purposeful transformation to meet modern energy needs head-on. Our cooperative is evolving to serve members today while building a more sustainable and resilient tomorrow. One key part of that transformation is beneficial electrification—a powerful way to modernize how we use energy without sacrificing affordability, reliability, or comfort.
So, what is beneficial electrification? Simply put, it's the use of electricity in place of fossil fuels in ways that benefit consumers, reduce emissions, and improve quality of life. This includes everything from heating your home with an electric heat pump instead of propane, to driving an electric vehicle, to upgrading to an efficient induction cooktop.
Why is this shift so important? Because it allows us to make the most of our cleaner electric grid while reducing our dependence on fuels that are volatile in price and high in emissions. As more of our electricity comes from renewable and low-carbon sources, replacing fossil fuels with electric technologies becomes one of the most impactful steps we can take to reduce greenhouse gas emissions—right here at home.
Electrifying our homes, vehicles, and businesses also helps us keep energy dollars in our local economy. Instead of spending money on imported fuels, we can invest in local infrastructure, clean power projects, and technologies that benefit all of us. It's not just good for the planet—it's good for rural Colorado's economic future.
This shift isn't just a trend—it's a vital part of LPEA's long-term strategy to ensure affordability, reliability, and sustainability for generations to come.
I’m personally invested in this shift. I drive an electric vehicle, and I’ve seen the benefits firsthand—from fuel savings to reduced maintenance. It's just one way I'm working to lower emissions and embrace the future of energy, just as many of you are doing with your own electric technologies.
Some might ask whether electrification challenges our cooperative model. In fact, it strengthens it—aligning our values with smarter energy use and long-term resilience. Smart electrification helps us:
- Better align with clean energy goals and state mandates
- Increase the efficiency and flexibility of our grid
- Manage costs across our membership
- Support local renewable generation
And the benefits go beyond system improvements. Many of you are already enjoying the savings and comfort that come with electric technologies, and we're proud to offer programs that make those transitions easier.
We currently provide:
- Rebates for electric heat pumps and water heaters
- Support for electric vehicle adoption and charging
- On-bill financing for home upgrades
- Energy audits to help identify opportunities for improvement
Our mission is to equip you with meaningful choices that reflect our shared values and vision for the future. As your trusted energy partner, we're here to help you make informed decisions that align with your lifestyle, your budget, and our region's priorities.
I'm proud to serve this incredible community—and proud of the work we're doing together to create a more resilient, cleaner energy future for Southwest Colorado.
Chris Hansen
CEO of LPEA
Beneficial Electrification Open House
Learn more about Beneficial Electrification and LPEA's programs at one of our Electrification Open House sessions on July 15.
Noon - 2 PM and 5 - 6:30 PM