Dear LPEA Members, 

I just returned home from Washington D.C., where I had the privilege of meeting with policymakers, energy leaders, and fellow cooperative leaders. It was inspiring to reflect on the power of co-ops and the impact we can have when we stay committed to our core principles. It was a reminder of how cooperatives — and specifically LPEA — have the unique ability to shape the future of energy. 

As I stood at the Lincoln Memorial during my visit, I was reminded of Abraham Lincoln’s words: “The best way to predict your future is to create it.” This quote resonates with the work we’re doing at LPEA — together, we’re not just predicting the future of energy; we’re actively creating it. 

Speaking of innovation, I’m excited to share that LPEA was awarded a $2.085 million grant from the Colorado Department of Local Affairs (DOLA) and the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) for our Shenandoah battery storage project. 

This grant represents a major step forward for us, marking our second battery storage project. It follows last year’s success with the Powering Affordable Clean Energy (PACE) program, and we are still awaiting final documents to move forward with the $13.4 million PACE award for expanded solar generation and our first utility-scale battery. 

What makes this even more significant is the context. Under our current wholesale contract, battery storage was an extremely unlikely option due to restrictions on peak shaving. However, as we approach 2026 and the conclusion of this contract, we are taking bold steps to invest in a future that prioritizes flexibility, reliability, and the ability to adapt to emerging needs — such as wildfire mitigation and emergency power during outages. 

The DOLA-funded Shenandoah battery storage system will have the capacity to power approximately 2,800 homes for several hours, further enhancing our energy resilience. This project is part of our ongoing commitment to modernize our energy infrastructure. It strengthens our grid, supports microgrid operations, and helps improve wildfire mitigation efforts. I’m incredibly proud to be part of a cooperative that continually innovates to ensure we are prepared for the future. 

As I approach my six-month mark as CEO of LPEA, I am more excited than ever to represent such a forward-thinking, innovative membership. You are the ones who inspire us to push boundaries, explore new technologies, and create a sustainable energy future for our region. 

Your commitment to embracing new energy solutions, like battery storage, is exactly what will make that vision a reality. 

Sincerely, 

Chris Hansen 

CEO of LPEA