LPEA freedom not what it seems

Mark Pearson paints a feel-good picture of LPEA’s future but glosses over the serious risks facing our cooperative. 

Yes, LPEA is leaving Tri-State. But at what cost? Members are now on the hook for a $215 million exit payment – already executed, with no clear repayment plan and no vote from members. And despite claims of “local reinvestment,” LPEA has no shovel-ready generation projects to support this vision. Iron Horse Geothermal remains in early study phases. Sunnyside Solar covers barely 1% of meters. And Dolores Canyon Solar? That’s a Tri-State project, not LPEA’s.

LPEA’s much-touted “lower-cost” replacement power is a short-term deal with an unnamed provider – reportedly Mercuria, a Swiss-based commodities trader with no local generation and no long-term contract disclosed. Betting our future on market traders isn’t independence – it’s speculation.

Pearson also suggests Tri-State is forcing 40-year deals. False. Tri-State’s updated options allow more flexibility than ever – including 50% self-supply and shorter contract terms – all governed by a member-elected board.

Let’s be honest: most rural co-ops haven’t left Tri-State because they value cost stability, not volatile power markets. The “freedom” LPEA is selling is really just more risk, more debt and fewer answers.

LPEA sold FASTTRACK communications for millions but fails to disclose to its members/owners the sale price or plans for that money. Why would LPEA agree to or request a nondisclosure agreement and fail to let the owners of the co-op know all the details? Rate increases and asset sales and vague explanations.

We deserve real transparency, local control and reliable energy – not political spin and broken promises. Vote this May for leadership that will restore member trust and protect our cooperative future.

– Dale Ruggles, Bayfield