Here we go again: Retiring coal plant forced to stay open by Trump Admin

January 1, 2026

TL;DR

US Secretary of Energy ordered Craig Station Unit 1 in Colorado to remain open due to a supposed energy emergency.
The plant was scheduled to close at the end of the year, with other units closing in 2028.
The Department of Energy claims the plant is essential for grid stability.
Colorado's Public Utilities Commission previously determined the plant was not required for reliability.
The order requires the plant to be available, not necessarily to produce electricity, to avoid violating state environmental laws.
The use of emergency powers is authorized under the Federal Power Act for sudden demand increases or energy shortages.
The article questions if 'demand expected to go up in the future' fits the definition of an emergency.
Coal generation is described as more expensive and dirtier than other forms, with significant health and environmental costs.
The Trump Administration has frequently declared energy emergencies to support coal plants.
This use of emergency orders is being challenged in court by several states and environmental organizations.
Critics argue the administration is misusing emergency powers by indefinitely renewing orders.

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