Full Breakdown
Transitioning from Coal: The Future of Craig, Colorado
12/5/2025, 10:58:59 PM
The Shift from Coal to Renewable Energy
In Craig, Colorado, the Cooper family is navigating a significant transition as one of the area's three coal mines closes due to a statewide shift towards cleaner energy. The Coopers, who have a long history in coal mining, are now pivoting to geothermal energy through their new business, High Altitude Geothermal. Matt Cooper emphasizes the need for economic diversity, stating, “People have to start looking beyond coal.” This sentiment reflects a broader trend as many states and countries move away from coal due to its environmental impacts and high costs.
Economic Implications of Coal Closures
The closure of the Colowyo Mine, which employed about 130 workers and supplied the Craig Generating Station, is part of a larger trend in Colorado. Tri-State Generation and Transmission Association plans to close Craig's Unit 1 by the end of the year, with the remaining units set to close by 2028. Democratic Governor Jared Polis has stated that the state will not revert to an overreliance on fossil fuels, highlighting that coal power has become increasingly expensive—28% more costly in 2024 than in 2021. As Colorado transitions to renewable energy sources, which currently provide over 40% of the state's power, the community faces economic uncertainty.
Community Responses and New Ventures
Despite the challenges, Craig residents are exploring new business opportunities. Wade Gerber, a long-time coal worker, is opening Bad Alibi Distillery, while others are considering various entrepreneurial ventures. Kirstie McPherson, president of the Craig Chamber of Commerce, acknowledges the community's historical connection to coal and the identity crisis that accompanies its decline. “You have an entire culture... having that same crisis,” she notes.
Tammy Villard, who has experience in the coal industry, expresses skepticism about the state's ability to maintain reliable electricity without coal. She advocates for a more measured approach to the transition, reflecting a desire for balance in energy policy. Villard states, “The pendulum has to come back to the middle,” emphasizing the need for a stable transition.
Official Statements and Industry Perspectives
President Donald Trump has actively promoted coal, attempting to revitalize the industry through executive orders and regulatory relief. His administration's stance has created uncertainty in communities like Craig, where some residents hope for a revival of coal jobs. However, the ongoing closures and the shift towards renewable energy suggest a challenging future for coal-dependent towns.
Conclusion: Navigating a New Energy Landscape
As Craig, Colorado, grapples with the decline of coal, families like the Coopers are adapting to new energy sources, while others explore entrepreneurial ventures. The community's identity, deeply rooted in coal, faces significant changes as the state moves towards a cleaner energy future. The balance between economic stability and environmental responsibility remains a critical conversation as Craig transitions into an uncertain but potentially transformative era.
