This coal-heavy rural co-op utility is buying its first solar plants

This story was originally published by Canary Media. Tri-State Generation and Transmission Association, one of the largest rural cooperative utilities in the U.S., is embracing the energy transition by acquiring its first large-scale solar power plants. As it moves away from its reliance on coal power, Tri-State is committed to delivering 50% renewable electricity by the end of 2025. The cooperative recently announced the acquisition of two solar projects and signed power purchase agreements for three more. Tri-State’s shift towards clean energy was made possible by the Inflation Reduction Act of 2022, which enabled nonprofits like cooperatives to access renewable energy tax credits. This landmark legislation has allowed rural cooperatives to finance the transition from coal plants and support clean energy plans without burdening customers with higher power prices. With new federal funding opportunities, Tri-State is looking to accelerate the closure of coal plants and expand its renewable energy portfolio. The cooperative’s vision includes wind, solar, and energy storage projects, as well as innovative solutions like iron-air batteries for longer-term energy storage. Through these initiatives, Tri-State aims to significantly reduce carbon emissions and maintain grid reliability in the face of extreme weather events.