By Kari Lynch, Platte River Power Authority
As the wholesale power provider for Estes Park, Fort Collins, Longmont and Loveland, Platte River Power Authority depends on water for safe and efficient operations while working closely with regional partners to protect this vital resource for future generations.
Why Water Matters for Public Power
Rawhide Energy Station, water supports cooling and essential plant processes. To conserve regional supplies, Rawhide operates as a zero liquid discharge facility, where all water used onsite is recycled rather than discharged.
Most of this water comes from secondary treated effluent from the City of Fort Collins, delivered through a 26 mile pipeline and treated again at Rawhide for reuse. This approach reduces the demand for high quality water needed by local communities.
Image courtesy of Platte River Power Authority
Planning for Future Water Needs
Platte River’s water needs will evolve as the energy system shifts toward more noncarbon resources. To strengthen long term reliability, Platte River is a major participant in the Chimney Hollow Reservoir Project, securing 16,000 acre feet of storage. The project will help “firm” the Windy Gap water supply used at Rawhide and provide resilience in dry years, an important investment as regional water supplies tighten.
”Since 1973, Platte River has focused on building an energy system with long-term resilience and sustainability in mind.”
Platte River Power Authority
A Long Standing Regional Partnership
Platte River’s water strategy has always emphasized collaboration. In the late 1970s, the utility worked with Fort Collins to design an innovative reuse agreement in which Windy Gap water first serves the city, and the reusable return flows are then piped to Rawhide. This model of cooperation continues today through shared planning, joint water projects and ongoing engagement with organizations across the region.
Image courtesy of Platte River Power Authority
Stewardship for the Future
As Platte River works transitions toward a noncarbon energy mix, planning water resources with the same care that has guided operations for decades, remains critical. This means responsible reuse, thoughtful investment and strong partnerships to support both energy reliability and the region’s longterm water security.
Water has shaped the history of the Cache la Poudre, and Platte River is proud to help protect this legacy by managing water responsibly and working collaboratively to support the communities it serves.
The Cache la Poudre River National Heritage Area is grateful for Platte River Power Authority’s support of the Poudre River Forum. Learn more about how to get involved here.
