US Senator John Hickenlooper and CREA Executive Director Kent Singer chat during the CREA Energy Innovations Summit.

CREA HOSTS 15TH ANNUAL ENERGY INNOVATIONS SUMMIT

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Industry leaders discuss the electric industry

The Colorado Rural Electric Association concluded its 15th Annual CREA Energy Innovations Summit. This year’s conference brought together more than 275 industry experts and leaders who discussed the latest developments in today’s dynamic energy landscape.

During the opening session, United States Sen. John Hickenlooper emphasized the importance of a bipartisan approach to energy and climate issues. He shared valuable insights from his experience with the Bipartisan Infrastructure Act and drew from his background as a geologist. At lunch, NERC Senior Vice President of Strategy and External Engagement Camilo Serna discussed with attendees the impact of coal fired power plant retirement on the North American power grid.

“Bringing together leaders and experts from across the U.S. and Canada for a day of shared knowledge highlights CREA’s commitment to excellence. Together, we are shaping the future of the electric industry, and it’s inspiring to see what we can achieve as a united community,” CREA Executive Director Kent Singer said.

Breakout sessions and panel discussions that facilitated engaging conversations and networking opportunities were available throughout the day. “The lineup of presenters at the 2024 CREA Energy Innovations Summit was the best I’ve seen in my many years of attendance at the event,” Mountain View Electric Association CEO Ruth Marks said.

A session covering advanced reactors explored the potential of new generation nuclear technologies as a sustainable solution for achieving carbon-free electricity. Another discussion focused on load growth and data centers, where experts from CoBank, E3, and RMI analyzed the soaring demand for data centers and its implications for resource planning. Additionally, a panel discussing barriers to EV adoption examined Colorado’s electrification goals and discussed strategies to combat range anxiety and improve charging station availability. “The topics were timely and relevant to Colorado cooperative issues of the day. From hearing about NERC reliability concerns to becoming better informed about emerging technologies, it was definitely time well spent,” Marks continued.

“As we wrap up the 15th annual summit, I’m encouraged by the collaboration and leadership we’ve fostered over the years” said CREA Director of Member Services and Education Julie Baker. “We are thrilled with the turnout and the level of engagement from our participants.”

The 2025 CREA Energy Innovations Summit will take place on November 3 in Westminster.

CREA Welcomes Taylor Ward

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headshot of Taylor WardDENVER, Colorado — The Colorado Rural Electric Association welcomes Taylor Ward as its new Director of Government Relations.

Ward joins CREA with a decade of experience in legislative and government affairs. Working primarily in the public sector, he has proven success in strategic advocacy and lobbying, legislative analysis, policy development, community engagement, relationship building, and coalition and stakeholder management.

“Taylor brings a wealth of experience in lobbying and legislative affairs to CREA,” CREA Executive Director Kent Singer said. “We’re excited to have him join our team in doing this important work for Colorado’s electric co-ops.”

Ward will be responsible for CREA’s legislative program and keeping the association’s members informed of legislative activities and issues important to electric cooperatives across Colorado.

“I am honored to join the Colorado Rural Electric Association and represent the interests of our state’s rural electric cooperatives. Throughout my career, I have been fortunate to work alongside rural communities and have been able to develop a deep understanding of the unique challenges they face. I am thrilled to continue this work at CREA,” Ward said. “I look forward to working closely with policymakers, industry leaders, and our cooperative members to ensure that we continue to provide reliable, affordable, and sustainable energy for the people of Colorado.”

About Colorado Rural Electric Association

CREA is the trade association representing 21 Colorado electric distribution co-ops and Tri-State G&T. CREA provides legislative, safety, education, and communication support. The mission of the CREA is to enhance and advance the interests of its member electric cooperatives through a united effort.