Highline Electric Association’s irrigation load control program has served our members well for many years. However, the communication system and switches that support control events are nearing the end of their useful life. When our power supplier, Tri-State Generation and Transmission, approached us with an opportunity to modernize the load control program, we knew it was worth exploring.
For decades, Highline has used power line carrier technology to manage irrigation load during periods of high electrical demand. These control events help reduce peak demand and lower power costs. While the program has successfully reduced Highline’s system peak, today’s electric grid requires a broader, more coordinated approach.
Tri-State has been directing irrigation load control events since July 2025. Tri-State manages a grid that spans four states and has access to real-time information about regional demand, generation resources, and energy markets. That means load control events can be scheduled when they provide the greatest benefit to the overall electric system, even when local conditions may not seem to warrant them.
MODERN PROGRAM WITH MORE FLEXIBILITY
While Highline saw value in partnering with Tri-State, we also wanted to preserve the strong foundation we’ve built with our irrigators over the years.
The new program includes upgraded control switches that communicate through cellular networks. This technology replaces our aging power line carrier system and provides more reliable performance.
One of the most exciting improvements is member access. The new web-based platform allows irrigators to monitor and manage their enrolled wells from a computer, tablet, or smartphone. Members will receive notice at least two hours before a control event and can choose to opt out of any event if desired.
INCENTIVES REMAIN STRONG
The load control program continues to provide meaningful financial incentives for participation. Each enrolled well earns a monthly base incentive according to the average demand (kilowatts) available at that well. Members who participate in all scheduled control events receive the full monthly incentive. The monthly base incentive, a flat rate of $/kW/month, is yet to be determined. If an event is skipped, the monthly incentive is reduced proportionally based on the number of events missed. Wells that do not operate during a given month will not earn an incentive for that month.
In addition, members who do not opt out of any events throughout the season are eligible for a bonus incentive of $/kW/month paid in a lump sum at the end of the season.
WHAT WILL STAY THE SAME?
We worked closely with Tri-State to ensure the new program maintains the features our members value most.
Key program parameters remain largely unchanged:
- Control event frequency and duration remain comparable to the current program.
- No control events on consecutive days.
- During July and August, participants will be limited to one control event per week.
- The available control window remains 11:45 a.m. to 10:15 p.m., unless there are grid reliability emergencies that load control could help solve.
WHAT IS CHANGING?
The primary change is that the control season will now run from May 1 through September 30 beginning in 2027.
LOOKING AHEAD
We are confident this transition benefits our members. Incentives remain strong, control event limits are unchanged, and participants now have greater visibility and flexibility through the new online platform.
Over the coming months, Highline will begin replacing legacy control switches and working with members to complete updated program agreements. We will also host regional meetings to answer questions, demonstrate the new interface, and help ensure a smooth transition.
This is an introduction to what is ahead. If you have questions or would like to learn more about participating in the new program, please contact us at 970-854-2236. We look forward to working with you as we bring this program into the future.
By Tadius Huser, HEA Member Services Manager
