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Hayden, Colorado, is transitioning from coal dependency as the local 441-megawatt coal power plant is set to close by 2028. The town is developing a 58-acre business park and installing a geothermal heating and cooling system to attract new employers and provide affordable energy.

The geothermal project, led by Bedrock Energy, aims to deliver 2 megawatts of thermal energy, with half the district operational by 2026 and full completion by 2028. This initiative seeks to create over 70 jobs and mitigate projected $319 million annual economic losses from coal closures, which have historically funded local services. The geothermal system is expected to cut energy costs by approximately 40%, insulating businesses from fossil fuel price volatility.