Tri-State Generation and Transmission, which provides wholesale power to rural electric associations across Colorado, has officially closed one of its coal power plants ahead of schedule. Westminster-based Tri-State said the Nucla Station in western Colorado ran through its last supply of on-site fuel Sept. 9 and was officially retired Thursday. The 100-megawatt facility was originally scheduled to shut down at the end of 2022. Tri-State said in a statement that the closure allows it to meet its deadline for ending operations under Colorado’s plan to cut regional haze. “While our generating station has been a significant part of Nucla and Naturita communities for many years, it made the most sense to come offline at this time in a controlled fashion, while maintaining compliance with all of our federal and state environmental regulations,” said Duane Highley, Tri-State CEO. The utility said it will provide $500,000 over the next five years to the community to help with the transition.