That’s the system the governments have chosen, it benefits both the power plant and governments. Yes the little guy is left out, but I have had trouble building my own power plant..... what to do?
Get involved - run for one of the boards of directors .. Xcel, Core Electric Cooperative, Holy Cross Energy, Yampa Electric and Grand Valley Power .. Attend their annual / monthly meetings.. meet the staff.
As a government regulated monopoly, they have to get approvals - run and/or attend their meetings.
Use firewood for heat.. upgrade windows, curtains, doors, and ..