Large plume of black smoke, flames visible from Suncor Energy refinery in Commerce City

A large plume of black smoke and flames were visible at the Suncor Energy refinery in Commerce City due to a flare during unit startup activities. Suncor described the flare as a safety measure, but community members expressed concerns over prior lack of notification and ongoing environmental impact, citing a 2024 lawsuit and an EPA report showing high pollution levels. The CDPHE Air Pollution Control Division plans public meetings in August and September 2026 to address emission reduction proposals.