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Asset Retirement Obligations (AROs)
 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2020
Asset Retirement Obligation Disclosure [Abstract]  
Asset Retirement Obligations (AROs) Asset Retirement Obligations (AROs)
We have recognized ARO's related to our coal-fired generation plants, natural gas combustion turbine and wind turbines. The cost of AROs include items such as site restoration, closure of ash pits, and removal of certain structures, generators, asbestos and storage tanks. We have other legal obligations associated with the retirement of a variety of other long-lived tangible assets used in electric operations where the estimated settlement costs are individually and collectively immaterial. We have no assets legally restricted for the settlement of any AROs.
A reconciliation of the carrying amounts of AROs for the years ended December 31, 2020 and 2019 is as follows: 
(in thousands)20202019
Beginning Balance$12,656 $9,117 
New Obligations Recognized8,062 — 
Adjustments Due to Revisions in Cash Flow Estimates3,110 3,099 
Accrued Accretion570 440 
Settlements(577)— 
Ending Balance$23,821 $12,656 
The new AROs recognized during the year ended December 31, 2020 arise from obligations associated with our Merricourt wind farm and Astoria Station natural gas plant.