Implementing programs to increase solar development with an emphasis on creating economic development and resiliency benefits.
Imagine a Clean Energy Future
Our three-county region – Garfield, Eagle and Pitkin counties – has made great strides in moving toward a cleaner, more energy-efficient economy. But we can and must do more. Imagine the future that’s possible if we proactively work together:
- A more diverse, sustainable economy that harnesses the power of energy innovation
- Clean energy solutions, widely available – “green for all”
- A more resilient energy system, thanks to a smarter, less centralized grid
- A healthier environment, with less pollution and CO2 emissions
- A connected, forward-looking region that’s working together to create a “just transition” and is doing its part to curb climate change
A Regional Approach Can Get Us There Faster
The Western Colorado Clean Energy Network is bringing together local governments, utilities, nonprofits, businesses and residents to meet aggressive statewide goals of cutting emissions 26% by 2025 and 50% by 2030. A regional approach has many advantages:
- Economies of scale in programs and projects
- Strategic coordination to align targets, measure annual progress and accelerate results
- Economic development benefits from growing clean energy in our region
- The demonstration value of a multi-county initiative spanning diverse communities
- Interdependence – because our region is tied together by workforce, housing, transportation, human services, utility boundaries and the economy
Three Levers to a Clean Energy Future
The Western Colorado Clean Energy Network will expand regional approaches to accelerating the clean energy transition, focusing on these three areas:
Creating low-carbon mobility and access options is an essential part of our clean energy future.
Building on extensive progress to date, increased efficiency offers a major opportunity to reduce emissions, save money and create jobs.
Initial Projects
- Public solar program to help local governments throughout the region access and implement renewable energy options and meet carbon reduction goals
- Online solar development toolbox, including criteria for potential sites, utility regulations, etc.
- Improved baseline information and the ability to track annual progress toward goals
- Professional trainings and outreach to advance the electrification of buildings and transportation
- Residential “Solarize” program to increase solar energy access to lower-income communities and provide economic benefits through bulk purchasing
- Regional collaboration on group electric vehicle buys, EV education and clean energy transportation options
Participants in Meetings to Date
Clean Energy Economy for the Region (CLEER) ● Garfield Clean Energy ● Colorado Mountain College ● Eagle County ● Pitkin County ● City of Aspen ● City of Glenwood Springs/Glenwood Municipal Utility ● Rifle Economic Development Corporation ● Holy Cross Energy ● Xcel Energy ● National Renewable Energy Lab ● Rocky Mountain Institute ● Climate Action Collaborative for the Eagle County Community ● Walking Mountains Sustainability ● Community Office for Resource Efficiency (CORE) ● Aspen Skiing Company ● Roaring Fork Transportation Authority ● Numerous private-sector solar firms
Network Coordinating Committee: CLEER ● Walking Mountains Sustainability ● CORE ● Holy Cross Energy
