As the regional organization implementing the Colorado Energy Office’s ReCharge Colorado program in 14 counties, we’ve developed an array of events and resources to encourage consumers and fleet buyers to switch to EVs. For example, our Experience Electric presentations and ride-and-drives allow people to test-drive EVS, talk to current EV owners and learn about the myths and realities of EV ownership. In our annual group-buy sales campaigns, we negotiate discounts with local dealerships to lower the cost of getting into an EV.
We also provide “coaching” services through the related Charge Ahead Colorado, helping site owners (hotels, condo associations, shopping centers, local governments and so on) get state funding to install EV charging stations.
In addition, we run a statewide program to spur the adoption and demonstration of technologies that significantly reduce harmful diesel emissions. The Colorado Clean Diesel Program makes grants to businesses to help offset the cost of replacing their diesel machines – such as construction equipment, bucket trucks, transportation refrigerated units and even snow groomers – with all-electric or hybrid-electric models. The program encourages forward-thinking companies to try out clean energy alternatives, which will enable manufacturers to scale up production and bring down prices.