Elected officials, state policymakers, Colorado state agency staff, nonprofit leaders, and industry representatives led a virtual panel discussion on meeting the state’s bold renewable energy goals. Panelists highlighted the job creation and economic benefits associated with developing the state’s wind and solar resources and how responsible transmission development is critical to the future of renewable energy in the state. Panelists also explored the various policy, political, and technical challenges facing Colorado’s clean energy leadership.
Joining the event were PUC commissioners, state representatives, county commissioners, local governments, nonprofits, union leaders, renewable energy developers, land trusts, journalists, academics, and numerous other stakeholders, with over 90 attendees tuning in.
Watch a recording of the panel discussion here.
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On June 28, 2018, State Senators and Representatives toured the 600 megawatt Rush Creek Wind Farm under construction in Matheson, Colorado, about an hour and half southeast from Denver. The project, developed by Xcel Energy, came online in July. Vestas, the Rocky Mountain Farmers Union, and Colorado Farm Bureau joined the tour.
GRID Alternatives, in partnership with Denver Housing Authority, runs a Solar Training Academy. On June 27th, GRID hosted a tour of E-Light Electric and Namaste Solar to connect students with potential employers and show them a day in the solar industry. Representatives from Vote Solar and the Colorado State Senate Minority President, Lucia Guzman, were also in attendance. The academy program provides local, disadvantaged youth on-site training for solar, electrical, and general construction skills. The program grants graduating students industry-recognized certificates from Solar Energy International.
