The Crestone Eagle, March 2007:

Colorado lawmakers propose new renewable energy bills
—from RECSolar.com report

Colorado lawmakers introduced HB 1281, the Renewable Energy Standard bill which effectively outlines a 13 year plan for renewable solar energy in the state. House Bill 1281 doubles the state’s current goal of generating 10% of its electricity from renewable sources by 2015, as approved by voters in November 2004. This bill further solidifies Colorado’s status as a renewable energy leader in the nation.

State Sen. Gail Schwartz, D-Snowmass, has sponsored the bill in the Senate along with 18 co-sponsors, including two Republican senators. Xcel Energy, the state’s biggest utility which is on track to become compliant with the 10% mandate by 2008, and rural electric co-operatives also support the legislation.

At least 12 bills will be put forward, said House Majority Leader Rep. Alice Madden, D-Boulder. “We’re literally embarking on a new energy future for Colorado ,” Madden said.

The goal is to diversify the state’s energy sources beyond fossil fuels such as coal and natural gas to domestic renewable resources that offer economic and national security, said Gov. Bill Ritter.

The state has pushed the solar agenda for several reasons: to decrease reliance on fossil fuels, to cut pollution, to reduce the strain on the electric grid during the peak summer months, and in response to the public’s demand that part of their energy come from renewables.

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