Summary:

Colorado Governor Jared Polis has signed the state’s new Community Solar Modernization Act (HB19-1003), which expands this program by increasing individual project sizes and removes sitting restrictions. The original community solar program in Colorado dates back to 2010 and included a 5% per project carveout to serve low-income families. The decision comes at the same time that the Governor unveiled a plan to reach 100% renewable energy by 2040.

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Main Article:

Colorado governor signs bill improving community solar program

"We’re taking immediate action to improve our air quality, curb pollution and fight climate change. Our roadmap to achieve 100% renewable energy in Colorado by 2040 will drive innovation and jobs, cleaner air, and save consumers money," said Colorado Governor Jared Polis on Thursday as he unveiled a roadmap that details directions, policies and actions, as well as progress to date.

“This is our plan for creating a pathway to 100 percent renewable energy in our state, creating good green jobs that can never be outsourced, and saving people money on electricity,” said Governor Jared Polis. “The roadmap is not just about a vision, but includes concrete steps that will help us reap the economic benefits of renewable energy, curb pollution of our air, and fight climate change. Colorado has always been a leader in clean-tech innovation and we have no intentions of slowing down.”

Goals from the roadmap include:

• Modernizing the Public Utilities Commission (PUC)

• Growing green jobs and saving consumers money

• Promoting energy efficiency

• More zero emission vehicles and commuting options

• Ensuring a just and equitable transition for all of Colorado

• Supporting the local commitment to 100 percent renewable energy

• Moving toward zero emissions building

The announcement comes as Governor Polis signed Colorado’s new Community Solar Modernization Act (HB19-1003) into law, which expands community solar opportunity, notably by increasing individual project sizes and removing onerous siting restrictions.

The state’s original community solar program structure included a five percent per project carveout to serve low-income families, an important provision designed to make sure that these shared solar facilities provide real economic opportunity to communities where it’s needed most.