Energy
Building a clean, resilient energy future
Our Goal
Reduce energy use and catalyze a transition to a clean energy economy.
Why It Matters
Burning fossil fuels for electricity, heating, and cooling is the largest source of greenhouse gas emissions in the United States. To avoid the worst impacts of climate change, utilities, businesses and building owners must rapidly transition away from fossil fuels at scale.
The economics are shifting. Renewable energy is now cheaper and faster to deploy than gas or coal. As demand from data centers and artificial intelligence continues to rise, investing in reliable, renewable energy today is critical to keeping our grid resilient tomorrow.
Our Region in Transition
Northwest Colorado is in the middle of a major energy transition. Coal-fired plants like Hayden Station and Craig Station are scheduled to close by 2027 and 2028.
These closures mark a pivotal shift, but they also bring challenges. Jobs and tax revenues tied to these plants support school districts, fire services, and local economies. A just transition means investing in people and places as we reimagine the region’s energy future.
Building a Clean Energy Economy
The future grid must be clean, efficient, and equitable. Policies, rate structures, and programs all have a role to play in supporting:
- Clean energy generation
- Beneficial electrification
- Energy efficiency in both new and existing buildings
At Western Resilience Center, we collaborate across all three areas to build long-term resilience for communities and landscapes.
What We Do
Clean Energy
Northwest Colorado is uniquely positioned for clean energy development, including solar and geothermal. We work with partners across the region to support:
- Local planning
- Project financing
- Clean energy installation
Questions? Contact Paul Bony, Energy and Transportation Director.
Beneficial Electrification
Our region is on track to generate 80% of electricity from renewable sources by 2030 — up from 45% in 2025. To make the most of this transition, buildings must reduce their use of fossil fuels.
We’re helping communities prepare by supporting:
- Electrification plans and decarbonization roadmaps
- Updated building codes and utility rate structures
- Workforce training and public programs
Questions? Contact Paul Bony, Energy and Transportation Director.
Note: See our contractor list for help electrifying your home or business.
Energy Efficiency
Saving energy means saving money and improving comfort and safety in the process.
We partner with Energy Smart Colorado and the Northwest Colorado Council of Governments to provide:
- Residential and commercial energy assessments
- Clear guidance on upgrades and savings opportunities
Questions? Contact Tad Lane, Energy and Transportation Project Manager.
Energy Assessments
Make your home or business more comfortable, and save money. Our assessment program connects you with local experts to identify practical upgrades that improve comfort, reduce costs, and cut emissions.