Fossil Ridge High School in Fort Collins was the gathering point for local and national political gurus on clean energy last Thursday. The White House sponsored a Clean Energy Economy Forum that brought together some of the most prominent Colorado leaders who have helped bring clean energy and green jobs to our state in the last few years. Gov. Ritter, Rep. Markey, Secretary of the Interior Ken Salazar were all there to highlight accomplishments and talk about existing barriers in bringing Colorado and the Nation toward a renewable energy future.

There was an atmosphere of celebration for those of us at the rally supporting clean energy on the lawn outside the forum. Hugging the shade of the trees, dozens of Fort Collins' residents stood out to hold signs, wave at supportive honking cars, and to let our leaders know that the majority of Americans support the proposed changes to U.S. energy policy which would establish a national renewable energy standard.

Some opposition protesters eventually found their way over to the same shade wearing pirate outfits and waving American flags. If only we could get them to engage and realize that re-powering the country with homegrown, clean energy is among the most patriotic moves we can make! Energy efficiency and renewable energy will create new jobs, protect consumers from increasingly expensive fossil fuel costs, and drive billions of dollars in investments into our economy.

The event was great-- and at the conclusion of the forum I was able to meet Gov. Ritter, who has been a huge champ and partner in bringing clean energy to Colorado. It was also exciting to talk to Rep. Betsy Markey, who recognized the importance of this legislation for bringing new jobs and increased investment to her district, and voted yes for clean energy. She understands the impact the federal energy bill would have on putting Coloradans to work and cleaning up pollution. The conversation made it clear to me that when our representatives can see broad-based support for clean energy; they are able to become strong champs in the halls of Congress.

Next rally: bring sunscreen!

---Dana Hoffman, Energy Associate