A green recovery for Colorado and the nation
Cap, renewable power among next steps
With the economy on everyone’s mind, Environment Colorado has been actively working to usher in a green economic recovery. From homegrown power to green collar jobs, our investment in clean energy benefits both Colorado's environment and economy.
On Feb. 17th, after a tour of a solar array, President Obama signed the economic recovery plan that invests $78.6 billion in clean energy, energy efficiency and green transportation.
Clean energy is a clear winner for Colorado and for the nation’s economy. “It’s no surprise that President Obama chose Colorado to sign the recovery bill. We’ve shown that it can be done,” said Pam Kiely, legislative program director of Environment Colorado.
When fully implemented, these provisions will prevent at least 68 million tons of global warming pollution annually, reduce oil consumption by 15 million barrels per year and create more than 1.5 million jobs—with thousands right here in Colorado.
Transit, clean energy to benefit
From the recovery bill, Colorado will see $103 million for transit projects; $50 million for the Governor’s Energy Office; $80 million over three years for state weatherization programs, weatherizing between 8,000 and 10,000 low-income households per year; and $45 million for local energy efficiency and conservation projects.
In addition to investments in clean energy and energy efficiency within the bill, Rep. Ed Perlmutter (CO-7) co-sponsored an amendment that would bring Colorado an additional $3.3 million in statewide rural funds for transit projects.
The next big fight will be over a national renewable energy standard. Right now, the House is considering a comprehensive clean energy bill that would require the country to get 25 percent of its energy from clean sources by 2025. The oil and coal industry is spending big money to make sure that this does not happen.
Environment Colorado is working with our members, members of Congress and state leaders to let congressional leaders know that clean energy works.
