Seed Newsvine
The House gave final approval Wednesday to a bill that would give purchasers of a new home the right to request that the building equipped with solar panels or pre-wired for solar energy use.
The bill makes it possible for purchasers of a new home to incorporate solar technology into their mortgage.
“Not only does this legislation help Colorado homeowners easily access alternative energy, it also has the potential to increase overall resale value,” sponsoring Rep. Mike Merrifield, D-Colorado Springs, said. “Solar power helps people move away from traditional, finite energy sources, it help home-owners save money, and it helps to create good jobs, from installers to engineers.”
HB 1149 was adopted on a 57-6 vote.
Showing posts with label renewable energy. Show all posts
Showing posts with label renewable energy. Show all posts
Wednesday, February 18, 2009
Wednesday, January 21, 2009
Governor Announces Renewable Energy Grants
Gov. Bill Ritter and Energy Office Director Tom Plant announced today that more than $370,000 in New Energy Economic Development (NEED) grants are being awarded to eight organizations in biomass, energy efficiency, wind, solar and other projects to help create jobs and strengthen local economies.
The Governor’s Energy Office administers the grants using "clean energy" funds, which are funded by gaming revenues and do not draw money from the state's general fund.
“NEED grants allow organizations and communities to make strategic investments in energy efficiency and renewable energy projects that will put people to work and strengthen local economies in the short-term,” Ritter said. “In the long-term, these grants support our New Energy Economy through clean, modern energy and build healthy, sustainable and vibrant communities.”
The clean energy fund grants are from gaming revenues.
The Governor's Energy Office received 57 applications seeking nearly $3 million in grant funding for the third round of NEED grants, according to a press release issued by the governor's office.
The eight grant projects will leverage $552,999 in public-private local matching funds, said the press release, and bring a combined $924,120 investment to Colorado communities.
"NEED grants are highly competitive, demonstrating the depth and strength of Colorado’s New Energy Economy and the innovative nature of our Colorado businesses,” Plant said. “Projects that target investment in emerging technologies, grow the market penetration of well-established technologies and attract New Energy Economy investments to Colorado were selected.”
The eight Colorado NEED award winners include:
1. The City of Greeley, which received $82,489 to conduct a feasibility analysis for the development of a “Greeley Clean Energy Park.”
2. The Colorado Brownfields Foundation, which received $25,000 to create a model for the feasibility of using multiple renewable energy technologies, including solar, wind, biomass, and methane, at a former landfill site in Colorado Springs.
3. Energistic Systems, a Golden company, which received $100,000 for a new and innovative solar thermal system called SunTrac.
4. GARNA and The Global Biomass Network Project, Inc., two non-profit corporate partners in Salida, which received $100,000 in matching funds to support the development of a waste wood diversion/gasification project at the Chaffee County landfill.
5. Hybrids Plus, Inc., a Boulder company, which received $25,000 to design and develop a second generation extended-range battery for plug-in hybrid vehicles in correlation with Xcel Energy’s Smart Grid City Project.
6. Lotus Energy Solutions, a Telluride-based firm, which received $832.00 in matching funds to acquire a duct blaster and software to allow San Miguel County homes to be rated on energy use and become ENERGY STAR certified.
7. Nexajoule, Inc., a Boulder corporation, which received $25,000 to refine designs and conduct field testing on an energy efficient evaporative chiller that can supplement or replace refrigerant-based air conditioning systems.
8. Southeast CO RC&D, based in Lamar, which received a $12,800 grant to install “Fat Spaniel” technology on farm-scale wind turbines to increase the agriculture community’s knowledge base, heighten interest and demonstrate the application of wind technology in eastern Colorado.
The Governor's Energy Office has awarded two previous NEED grant rounds in 2008, totaling $1,006,600.00 for energy efficiency and renewable energy projects throughout the state.
The Governor’s Energy Office administers the grants using "clean energy" funds, which are funded by gaming revenues and do not draw money from the state's general fund.
“NEED grants allow organizations and communities to make strategic investments in energy efficiency and renewable energy projects that will put people to work and strengthen local economies in the short-term,” Ritter said. “In the long-term, these grants support our New Energy Economy through clean, modern energy and build healthy, sustainable and vibrant communities.”
The clean energy fund grants are from gaming revenues.
The Governor's Energy Office received 57 applications seeking nearly $3 million in grant funding for the third round of NEED grants, according to a press release issued by the governor's office.
The eight grant projects will leverage $552,999 in public-private local matching funds, said the press release, and bring a combined $924,120 investment to Colorado communities.
"NEED grants are highly competitive, demonstrating the depth and strength of Colorado’s New Energy Economy and the innovative nature of our Colorado businesses,” Plant said. “Projects that target investment in emerging technologies, grow the market penetration of well-established technologies and attract New Energy Economy investments to Colorado were selected.”
The eight Colorado NEED award winners include:
1. The City of Greeley, which received $82,489 to conduct a feasibility analysis for the development of a “Greeley Clean Energy Park.”
2. The Colorado Brownfields Foundation, which received $25,000 to create a model for the feasibility of using multiple renewable energy technologies, including solar, wind, biomass, and methane, at a former landfill site in Colorado Springs.
3. Energistic Systems, a Golden company, which received $100,000 for a new and innovative solar thermal system called SunTrac.
4. GARNA and The Global Biomass Network Project, Inc., two non-profit corporate partners in Salida, which received $100,000 in matching funds to support the development of a waste wood diversion/gasification project at the Chaffee County landfill.
5. Hybrids Plus, Inc., a Boulder company, which received $25,000 to design and develop a second generation extended-range battery for plug-in hybrid vehicles in correlation with Xcel Energy’s Smart Grid City Project.
6. Lotus Energy Solutions, a Telluride-based firm, which received $832.00 in matching funds to acquire a duct blaster and software to allow San Miguel County homes to be rated on energy use and become ENERGY STAR certified.
7. Nexajoule, Inc., a Boulder corporation, which received $25,000 to refine designs and conduct field testing on an energy efficient evaporative chiller that can supplement or replace refrigerant-based air conditioning systems.
8. Southeast CO RC&D, based in Lamar, which received a $12,800 grant to install “Fat Spaniel” technology on farm-scale wind turbines to increase the agriculture community’s knowledge base, heighten interest and demonstrate the application of wind technology in eastern Colorado.
The Governor's Energy Office has awarded two previous NEED grant rounds in 2008, totaling $1,006,600.00 for energy efficiency and renewable energy projects throughout the state.
Thursday, October 16, 2008
Ritter Says Colorado Capitol Building is LEED-Certified
Gov. Bill Ritter put a feather in his renewable energy cap today, announcing that the Colorado capitol building has become the first such building in the United States to obtain certification for "leadership in energy and environmental design for existing buildings" which is awarded for energy efficiency upgrades made over the past four years.
The capitol, which was constructed in 1895, also has become the first building in the country to receive the U.S. Green Building Council’s new LEED operations and maintenance certification for existing buildings.
“Even with historic structures as old as our Capitol, we have become a leader in energy reduction and energy efficiency," Ritter said. "Not only does this benefit the environment, but we will save taxpayers $1 million a year on reduced and avoided energy costs.”
The LEED certification system provides an outline for buildings to use less energy, water and natural resources, and improve the indoor environment.
“This recognition couldn’t come at a better time for Colorado. It allows us to showcase the efforts of a state that is committed to the future of a sustainable built environment,” U.S. Green Building Council president and chief executive officer Rick Fedrizzi said.
The LEED-EB certification is awarded to those who can certify an existing building has been retrofitted in a manner that demonstrates certain efficiency standards for its ongoing operations and maintenance.
In addition to the Capitol, three other state buildings in the Capitol Complex previously received "LEED for Existing Buildings" certifications: the State Services Building at 1525 Sherman St., the state Judicial/Heritage Center at 14th and Broadway, and the State Human Services Building at 1575 Sherman St.
The Governor’s Residence and the Colorado Division of Labor and Employment building at 251 E. 12th Ave. are also under review for LEED certification.
Building specific improvements that have been made to the Capitol in order to obtain LEED-EB certification include water conservation efforts such as low flow toilets, use of low energy light bulbs and T-8 light fixtures, improved energy controls, use of green cleaning products, initiation and maintenance of a recycling program, purchase of "Energy Star®" electronics and equipment, and use of environmentally friendly landscaping products and plans.
The capitol, which was constructed in 1895, also has become the first building in the country to receive the U.S. Green Building Council’s new LEED operations and maintenance certification for existing buildings.
“Even with historic structures as old as our Capitol, we have become a leader in energy reduction and energy efficiency," Ritter said. "Not only does this benefit the environment, but we will save taxpayers $1 million a year on reduced and avoided energy costs.”
The LEED certification system provides an outline for buildings to use less energy, water and natural resources, and improve the indoor environment.
“This recognition couldn’t come at a better time for Colorado. It allows us to showcase the efforts of a state that is committed to the future of a sustainable built environment,” U.S. Green Building Council president and chief executive officer Rick Fedrizzi said.
The LEED-EB certification is awarded to those who can certify an existing building has been retrofitted in a manner that demonstrates certain efficiency standards for its ongoing operations and maintenance.
In addition to the Capitol, three other state buildings in the Capitol Complex previously received "LEED for Existing Buildings" certifications: the State Services Building at 1525 Sherman St., the state Judicial/Heritage Center at 14th and Broadway, and the State Human Services Building at 1575 Sherman St.
The Governor’s Residence and the Colorado Division of Labor and Employment building at 251 E. 12th Ave. are also under review for LEED certification.
Building specific improvements that have been made to the Capitol in order to obtain LEED-EB certification include water conservation efforts such as low flow toilets, use of low energy light bulbs and T-8 light fixtures, improved energy controls, use of green cleaning products, initiation and maintenance of a recycling program, purchase of "Energy Star®" electronics and equipment, and use of environmentally friendly landscaping products and plans.
Tuesday, October 14, 2008
Ritter Announces Energy Grants
Gov. Bill Ritter today announced the first recipients of the “New Energy Communities Initiative,” deciding to fund 14 projects around the state that his administration thinks will "stimulate economic growth, create new jobs, enhance sustainability and lead to more livable communities all across Colorado."
“The New Energy Communities Initiative will be a valuable resource for communities that are working together to build Colorado’s New Energy Economy,” Ritter said during a keynote address at the second annual New Energy Economy Conference at the Colorado Convention Center. “These 14 projects will enhance livability, strengthen the economy and reward regional collaboration throughout Colorado.”
The 14 grant recipients, representing regional and collaborative efforts, were selected from 32 applications. About 1.8 million people live in the areas that will benefit from these projects. The projects are:
1. Avon Heat Recovery Facility: $1.5 million
2. Boulder County Biomass Heating Initiative: $500,000
3. Cortez Micro-Hydroelectric Plant: $500,000
4. Fort Collins Regional New Energy Communities Initiative: $778,000
5. Garfield County New Energy Communities Initiative: $1.6 million
6. Grand Junction New Energy Communities Initiative: $1 million
7. Greeley Intergovernmental New Energy Communities Initiative: $700,000
8. La Plata County Regional New Energy Communities Initiative: $1.2 million
9. Longmont New Energy Communities Initiative: $500,000
10. Loveland Multi-Agency New Energy Communities Initiative: $39,250
11. Pikes Peak Region New Energy Communities Initiative: $200,000
12. Pueblo Sustainable New Energy Communities Initiative: $1 million
13. Routt County New Energy Communities Initiative: $87,000
14. Yuma County New Energy Communities Initiative: $400,000
"The New Energy Communities Initiative provides an energy and economic stimulus that rewards communities throughout Colorado for innovative ideas that will save energy, save money and create jobs,” Governor's Energy Office director Tom Plant said.
Gov. Ritter announced the establishment of the New Energy Communities Initiative at the Colorado Municipal League’s annual conference in Steamboat Springs in June. The initiative is a joint effort of Colorado Department of Local Affairs and the Governor's Energy Office. It is designed to maximize energy efficiency and conservation, enhance community livability, promote economic development, and address climate change by reducing carbon emissions.
The program directs $10 million in Energy Impact Assistance Funds to regional efforts, with a maximum of $2 million per region.
“These grants will help local communities upgrade, retrofit or develop energy efficient public facilities, enhance street-scape improvements and downtown revitalization, and assist local governments’ efforts to educate homeowners on energy efficient upgrades and retrofits to meet higher energy efficiency standards,” Susan Kirkpatrick, executive director of the Department of Local Affairs, said.
The Energy and Mineral Impact Assistance program assists communities in offsetting the direct impacts of energy and mineral development and in meeting other needs indirectly related to such development. The funds are administered by the Colorado Department of Local Affairs and come from the state severance tax on oil, gas, carbon dioxide, coal and metals and from the state's share of royalties paid to the federal government for the extraction of minerals and mineral fuels on federally owned land.
“The New Energy Communities Initiative will be a valuable resource for communities that are working together to build Colorado’s New Energy Economy,” Ritter said during a keynote address at the second annual New Energy Economy Conference at the Colorado Convention Center. “These 14 projects will enhance livability, strengthen the economy and reward regional collaboration throughout Colorado.”
The 14 grant recipients, representing regional and collaborative efforts, were selected from 32 applications. About 1.8 million people live in the areas that will benefit from these projects. The projects are:
1. Avon Heat Recovery Facility: $1.5 million
2. Boulder County Biomass Heating Initiative: $500,000
3. Cortez Micro-Hydroelectric Plant: $500,000
4. Fort Collins Regional New Energy Communities Initiative: $778,000
5. Garfield County New Energy Communities Initiative: $1.6 million
6. Grand Junction New Energy Communities Initiative: $1 million
7. Greeley Intergovernmental New Energy Communities Initiative: $700,000
8. La Plata County Regional New Energy Communities Initiative: $1.2 million
9. Longmont New Energy Communities Initiative: $500,000
10. Loveland Multi-Agency New Energy Communities Initiative: $39,250
11. Pikes Peak Region New Energy Communities Initiative: $200,000
12. Pueblo Sustainable New Energy Communities Initiative: $1 million
13. Routt County New Energy Communities Initiative: $87,000
14. Yuma County New Energy Communities Initiative: $400,000
"The New Energy Communities Initiative provides an energy and economic stimulus that rewards communities throughout Colorado for innovative ideas that will save energy, save money and create jobs,” Governor's Energy Office director Tom Plant said.
Gov. Ritter announced the establishment of the New Energy Communities Initiative at the Colorado Municipal League’s annual conference in Steamboat Springs in June. The initiative is a joint effort of Colorado Department of Local Affairs and the Governor's Energy Office. It is designed to maximize energy efficiency and conservation, enhance community livability, promote economic development, and address climate change by reducing carbon emissions.
The program directs $10 million in Energy Impact Assistance Funds to regional efforts, with a maximum of $2 million per region.
“These grants will help local communities upgrade, retrofit or develop energy efficient public facilities, enhance street-scape improvements and downtown revitalization, and assist local governments’ efforts to educate homeowners on energy efficient upgrades and retrofits to meet higher energy efficiency standards,” Susan Kirkpatrick, executive director of the Department of Local Affairs, said.
The Energy and Mineral Impact Assistance program assists communities in offsetting the direct impacts of energy and mineral development and in meeting other needs indirectly related to such development. The funds are administered by the Colorado Department of Local Affairs and come from the state severance tax on oil, gas, carbon dioxide, coal and metals and from the state's share of royalties paid to the federal government for the extraction of minerals and mineral fuels on federally owned land.
Monday, September 22, 2008
Ritter Announces NSF Grants to Universities
Gov. Bill Ritter today joined officials and researchers from the University of Colorado and the Colorado School of Mines to announce $16.5 million in six-year National Science Foundation research grants through NSF’s Materials Research Science and Engineering Center program.
The School of Mines will receive $9.3 million to establish a new Center, which will focus on investigating emerging renewable energy materials and technologies. It will be the first NSF-funded Center dedicated solely to renewable energy.
CU-Boulder will receive $7.2 million to continue and expand work at its existing Liquid Crystals Research Center. This will be the third round of NSF funding for the Center. Founded in 1995, the Center has spun off six different companies, and its research is contributing to a number of different fields, including better liquid crystals for solar panels and the origins of DNA.
“These grants will help us address the enormous energy challenges that face our state, our country and our planet,” Ritter said. “There are only 26 Centers around the country, so for Colorado to receive two multimillion grants is an incredible achievement. It recognizes the cutting-edge science and advanced-technology research being done here."
The director of the National Science Foundation expressed confidence that the money would facilitate research that is important to providing for the country's energy needs.
“I have full confidence that these two Centers will advance our understanding of basic materials science, address the energy challenges that face our nation and the world, and train the next generation of scientists and engineers on how to solve the complex problems of the future,” Dr. Arden Bement said.
The Colorado Higher Education Competitive Research Authority played a key role in providing state matching funds for each grant. This research authority was created by SB 07-182, sponsored by Sen. Bob Bacon, D-Fort Collins, and Rep. Jack Pommer, D-Boulder, to provide the state’s research institutions with matching funds so they can compete effectively for major federal grants that require such state support.
Bacon and Pommer joined Ritter at today’s news conference along with CU President Bruce Benson and School of Mines President Bill Scoggins.
The School of Mines will receive $9.3 million to establish a new Center, which will focus on investigating emerging renewable energy materials and technologies. It will be the first NSF-funded Center dedicated solely to renewable energy.
CU-Boulder will receive $7.2 million to continue and expand work at its existing Liquid Crystals Research Center. This will be the third round of NSF funding for the Center. Founded in 1995, the Center has spun off six different companies, and its research is contributing to a number of different fields, including better liquid crystals for solar panels and the origins of DNA.
“These grants will help us address the enormous energy challenges that face our state, our country and our planet,” Ritter said. “There are only 26 Centers around the country, so for Colorado to receive two multimillion grants is an incredible achievement. It recognizes the cutting-edge science and advanced-technology research being done here."
The director of the National Science Foundation expressed confidence that the money would facilitate research that is important to providing for the country's energy needs.
“I have full confidence that these two Centers will advance our understanding of basic materials science, address the energy challenges that face our nation and the world, and train the next generation of scientists and engineers on how to solve the complex problems of the future,” Dr. Arden Bement said.
The Colorado Higher Education Competitive Research Authority played a key role in providing state matching funds for each grant. This research authority was created by SB 07-182, sponsored by Sen. Bob Bacon, D-Fort Collins, and Rep. Jack Pommer, D-Boulder, to provide the state’s research institutions with matching funds so they can compete effectively for major federal grants that require such state support.
Bacon and Pommer joined Ritter at today’s news conference along with CU President Bruce Benson and School of Mines President Bill Scoggins.
Wednesday, September 10, 2008
Ritter Says State to Get Grant to Help With Renewable Energy Transformation
Gov. Bill Ritter announced today that the Governor’s Energy Office (GEO) has been selected to receive a $397,700 grant from the U.S. Department of Energy to advance renewable energy in Colorado.
GEO will use the grant to develop technical, financial and policy frameworks to expedite the construction of an additional 1,000 megawatts of renewable resource capacity onto the Colorado electricity grid.
“This DOE grant is another important step forward for Colorado’s New Energy Economy,” Ritter said. “It will help us connect Colorado’s abundant solar and wind resources to our transmission grid."
The objectives of the nine-month grant are to prepare a set of concrete policy recommendations that will:
(1) directly address major permitting, siting and environmental barriers to the integration of renewable energy development and transmission expansion;
(2) connect several gigawatts of renewable energy from the 10 Renewable Resource Generation Development Areas identified in a 2007 “mapping” report conducted for the governor’s office and state legislature;
(3) support both regulated and public utilities to expand the current level of planned transmission investments to the Generation Development Areas; and
(4) be replicable in other states to substantially expand and create an aggregated, regional, renewable energy market.
One thousand megawatts of renewable energy will provide enough power to serve 330,000 homes.
The governor's office did not indicate when the federal grant would actually be received by the state.
GEO will use the grant to develop technical, financial and policy frameworks to expedite the construction of an additional 1,000 megawatts of renewable resource capacity onto the Colorado electricity grid.
“This DOE grant is another important step forward for Colorado’s New Energy Economy,” Ritter said. “It will help us connect Colorado’s abundant solar and wind resources to our transmission grid."
The objectives of the nine-month grant are to prepare a set of concrete policy recommendations that will:
(1) directly address major permitting, siting and environmental barriers to the integration of renewable energy development and transmission expansion;
(2) connect several gigawatts of renewable energy from the 10 Renewable Resource Generation Development Areas identified in a 2007 “mapping” report conducted for the governor’s office and state legislature;
(3) support both regulated and public utilities to expand the current level of planned transmission investments to the Generation Development Areas; and
(4) be replicable in other states to substantially expand and create an aggregated, regional, renewable energy market.
One thousand megawatts of renewable energy will provide enough power to serve 330,000 homes.
The governor's office did not indicate when the federal grant would actually be received by the state.
Thursday, September 4, 2008
Ritter Criticizes Federal EIS on Oil Shale Development
Gov. Bill Ritter criticized the final environmental impact statement issued by the U.S. Department of Interior in connection with proposed oil shale development in the state today, saying the program is inconsistent with Colorado's commitment to renewable energy and that the Bush Administration is not cooperating with his administration.
"The Bush Administration is engaging in last-minute maneuvering in its waning days rather than developing a comprehensive, meaningful and responsible long-term energy policy for America’s future," Ritter said. "Finalizing an Environmental Impact Statement without any clear understanding of the environmental, community, economic and energy impacts of commercial-scale oil shale development is irresponsible, short-sighted and premature."
Ritter emphasized that his administration is not opposed to all energy development.
“As the national debate over America’s energy future continues, we must be clear that Colorado is committed to helping meet America’s energy needs," Ritter said. "We are issuing about 35 new oil and gas drilling permits a day. We are building a New Energy Economy that is bringing thousands of new jobs to Colorado. And our research institutions are developing cutting-edge, new energy technologies."
“But with the Department of Interior’s action today, the federal government has once again failed to act as a responsible partner for Colorado. This does nothing to address gas prices at the pump today and has the potential to do much more harm than good.”
"The Bush Administration is engaging in last-minute maneuvering in its waning days rather than developing a comprehensive, meaningful and responsible long-term energy policy for America’s future," Ritter said. "Finalizing an Environmental Impact Statement without any clear understanding of the environmental, community, economic and energy impacts of commercial-scale oil shale development is irresponsible, short-sighted and premature."
Ritter emphasized that his administration is not opposed to all energy development.
“As the national debate over America’s energy future continues, we must be clear that Colorado is committed to helping meet America’s energy needs," Ritter said. "We are issuing about 35 new oil and gas drilling permits a day. We are building a New Energy Economy that is bringing thousands of new jobs to Colorado. And our research institutions are developing cutting-edge, new energy technologies."
“But with the Department of Interior’s action today, the federal government has once again failed to act as a responsible partner for Colorado. This does nothing to address gas prices at the pump today and has the potential to do much more harm than good.”
Friday, August 22, 2008
Ritter, Vestas Announce Plans to Build Large Wind Generation Facility Near Pueblo
Gov. Bill Ritter joined officials from Vestas Towers A/S, a Danish company, to announce plans to build the world's largest wind tower manufacturing plant in Pueblo.
“I applaud Vestas for continuing to invest in Colorado – this time in Pueblo – and for bringing new jobs to one of the greatest communities in the state,” Gov. Ritter said. “Vestas’ decision to locate what will be the world’s largest wind tower manufacturing plant here in Pueblo demonstrates that our New Energy Economy is benefiting every corner of Colorado.”
The $240 million capitol investment includes a manufacturing facility that will produce up to 900 steel towers annually for Vestas wind turbines, employing 450 to 550 workers, not including other contracting and consulting jobs. The plant is scheduled to open in 2009.
The tower manufacturing plant represents the largest single investment in Vestas history. Vestas officials cited easy access to rail and highways, the state's highly skilled workforce, a favorable business climate, and strong dedication and commitment from state and local leaders to growing Colorado's New Energy Economy as reasons for further expanding their Colorado operations.
Today’s announcement follows last week’s announcement that Vestas will open two new production facilities in Brighton, one to make wind blades and the other to assemble nacelles.
Nacelles are the housing units that sit atop the tower and contain the gearbox, generator and transformer. Vestas opened its first North American manufacturing facility in Windsor earlier this year.
All four production facilities amount to a $700 million capital investment by Vestas, and will result in the creation of nearly 2,500 new jobs in Colorado.
“I applaud Vestas for continuing to invest in Colorado – this time in Pueblo – and for bringing new jobs to one of the greatest communities in the state,” Gov. Ritter said. “Vestas’ decision to locate what will be the world’s largest wind tower manufacturing plant here in Pueblo demonstrates that our New Energy Economy is benefiting every corner of Colorado.”
The $240 million capitol investment includes a manufacturing facility that will produce up to 900 steel towers annually for Vestas wind turbines, employing 450 to 550 workers, not including other contracting and consulting jobs. The plant is scheduled to open in 2009.
The tower manufacturing plant represents the largest single investment in Vestas history. Vestas officials cited easy access to rail and highways, the state's highly skilled workforce, a favorable business climate, and strong dedication and commitment from state and local leaders to growing Colorado's New Energy Economy as reasons for further expanding their Colorado operations.
Today’s announcement follows last week’s announcement that Vestas will open two new production facilities in Brighton, one to make wind blades and the other to assemble nacelles.
Nacelles are the housing units that sit atop the tower and contain the gearbox, generator and transformer. Vestas opened its first North American manufacturing facility in Windsor earlier this year.
All four production facilities amount to a $700 million capital investment by Vestas, and will result in the creation of nearly 2,500 new jobs in Colorado.
Friday, August 15, 2008
Ritter, Vestas Announce Factory Expansion
Gov. Bill Ritter and Economic Development Director Don Elliman announced today that Denmark-based Vestas will significantly expand its Colorado operations by building two new manufacturing plants in Brighton.
The wind-blade production plant and nacelle assembly factory represent a $290 million capital investment and will bring 1,350 new jobs to Colorado.
“This expansion reinforces Colorado’s standing as a national and international leader in clean, modern energy for the future,” Ritter said. “It puts an exclamation point on our efforts to build a New Energy Economy that adds jobs, takes advantage of Colorado’s incredible intellectual capital, secures our energy future and helps end our dependence on foreign oil.”
Vestas opened its first North American manufacturing plant in Windsor earlier this year. The 650-employee facility will produce 1,800 giant wind blades a year.
The new Brighton facilities, which should be operational by July 1, 2010, will include a $180 million blade-manufacturing plant that will produce 1,800 blades a year and provide 650 new jobs, a $110 million nacelle assembly factory that will produce 1,400 nacelles a year and provide 700 new jobs, and a technology and production engineering office.
Nacelles are the turbine housing units that sit atop the tower and contain key components like the gearbox, generator and transformer. This will be Vestas’ largest nacelle assembly factory in the world.
The 178-acre site is located in unincorporated Weld County and will be annexed into Brighton. Vestas is purchasing 112 acres from Brighton and 66 acres from RTD, which obtained the land from the Union Pacific Railroad.
In addition, Vestas intends to build the world’s largest tower-manufacturing facility elsewhere in Colorado; the exact location has not yet been announced.
All told, Vestas’ entire commitment to Colorado represents a nearly $700 million capital investment and 2,450 new jobs.
“This is a tremendous boon for all of Colorado,” Ritter said. “It adds momentum to our push to diversify our energy portfolio and build a 21st century economy based on industries of the future. What we are doing here in Colorado can and should serve as a model for the rest of the country.”
The wind-blade production plant and nacelle assembly factory represent a $290 million capital investment and will bring 1,350 new jobs to Colorado.
“This expansion reinforces Colorado’s standing as a national and international leader in clean, modern energy for the future,” Ritter said. “It puts an exclamation point on our efforts to build a New Energy Economy that adds jobs, takes advantage of Colorado’s incredible intellectual capital, secures our energy future and helps end our dependence on foreign oil.”
Vestas opened its first North American manufacturing plant in Windsor earlier this year. The 650-employee facility will produce 1,800 giant wind blades a year.
The new Brighton facilities, which should be operational by July 1, 2010, will include a $180 million blade-manufacturing plant that will produce 1,800 blades a year and provide 650 new jobs, a $110 million nacelle assembly factory that will produce 1,400 nacelles a year and provide 700 new jobs, and a technology and production engineering office.
Nacelles are the turbine housing units that sit atop the tower and contain key components like the gearbox, generator and transformer. This will be Vestas’ largest nacelle assembly factory in the world.
The 178-acre site is located in unincorporated Weld County and will be annexed into Brighton. Vestas is purchasing 112 acres from Brighton and 66 acres from RTD, which obtained the land from the Union Pacific Railroad.
In addition, Vestas intends to build the world’s largest tower-manufacturing facility elsewhere in Colorado; the exact location has not yet been announced.
All told, Vestas’ entire commitment to Colorado represents a nearly $700 million capital investment and 2,450 new jobs.
“This is a tremendous boon for all of Colorado,” Ritter said. “It adds momentum to our push to diversify our energy portfolio and build a 21st century economy based on industries of the future. What we are doing here in Colorado can and should serve as a model for the rest of the country.”
Tuesday, April 1, 2008
Solar Energy Financing Bill Leaps First Hurdle
A bill that would make low- or no-interest loans available to homeowners and businesses who want to install solar energy collectors cleared a House committee today.
Under HB 1350, the state government, as well as local and county governments, would be given permission to lend money for investment in solar panels and other renewable energy technology.
According to a report in today's Denver Post, the cost of a solar system can average about $25,000. Some electric utilities offer rebates and there are tax incentives to assist with the purchase price. However, according to the Post report, such assistance defrays only about one-half of the purchase price of the system.
"Right now, even with the rebates and knowing it will save you money in the long run, many homeowners don't even consider putting solar on their house," said Rep. Alice Madden, D-Boulder, the bill sponsor. "They know they're going to have to come up with some up-front payment."
The bill would also make the loans available for improvements to a structure aimed at lowering energy use.
The measure is similar to a separate bill moving in the Senate. SB 184, sponsored by Democrat Chris Romer of Denver, would create a fund for loans to homeowners interested in doing smaller-scale energy efficiency improvements to their homes.
The committee vote to send HB 1350 to the House floor was unanimous.
Under HB 1350, the state government, as well as local and county governments, would be given permission to lend money for investment in solar panels and other renewable energy technology.
According to a report in today's Denver Post, the cost of a solar system can average about $25,000. Some electric utilities offer rebates and there are tax incentives to assist with the purchase price. However, according to the Post report, such assistance defrays only about one-half of the purchase price of the system.
"Right now, even with the rebates and knowing it will save you money in the long run, many homeowners don't even consider putting solar on their house," said Rep. Alice Madden, D-Boulder, the bill sponsor. "They know they're going to have to come up with some up-front payment."
The bill would also make the loans available for improvements to a structure aimed at lowering energy use.
The measure is similar to a separate bill moving in the Senate. SB 184, sponsored by Democrat Chris Romer of Denver, would create a fund for loans to homeowners interested in doing smaller-scale energy efficiency improvements to their homes.
The committee vote to send HB 1350 to the House floor was unanimous.
Monday, March 31, 2008
Senate Gives Final OK to Ban on CCR Provisions Affecting Renewable Energy Equipment
The Senate gave final approval Monday to a bill that would forbid homeowner associations from prohibiting renewable energy devices and certain other items that can save energy.
HB 1270 allows HOA regulations included in covenants to regulate such devices only if they do not raise the cost or practical obstacles to the point of making installation impractical or impossible.
The Senate adopted an amendment by Sen. Ron Tupa, D-Boulder, on second reading that would grant HOAs further latitude to regulate wind turbines. The amendment is aimed at allowing HOAs to take account of the noise created by those devices.
The bill now heads back to the House for consideration of the Senate amendments. It is sponsored by Rep. Andy Kerr, D-Lakewood, and Tupa.
Colorado has had a ban on enforcement of covenants that unreasonably restrict solar energy devices since 1979.
HB 1270 allows HOA regulations included in covenants to regulate such devices only if they do not raise the cost or practical obstacles to the point of making installation impractical or impossible.
The Senate adopted an amendment by Sen. Ron Tupa, D-Boulder, on second reading that would grant HOAs further latitude to regulate wind turbines. The amendment is aimed at allowing HOAs to take account of the noise created by those devices.
The bill now heads back to the House for consideration of the Senate amendments. It is sponsored by Rep. Andy Kerr, D-Lakewood, and Tupa.
Colorado has had a ban on enforcement of covenants that unreasonably restrict solar energy devices since 1979.
Wednesday, March 26, 2008
Ritter Signs Net Metering Bill
Gov. Bill Ritter signed Wednesday a bill that will require the state's municipal utilities and rural electric cooperatives to grant credit on the electric bills of their customers who generate power from renewable sources.
HB 1160, sponsored by Rep. Judy Solano, D-Brighton, caps the amount of "home-grown" power for which a utility must give credit. Residential generators can get credit on their electricity bills for up to 10 kilowatt-hours of power, while commercial users can get credit for up to 25 KwH.
"This marks another momentous step forward as we engage homeowners and businesses in participating in the New Energy Economy," Ritter said. "This bill brings fair and equitable net-metering policies to citizens throughout the state, and it encourages more residential investment in renewable energy while supporting its use in rural communities."
The measure allows the municipal utilities and rural electric cooperatives to require the customer-generator to provide insurance and comply with technical interconnection standards. It does not apply to municipal utilities with less than 5,000 customers. It applies to power generated from solar, wind and hot water systems.
According to the U.S. Department of Energy, 42 states plus the District of Columbia have net metering laws in effect. Amendment 37, passed by the state's voters in 2004, imposed net metering requirements on investor-owned utilities operating in Colorado.
HB 1160, sponsored by Rep. Judy Solano, D-Brighton, caps the amount of "home-grown" power for which a utility must give credit. Residential generators can get credit on their electricity bills for up to 10 kilowatt-hours of power, while commercial users can get credit for up to 25 KwH.
"This marks another momentous step forward as we engage homeowners and businesses in participating in the New Energy Economy," Ritter said. "This bill brings fair and equitable net-metering policies to citizens throughout the state, and it encourages more residential investment in renewable energy while supporting its use in rural communities."
The measure allows the municipal utilities and rural electric cooperatives to require the customer-generator to provide insurance and comply with technical interconnection standards. It does not apply to municipal utilities with less than 5,000 customers. It applies to power generated from solar, wind and hot water systems.
According to the U.S. Department of Energy, 42 states plus the District of Columbia have net metering laws in effect. Amendment 37, passed by the state's voters in 2004, imposed net metering requirements on investor-owned utilities operating in Colorado.
Thursday, February 28, 2008
Ban on HOA Restrictions of Energy-Saving Devices Clears House
A bill that would forbid homeowners associations from enforcing covenants that prohibit energy-saving devices such as solar panels and retractable clotheslines gained final approval in the House Wednesday.
HB 1270, sponsored by Rep. Andy Kerr, D-Lakewood, would also apply to wind-electric generators (turbines), structures that provide shade such as an awning or trellis, shutters, garage and attic fans, energy-efficient outdoor lighting facilities and evaporative coolers.
The bill retains HOA's ability to regulate the aesthetics of such devices, including their placement.
However, in the case of energy-generation devices such as solar panels and wind turbines, the bill makes clear that such restrictions are void if they "significantly increase its purchase price or operating costs" or "significantly decrease its performance or efficiency."
In the case of other energy-saving devices the bill specifies that HOA restrictions must take into account the "impact on purchase price and operating costs" and the "impact on performance."
There were 20 "no" votes on the bill, all cast by Republicans. Joining the chamber's Democrats in support were Reps. David Balmer, R-Centennial, Douglas Bruce, R-Colorado Springs, Stella Garza-Hicks, R-Colorado Springs, Ray Rose, R-Montrose, and Al White, R-Hayden.
HB 1270, sponsored by Rep. Andy Kerr, D-Lakewood, would also apply to wind-electric generators (turbines), structures that provide shade such as an awning or trellis, shutters, garage and attic fans, energy-efficient outdoor lighting facilities and evaporative coolers.
The bill retains HOA's ability to regulate the aesthetics of such devices, including their placement.
However, in the case of energy-generation devices such as solar panels and wind turbines, the bill makes clear that such restrictions are void if they "significantly increase its purchase price or operating costs" or "significantly decrease its performance or efficiency."
In the case of other energy-saving devices the bill specifies that HOA restrictions must take into account the "impact on purchase price and operating costs" and the "impact on performance."
There were 20 "no" votes on the bill, all cast by Republicans. Joining the chamber's Democrats in support were Reps. David Balmer, R-Centennial, Douglas Bruce, R-Colorado Springs, Stella Garza-Hicks, R-Colorado Springs, Ray Rose, R-Montrose, and Al White, R-Hayden.
Friday, February 22, 2008
Cap on Municipal Solar Facility Fees Gets Senate Nod
A bill that would cap the fees that can be charged by municipalities for approval of solar energy systems was given preliminary approval by the Senate Thursday.
SB 117 would limit the amount that could be assessed to $300 for a residential permit and $1,000 for a non-residential permit. Currently, fees vary widely around the state. In Denver, the fee for approval of a solar energy system is $59, while in Aurora it is nearly $1,000.
Sen. Shawn Mitchell, R-Broomfield, is the sponsor of the bill. He told fellow Senators during debate on the measure that fee caps would eliminate a large obstacle to the proliferation of solar energy generation facilities and more renewable energy use.
Proponents of the bill said in committee hearings that, in some cases under current law, the permit fees can be equivalent to ten percent of the total cost of the system.
An industry advocate argued in a recent Rocky Mountain News editorial column that high municipal solar permit fees can also offset several years worth of energy bill savings to the consumer.
SB 117 would limit the amount that could be assessed to $300 for a residential permit and $1,000 for a non-residential permit. Currently, fees vary widely around the state. In Denver, the fee for approval of a solar energy system is $59, while in Aurora it is nearly $1,000.
Sen. Shawn Mitchell, R-Broomfield, is the sponsor of the bill. He told fellow Senators during debate on the measure that fee caps would eliminate a large obstacle to the proliferation of solar energy generation facilities and more renewable energy use.
Proponents of the bill said in committee hearings that, in some cases under current law, the permit fees can be equivalent to ten percent of the total cost of the system.
An industry advocate argued in a recent Rocky Mountain News editorial column that high municipal solar permit fees can also offset several years worth of energy bill savings to the consumer.
Wednesday, February 13, 2008
Net Metering Bill on Way to Senate
The House gave final approval Wednesday to a bill that would require rural electric cooperatives and municipal utilities to grant credit on electric bills to customers that generate renewable energy.
HB 1160 passed with only one "no" vote, which came from Rep. Douglas Bruce, R-Colorado Springs.
The bill requires municipal utilities that serve at least 5,000 customers and all rural electric cooperatives to offset customers' electricity use by the amount of power that customer generates, subject to certain caps.
The bill also sets standards by which rural electric cooperatives and municipal utilities must decide whether to allow generators of "home-grown" energy to interconnect to the grid. It also requires residential and business generators to meet certain insurance requirements in order to interconnect.
HB 1160 is sponsored in the House by Rep. Judy Solano, D-Thornton, and in the Senate by Sens. Brandon Shaffer, D-Longmont, and Jim Isgar, D-Hesperus.
HB 1160 passed with only one "no" vote, which came from Rep. Douglas Bruce, R-Colorado Springs.
The bill requires municipal utilities that serve at least 5,000 customers and all rural electric cooperatives to offset customers' electricity use by the amount of power that customer generates, subject to certain caps.
The bill also sets standards by which rural electric cooperatives and municipal utilities must decide whether to allow generators of "home-grown" energy to interconnect to the grid. It also requires residential and business generators to meet certain insurance requirements in order to interconnect.
HB 1160 is sponsored in the House by Rep. Judy Solano, D-Thornton, and in the Senate by Sens. Brandon Shaffer, D-Longmont, and Jim Isgar, D-Hesperus.
Bill to Cap Municipal Solar Fees Approved in Senate Committee
A bill that would cap the fees charged by local governments for permits needed to install solar energy systems was approved by a Senate committee Wednesday.
SB 117 is aimed at reducing the financial obstacles to the expansion of solar energy use by the state's residents and businesses.
The Senate's Agriculture, Natural Resources & Energy Committee unanimously approved the measure, which is sponsored by Sen. Shawn Mitchell, R-Broomfield.
It now heads to the Senate floor.
SB 117 is aimed at reducing the financial obstacles to the expansion of solar energy use by the state's residents and businesses.
The Senate's Agriculture, Natural Resources & Energy Committee unanimously approved the measure, which is sponsored by Sen. Shawn Mitchell, R-Broomfield.
It now heads to the Senate floor.
Thursday, February 7, 2008
Solano Optimistic About Net Metering Bill
Rep. Judy Solano, D-Thornton, is optimistic that her bill to require municipal utilities and rural electric cooperatives to provide "net metering" to customers generating their own power will get to the Governor.
"The hold-up is there's so many people working on this," Solano said in an interview with Colorado Capitol Journal this afternoon. She said that utilities, environmental groups and business organizations have been involved in negotiations on the bill.
Passage of the bill, HB 1160, in the house will be facilitated by the agreement with Sen. Jim Isgar, D-Hesperus, to resolve concerns about those utilities' ability to recover certain costs, according to Solano.
"The agreement will be put in an amendment in the Senate," she said. "It's really a matter of timing."
HB 1160 faces a third and final vote in the House Friday. Solano said she is confident the bill has enough votes to move on to the Senate.
"The hold-up is there's so many people working on this," Solano said in an interview with Colorado Capitol Journal this afternoon. She said that utilities, environmental groups and business organizations have been involved in negotiations on the bill.
Passage of the bill, HB 1160, in the house will be facilitated by the agreement with Sen. Jim Isgar, D-Hesperus, to resolve concerns about those utilities' ability to recover certain costs, according to Solano.
"The agreement will be put in an amendment in the Senate," she said. "It's really a matter of timing."
HB 1160 faces a third and final vote in the House Friday. Solano said she is confident the bill has enough votes to move on to the Senate.
Net Metering Bill Final House Vote Put Off
The House put off Thursday a final vote on the bill that would create net metering requirements for the state's rural electric cooperatives and municipal utilities
HB 1160 has already passed the House on second reading. A third and final vote in the chamber is now scheduled for tomorrow.
The sponsor is Rep. Judy Solano, D-Thornton.
HB 1160 has already passed the House on second reading. A third and final vote in the chamber is now scheduled for tomorrow.
The sponsor is Rep. Judy Solano, D-Thornton.
Wednesday, February 6, 2008
REA Energy Efficiency Bill Gets Committee Nod
The House Transportation & Energy Committee approved Tuesday a bill that will require the state's rural electric cooperatives to set aside money for energy efficiency programs.
HB 1107, sponsored by Rep. Claire Levy, D-Boulder, would force the cooperatives to set aside a portion of their revenues for the purpose of helping their customers conserve energy.
The bill provides that the set-aside is not required in any year in which the revenues earned by a cooperative decline from the previous year. It applies only to cooperatives that serve at least 5,000 customers.
The amount of revenue required to be devoted to energy efficiency promotion is one percent in 2009 and two percent in subsequent years. Expenses that would be considered related to promotion of energy efficiency would include program planning, administration, marketing, technical assistance, consumer education, rebates and other financial incentives and evaluation costs related to program design and implementation.
All five Republicans on the committee opposed the bill, while all Democrats supported it.
The bill now goes to the House Appropriations Committee.
HB 1107, sponsored by Rep. Claire Levy, D-Boulder, would force the cooperatives to set aside a portion of their revenues for the purpose of helping their customers conserve energy.
The bill provides that the set-aside is not required in any year in which the revenues earned by a cooperative decline from the previous year. It applies only to cooperatives that serve at least 5,000 customers.
The amount of revenue required to be devoted to energy efficiency promotion is one percent in 2009 and two percent in subsequent years. Expenses that would be considered related to promotion of energy efficiency would include program planning, administration, marketing, technical assistance, consumer education, rebates and other financial incentives and evaluation costs related to program design and implementation.
All five Republicans on the committee opposed the bill, while all Democrats supported it.
The bill now goes to the House Appropriations Committee.
Tuesday, January 29, 2008
House Committee Hears Net Metering Bill Today
The House Transportation and Energy Committee will take up HB 1160 this afternoon.
The bill, sponsored by Rep. Judy Solano, D-Thornton, would force utilities to grant homeowners who generate renewable energy credit on their electric bills.
The hearing is set to begin at 1:30 pm.
The bill, sponsored by Rep. Judy Solano, D-Thornton, would force utilities to grant homeowners who generate renewable energy credit on their electric bills.
The hearing is set to begin at 1:30 pm.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)