Technologies to generate, transmit and store renewable energy continue to be developed and improved upon, creating more opportunities to shift from fossil fuels that generate greenhouse gases to renewable energy sources, such as wind, solar and geothermal, that have fewer harmful emissions. You can also support renewable energy development by purchasing Renewable Energy Certificates.
Make the Switch to Renewable Energy
Solar Opportunities
Boulder County received Silver Level certification as a Solar Friendly Community from Colorado Solar Energy Industries Association for adopting leading best practices designed to make it faster, easier and more affordable for its residents to go solar. The county has worked on a variety of ways to make solar permitting smoother including: posting requirements in an online checklist, streamlining permitting forms, promoting communication between installers and inspectors and educating residents about solar energy. May is Go Solar Month in Boulder County.
Boulder County EnergySmart partners with Elevations Credit Union and Clean Energy Credit Union to offer Home Energy Loans, which can be used for a wide range of energy efficiency and renewable energy upgrades including solar PV, windows, insulation, heating, cooling, water heating, and even electric bikes. These low-interest loans can be combined with EnergySmart rebates to fully fund your home energy efficiency upgrades.
Purchase Wind Power
While it may not be possible to install a wind turbine on your property, your local utility may have a voluntary program to support current renewable energy generation while also investing in future systems through premiums on bills. Xcel Energy’s program is called Windsource. Longmont Power and Communications customers can sign up for locally generated wind and hydroelectric power through their Renewable Power Purchase Energy Program.