The American Clean Power Association (ACP) published its most recent repote Clean Energy Powers Colorado in which it reveals the significant contributions utility-scale clean energy projects are making in Colorado. The report finds that over one-third of the state’s energy capacity is currently generated through solar and wind projects, making Colorado a top 10 state for wind and solar deployment. Clean energy capacity in the state now stands at nearly 7,000 megawatts (MW), enough to power 2.5 million homes.

Source: American Clean Power Association

According to the ACP, clean energy in the state has grown by way of nearly $14 billion of capital investment into not only utility-scale solar, storage, and wind projects, but also into a robust manufacturing sector. Colorado’s 12 operating clean energy manufacturing facilities have created jobs throughout the state, helping increase the number of Coloradans working in the utility-scale sector to more than 15,750. These utility-scale clean energy jobs span from development and operations to manufacturing and construction roles. 

Beyond simply expanding energy capacity, the report shows that clean power projects also contribute revenue at the state and local levels throughout Colorado. Clean power projects have generated more than $20 million in state and local taxes annually and generated another $28 million for landowners collected through leases. This totals $48 million in annual contributions flowing into Colorado’s economy. This revenue is crucial in helping to bridge budget shortfalls and fund essential services, as well as allowing families to pursue new income avenues and opportunities to hold onto land passed down through generations.

Colorado’s clean energy capacity is expected to more than double by 2030, according to the report. ACP estimates new capacity to the state’s energy grid of 1,250 MW of battery storage, 4,000 MW of solar, and 4,250 MW of wind, which will bring total clean power capacity in the state to nearly 16,500 MW.

Source: American Clean Power Association

This increased capacity represents a 136% increase in clean power serving Colorado consumers, with $12 billion in capital investment expected in addition to $64 million in annual state and local tax revenue and $78 million in landowner lease revenue.