Colorado Lawmakers Pass Grid Optimization Act to Unlock Faster, Lower-Cost Power
Advanced Energy United celebrates passage of HB 1081 that will optimize Colorado’s transmission system
DENVER, CO—Colorado lawmakers have passed the Colorado Grid Optimization Act (HB 1081) on a bipartisan vote. The bill now moves to the Governor’s desk for signature into law.
HB 1081, sponsored by House Majority Leader Monica Duran, Representative Sean Camacho, and Senator Dylan Roberts, is designed to deliver more affordable, reliable energy by squeezing more capacity out of Colorado’s existing transmission system.
National business association Advanced Energy United led a coalition in support of the bill, which will expand transmission capacity, reduce grid congestion, and move low-cost energy more efficiently to communities across the state. The legislation requires utilities to integrate advanced transmission technologies (ATTs) into long-term planning and provides a transparent framework for evaluating their benefits.
“HB 1081 is a solid win-win for consumers, utilities, local communities, and not least of all, the grid itself,” said Emilie Olson, Colorado lead at Advanced Energy United. “By using existing infrastructure with the help of proven technologies, Colorado can more cost-effectively tackle near-term reliability needs while preparing the existing system for extreme weather conditions, wildfire risk, and continued load growth. Better visibility into utility decision-making—including where ATTs can effectively replace, defer, or complement proposed new transmission—will also help keep costs in check and ensure investment decisions best serve customers.”
As electricity demand rises, costs increase for ratepayers, and wildfire risks grow, integrating ATTs into the existing grid provides a quick, cost-effective way to nearly double transmission capacity at a fraction of the cost of new builds.
“This legislation comes at a crucial moment, as rising demand and higher costs put pressure on families and businesses,” said House Majority Leader Duran. “HB 1081 gives Colorado the tools to maximize our existing transmission system, create a stronger and more reliable grid, and deliver cleaner, more affordable energy faster. “
“Coloradans are facing higher energy costs and a grid under pressure,” said Representative Camacho. “Our grid needs smarter solutions that work today, not years from now. This legislation allows us to call on technologies that are already available and ready to deliver lower-cost, dependable power to Coloradans.”
“Energy bills shouldn’t pinch families’ wallets, and this bill ensures utilities fully explore all cost-effective solutions before families are asked to foot the bill for costly new transmission projects,” said Senator Roberts. “This bill is a common-sense measure to make Colorado’s grid smarter, more reliable, and more affordable.”