Colorado

House Majority Leader Monica Duran and Representative Sean Camacho introduced the Colorado Grid Optimization Act,  HB 1081, legislation designed to quickly unlock more affordable energy by making better use of the state’s existing electric infrastructure. This legislation comes at a critical moment as electricity demand rises, costs increase for ratepayers, and there is a growing need to reduce wildfire risks and related power shut-offs.

The Colorado Public Utilities Commission (Commission) today revised its decision regarding Xcel’s entry into SPP’s Markets+ to require greater scrutiny of Xcel’s future market-related decision-making amid growing concerns over rising costs, market seams, and governance.  

United’s Brian Turner discusses new clean energy opportunities in Colorado based on the Colorado Public Utilities Commission’s key proceedings filed this year and upcoming filings, highlighting Colorado’s progress in attracting new investment, scaling clean energy resources, supporting electrification, and preventing system bottlenecks.

The Colorado Public Utilities Commission decision on the Just Transition Solicitation moves the state closer to a carbon-free future, sequencing critical energy and transmission projects that will keep costs affordable for ratepayers.

United’s Elizabeth Stears introduces United’s 2025 EV Ready Grid Guidebook. This new resource provides a blueprint for state leaders to invest in smart policy solutions that will prepare America’s grid to meet growing EV demand while protecting ratepayers from higher energy costs and strengthening reliability.

Colorado Newsline reports on a Western Governors’ Association Workshop, where United’s Leah Rubin Shen spoke on the “Transmission Needs for More-of-the-Above” panel, emphasizing that the West will need to increase transmission capacity in order to meet growing energy demand, strengthen reliability, and lower energy costs for consumers.

In an opinion piece for Colorado Politics, United’s Emilie Olson praises Governor Polis’ recent executive action as a strong step toward keeping energy reliable and affordable despite the rollback of clean energy tax credits from H.R. 1. Olson urges all corners of Colorado’s government to act swiftly on low-cost solutions, such as deploying advanced transmission technologies, building virtual power plants, and integrated infrastructure planning to meet growing energy demand without raising costs next legislative session to deliver on Colorado’s clean energy promises.

The Denver Post reports on the Colorado Public Utilities Commission’s approval of Xcel Energy’s plan to join SPP’s Markets+, despite concerns from consumer and environmental advocates. United’s Brian Turner criticized the decision and warned that it could delay progress toward a fully organized wholesale market, undermine Colorado’s clean energy goals, and urged the state to look into joining other markets in the region that offer greater renewable energy access and long-term cost savings.

The Denver Post reports on Colorado Governor Polis’ letter directing state agencies to streamline advanced energy projects amidst federal setbacks. United’s Emilie Olson commended the Governor’s swift action and commitment to Colorado’s clean energy goals, highlighting the importance of strong leadership as the state faces growing energy affordability and reliability challenges.

The Colorado Sun reports on the Colorado Public Utilities Commission’s approval of Xcel Energy’s $30 million plan to join SPP’s Markets+. United’s Brian Turner said the decision will balkanize the Western grid, increase energy costs, and delay progress in clean energy development.

The Colorado Sun reports on President Trump’s recent executive actions targeting clean energy subsidies and advanced energy technologies, resulting in potentially higher electricity costs for Coloradans. United’s Emilie Olson spoke to Colorado’s deep policy foundation and market momentum, which are expected to help offset federal rollbacks.

Colorado has a chance to lead the West in building a cleaner, more affordable energy future—but only if it joins a Western regional market. Advanced Energy United’s Brian Turner explains how stronger grid connections and smart market choices will allow Colorado to share its renewable resources, lower emissions, and meet its climate goals.