A recent report from the American Clean Power Association (ACP) highlights the substantial impact of utility-scale clean energy projects in Colorado. The report, titled “Clean Energy Powers Colorado,” reveals that more than one-third of the state’s energy capacity is now derived from solar and wind initiatives, positioning Colorado as a top 10 state for renewables deployment. The state boasts a clean energy capacity of nearly 7,000 megawatts (MW), sufficient to power 2.5 million homes.
Colorado’s clean energy sector has benefited from close to $14 billion in capital investments, not only in utility-scale solar, storage, and wind projects but also in a thriving manufacturing sector. The state is home to 12 operational clean energy manufacturing facilities, which have created job opportunities throughout Colorado, pushing the total number of Coloradans employed in the utility-scale sector to over 15,750.
Beyond increasing energy capacity, clean energy projects contribute significantly to state and local revenue. They generate more than $20 million in annual state and local taxes and an additional $28 million in landowner income through leases, resulting in a total annual contribution of $48 million to Colorado’s economy. This revenue plays a vital role in filling budget gaps, supporting essential services, and offering families opportunities to generate income and preserve ancestral lands.
The report anticipates Colorado’s clean energy capacity will more than double by 2030. ACP forecasts an addition of 1,250 MW of battery storage, 4,000 MW of solar, and 4,250 MW of wind to the state’s energy grid, bringing the total clean power capacity to nearly 16,500 MW. This substantial growth signifies a 136% increase in clean energy serving Colorado, with an expected $12 billion in capital investments, $64 million in annual state and local tax revenue, and $78 million in landowner lease income.
