Solar Energy Demand Grows In Colorado

COLORADO SPRINGS – On the summer solstice Sunday–the longest day of the year on the calendar–a survey highlights how Colorado can benefit from our reputation as a sunny state, and from the growing potential of solar energy.

According to the survey, more that three-fourths of state residents–76%–believe utility companies should be required to provide solar energy, and 50% are willing to pay 50 cents a month to help in that regard.

As NEWSCHANNEL 13 reported in February, the office of the IBEW Local 113 near U.S. 24 and 21st street installed 136 solar panels on the roof. The panels will supply 75% of the building’s power needs. The cost of the project–$205,000–was reduced to $112,000 with a rebate from Colorado Springs Utilities. Whitney Electric, the contractor, hopes to hire more workers if more solar energy projects develop.

Recent legislation has made Colorado a leader in the industry. Last month, Gov. Bill Ritter signed three bills designed to help farmers and schools take advantage of solar energy. The technology was a factor in President Obama’s economic stimulus bill for Colorado.

Germany and Spain are the world’s leading nations in solar energy.