DENVER ~ Denver, CO - In a recent announcement, Governor Jared Polis praised Colorado's progress in boosting geothermal energy and establishing itself as a national leader in low-cost renewable energy. The Department of Energy has recognized the National Laboratory of the Rockies as a Center of Excellence for geothermal energy, highlighting the state's commitment to advancing geothermal development, research, and innovation.

Governor Polis stated, "Colorado leads the nation in geothermal and renewable energy, and today's announcement recognizes the enormous potential of this clean energy source to save people money and lower costs for families and businesses." He emphasized the importance of harnessing the heat beneath our feet to reduce emissions and take advantage of Colorado's unique natural resources. This innovative technology has proven to be effective in producing clean and affordable heat for homes, businesses, and large institutions within the state.

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Under Governor Polis' leadership, Colorado has positioned itself as a leader in geothermal and low-cost renewable energy. As chair of the Western Governors' Association, he launched The Heat Beneath Our Feet initiative to expand geothermal energy research and exploration. In 2023, he announced Colorado's Geothermal Energy Grants which have provided $9.8 million in funding for 43 heating and cooling projects and six electricity efforts across the state.

One notable project near Durango aims to offset 20 MW of electricity demand through geothermal energy. Additionally, with these grants, Colorado Mesa University is expanding geothermal heating and cooling systems to buildings on its campus. Combined with the Geothermal Energy Tax Credit Offering, which has awarded nearly $43 million since 2023, Colorado is making significant strides in advancing geothermal energy production.

Governor Polis also worked closely with the legislature to pass laws that support low-cost geothermal energy production in Colorado. SB26-142 streamlines how local municipalities can build thermal energy systems while allowing companies to sell their excess thermal energy directly to neighbors. HB25-1165, also known as the "Geologic Storage Enterprise & Geothermal Resources" bill, clarifies regulatory authority across state agencies to streamline geothermal development while preserving historic hot springs.

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In addition, Governor Polis signed SB23-285, which updated the Oil and Gas Conservation Commission to be named the Energy and Carbon Management Commission. This gives the commission authority to regulate beyond oil and gas and creates a pathway for new state regulatory approvals, including expanded geothermal electric generation. He also signed HB23-1252, which promotes the adoption of clean geothermal energy heating and cooling systems.

With these efforts in place, Colorado is well on its way to achieving its goal of becoming a leader in low-cost renewable energy. Governor Polis' commitment to promoting geothermal energy not only benefits the environment but also creates jobs and saves people money. As the National Laboratory of the Rockies is recognized as a Center of Excellence for geothermal energy, it is clear that Colorado's efforts are paying off in becoming a national leader in this field.

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