Why Not Ohio? Clean-energy momentum is growing in Colorado

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Why Not Ohio? Clean-energy momentum is growing in Colorado

Clean-energy momentum is growing
Mike Freeman • January 10, 2011

Momentum around clean energy in Fort Collins continues to grow. Three announcements at last week's Smart Grid LIVE event underscore the progress we're making in this economic sector and what lies ahead.

First, the state of Colorado pledged funding support for the Center for Smart Grid Advancement. Led by Spirae, CSGA will provide the infrastructure and education necessary to transform current electric power systems into smart grids. CSGA will address technical, regulatory, economic and operational issues so the industry can realize the full potential of smart grids.
Second, Colorado State University unveiled its new Center for the New Energy Economy, which will be led by former Gov. Bill Ritter.

Finally, the Colorado Clean Energy Cluster, headquartered in Fort Collins, will lead a statewide supply chain analysis for the wind, solar and smart-grid sectors. The analysis will focus on identifying specific companies in the supply chain and recruiting them to the region. The effort also will work with existing manufacturers to lower costs and improve availability of alternative energy.

Along with the Colorado Clean Energy Supply Chain initiative, the CCEC is working on other high-value/high-impact projects: FortZED and the International Cleantech Network.

FortZED is a community-inspired initiative to transform the downtown area of Fort Collins and the main campus of Colorado State University into a net-zero energy district. Led by CCEC, city of Fort Collins and UniverCity Connections, FortZED will be realized through smart-grid technologies, renewable-energy sources, conservation and efficiency, and public policies.

The International Cleantech Network provides global access and information to Colorado clean-energy businesses and research institutions. It was established in collaboration with Denmark's Copenhagen Cleantech Cluster and enables the sharing of innovative ideas across the world.

The city of Fort Collins is a significant contributor to the CCEC and vested in its success. As an economic development organization, the CCEC aims to retain and grow primary clean-energy jobs in Colorado. Supporting more than 32 companies that employ more than 3,000 people, the organization and its initiatives are receiving increasing national and international recognition.

The work of the CCEC and the exciting announcements made at the Smart Grid LIVE event show promise that clean energy will produce long-term economic results for our community.