Colorado Solar Growth a Boon for Economy and for Homeowners

Colorado Solar Growth a Boon for Economy and for Homeowners
Thursday, June 2nd 2011 9:30 AM
By GetSolar Staff.

Colorado hardly has the same kind of reputation for solar power as sunny southern California, or Arizona with its vast deserts. However, a report from the Metro Denver Economic Development Corporation shows the growth of Colorado solar installers has far outpaced most of the nation.

Like many other states, Colorado has experienced difficult economic times in recent years. However, the renewable energy sector grew to 19,000 workers last year and was the only industry to add jobs in the state. Between 2005 and 2010, the sector grew by 32.7 percent, which was more than triple the national rate of 10 percent.

"Colorado ranks fourth nationally in the total number of clean-energy jobs and we're still growing and adding jobs," said Tom Clark, Metro Denver EDC executive vice president.

The state has benefited greatly from a strong research presence, hosting the National Renewable Energy Laboratory in Golden, Colorado. Ecotech Institute, a school dedicated to renewable energy, also opened in Aurora, Colorado, last year and already boasts 230 students in wind and solar power programs.

Certain Colorado home owners in Xcel territory can earn up to $1.75 per watt under the revised (March 23, 2011) Xcel Energy Solar Rewards Program, according to the DSIRE database. Colorado customers who install solar may also be eligible for several other solar and renewable energy incentives from either the state or the utilities. The growing solar power sector in the state reflects a competitive marketplace, helping to reduce up-front costs for new residential solar systems.