Colorado lawmakers support On-Bill Financing to enhance home energy efficiency

The House Finance Committee convened on March 27, 2025, to discuss a significant bill aimed at enhancing energy efficiency in Colorado's residential buildings. The meeting featured testimonies from various stakeholders, including government officials and community representatives, who expressed strong support for the proposed legislation.

The executive director of the Colorado Energy Office opened the discussion, highlighting the bill's potential benefits for the economy, utility customers, and the environment. He emphasized that the proposed "on-bill finance" program would facilitate investments in building upgrades, create jobs for tradespeople, and help residents save on energy costs while improving home comfort. He noted that buildings are among the largest sources of greenhouse gas emissions in Colorado, making this initiative crucial for meeting state climate goals.

Tricia Canonico, a Fort Collins City Council member, spoke on behalf of Colorado Communities Climate Action, a coalition advocating for effective climate policies. She pointed out that heating and cooling buildings contribute significantly to greenhouse gas emissions and urged support for the bill, which would enable consumers to finance home efficiency upgrades through their utility bills. Canonico shared her personal experience with Fort Collins' on-bill financing program, which simplified the process of adding solar energy to her home and encouraged her neighbors to do the same.

Brett Fleischman, a senior climate strategist for Boulder County, further endorsed the bill, outlining its market-based advantages. He highlighted that the on-bill repayment model removes credit barriers, making it accessible to renters and low-income households. Fleischman also noted that the program could attract private investments, reducing the need for government spending while promoting energy upgrades that lower utility costs and increase property values.

Throughout the meeting, stakeholders emphasized the bill's potential to drive economic development, ensure equitable access to clean energy financing, and modernize Colorado's housing stock without imposing additional costs on the state or local governments. The committee's discussions underscored a collective commitment to advancing energy efficiency and reducing greenhouse gas emissions in Colorado.

As the meeting concluded, the committee members acknowledged the importance of ongoing collaboration with stakeholders to refine the bill and address any necessary amendments. The proposed legislation is poised to make a significant impact on Colorado's energy landscape, benefiting both residents and the environment.