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Pitkin County sets positions: supports microgrid program, opposes data‑center incentives and removal of wind from clean‑energy statute
Summary
At a Feb. 3 work session, Pitkin County commissioners endorsed continuing a state microgrid grant program (3–0), expressed opposition to a draft that would strip wind from the state's clean‑energy definition, and opposed a data‑center incentives bill citing inadequate guardrails and outsized incentives.
Pitkin County commissioners used their Feb. 3 work session to state positions on several bills under consideration in the Colorado legislature.
Microgrid community resilience grant program: County staff described a draft that removes the program’s sunset date (Sept. 2026), allowing the grant program to persist should appropriations later be available. Commissioners voiced support for the program, noting local microgrid projects (Basalt Vista and another valley installation) and offered to provide testimony. The board recorded a 3–0 in‑meeting position to support the bill and to consider providing testimony to CC4CA/CCAT stakeholders.
Removal of wind from clean‑energy definition: Staff flagged a Jan. 14 introduction that would remove wind from the statutory clean‑energy definition; the draft contained no legislative declarations. Several commissioners said they strongly oppose removing wind as a clean energy source, and staff recommended Pitkin County record an oppose position. CC4CA also opposes the draft.
Data centers and incentives: Commissioners raised concerns that a data‑center draft does not include adequate guardrails on energy sourcing, greenhouse‑gas mitigation or water use, while offering large tax incentives (staff cited $250,000,000 in incentives versus no comparable ongoing funding for microgrids). The board indicated it will oppose the data‑center incentives bill and suggested separating incentive language from environmental criteria in future drafts.
Other notes: staff will continue to follow the Outdoor Opportunity Act, Safe Passages Act and other pending bills and report updates to the board as amendments and committee hearings are scheduled.
