Though Colorado has passed some strongly pro-environmental policies, decarbonization and greenhouse gas reductions are still contentious legislative topics. The report highlights that electric and gas utilities, especially Xcel Energy, are an influential coalition in the legislature, an insight supported by interviewees. Utilities in Colorado inconsistently support pro-environmental policies, hampering progress. Large investments in natural gas have also complicated the transition to clean energy, with business groups allied with oil and gas producers against pro-environmental groups. At the same time, an increasing emphasis on environmental justice has broadened the range of voices providing input on legislation.
The report’s major findings include:
Utilities are highly active at the state legislature
Xcel Energy supports greenhouse gas emission reductions
Business and fossil fuel support for natural gas is a major obstacle to decarbonization
The influence of environmental justice groups is growing
Lobbying at the public utilities commission can be key to determining the effectiveness of legislation
Relationships between Lobbying Coalitions
Most Active Organizations Lobbying on Climate and Clean Energy Bills
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