Starting 2004, Aspen CO desired to run 100% electricity from renewable resources by 2015, using hydroelectric projects and power purchase contracts. By 2014 3/4ths of Aspen’s electricity was sourced from renewables. It’s goal is hit in August of 2015, becoming the third US city to go fully renewable.
Currently, Aspen runs an energy supply that is 46% hydroelectric from the Ruedi Dam and Maroon Creek Hydroelectric facility, 53% of wind power, and the rest from solar to heat water and reduce carbon footprint by estimated 9,215,000 pounds. In addition, it uses 1% landfill gas to finish off the 100% mark.
Aspen Electric is a municipal utility serving Aspen, with the residential rates being one of the lowest in CO being only about $81 for 700 kWh (typical for a month’s worth) and upgrades to a Nebraska wind farm drops utility’s costs even lower, saving 15% annually or $475,000.
Starting 2004, Aspen CO desired to run 100% electricity from renewable resources by 2015, using hydroelectric projects and power purchase contracts. By 2014 3/4ths of Aspen’s electricity was sourced from renewables. It’s goal is hit in August of 2015, becoming the third US city to go fully renewable.
Currently, Aspen runs an energy supply that is 46% hydroelectric from the Ruedi Dam and Maroon Creek Hydroelectric facility, 53% of wind power, and the rest from solar to heat water and reduce carbon footprint by estimated 9,215,000 pounds. In addition, it uses 1% landfill gas to finish off the 100% mark.
Aspen Electric is a municipal utility serving Aspen, with the residential rates being one of the lowest in CO being only about $81 for 700 kWh (typical for a month’s worth) and upgrades to a Nebraska wind farm drops utility’s costs even lower, saving 15% annually or $475,000.