The state of Colorado ranks 9th among US states in terms of renewable energy deployment, and electricity generated from renewable means reached 20% in 2016, according to the US Energy Information Administration (EIA). While wind power accounts for the largest contribution to energy production, solar continues to grow - and conditions seem primed for the continued growth of the renewable sector.
Take the Center for the New Energy Economy (CNEE) at Colorado State University, for example. The CNEE - an initiative led by Colorado’s 41st Governor, Bill Ritter, Jr. - works directly with governors, legislators, regulators, utilities and stakeholders by providing technical and strategic assistance to help decision makers create policies that facilitate America’s transition to a clean energy economy. Ritter was elected as Colorado’s 41st governor in 2006, and built consensus to tackle some of the state’s biggest challenges. During his four-year term, Ritter established Colorado as a national and international leader in clean energy by building a new energy economy.
The Environmental Leader & Energy Manager Conference (ELEMCON) is also held in Colorado (Denver, May 15-17). The conference celebrates the work of environmental and energy managers across the country and around the world, showcasing the programs and practices taking place today at the world’s largest organizations. Thought leaders and practitioners will show how large enterprises are solving today’s most complex problems in energy management and corporate environmental sustainability across manufacturing, refining, transportation, warehousing, healthcare, hospitality, retailing, education, and other industries.
It makes sense, then, that Bill Ritter will be speaking at the ELEMCON conference in May. The former Governor will examine the many forces shaping clean-energy policy and explore the challenges and hurdles policymakers face in transforming to a clean-energy economy.
