The Economic Case for Local, Renewable Energy

These days, most people understand the importance of shopping locally to support our economy and keep dollars close to home. But, what about buying local energy? The same concept applies. Local First is a non-profit alliance of locally-owned, independent businesses and organizations working together to build an economy that values people, the planet, and prosperity for everyone. As such, we advocate for keeping energy dollars re-circulating locally to create jobs, support the local energy industry, and maintain our quality of life.

A prime example of economic prosperity that is leaving our community is found in our local not-for-profit electrical distribution and public power cooperative, the La Plata Electric Association (LPEA). LPEA relies on Tri-State Generation & Transmission Association for power along with 43 other members across Colorado, New Mexico, Nebraska and Wyoming. Currently, our energy comes from LPEA, which is part of a larger energy co-op called Tri-State. LPEA is required to purchase 95% of our electricity from Tri-State until 2050 because of a long-term contract that was renewed with Tri-State. Tri-State’s energy is over 60% coal produced, making them the 2nd worst climate emitting electricity producer in the country.  

If we could produce just 10% of our power locally that would keep $7 million a year here locally to circulate in our community.

DURANGO SETS RENEWABLE ENERGY GOAL!

Your voice was heard. Thanks to the 120 businesses and 1,500 individuals that signed our 100% renewable energy petition, the City of Durango adopted the following goals on August 20, 2019:

Greenhouse Gas Emissions Reduction Goal: 80% from 2016 levels by 2050, with an interim goal of 30% from 2016 levels by 2030.

Renewable Electricity Goal: 100% Renewable Electricity by 2050, with an interim goal of 50% Renewable Electricity by 2030.