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Metro Denver: Mile High Advantages

Sustainability

Resources that support sustainability. And surroundings that inspire it.

You simply won't find such an intense focus on sustainability – plus all the essential elements to deliver on its promise – anywhere else in the nation.

It is impossible to work in the shadow of the Rocky Mountains and not feel a deep desire to preserve what makes our everyday lives so special. For all who call Metro Denver home, nature isn't just something we drive to on the weekends – it touches us every single day.

Far from a new passion, Metro Denver jumpstarted sustainability years ago. Today, we are reaping the rewards of being the "balanced energy capital of the West."

You'll see our momentum in Colorado's energy diversification, green infrastructure, and the brainpower to propel ingenuity forward. This region is a Petri dish for eco-friendly policies, with a reputation for attracting and nurturing energy-innovating companies.


  • Metro Denver launched the Climate Prosperity Project, one of eight pilot communities selected by the Rockefeller Brothers Fund.
  • Former Denver Mayor and current Colorado Governor John Hickenlooper received the 2009 Mayor's Climate Protection award.
  • The U.S. Chamber of Commerce recognized Greenprint Denver in 2009 as a national model for energy conservation and clean energy technology.
  • Former Gov. Ritter signed legislation requiring state utilities to get 30 percent of their electricity from renewable resources by 2020—among the highest nationally.

It takes a sustained effort to become the nation's
clean technology capital.

With the state's governor, local mayors, business leaders, universities, and companies in sync with sustainability efforts, Metro Denver has laid the groundwork for Colorado to quickly become the nation's cleantech capital with:

Wind
  • A Metro Mayor's Caucus MOU outlines actions for area communities to further energy efficiency and conservation.
  • Colorado Energy Coalition, a group of leaders and stakeholders advancing Colorado's diverse energy industry.
  • Xcel Energy, the nation's No. 1 wind provider, is making renewables a significant part of its energy mix.
  • Denver International Airport opened a two-megawatt solar system in 2008 expected to generate 3.5 million kilowatt-hours (kWh) of clean electricity annually, and plans to build a second solar development to supply all of the energy needed to operate DIA's fuel storage and distribution center.