Coal, gas, solar, wind? How should each of these factor into our utility’s future energy plans? CSU is beginning to develop a new Electric Integrated Resource Plan (EIRP), and the utility wants your help. Michael Avanzi, Energy Planning Manager for the utility, provides an overview of the process, and Jim Riggins, president of Southeastern Colorado Renewable Energy Society, provides an engineer’s perspective on why renewable energy is not just the wisest, most responsible generation resource, but is also now the most economical.

The schedule for retiring the remaining two units of the Martin Drake Power Plant will, of course, be impacted by this EIRP. These presentations provide evidence of the resilience, cost-effectiveness and reliability that renewable energy options can bring to the city. Also discussed: the social costs renewable energy can mitigate, promoting health and sustainability in the region.

Note: Colorado Springs Utilities is simultaneously conducting a gas integrated resource plan.

This episode was recorded at the August Sustainability in Progress meeting hosted by Peak Alliance for a Sustainable Future. Join us the third Wednesday of every month (7:30 – 9:00 am) at Ivywild School for coffee, pastries and enlightening presentations. It’s free to attend. Send us a note to request meeting notices by email.

About Peak Alliance for a Sustainable FutureThe mission of Peak Alliance for a Sustainable Future is to promote regional sustainability and advance the Pikes Peak region's