Aurora is a diverse energy region where renewable energy assets such as wind and solar, alongside traditional energy assets like oil and gas, are plentiful. These resources are interconnected by a commitment to balance, responsibility, and innovation. Colorado prioritizes the future of energy while ensuring affordable and safe options are available both today and tomorrow. Colorado is the 5th largest crude oil producer in the country.
Colorado’s highly educated talent specializing in tech and science is well-aligned to our energy transformation. Companies are working on new grid and storage technology to continue reducing the cost of renewable energy while businesses like Xcel Energy are offering more customer choices than ever with some of the largest energy efficiency and renewable energy portfolios in the nation.
Meanwhile, world-class research facilities and educational institutions like the National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL) partner with the private sector, transforming research and innovation into commercial viability.
Aurora is home to the largest solar technologies test facility in the country. The 74-acre SolarTAC (technology acceleration center) provides a venue for research, demonstration, testing, and validation of solar technologies as they near commercial viability.
Xcel Energy is a member of the Aurora Economic Development Council and services all of Aurora and much of the state. In recent years, Xcel has exceeded Colorado’s renewable energy mandates, reducing carbon by 44% in 2019, promising 80% reductions by 2030, and 100% carbon-free generation by 2050.
A new interchange at I-70 and Picadilly Road and an accompanying extension of Picadilly Road between Smith Road and Colfax Avenue is needed to provide a vital transportation connection between existing industrial parks and future commercial and residential developments.
We partnered with Xcel Energy to create an economic development electricity rate that mirrors successful programs in other states and takes advantage of an efficient use of existing utility infrastructure.
In a story of diligence, perseverance, and unbounded optimism, we worked tirelessly to help create this economic development giant that now towers over northeast Aurora in Adams County.
