Renewable Energy

Why Renewable Energy?

Town of Erie’s Sustainability Plan set an ambitious goal of sourcing 20% of residential electricity use from renewable sources by 2025, above and beyond what is already included in the utilities’ fuel mix. Review the programs below to see how you can be a part of achieving this lofty goal.

Consider Energy Efficiency FIRST!

One of the best ways to lower the upfront cost of renewable energy is to reduce the total energy you consume. This could allow you to invest in a smaller solar panel system or cover more of your total energy with the renewable energy you produce. Live in Boulder County? You qualify for free home energy advising

Select the Renewable Energy Program That’s Right for You

Renewable energy options are based on your electric utility and your interest in onsite or subscription-based renewable energy. Use this interactive map to confirm your electricity provider. Onsite options may be right for you if you are looking to invest in rooftop solar. Subscription options may be right for you if you are not interested in investing in rooftop solar at this time, but still want to power your home with renewables.

Electric UtilityOnsite/SubscriptionProgramDescription
Xcel EnergyOnsiteNet-MeteringOffset your energy use by selling back the excess electricity generated from your solar system 
United PowerOnsiteNet-MeteringOffset your energy use by selling back the excess electricity generated from your solar system 
Xcel EnergyOnsiteSolar*Rewards®Receive an additional $0.005/kWh - .0375/kWh produced. Note: enrolling in Solar*Rewards gives your renewable energy credits back to the utility and the renewable electricity you produce will not count toward Erie’s sustainability plan goals. 
Xcel EnergySubscriptionWindsource® Power  your home with wind energy for an additional cost of $0.015/kWh 
United PowerSubscriptionGreen Power PartnersPower your business with renewable energy for an additional cost of $0.09/kWh    


Financial Opportunities to Lower the Cost of Energy Action

Some financial opportunities are dependent on the county you live in. Use this interactive map to confirm your utility provider and county.

ResourceProject TypeEligibilityDescription
Federal Tax Credit 
SolarAll residents – talk with your tax advisor for more details 
The solar investment tax credit (ITC) has been extended by Congress and provides 26% tax credit for systems installed in 2020-2022, and 22% for systems installed in 2023. This expires in 2024 unless Congress renews it. 
Boulder County Rebate 
Energy Efficiency/SolarBoulder County residents 
Boulder County residents can receive 25% of project cost up to $200 for solar projects that meet 50% of existing electricity consumption. They also offer energy efficiency rebates to help electrify your home!
United Power RebatesEnergy EfficiencyUnited Power Utility CustomersUnited Power offers rebates for many energy efficiency upgrades including smart thermostats, heat pumps, Energy Star appliances, and even outdoor electric power equipment!
Xcel Energy RebatesEnergy EfficiencyXcel Energy Utility CustomersXcel Energy Offers a suite of energy efficiency rebates and programs. Check out their website to learn more about energy audits, smart thermostat rebates, heating and cooling rebates, and many more!
Colorado RENU Loans 
SolarAll ResidentsColorado RENU Loans offer low, fixed interest rates, covering up to 100% of project costs, and loan terms up to 20 years for projects including energy efficiency upgrades, solar, EV charging, battery storage and more!
SUN Solar Co-op Solar Equity LoansSolarSingle family homeowners earning less than 100% of the area median incomeSUN Solar Co-op Solar Equity Loans are intended to assist participating Solar Co-op homeowners with low-cost financing for rooftop solar.
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