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The 2026 legislative session was marked by struggles to plug a big budget hole prompted by federal cuts, but included some victories for clean energy and the environment.
The highest profile issue of the year revolved around regulating a new breed of giant data centers to fuel the growth of AI. They are prompting concern around the nation because of their high costs and use of enormous amounts of energy and water.
Two competing proposals died in Colorado this year. One that included subsidies to encourage data center development was killed by the sponsor in early May. Another that sought to put guardrails on data center development to ensure protections for the environment and for consumers was killed by its sponsor in the waning days after time grew too short. However, a proceeding this summer before the Colorado Public Utilities Commission may resolve some of the issues.
The biggest renewable energy win of the year was the passage of HB26-1007 which legalizes plug-in solar panels and seeks to eliminate barriers from utilities and HOAs. The measure, signed into law by Gov. Jared Polis, will make solar more accessible to renters and those who can’t afford rooftop systems. It legalizes purchase of a single solar energy panel that can be plugged into a typical outlet, providing a modest amount of power.
Generally, Colorado’s framework for seeking to reduce greenhouse gas emissions was upheld and efforts to weaken clean energy failed.
Other notable bills that passed include:
(click on title to read bill)
SB26-003 – Creates a statewide system for EV battery collection, reuse, and recycling.
SB26-052- Establishes preferred hiring rights for coal transition workers at utilities, railroads, and energy facilities in transitioning communities.
SB26-101– Strengthens implementation of Colorado’s landfill methane rules without weakening protections.
SB26-142 – Requires collection of data about geothermal energy and seeks to expand geothermal projects.
SB26-146 – Makes disposable tableware items available only upon request.
HB26-1225 – Reduces barriers to interconnection for solar gardens and other distributed energy generation.
HB26-1226 - Advances Colorado’s framework for electric sector emissions reductions.
HB26-1268 – Reduces barriers to siting of renewable energy on brownfields and previously disturbed lands.
HB26-1326 - Continues the work of the Public Utilities Commission while making recommendations for improvement.
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