Energy Action Planning

A Collaborative Effort to Reduce Greenhouse Gas Emissions in the Gunnison Valley

The four incorporated governments of the Upper Gunnison River Watershed signed a historic intergovernmental agreement in September 2007 to collaborate on an Energy Action Plan. The objective of the plan is to outline programs and policies to reduce the consumption of fossil fuels. This multi-jurisdictional effort has developed into a series of carefully chosen action steps, which, in concert will bring us to our reduction goals and a more energy independent future.

Timeline of Our Effort

2006 - Mt. Crested Butte, Crested Butte, and the City of Gunnison sign the U.S. Mayors Climate Protection Agreement
2007 - The Valley governments signed an energy efficiency resolution
2007 - Governor Ritter creates the State of Colorado “Climate Action Plan”
2007 - The governments co-fund the creation of the Upper Gunnison River Watershed Emissions Inventory
2008 - ORE hosts the Energy Summit to start the planning process
2009 - Four jurisdictional committees formed to draft the plans
Summer 2009 The Plans are adopted by their respective jurisdictions for immediate, phased implementation

How much are we emitting?

36 tons of CO2e per capita

2020 Goal: Reduce greenhouse gas emissions 20% below 2005 levels

2050 Goal:  Reduce greenhouse gas emissions below 2005 levels to targets consistent with state and national goals.

Guiding Principles

  • Employ local labor and resources
  • Voluntary actions that inspire behavioral changes
  • Fiscally feasible for Valley, citizens and government
  • Lead programs with educational efforts

Types of Programs

  • Energy audits for residential and commercial buildings
  • Weatherizing residential and commercial buildings
  • CFL lighting for all buildings, where appropriate
  • Transportation Demand Management
  • Work toward adopting more efficient building codes
  • Education and Outreach
  • Pursuing Renewable Energy  Pilot Projects

Get Involved!

The Energy Action Plans are moving toward implementation. Volunteers are needed to assist in program development and administration. If you have a skill or interest that is applicable, contact ORE to learn how you can participate.

Documents

2005 UGRW Emissions Inventory Summary
2005 Upper Gunnison River Watershed Emissions Inventory
2008 Energy Summit Report