Climate love
Image of Weston Wilson
Weston Wilson

7 w

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Image of Jared Polis

Jared Polis

Climate love

Colorado to close its last coal plant by 2031


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Colorado, my home state, has been making significant progress lately toward the energy transition:

*As of 2023, 39% of Colorado's electricity generation came from renewable sources (up from 30% in 2020).
*All of the remaining 10 coal-fired power stations are set to close down by the year 2031.
*Energy companies are engaging with communities to ensure that these closures are carried out in a way that minimizes negative economic impacts on local communities.

And all of this in a state whose economy has historically been highly fossil-fuel dependent.

Much of the credit for this progress belongs to Governor Jared Polis and his administration. Gov. Polis has laid out a very clear, ambitious-but-realistic decarbonization plan for the state and has been energetically pursuing policies to make that plan a reality.

There is still, of course, much work to be done. Colorado's transportation sector, for example, emits more GHGs than does the energy sector, and it may prove to be a more difficult challenge to tackle. Nevertheless, Gov. Polis has shown that strong, thoughtful leadership can make a big impact for climate change mitigation.

I highly recommend this interview with Gov. Polis and Climate Advisor Will Toor. It is an exceptional example of a well-informed American politician speaking plainly and coherently about the importance of decarbonization and the specific challenges faced by those in government hoping to address it.

Do you agree?

38 more agrees trigger contact with the recipient

  • Munene Mugambi

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    6 w

    Very nice. With 39% of its electricity now generated from renewables, it sets a strong example for other states. Effective leadership from Governor Polis and community engagement is key to ensuring a smooth transition and addressing economic impacts. This progress can inspire broader action against climate change!

    • walter lungayi

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      7 w

      Great move. It aligns with the global trend of reducing reliance on fossils fuel and demonstrates a commitment to addressing climate change. This move will likely have positive environmental and public health impacts while also signaling a transition towards a more diversified and resilient energy infrastructure.

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      • Munene Mugambi

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        @walter_lungayi Absolutely! This shift not only contributes to global efforts to cut fossil fuel dependence but also promotes healthier communities and a more robust energy system. It's encouraging to see such proactive measures being taken, paving the way for sustainable practices that can inspire others to follow suit.

      • Peter Karanga

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        7 w

        It’s great to see your home state leading the way in renewable energy!

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        • Princess

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          7 w

          It's encouraging to see states prioritizing environmental health and taking bold action to combat climate change.

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          • Munene Mugambi

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            @princess_nel_268 For sure! It's a sign that progress is being made and that leaders recognize the urgency of the climate crisis. Such bold actions can motivate other states and countries to follow suit, creating a ripple effect that amplifies the fight for a healthier planet.

          • Princess

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            7 w

            It's encouraging to see states prioritizing environmental health and taking bold action to combat climate change.

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            • Jane Wangui

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              7 w

              It feels so nice when we see people make a step towards making the would a better place than it is at the moment.

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              • rosebellendiritu

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                7 w

                This is quite encouraging... moving in the right direction towards a better future for us all is the way to go.

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                • Patrick Kiash

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                  7 w

                  That's encouraging news and their effort and focus to close all the remaining 10 coal fired power stations by 2031 is cmendable. We must do away with reliance of fossil fuel.

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                  • Rashid Kamau

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                    7 w

                    This closure would be part of a broader statewide effort to reduce carbon emissions and shift toward renewable energy sources

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                    Re-watch all our COP29 broadcasts

                    We need to stop methane and #BuyMoreTime