scotty, america needs more power!

The United States has continued to see the growth of AI data centers and an increase in electric demand in the past years. Of course with rising demand, there must be an increase in production and generation to meet that demand. Yet, the US is not currently equipped or frankly ready to power the upcoming data centers. Transmission projects take much longer to build than to build data centers. Nevertheless, the data centers are not stopping anytime soon with projections showing that Northern Virginia could become “Data Center Alley” with an expected increase in power demand from 4 GW increasing to 15 GW in 2030! Georgia already can be seen to use most of their power for data centers, by tripling in load forecast in just one year.

Needless to say, the overall load from data centers alone are expected to become over 50% of the overall load in the next 10 years. American Electric Power has demonstrated how some of these utility companies will see drastic changes in the next 5 years by having a load increase of over 17,000 GW, almost 8 times the current load we are facing.

So how is the US currently handling this crisis?

• Cancelling funding for major upcoming transmission projects required?

  • One such example shows what could have covered 800 miles of farmland and powered over 3 million homes in the region.

• Cutting clean energy producing alternatives that help grid operators and energy production?

  • Wind and solar projects are being cancelled continuously through the US.

• Spreading false narratives about how solar and wind energy work, repeatedly?

  • Yes, more than once the concept of “batteries” has not been mentioned and doesn’t explain the full capabilities of renewable energy production methods.

Well now you may be asking yourself, what should we be doing?

• We need to produce more electricity, at a scale never seen before, in order to meet the rise in expected demands. The US is nowhere near where we need to be in order to accomplish these goals.

• Funding energy production methods of all types and implementing them nationwide. Over 5,000 transmission line miles a year are going to be required for the continuous growth we are seeing.

• Invest in the vast implementation of battery improvements and storage capacity projects. This will help maximize the benefits of with renewable methods and with grid management.

The most powerful nation on Earth will need more power and fast, unless is wants to become powerless.

watt’s up? energy efficient homes.

With the rising prices of utility services, the best time to become conscious of your home’s electrical usage is now. There are many steps that you can take today in order to turn your home into a net-zero nest—a home that produces as much energy as it consumes over the course of a year.

The good news? You don’t have to overhaul your entire house overnight. Whether you live in Denver, Fort Collins, or a mountain town off the grid, these 7 practical energy-saving strategies will help you reduce your carbon footprint, lower your bills, and create a more comfortable living space.

1. Get a Home Energy Audit

The first step toward energy efficiency is understanding where your home is losing energy. A home energy audit identifies problem areas—like drafts, poor insulation, or outdated appliances—and gives you a clear roadmap for improvements.

Colorado’s Energy Office connects homeowners with affordable energy assessments, and some utility providers offer rebates or free audits. It’s a smart first move with long-term payoffs.

2. Seal Air Leaks & Upgrade Insulation

Little gaps around doors, windows, and baseboards can have a big impact on your comfort and utility bills. Use caulk and weatherstripping to seal leaks, and consider upgrading your attic or crawlspace insulation.

According to the CSU Energy Checklist, proper insulation and air sealing can slash heating and cooling costs by up to 20%.

3. Install a Programmable or Smart Thermostat

Colorado’s climate swings between extremes, but your thermostat doesn’t have to. Smart thermostats learn your schedule and adjust temperatures to reduce energy use while you’re away or asleep.

Even a basic programmable thermostat can help you cut your annual energy bill by 10%, making it a fast, low-cost upgrade with instant benefits.

4. Choose Energy-Efficient Appliances & Lighting

When it’s time to replace an appliance, look for the ENERGY STAR label. These appliances use significantly less energy without sacrificing performance. And don’t forget about lighting—LED bulbs use 75% less electricity than incandescents and can last over a decade.

Every efficient swap brings your home closer to net-zero.

5. Take Advantage of Colorado’s Energy Assistance Programs

Energy efficiency improvements don’t have to break the bank. Programs like Energy Outreach Colorado’s CARE Program provide income-qualified residents with free energy upgrades—including insulation, furnace replacement, and more.

Check eligibility or refer someone who may benefit. These programs not only save money—they improve health and safety at home.

6. Shift Usage to Off-Peak Hours

More utility providers in Colorado are introducing time-of-use billing, which means electricity costs more during peak daytime hours. You can save by running high-energy appliances like washers and dryers after 8 p.m. or on weekends.

Small adjustments in your daily habits can lead to noticeable savings on monthly bills.

7. Invest in Solar Energy

After tightening up your home’s energy use, the most impactful way to reach net-zero is by generating your own power with solar.

With over 300 days of sunshine annually, Colorado is ideal for solar energy. A residential solar system can drastically reduce or eliminate your electric bills, protect you from rising utility costs, and increase your home’s value.

At Cascade Solar & Electric, we specialize in designing and installing high-performance solar systems tailored to your home and energy goals. Whether you're just beginning to explore solar or ready to break ground, we're here to make the process seamless and stress-free.

Ready to Power Your Net-Zero Nest?

The path to a more efficient home starts with small steps—and ends with big results. Whether you're sealing air leaks, upgrading your thermostat, or going solar, every choice you make helps you take control of your energy future.

Small changes today can lead to significant savings tomorrow. And when you're ready to take that final step toward energy independence, Cascade Solar & Electric is your local, trusted partner in smart solar solutions.

Rooftop Solar May Be Out—But Solar Windows Are In

How Japan’s Perovskite Push Could Change the Future of Clean Energy

While the U.S. solar market is grappling with tax credit rollbacks and policy uncertainty, Japan is leaning into innovation—hard.

In pursuit of its net-zero emissions goal by 2050, Japan is making bold investments in perovskite solar panels, an emerging technology that could eventually replace traditional rooftop solar with ultra-lightweight, flexible, and even transparent alternatives.

And unlike conventional silicon-based panels, these perovskite cells use iodine—a resource that Japan has in abundance—helping to secure domestic supply chains and reduce dependence on imported materials.

What Are Perovskite Solar Panels?

Perovskite panels are made from a class of synthetic materials that can mimic the light-harvesting properties of silicon, but with far more flexibility and ease of production. These panels:

• Can be ultra-thin—as little as 1 millimeter thick

• Weigh about one-tenth as much as a traditional solar panel

• Can be applied to curved surfaces, flexible materials, and even windows

Companies like Panasonic and Sekisui Chemical are already investing heavily, testing perovskite installations on domed stadiums, windowpanes, and plastic manufacturing surfaces.

If scaled successfully, Japan estimates that perovskite solar could supply up to 50% of its electricity demand by 2040.

What’s the Catch?

Like any emerging technology, perovskites aren’t perfect—yet.

The current limitations include:

• Shorter lifespans than silicon panels

• Lower energy efficiency in most commercial prototypes

• The use of toxic lead compounds, which raises concerns about long-term safety and disposal

Still, if Japan succeeds in refining the technology—especially by improving durability and finding a lead-free formula—the potential applications are endless. Solar windows, building-integrated PV, and wearable solar fabrics could all become part of our daily lives.

Why This Matters for the World

Japan’s perovskite bet isn’t just about national energy independence. It represents a possible leap forward for global clean energy innovation.

If these thin, flexible, and aesthetically pleasing panels can overcome their limitations, they could revolutionize how and where solar is deployed—especially in dense urban areas or on structures not suited for heavy rooftop panels.

From skyscrapers to stadiums, perovskite technology could expand the solar landscape far beyond rooftops—and help us build a cleaner, brighter future for everyone.

Solar Developer Announces Layoffs Amid Accelerated ITC Phaseout

New Leaf Energy Cuts Jobs as Industry Braces for Broader Fallout

The solar industry is beginning to feel the real impact of recent federal policy shifts—and for some companies, the effects are already landing on employees.

New Leaf Energy, a renewable energy development firm formed from a unit of the former Borrego Solar, has announced that it has laid off 41 employees—nearly 20% of its workforce—as a direct result of changes to the federal Investment Tax Credit (ITC) for solar and wind energy projects.

What Changed with the Federal Solar Tax Credit?

Under previous legislation, the 30% federal ITC was available for qualifying solar and wind projects that began construction before 2032. But in a major policy reversal tied to a recent Congressional budget deal, those deadlines have been drastically moved forward:

• Projects must now begin construction by July 4, 2026

• And be placed in service by Dec. 31, 2028 (or by 2027 for some project types)

These tighter deadlines are sparking uncertainty across the renewable energy development sector—especially among utility-scale and community solar developers.

Layoffs Begin in a Shifting Industry Landscape

New Leaf Energy’s layoffs are among the first formal job cuts attributed directly to the ITC changes, but they are unlikely to be the last. According to industry insiders, residential and commercial solar companies across the U.S. are now bracing for similar reductions in hiring, project slowdowns, and possible downsizing.

Pine Gate Renewables, another prominent developer of utility-scale solar and battery storage projects, is rumored to have laid off 15% of its workforce—roughly 50 employees—though the company has declined to confirm these reports publicly.

Some companies appear to be shedding staff quietly, avoiding formal announcements in an attempt to protect internal morale or public perception.

New Leaf Energy Responds to Market Headwinds

Despite the job cuts, New Leaf Energy says it remains financially strong. In a LinkedIn statement, the company emphasized that it is well-capitalized, with a diverse and active pipeline of solar, wind, and battery storage projects across the U.S.

However, the company acknowledged that the sudden shift in tax policy has narrowed the development landscape.

“Reducing the size of the company is intended to provide stability and free cash while we adapt to a changed market,” the statement said. “The pathway to developing clean energy projects has narrowed—but it has not vanished.”

Founded in 2021, New Leaf’s focus includes community and utility-scale solar, energy storage, wind generation, and EV charging infrastructure. Its largest current development is the 100 MW Honey Ridge Solar facility in Jefferson County, New York, expected to begin operations in March 2029.

What This Means for the Solar Industry

These early layoffs could signal a larger wave of employment shifts as companies recalibrate around reduced timelines and tightened tax benefits. For the solar industry to thrive under the new rules, developers will need to streamline operations, secure funding faster, and accelerate project delivery timelines.

The solar transition isn’t over—but the road just got steeper.

Trump Ends Federal Solar Tax Credit Early: What It Means for Homeowners and what to do now

Image courtesy of Opening Bell Daily

In a move that surprised much of the renewable energy industry, President Trump recently signed the “Big Beautiful Bill,” a sweeping legislative package that, among other things, accelerates the end of the federal solar tax credit.

This 30% tax incentive, long considered one of the most powerful tools in making rooftop solar affordable for homeowners, will now expire on December 31, 2025—nearly a decade earlier than originally planned.

If you’ve been thinking about solar but waiting for the “right time,” that moment just became right now.

What Is the Federal Solar Tax Credit—and Why Does It Matter?

The Federal Investment Tax Credit (ITC) allows homeowners to deduct 30% of the total cost of a solar energy system from their federal taxes. It’s been a game-changer, shaving thousands off solar installations and making clean energy accessible for the average household.

Right now, a typical 11-kilowatt solar array costs around $28,160 before incentives, according to EnergySage. With the 30% tax credit applied, that price drops to roughly $20,000. But after 2025, with the credit gone? You’ll be paying full price—no exceptions.

That’s not just a budget issue—it could put solar out of reach for tens of thousands of American homeowners.

Electricity Demand Is Surging—Just as Solar Support Fades

If the policy shift wasn’t enough, there’s another looming issue: electricity demand is about to explode.

Thanks to the rapid growth of AI data centers and digital infrastructure, experts are forecasting a 130% increase in electricity consumption by 2030. Without sufficient rooftop solar adoption to help relieve grid pressure, utilities will need to build out costly infrastructure—and guess who funds that?

You, the ratepayer. Expect higher utility bills and more volatility as utilities scramble to meet growing demand—without the solar adoption that could’ve helped offset it.

Already Have Solar Panels? Here’s What It Means for You

If you already have solar installed and have claimed the tax credit, you’re in a great position. Your system is grandfathered into the current policy, and you’ll continue to enjoy the savings, performance, and peace of mind your setup offers.

Even better? As energy prices rise, your investment becomes more valuable—delivering a faster return than you may have originally planned.

Those who secured solar installations over the past few years, especially when equipment prices and interest rates were lower, will likely emerge as the real winners of this policy shift.

If You’re Considering Solar:

Start your solar journey now.

With a looming deadline, installation timelines will stretch. It typically takes 2–4 months from quote to installation, and experts expect a late-2025 installation rush that could lead to delays, higher prices, and missed opportunities.

Waiting until the last minute could mean missing out altogether.

If You Already Have Solar:

Think about battery storage.

Adding energy storage (ESS) while state and local incentives are still active is a smart way to make your system even more resilient. With grid instability on the rise, backup power is becoming essential, not optional.

If Solar Isn’t Feasible for You:

Focus on efficiency.

Solar isn’t the only way to reduce your energy costs. Upgrading insulation, investing in smart thermostats, and swapping in efficient appliances can make a big impact—with a smaller upfront investment.

The Bottom Line: Solar Is Still a Smart Move—But Timing Is Critical

This new policy reality changes the landscape. The financial case for solar remains strong—but only if you act before the credit disappears.

Whether you're looking to reduce your utility bills, gain energy independence, or increase your home’s value, waiting is no longer an option. The sooner you move, the better your chances of securing meaningful savings and a reliable energy future.

Can Colorado’s Grid Keep Up? Why More Homeowners Are Turning to Battery Backup

Colorado’s population continues to rise, with new homes and developments popping up to meet the demand. But there’s one big question on the horizon: Can our electric grid keep up?

Recent data suggests… maybe not.

Colorado’s Power Grid Is Under Pressure

Electricity demand is rising fast, and our aging infrastructure is struggling to keep pace. The effects are already hitting homeowners across the state. In fact, power outages are becoming not only more frequent—but significantly longer.

According to recent data, the average Xcel Energy customer in Colorado experienced nearly 6 hours of outage time in 2024. That’s a major spike from the 166-minute annual average seen across the previous decade. It’s not just one-off storms or flukes anymore—it’s a pattern.

Even worse, customer service wait times are growing, leaving many Colorado residents in the dark—both literally and figuratively—when issues arise. As climate events increase and the load on our grid grows, this trend isn’t likely to reverse anytime soon.

The Best Way to Prepare for an Outage? Avoid It Completely

Xcel Energy and other providers offer standard outage prep checklists—flashlights, backup phone chargers, and emergency kits—but let’s be honest: what you really want is to keep the lights on.

Rather than prepare for an outage, why not install a system that prevents one from affecting you in the first place? This is where battery backup systems come in.

What Is a Battery Backup System—and Why Is It a Game Changer?

Also called Energy Storage Systems (ESS), battery backups are cutting-edge home energy solutions that automatically provide power to your home during an outage. When the grid fails, the battery kicks in instantly to deliver electricity to your home’s essential circuits.

Modern systems are so seamless, you won’t even notice the switchover. There’s no fumbling with switches or waiting for a generator to fire up. The transition is instant, clean, and quiet.

Battery systems are also a smart option for families with medical needs, remote workers, or anyone who relies on stable, 24/7 power. And they’re more affordable and reliable than ever before.

Add Solar for a Complete, Resilient Home Energy Solution

If you want to take things even further, pair your battery with a solar energy system. Together, they create a powerful loop: solar panels charge your battery during the day, and your battery powers your home when the sun goes down or the grid goes out.

When combined with thoughtful energy use, this setup can keep your home running for days without touching the grid. It’s energy resilience, financial security, and peace of mind—all in one.

Ready to Take Control of Your Power?

Whether you're already generating solar power and want to add a battery backup, or you're just beginning to explore your home's solar + storage potential, we're here to help.

Our team specializes in designing and installing custom solar and battery solutions tailored to Colorado homeowners who want reliability in an increasingly uncertain energy future.

Get in touch to schedule a free energy consultation and explore what’s possible.

The Growing Demand for AI—and the Energy Crisis No One's Talking About

Artificial Intelligence isn’t just a tech trend anymore—it’s a full-blown cultural shift. From chatbots and image generators to automation in almost every industry, AI is already embedded in our daily lives. According to Statista, AI in the U.S. is expected to grow at a 26.95% annual rate, making it one of the largest expanding markets in the country.

In fact, a survey from Elon University (no, not Musk) found that over 52% of U.S. adults are now using large language models like ChatGPT, Gemini, Copilot, and Claude regularly. So the question isn’t whether demand for AI is growing—it clearly is. The better question might be: Are we ready for what it means?

AI's Hidden Cost: Electricity

AI doesn’t run on magic. It runs on massive amounts of power—mostly consumed by energy-hungry data centers that keep these models trained, updated, and operating 24/7.

The International Energy Agency (IEA) projects that global AI electricity demand will double to around 945 TWh by 2030. That includes an estimated 88 TWh of growth from the U.S. alone.

So what does that even mean in real-world terms?

Let’s Talk NFL Stadiums

Imagine powering all 30 NFL stadiums (yes, there are 32 teams—let’s not split hairs) for 5 hours each at their peak power usage of 10 MW. That’s about 50 MWh per stadium. Do that for all 30 stadiums simultaneously, and you’re at 1,500 MWh total.

To meet the projected AI energy demand, you’d need the equivalent of 58,667 games happening at once. Or, to stretch the metaphor even further, it’s the same as powering 215 full NFL seasons—every game, every team.

At that point, the Broncos and even the Cowboys better have won a Super Bowl or two, right?

So... Where’s That Energy Going to Come From?

AI is advancing whether we’re ready or not. That means America must prepare for the energy surge it will require. But slashing clean energy incentives, stalling solar and wind development, and making renewable access harder? That’s not going to cut it.

The only real solution is to grow energy production capacity, not shrink it.

America Needs to Power Up—Not Power Down

Whether we like it or not, the future is digital. And if we want AI to be part of it, we’re going to need to support the infrastructure that powers it. That includes:

• Expanding renewable energy production (solar, wind, hydro)

• Modernizing our electrical grid

• Holding leaders accountable for sustainable energy policies

• Fighting for continued access and funding for clean energy tech

This is a national issue, and it’s going to affect all of us—residentially, commercially, and economically.

Let’s not take a step backward. Let’s step forward, fully aware of the electricity demand AI is bringing, and prepared to meet it with the power of smart energy choices.

“Big, Beautiful Bill” just passed

KEY UPDATE: If you currently have solar, this new law will not impact you. If you or members of your community have not installed residential solar, it might be the time to consider investing in this technology. The “25D” tax credit, which has been the engine of consumer-owned home solar, will expire on December 31, 2025. If you want to realize this 30% tax credit, the time to act is now.

Senate passes budget bill without solar excise tax

On July 1, the U.S. Senate passed its version of the 2025 budget reconciliation bill, with Vice President JD Vance casting the tie-breaking vote. While the final legislation still poses challenges for the clean energy industry, several significant changes were made—some of which may help utility-scale and residential solar projects push forward in the short term.

What’s Changed in the Final Senate Bill?

The 50% Excise Tax on Chinese Solar Components—Removed

Originally proposed as a major blow to solar developers, the excise tax on solar projects tied to Chinese materials has been stripped from the final version. This is a huge relief to many in the industry, though foreign sourcing rules still remain on the horizon.

Residential Solar Tax Credit (25D) Still Set to Expire

The 30% residential solar tax credit (ITC) is still scheduled to expire at the end of 2025. Homeowners must install systems by December 31 to claim the full credit. (SEIA Overview Here)

Utility-Scale Projects Get a Temporary Lifeline

Projects that begin construction within 12 months of the bill’s enactment and are placed into service within four years can still qualify for the full ITC/PTC (48E/45Y). According to Roth Capital Partners, this could effectively extend the 100% tax credit to mid-2030 for projects that begin construction by mid-2026. Projects that miss that timeline must be placed into service by the end of 2027 or risk losing incentives.

What’s Still Intact (or Repaired)

• Residential leasing companies can now receive the 48E commercial ITC

• Storage tax credit (48E) remains untouched—still available through 2033

• Manufacturing tax credit (45X) is preserved and stackable, allowing wafer-cell-panel manufacturers to receive layered incentives if made at the same facility

What About Foreign Entity Restrictions?

Projects that start construction in 2025 are exempt from the Foreign Entity of Concern (FEOC) rules.

However, starting in 2026, developers can no longer receive “material assistance from a prohibited foreign entity”—a clause that will complicate sourcing and pricing for many U.S.-based solar companies.

Industry Leaders Respond

Abigail Ross Hopper, President and CEO of SEIA, issued a stark warning:

“If this bill becomes law, families will face higher electric bills, factories will shut down, Americans will lose their jobs, and our electric grid will grow weaker.”

“This would destabilize our energy future and strip millions of families of the energy savings, resilience, and independence that solar and storage provide.”

What Comes Next?

The bill now heads back to the House of Representatives, where lawmakers must approve the Senate’s revisions before it moves to the President’s desk.

In the meantime, homeowners and businesses still have a narrow window to take advantage of the current 30% solar tax credit—and that opportunity is closing fast.

Don't Wait Until the Window Closes

If you’re considering solar for your home or business, now is the time to act. The incentives are still available—but this bill makes it clear: they won’t be around for long.

👉 Schedule your solar consultation today and lock in your 2025 installation before it’s too late.

Senate version of Trump's "big, beautiful bill" would pummel renewable energy industry with new tax

The latest version of President Trump’s sweeping second-term legislative agenda poses a serious threat to the future of clean energy in the United States. The Senate version of the so-called “Big, Beautiful Bill” introduces a new excise tax on wind and solar projects, accelerates the end of renewable energy tax credits, and imposes strict foreign sourcing restrictions—changes that could increase energy prices, halt clean energy development, and eliminate millions of jobs.

What’s in the Bill That Impacts Solar and Renewables?

1. New Excise Tax on Clean Energy Projects

Buried on page 558 of the Senate bill is a proposed excise tax on all wind and solar projects that begin construction after June 16, 2025, or are placed into service after 2027.

• This tax is expected to cost clean energy developers $4–$7 billion by 2036, according to the American Clean Power Association.

• Consumers may see electricity prices increase by 8–10% as a result.

2. Foreign-Sourced Material Restrictions

Projects would be taxed if they source components from “prohibited foreign countries” like China. While the policy aims to promote U.S. manufacturing, clean energy experts warn that avoiding Chinese components is currently cost-prohibitive, particularly for solar developers.

This could drive energy-hungry companies like AI and data center operators to source power overseas, defeating the bill’s intended goals.

3. Accelerated Sunset of Renewable Tax Credits

The Senate bill would also eliminate or phase out tax credits for solar, wind, electric vehicles, and energy-efficient technologies sooner than previously planned:

• Inflation Reduction Act tax credits, originally slated to run through 2032, would now end in 2027 or 2028, depending on the version passed.

• The Senate version ends credits earlier than the House version—one more blow to long-term project viability.

A study from Rhodium Group estimates that this could result in a 72% drop in new solar and wind installations over the next decade.

Reactions Across the Spectrum

Elon Musk broke his silence, calling the Senate bill:

“Utterly insane and destructive... A massive strategic error... It will destroy millions of jobs and leave America extremely vulnerable.”

Even conservative energy analysts and pro-business groups were taken aback:

• Alex Epstein, a known critic of green subsidies, said: “I just learned about the excise tax and it’s definitely not something I would support.”

• The U.S. Chamber of Commerce called the tax “bad energy policy” and warned it would increase electricity prices during a time of rising demand.

And in a rare moment of unity:

• The North American Building Trades Union declared the bill could become “the biggest job-killing bill in the history of this country.”

• Their statement compares its impact to “1,000 canceled Keystone XL pipeline projects,” estimating 1.75 million jobs and $148 billion in annual wages and benefits lost.

What This Means for Solar Installers, Homeowners, and the Future of Clean Energy

If passed, this bill would mark a sharp reversal of the U.S.'s clean energy policy, with devastating consequences for:

• Homeowners seeking to install solar before the credit expires

• Installers and contractors who rely on incentives to drive business

• Local communities counting on clean energy jobs and grid resilience

The bill creates financial uncertainty, threatens supply chains, and shifts momentum back to fossil fuels—a move many experts view as economically and strategically shortsighted.

With a looming December 31, 2025 deadline for the 30% federal solar tax credit, now is the time for homeowners and businesses to act. The current political climate puts solar’s future on the line—and waiting may cost more than just money.

Energize Denver Compliance: What It Means and How to Get Ahead in 2025

Denver is making bold moves toward a more sustainable future—and commercial building owners are on the front lines. The Energize Denver ordinance is already in effect, and 2025 marks a pivotal year for compliance. But what exactly does the law require, who does it affect, and what steps should property owners take today to avoid penalties and capture energy savings?

This guide will walk you through the essentials of Energize Denver compliance, explore how it affects your building, and show how Cascade Solar & Electric can help you turn compliance into a strategic advantage.

What Is Energize Denver?

The Energize Denver ordinance, passed in 2021, is part of the city’s ambitious climate action plan. It requires most commercial and multifamily buildings over 25,000 square feet to:

• Benchmark and report annual energy use

• Complete an ASHRAE-level energy audit or electrification assessment

• Meet energy performance targets by phased deadlines (2025, 2027, 2030)

The ultimate goal: reduce building energy use 30% citywide by 2030 and cut greenhouse gas emissions.

Official Ordinance Info:
Visit the City of Denver’s Energize Denver homepage for full ordinance language and updated deadlines.

Who Needs to Comply?

If you own or manage any of the following property types within Denver, you are likely required to comply:

• Commercial buildings over 25,000 sq. ft.

• Multifamily properties (apartments, condos)

• Warehouses, industrial facilities, retail spaces

• Mixed-use developments

The city provides few exemptions, and enforcement is already underway. Missing deadlines or failing to submit benchmark data could result in steep fines.

Why This Matters in 2025

This year is a key milestone in the phased rollout. Energy audits or electrification assessments are due for many property types in 2025—and if you're behind schedule, your building could face penalties up to $2,000 per quarter.

But it’s not just about compliance. Upgrades like solar, LED retrofits, and energy monitoring can dramatically reduce your operating costs, increase asset value, and even qualify you for rebates and tax incentives.

How Cascade Solar & Electric Can Help

Cascade is more than a solar installer—we’re a full-service energy partner. We work with commercial property owners and developers to:

• Conduct ASHRAE-level energy audits

• Provide customized compliance plans

• Install solar energy systems and battery storage

• Retrofit LED lighting systems

• Upgrade panels and electrical infrastructure

• Submit benchmark reports and documentation

We make compliance simple, strategic, and aligned with your bottom line.

Free Download: Your Energize Denver Checklist

Want a clear, printable roadmap? Download our free guide: Is Your Building Energize Denver Ready? This checklist covers every step—from audits to upgrades—and includes tips on how to qualify for incentives and avoid fines.

Useful Resources:

• Cascade’s Energize Denver Compliance Services

• City of Denver Ordinance Summary

• ENERGY STAR Portfolio Manager

• Xcel Energy Rebates & Incentives

Final Thoughts

Energize Denver is more than a regulation—it’s an opportunity to improve your building’s performance, lower your energy costs, and position your property for long-term success. Don’t wait for a penalty notice to take action.

Contact Cascade Solar & Electric today to schedule your audit or create a custom compliance plan.

Schedule a Consultation