Sustainability Partners

Community Office for Resource Efficiency (CORE)

The Community Office for Resource Efficiency (CORE) is a nonprofit organization dedicated to advancing energy efficiency and climate action in Colorado's Roaring Fork Valley, encompassing Pitkin, Eagle, and Garfield counties. Established in 1994, CORE collaborates with local governments, utilities, and residents to implement sustainable solutions across residential, commercial, and municipal sectors.

Key Programs and Services

Grants and Rebates: CORE offers financial incentives to support energy-saving projects, including heat pump installations, insulation, and electrification upgrades. Residential rebates can reach up to $15,000, while commercial and multifamily projects may qualify for up to $50,000. Additionally, grants up to $200,000 are available for large-scale projects with significant greenhouse gas reduction potential.

Community Priority Participants: Individuals and organizations such as teachers, first responders, veterans, and nonprofits may receive double the standard rebate amounts, with up to $30,000 available for qualifying commercial or multifamily projects.

Energy Concierge Services: CORE provides personalized guidance to homeowners and building owners, assisting with project planning, contractor referrals, and navigating available incentives.

Workforce Development: In partnership with Colorado Mountain College, CORE offers training programs to develop a skilled energy efficiency workforce, addressing the region's need for qualified professionals in high-elevation environments.

Methane Gas Mitigation: CORE is actively researching methane emissions from the Coal Basin mines near Redstone, Colorado, aiming to reduce significant greenhouse gas emissions and advance local climate goals.

aspencore.org

Holy Cross Energy (HCE)

Holy Cross Energy is a member-owned electric cooperative serving approximately 45,000 members across western Colorado, including the Roaring Fork Valley. With a commitment to sustainable energy, HCE aims to provide reliable, affordable, and clean electricity to its diverse communities.

Clean Energy Initiatives

100×30 Plan: HCE has set a goal to source 100% of its electricity from renewable resources by 2030. As of 2024, 75% of the energy purchased and generated by HCE was clean and carbon-free .

Solar and Battery Projects: Collaborations with partners like Ameresco and Colorado Mountain College have led to the installation of solar photovoltaic systems and battery energy storage projects, such as the 5MW solar and 15MWh battery storage project at the Spring Valley Campus.

Distributed Energy Resources (DER): HCE has partnered with Virtual Peaker to manage 10MW from controllable behind-the-meter devices, including batteries and electric vehicle chargers, enhancing grid efficiency and supporting the transition to renewable energy.

Member Programs

HCE offers a range of programs to support its members:

Peak Time Payback: Members can earn bill credits by reducing electricity use during peak demand times.

PuRE (Purchase Renewable Energy): Allows members to purchase 100% clean and renewable energy.

Power+FLEX: Provides at-home battery energy storage solutions.

Solar + Storage: Enables pairing of solar systems with battery storage for maximum benefit.

Charge at Home: Offers residential rebates for Level 2 electric vehicle chargers.

Charge at Work: Assists businesses in implementing commercial charging stations.

Energy Efficiency Rebates: Supports investment in high-efficiency equipment for homes and businesses.

Smart Electric Rebates: Encourages the switch from fossil fuels to electric alternatives, such as e-bikes and e-lawn-care equipment.

Time of Use Rate: Offers savings for shifting electricity use to non-peak times.

Income-Qualified Programs: Provides additional assistance based on household income.

Pitkin County

2025 Climate Action Plan

In March 2025, Pitkin County adopted a comprehensive Climate Action Plan to strengthen its commitment to sustainability. This plan outlines strategies to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, enhance energy efficiency, and promote renewable energy sources across the county. It serves as a roadmap for achieving long-term environmental goals and fostering resilience against climate change impacts.

Renewable Energy Mitigation Program (REMP)

Established in 2000, REMP is a pioneering program that requires new construction projects exceeding energy consumption thresholds to mitigate their impact. Developers can comply by installing on-site renewable energy systems or contributing to a fund managed by the Community Office for Resource Efficiency (CORE). This fund supports local energy efficiency projects and has generated significant investments in sustainable infrastructure.

Sustainable Transportation

The Roaring Fork Transportation Authority (RFTA) operates an extensive public transit network throughout Pitkin County, including the nation's first rural Bus Rapid Transit system, VelociRFTA. RFTA is transitioning to a fully zero-emission fleet, aiming to reduce fossil fuel use by 50% by 2030 and 90% by 2050. The fleet includes biodiesel, compressed natural gas (CNG), and battery electric buses, all contributing to reduced emissions and improved air quality.

Conservation and Restoration Projects

Pitkin County is actively involved in environmental conservation and restoration efforts. Notably, the Independence Pass Foundation has undertaken significant projects to address erosion and revegetation along the pass, enhancing both ecological health and aesthetic value. Additionally, the county has preserved and restored the Redstone Coke Oven Historic District, balancing historical preservation with environmental stewardship.

Snowmass Water & Sanitation District

Save it for the Streams!

Snowmass gets its water from local streams which are fed by what nature delivers each year. Simple steps can help us conserve this valuable resource.

Irrigate only as needed. In Snowmass, we have a three day a week schedule. Check with Snowmass Water and Sanitation District for the schedule for your neighborhood. Go to SWSD.org.
Check for leaks in your irrigation system and contact SWSD for an irrigation assessment to make your system more efficient.
Plant flowers and native grasses that need less water. Traditional bluegrass lawns need 2 to 3 times more water than other perennial plantings.
Fix indoor leaks as soon as they happen- a leaking faucet or running toilet will use more water than we realize!

Check out StreamFed.org for more information on local water conservation tips and resources.