At the same time, we must anticipate the challenges of transitioning to 100% renewable energy. Property and severance taxes and federal mineral lease revenues help support multiple local governments and public services, such as schools, fire and hospital districts. The Western Slope’s economy has jobs, tax revenues and businesses connected to gas, oil and coal-related industries.
Transitioning to 100% renewable energy requires finding ways to replace these funding sources and jobs as they are impacted over time, while at the same time taking a leadership role in harnessing the economic opportunities.