Colorado's House Transportation and Energy Committee has approved H.B.1164, designed to encourage utilities to develop more solar power plants, by a vote of 8-5, the Denver Business Journal reports.
Sponsored by Rep. Judy Solano, D-Brighton, the bill directs the Colorado Public Utilities Commission to encourage utilities to consider the benefits of solar power – including higher costs associated with greenhouse gas emissions – when examining utility proposals.
The bill is designed to address concerns among members of the energy industry and some consumer groups that the development of solar energy will increase the costs of energy bills for Colorado residents and businesses, the article adds.
H.B.1164 now moves on to the full House for consideration.
