DLG Director Tony Hernandez Visits Solar Installation Project in Carbondale

During a recent visit to the Crystal Meadows Senior Housing Complex in Carbondale, DLG's director, Tony Hernandez, was treated to a firsthand look at solar paneling that will help generate 15 percent of the electricity to power Crystal Meadows' electrical needs.

The project was funded in part by a $86,929 Energy and Mineral Impact grant to Garfield County through the New Energy Communities Initiative.  The Initiative was launched in 2008 by Governor Bill Ritter and is designed to maximize energy efficiency and conservation, enhance community livability, promote economic development, and address climate change by reducing carbon emissions.  Garfield County is one of 14 recipients that received nearly $10 million toward regional, collaborative efforts to save money, save energy and create jobs.

Hernandez joined Joani Matranga of the Governor's Energy Office, Scott Ely of Sunsense, Jeff Dickinson Mike Ogburn and Rob Morey of the Garfield New Energy Communities Initiative (G-NECI), Patrick Johnson of Solar Flair and Alice Laird of Clean Energy Economy for the Region, for a tour of the solar array that will be powering the complex.

About his visit, Hernandez said, "I really appreciate the opportunity to see firsthand how DOLA's investments are improving people's lives.  I am honored that I was able to meet with our partners in this important endeavor.  Garfield County is a great example of a community committed to sustainability and I look forward to hearing about their future progress and accomplishments."