Solar Energy Projects for Sustainability & Community - Uptime Logistics

Today on Uptime Logistics, Doug Draper of ACME Distribution and the Denver Transportation Club dives into the world of renewable energy development - specifically business-driven and community solar projects. To help explore this topic, Doug is joined by expert guest Jonathan Rogers. Jonathan is the Renewable Energy Specialist working with Denver’s Office of Climate Action, Sustainability, and Resiliency.

They discuss the role of cities as major centers of energy consumption - and therefore cities as major contributors to energy related emissions. This highlights the important opportunity cities have to partner with stakeholders such as businesses and nonprofits. Together, they can collaboratively lead the way with policies, incentives, programs, and education designed to improve sustainable energy production and access. Denver is a leading advocate and example to look to as more cities are looking to transition to the future of reliable, affordable, and carbon-free energy systems.

The conversation ranges from the types of solar power generation, battery storage technology, and the electification of buildings and transportation systems. For companies like CAP Logistics, on-site solar is a great option for commercial buidlings with the available roof space to install solar panels. Another exciting project Jonathan shares invloves a city partnership with Denver Botanic Gardens Chatfield Farm building a four-acre site that produces 1.2 megawatts of solar energy - enough for over 250 homes in need above and beyond the entire electrical needs of the farm itself. Studies show the solar panels actually help control temperature and water evaporation on a functional farm where the food grown will be donated and distributed to local food pantries. The program also provides job training programs (including Veteran outreach) and general education to its 190,000 annual visitors to the site.

 

Jonathan and his colleagues have been a helpful resource in guiding CAP Logistics through the process of doing research on options and best practices to install solar power. He and the rest of the the city, state, and utility (Xcel in Colorado) have all been very helpful in guiding CAP’s investments in sustainable energy production. They’ve also helped with guidance for how to give the excess electrical capacity to neighbors in need. Learn more about that program at Energy Outreach Colorado.

CAP Logistics believes it’s good business to be a good neighbor. We also encourage others to listen to this episode and visit Denver’s websites to learn and follow best practices in order to make the most impact for our local communities - and our world.

A big thanks to Jonathan for sharing his time and expertise with our audience. His passion and knowledge are readily apparent, and we’re grateful to have met him and have him serving our city. An ounce of education goes a long way, and we’re excited to help share the word!

Learn more at:

https://denvergov.org/solar

https://denvergov.org/Government/Agencies-Departments-Offices/Agencies-Departments-Offices-Directory/Climate-Action-Sustainability-Resiliency/Funding-Opportunities/Renewables-and-Resilience-Incentive-Program

https://www.denvercenter.org/news-center/denver-botanic-gardens-tackles-climate-change

Jonathan Rogers
Energy@denvergov.org

https://www.caplogistics.com/uptime-logistics-blog/2022/8/31/solar-energy-projects-for-sustainability-community-uptime-logistics

 

https://youtu.be/d3F38FCQdcQ