Press Room

Senate passes bill to create jobs and improve energy efficiency of Colorado homes

Monday, April 18 2011

Bill by Senator Jahn supports construction and energy efficiency jobs

DENVER— A bill to stimulate growth in construction jobs and encourage more home sales in Colorado received initial approval by the Senate today. House Bill 1160, sponsored by Senator Cheri Jahn (D–Wheat Ridge) will create construction and renovation jobs. The bill now awaits final approval by the full Senate.

Senator Jahn offered the following comment on the second reading passage of House Bill 1160:

“This bill will create jobs in construction and energy efficiency. These businesses were hit hard during the recession, and these incentives will get these roofers, plumbers, electricians and other green energy workers back on the job.”

House Bill 1160 creates the Green Building Incentive Pilot Program. The program will award grants to Coloradans who are preparing to sell their current home and are planning to purchase a new, energy efficient home. Homeowners can use the grant to make energy efficiency improvements to the home they are selling to make it more marketable. The program will provide opportunities for economic growth in green jobs and industries dedicated to improving energy efficiency of both new and existing residences.

This pilot program will be developed and administered by the Governor’s Energy Office (GEO). Grants will be awarded to allow homeowners to make energy efficiency improvements on their current homes that have energy ratings below minimum standards.

No state funding will be used for the program. Grant funds will come from federal dollars already allocated to the state.