Senator Exum and Senator Kipp, co-prime sponsors, introduced and explained Senate Bill 26-002 Energy Affordability. The bill requires an investor-owned electric utility to offer a first allotment of residential energy (FARE) service program for income-qualified customers in the utility’s service territory.

Tykee James, representing Conservation Colorado, testified in support of the bill. Clare Valentine, representing Western Resource Advocates, testified in support of the bill. Dr. Chuck Patterson, representing themself, testified in support of the bill.

Matilda Parker, representing themself, testified in support of the bill. Shaina Oliver, representing Colorado Moms Clean Air Force, testified in support of the bill. Faith Ryan, representing Colorado Communities for Climate Action, testified in support of the bill. Tim Barnes, representing City of Lafayette, testified in support of the bill.

Blanca Jaquez, representing themself, testified in support of the bill.

Rebecca White, representing Public Utilities Commission, testified to amend the bill. Lara Long, representing Energy Outreach Colorado, testified to amend the bill.

Ms. Long responded to questions from the committee.

Written testimony is included as Attachment A.

The sponsors gave closing comments on the bill.

Committee members gave closing comments on the bill.