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From Carbondale to “Solardale”


January 16, 2020

Nestled in the Rocky Mountains at 6,200 feet, Carbondale has been the home of Sunsense since our founding in 1990. Originally an agricultural community that supplied food for the nearby silver-mining town of Aspen, throughout most of the 20th century Carbondale’s economy was primarily based on coal operations up the Crystal River Valley (hence, “Carbon”-dale).

How the scene has changed!

All the coal mines have been closed down since 1991, and Carbondale is now a hub for outdoor adventure, locally-grown food, and that’s right, solar energy. A stroll or bike ride through the Town of Carbondale will reveal numerous solar panels on homes, businesses, and public facilities. The Town, along with local non profit Clean Energy Economy for the Region (CLEER) has set some aggressive clean energy targets and intends to meet the targets utilizing efficiency measures, solar panels for homes and solar panels for businesses.

Carbondale’s Clean Energy Targets:

1. Increase energy efficiency 20% by 2020 (per capita for kwh’s and therms)

2. Generate 35% of our electricity from renewable energy sources by 2020

3. Reduce petroleum consumption 25% by 2020

With so much appreciation for the local environment and its potential for adventure sports, it’s no wonder that the residents of Carbondale value clean renewable energy. “Carbondale is honored to receive recognition for our efforts in promoting energy generation through solar,’’ says Carbondale Mayor Stacey Bernot.

So is Carbondale really going to change its name to “Solardale”?

Probably not, but it would be an appropriate reflection of the current energetic trend in this progressive little town.

Will Lennox, PV System Engineer

Let us help you reach your clean energy goals:
Contact a Sunsense consultant at 970 963-1420 or sunsense@sunsensesolar.com