GOP Advances Reduction For Renewable Energy

DENVER (AP) - A plan to lower renewable energy mandates for rural Colorado electricity providers has won initial approval in the state Senate.

The bill marks another chance for Republicans newly in charge of the chamber to attack a hated law passed when Democrats had full control of the Capitol.

The measure would lower the amount of electricity that rural energy providers must obtain from renewable sources. Urban utilities that serve most Coloradans would retain the higher standards.

RELATED STORIES: Renewable Energy Story Archive

But the repeal measure stands no chance in the Democratic-controlled House. A debate Tuesday on the Senate floor gave Republicans a chance to argue that the rural standard upgrade has hurt farmers and rural residents.

Democrats argued unsuccessfully that the mandate has created jobs and diversifies Colorado's energy portfolio.

LINK: Senate Bill 44

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