Strong demand driving Fort Collins CLEAN Program - Clean Coalition
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Strong demand driving Fort Collins CLEAN Program

Programs like this one encourage the deployment of Wholesale Distributed Generation, a key market segment for rapidly deploying cost-effective renewables.

Craig Lewis


The newly launched Solar Power Purchase Program (SPPP) in Fort Collins, CO received nearly 7 megawatts (MW) worth of applications during its initial application period. This amount significantly exceeds the 2.3 MW allocated for the first round of the program and highlights a strong demand for cost-effective clean local energy in Fort Collins. The program, which includes both small (10 to 100 kW) and large (100 to 1000 kW) projects, has already received letters of intent representing an additional 4 to 7 MW for its 2.3 MW second round.

Also known as a CLEAN Program (a feed-in tariff with streamlined interconnection procedures), SPPP will help Fort Collins Utilities procure roughly 5 MW of new local solar capacity to help meet renewable energy requirements set by the Colorado Renewable Energy Standard (RES). CLEAN Programs like SPPP encourage the deployment of Wholesale Distributed Generation (WDG), which has proven to be the key market segment for rapidly deploying cost-effective renewables worldwide.

Craig Lewis

Founder and Executive Director

Craig founded the Clean Coalition in 2009 and has over 30 years of experience in policy and technology innovation, including the proliferation of Solar Microgrids and Community Microgrids. Prior to founding the Clean Coalition, Craig held numerous positions in the wireless, semiconductor, banking, and renewable energy industries. Previously VP of Government Relations at GreenVolts, he was the first to successfully navigate a solar project through California’s Renewable Portfolio Standard solicitation process. Craig was energy policy lead on Steve Westly’s 2006 California gubernatorial campaign. His resume includes senior government relations, corporate development, and marketing positions at leading wireless, semiconductor, and banking companies such as Qualcomm, Ericsson, and Barclays Bank. Craig received an MBA and MSEE from the University of Southern California and a BSEE from the University of California, Berkeley.