LITTLETON - On September 25, 2024, Governor Polis helped kick off two new facilities that will support Colorado’s climate goals and protect the state for future generations. First, Governor Polis attended the grand opening of the new agrivoltaics Solar Farm at Denver Botanic Gardens’s Chatfield Farms. This solar farm, funded through Denver’s Climate Action, Sustainability & Resiliency, will create clean energy to power the entire site while generating low-cost energy for 150 Denver Public School families. The Governor joined Denver Mayor Mike Johnston at the Chatfield ribbon cutting. 

“Colorado is a national leader in clean energy and conservation solutions. Harnessing the power of agrivoltaics, Denver Botanic Gardens Chatfield Farms will continue to provide a habitat for hundreds of plant species and butterflies, while creating clean, low-cost energy for hardworking families and businesses. The Botanic Gardens is an example of how innovative solutions are lowering costs, creating a more sustainable future, and enhancing our Colorado way of life,” said Governor Polis. 

Earlier this month the Department of Agriculture announced $500,000 in new awards for agrivoltaics efforts around the state. Governor Polis then attended and provided remarks at the Auraria Sustainable Campus Compost Program Launch. This first-in-Colorado student-led composting effort will reduce campus waste to create compost for trees, plants, and grass across campus. This initiative received a $129,150 Recycling Resources Economic Opportunity (RREO) Grant from the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment (CDPHE). 

“Thanks to these students and their passion for sustainability, Auraria Campus will reduce waste and ensure healthy green spaces for the community to enjoy. By utilizing a state grant this effort will boost sustainability on campus while helping the state identify how to reduce landfill waste,” said Governor Polis.