Path Dependence in Colorado's Renewable Portfolio Standards

Abstract

Renewable Portfolio Standards (RPS) have been a staple energy policy in the state of Colorado since 2004. While there has been a steady increase to the RPS percentages over the years, there have been several points where this policy has been significantly contested. This paper explores the political decision making of the two largest electricity producers in the state, Xcel Energy and Tri-State Generation and Transmission Association, to determine at what points that the costs of legislation exceeded the costs of opposition for those two organizations. Using this information, the paper explores the implications these political battles have on characterizing Colorado as a state with renewable path dependency and renewable policy feedback.