Success through Strategic Energy Management

With 20 state-run facilities, the Colorado Department of Corrections (DoC) is one of the largest energy users in state government. To comply with Governor Jared Polis’ order to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, the DoC partnered with Michaels Energy, Black Hills Energy, and Xcel Energy to tackle energy savings statewide.

Our Approach

  • Comprehensive energy audits across 7 prisons
  • Strategic Energy Management (SEM) programs for staff engagement
  • Recommissioning assessments and utility program integration
Two circular graphs showing the analysis of electricity use from the Colorado Department of Corrections' Centennial Facility (left), and Territorial Facility (right)

Results

  • 1.7M kWh saved across two facilities (equivalent to powering 148 homes for a year)
  • $69,789 secured in rebates
  • 3.8M kWh in additional identified savings at the remaining facilities
  • An additional $126,560 in potential rebates
  • Clear path to compliance with state carbon reduction goals

Words from our Client

“Our partnership is paving the way for significant energy savings across CDOC facilities. With ongoing energy audits, we’re identifying actionable improvements, from LED retrofits to automated systems that boost efficiency and cut costs. By investing in sustainable upgrades and working closely with local maintenance teams, we’re on track to make meaningful reductions in energy consumption that benefit both DOC, the communities we serve, and future generations.” — Ashley Clark, Colorado Department of Corrections