Solar Peaks & Windy Nights - Matching Energy Use with Clean Supply

The timing of our energy use is becoming just as important as how much energy we use. As Colorado’s electricity mix shifts throughout the day, shifting electricity demand – whether for home appliances, heating and cooling, or charging electric vehicles – can significantly reduce emissions, lower energy costs, and make better use of renewable energy already on the grid. This talk explores why it matters when we use electricity, how cleaner hours vary throughout the day, and what it means for households, businesses, and any energy user. By aligning flexible energy uses with periods of abundant wind and solar, Colorado can cut carbon pollution and ease strain on the grid. Tools like the ChargeBug app provide real‑time estimates of how clean the grid is, along with week‑ahead forecasts that help people plan energy use for the lowest‑emission hours and make simple, climate‑friendly choices about when to plug in or power up. Organized by the Jeffco chapter of the Colorado Renewable Energy Society, recorded on March 26, 2026. Contact: [email protected], cres-energy.org. Video production by Martin Voelker. ABOUT CRES – cres-energy.org The Colorado Renewable Energy Society (CRES) is dedicated to the advancement of all forms of renewable energy (RE), energy efficiency (EE), and their synergy with sustainability and economic development. Learn more at cres-energy.org. CRES features several local monthly speaker series throughout the state, provides speakers, experts, and workshops, and weighs in on state energy policy. Please support our work by becoming a member.