Colorado Town Builds Climate Resiliency After Devastating Fires 

Louisville Commits to Zero Carbon by 2030 and Kicks Off McKinstry-Led Decarbonization Roadmap Project

In December 2021, Boulder County and the City of Louisville experienced the most destructive wildfire in the state’s history, with over 545 homes and businesses lost or damaged. One year after the devastating Marshall Fire, the City of Louisville is continuing to rebuild. In addition to pre-disaster planning, the city is focused on improving its climate resiliency. Using its Sustainability Action Plan as a guide, the city has partnered with McKinstry to develop a comprehensive city-wide internal decarbonization roadmap. Adopted by the Louisville City Council in 2020, the Sustainability Action Plan serves as a framework to guide Louisville’s long-term vision. The plan comprehensively outlines the city’s energy efficiency goals from all angles including climate, energy, transportation, waste, water, ecological health and local food and agriculture.

The decarbonization roadmap project will further drive and support the city’s goal of full decarbonization by 2030. The city’s aggressive decarbonization goal is driven by greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions from all city fleet vehicles, municipal buildings and operational emissions; a result of producing electricity and energy for building use.

Partnering with McKinstry, the City of Louisville will assess the technological feasibility and affordability of the 2030 goal through electrification and the expansion of its renewable energy portfolio. Once the roadmap is complete, implementation of the plan could result in significant community improvements including safety measures like wildfire smoke protection in municipal buildings and emergency shelters, economic stimulus through engaging local subcontractors and improved building occupant comfort realized through lighting upgrades and thermal temperature regulation.

Looking ahead, the internal decarbonization roadmap will serve as a model for a forthcoming community-centric decarbonization roadmap for Louisville residents and building owners. The city has partnered with Xcel Energy to execute the community plan and, in addition to educational opportunities, the program may provide rebate options and other participation incentives.

The city’s move toward decarbonization demonstrates a dedication to maintaining the longevity of municipal facilities, improving the community’s climate resiliency and cultivating a healthy, safe and secure resident experience. With decades of experience in zero carbon planning, McKinstry is honored to partner with the City of Louisville on their journey towards a zero-carbon future.

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