We are thrilled to announce the release of our groundbreaking report, “Colorado’s Energy Future: the 2024 Oil & Gas Worker and Community Transition,” created in partnership with the Colorado Fiscal Institute (CFI). This report represents a major step forward in envisioning a future for Colorado that is both equitable and sustainable as we transition away from oil and gas dependence. Together, we have charted a path that prioritizes workers, communities, and the environment in the pursuit of a just energy transition.
Why This Report Matters
The energy landscape is shifting rapidly, and Colorado is at the forefront of these changes. With the transition to cleaner energy sources accelerating, this work aims to address the critical question: How do we ensure that workers and communities dependent on the oil and gas industry are not left behind?
Our collaboration with CFI also highlights the importance of centering people and communities in the decision-making process. This report identifies key challenges and offers actionable recommendations for supporting workers, diversifying local economies, and fostering resilience in communities impacted by this shift.
Key Insights from the Report
- Colorado must enhance data collection and engage with all parties affected by the transition to identify needs, priorities, and opportunities.
- Clean energy initiatives alone, such as wind and solar, cannot fully offset local revenue and job losses, necessitating broader economic diversification strategies.
- Colorado should establish an advisory committee, modeled after the Just Transition Advisory Group, that includes oil and gas workers, marginalized groups, and frontline communities to ensure equitable representation.
- The state must involve community members and oil and gas workers in discussions, providing fair compensation for their time and contributions.
The study bridges research gaps by capturing the voices of Colorado’s oil and gas workers and communities, offering a holistic view of the transitioning landscape. By collaborating with labor and community groups and building on surveys of coal communities and energy workers nationwide, we authentically highlight the profound economic, social, and environmental impacts of this industry across the state.
This report is a snapshot, filling a gap in the transition ecosystem and sparking a meaningful dialogue about the interconnected impacts on workers and communities across Colorado. By collaborating with the Colorado Fiscal Institute, we combined data-driven insights with community voices to create a comprehensive blueprint for a just transition—grounded in the lived experiences of those most affected and tailored to meet Colorado’s unique needs.
Looking Ahead
The release of the Just Transition Report is just the beginning. We invite policymakers, community leaders, and all stakeholders to join us in implementing these recommendations. Together, we can ensure that Colorado’s energy transition is not only equitable but also a model for other states to follow.
This report challenges us to think boldly and act compassionately. As we move forward, let’s center the voices of those most impacted, leverage the strength of our communities, and commit to a future where no one is left behind.
Read the Policy Brief (5 pages):
Read the Full Report (80 pages):
Together, we can build a brighter, more sustainable future for all. Sign up for our newsletter on our homepage afca.earth to receive updates from the Alliance and join us as we take action in 2025.
