Carbon dioxide (CO2) is a greenhouse gas which contributes to climate change. Power plants that burn coal and natural gas emit large amounts of CO2 to the atmosphere. In order to slow climate change, Holy Cross Energy and other utilities will need to change their fuel mix, increase their renewable energy and carbon-free generation, and promote energy conservation.

Colorado Governor Bill Ritter has established a voluntary goal of reducing the state’s carbon dioxide emissions 20% below 2005 levels by 2020, and 80% below 2005 levels by 2050. At the national level, the U.S. House of Representatives recently passed legislation that would require mandatory reductions in carbon dioxide. This bill—which is now being considered by the U.S. Senate—would also put a price on emissions. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency is also looking at regulating CO2.

Producing carbon-free electricity is generally more expensive than producing electricity at existing coal and natural gas plants. This means that meeting carbon dioxide reduction targets will likely raise Holy Cross Energy’s electric rates.

The outlook for climate policy remains uncertain. Regardless of what happens, Holy Cross Energy is committed to providing our member/owners with reliable and affordable electricity, while reducing our environmental impact.

Should Holy Cross Energy strive to meet voluntary carbon dioxide emission reduction goals, similar to those proposed by Governor Ritter?

	Yes
	No
	Only meet emission reduction goals if they become state or federal law.

How much more would you be willing to pay on your electric bill to meet voluntary emission targets?

	Nothing
	5% more
	6% to 10% more
	11% to 15% more
	Greater than 15% more

Which of the following power supply goals is most important to you?

	Keep electricity costs as low as possible.
	Increase Holy Cross Energy’s renewable energy supply and reduce carbon dioxide emissions

Holy Cross Energy consumers currently pay a 2% surcharge to fund local renewable energy projects and energy conservation programs. As a consumer, you are eligible for rebates from these programs. Do you:

	Support the surcharge at its current level
	Think the surcharge should be increased, to raise more money for renewable energy and energy conservation programs
	Think the surcharge should be decreased
	Think the surcharge should be ended

Would you participate in renewable energy projects or conservation measures if Holy Cross did not offer rebates?

	Yes
	No

Holy Cross Energy is considering installing a “smart grid technology” that would enable you to check your electric bill and monitor your electricity use in real time. If you had this ability, would you use it to conserve energy?

	Yes
	No

Holy Cross Energy’s Board of Directors has adopted a voluntary goal of getting 20% of our electricity from wind, hydro, solar, and other renewable sources by 2015. Should the additional costs of reaching this target be paid for:

	By all consumers equally
	Only by those consumers willing to pay more
	Both
	Not sure/No opinion

Please provide any additional comments you have for Holy Cross Energy's consideration:

Please provide your name and account number:

Name:
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DISCLAIMER – The purpose of this web site is to identify planning issues currently under consideration by Holy Cross Energy management and to provide customers an opportunity to offer their attitudes and opinions on these issues. The information collected via this web site is for general information purposes only and does not represent a statistically reliable survey sample.