CO HB1441

Requires the Public Utilities Commission (PUC) to consider the likelihood of new environmental regulations concerning greenhouse gas emissions when reviewing utility proposals for electric resource planning.

Mandates the PUC consider both present and future costs associated with greenhouse gas emissions (carbon dioxide and methane) based on cost per ton of emissions when evaluating utility resource plans.

Directs the PUC to determine greenhouse gas emission costs annually by reviewing the most appropriate national and regional carbon markets for Colorado, and requires resource plans to account for these costs.

Appropriates $7,512 to the Department of Regulatory Agencies for the 2016-17 fiscal year ($6,947 for 0.1 FTE personnel services and $565 for operating expenses).

Takes effect August 10, 2016, unless a referendum petition is filed, in which case it requires voter approval at the November 2016 general election; applies to utility proposals considered by the PUC on or after the effective date.