The University of Denver and Pivot Energy announced they have completed Colorado’s first off-site net metering solar project, marking a milestone in the state’s shift toward policy-enabled renewable energy that can serve customers without enough space or flexibility for on-site generation.
The 3.28 megawatt direct current solar project in Johnstown, Colorado, began producing 100% local renewable energy earlier this month, supporting DU’s commitment to offset 100% of its electricity with renewable energy and advance its broader carbon neutrality goals.
The Johnstown installation is the first of six off-site projects planned under a 2024 agreement in which Pivot is developing a portfolio of on-campus and off-site solar projects for DU totaling more than 27 MWdc. DU said the off-site project delivers solar power to DU facilities via bill credits tied to electricity generated at the remote site.
Representatives from Pivot, DU, and Xcel Energy marked the completion with a ribbon-cutting on January 13. The Johnstown project includes roughly 7,000 solar panels, which the partners said is enough to power the equivalent of about 760 average-sized homes.
Beyond emissions reductions, the project is designed to generate local economic benefits. DU and Pivot said the solar developments provide 30 to 40 years of steady lease payments for local landowners and contribute local property taxes in Weld County. Construction of the remaining five off-site sites, located across Adams, Mesa, and Weld counties, is expected to be completed by 2027.
The project also reflects the growing role of virtual net metering in expanding access to clean energy. The Johnstown site is the first virtual net metering solar project completed in Colorado since the passage of Senate Bill 21 261, which expanded access to off-site solar generation for customers with multiple meters or limited on-site options. The law enables organizations such as universities, businesses, and hospitals to receive bill credits for electricity generated by off-site solar projects.
DU and Pivot said the partnership is intended to help eliminate electricity-related emissions on DU’s campus, lower operating costs, and support compliance with city and state building performance standards, while serving as a model for scalable renewable energy development across Colorado and beyond.
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“This is an exciting first step as we work towards achieving carbon neutrality at the University of Denver. Our partnership with Pivot Energy has allowed us to expand the number of rooftop solar installations we have on campus as well as develop the off-site net metering projects across Colorado. This is our commitment to building a better world and a better future for our students.”
Jeremy Haefner, Chancellor, University of Denver
“Completing this solar project signals to institutions, corporations, and organizations across Colorado that access to cost savings and emission-reducing renewable energy is easier by locating solar projects off-site and receiving the benefits virtually. This milestone between Pivot Energy and the University of Denver demonstrates what’s possible when innovative policy meets local leadership.”
Mat Elmore, Senior Vice President for Strategic Accounts, Pivot Energy
“The University of Denver is pioneering the way toward a future powered by clean energy. This project lowers pollution, makes our community healthier, and demonstrates that Energize Denver is not only aspirational but achievable.”
Mike Johnston, Mayor of Denver
