Funding an initiative that benefits millions of Coloradans and reflects a strong regional partnership focused on long-term climate solutions

DRCOG Decarbonize Denver - Climate Pollution Reduction Grant Assistance

When the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) launched a $5 billion Climate Pollution Reduction Grant Program, the Denver Regional Council of Governments (DRCOG) saw an opportunity. They could use funds to cut greenhouse emissions from buildings and support low-income households and workforce development within the region.

DRCOG worked with our North American Funding Program team to strengthen their application. We helped them shape their proposal to align with EPA goals. Our process included multiple reviews, workshops, and finalizing the application.

In July 2024, the EPA awarded DRCOG $199 million. In addition to reducing carbon pollution from buildings and fostering workforce development, DRCOG will use funding to provide rebates for electric appliances like heat pumps. These efforts aim to improve air quality and public health in an area with elevated levels of air pollutants, such as ozone.

By 2050, the program is expected to cut 148.2 million metric tons of carbon dioxide—equivalent to taking 35 million gas-powered cars off the road for a year. It will train nearly 5,000 workers and reach 1.6 million Coloradans through a public awareness campaign. Local governments have also contributed $73 million in matching funds and in-kind services.