In the land of the free, Coloradans are losing their ability to choose the energy that aligns with their needs. Today, a mix of energy sources heat and cool homes across the state, including natural gas, electricity and renewable energy from wind and solar. However, there are policy discussions happening amongst Colorado’s decision makers that challenge the very notion Coloradans have a right to choose the energy they need to reliably and affordably run their homes and businesses. There are proposals that aim to limit the use of natural gas in favor of mandated electrification — meaning forcing Coloradans to replace natural gas with electricity as the exclusive energy source for our homes, buildings and appliances. This government-mandated shift would undermine Coloradans’ right to choose, compromise affordability and eliminate natural gas as a reliable source in the state’s energy mix.

Given the rapidly increasing cost of living in Colorado, maintaining affordable energy options is more essential than ever. Powering homes with natural gas remains one of the most cost-effective choices, and limiting energy options could make matters worse. For instance, switching to electric heat pumps and appliances may lead to significantly higher energy bills, increasing by 112% compared to efficient gas appliances. It’s clear many Coloradans are already facing challenges due to the rising cost of living. In fiscal year 2021, 17.5% of Colorado’s government revenues came from federal transfers, indicating a significant portion of the population relies on federal assistance.

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According to recent research from the American Gas Association, natural gas customers in Colorado save an average of 52% annually, with natural gas costing approximately $480 per year compared to $1,000 for electricity to heat a home. Restricting access would disproportionately affect low-income and rural households, which often depend on natural gas due to its affordability and widespread availability in the state. Removing the option of natural gas further increases energy burdens, leaving many residents unable to afford basic needs for heating their homes or cooking their food. Policymakers must consider these disparities to ensure equitable access to energy for all Coloradans. We must also be mindful of policies that benefit wealthy Coloradans with more disposable income by helping them cover the costs for their personal decision to change heating and cooking systems. At the same time, we need to ensure these policies don’t unfairly burden low-income Coloradans with a greater financial share of the existing infrastructure we all have used and need. 

Furthermore, Colorado’s natural gas infrastructure is a well-established, weather-tested system, and provides many well-paying jobs to Coloradans. Any proposals at the local or state level to mandate electrification will have far-reaching harmful consequences. Estimates from Common Sense Institute Colorado (CSI) suggest such policies to limit or eliminate natural gas could result in the loss of up to 70,000 jobs, more than $1 billion in state and local tax revenues, and $140 million annually in funding for schools. A forced transition from natural gas to all-electric power statewide could cost an estimated $71 billion.

Across Colorado, consumers agree with these sentiments and want to choose their energy source. In December 2024, Coloradans for Energy Access (CEA) conducted public opinion research, which revealed a majority of people in our state prefer having natural gas appliances in their homes over all-electric homes. By more than 50%, Coloradans indicated they would choose a home with natural gas appliances over one with only electric appliances. Even among those currently using electricity to cook, 45% would switch to gas if given the choice. Among respondents already using natural gas for cooking, only 17% would opt for an all-electric oven. These figures from the research underscore the strong preference Coloradans have toward natural gas use, and the importance of preserving consumer choice to reflect the diverse needs and preferences of the population.

The case for maintaining consumer choice in Colorado’s energy policy is clear. Natural gas is not only a preferred energy source for the majority of Coloradans but also the most affordable and reliable option. If Coloradans want and can afford to incur the significant costs of transitioning to an all-electric system, that should be their own personal choice and not mandated by decision makers.

As advocates for Colorado’s workers and businesses, we see firsthand how energy choice affects families and communities across the state. From skilled trades to small businesses and major industries, affordable, reliable energy is essential — whether on the eastern plains, the Rockies, the Front Range, or the Western Slope. With the states vast diversity of environments and lifestyles, comes varying energy needs and every Coloradan should be allowed to choose the type of energy that works best for their home, their business and their budgets. A balanced energy policy that includes natural gas alongside electric options ensures affordability, reliability and fairness. Coloradans want choice, not mandates.

Gary Arnold is business manager of Denver Pipefitters Local 208 and president of Coloradans for Energy Access. Sara Blackhurst is chief executive of Action Colorado and vice president of Coloradans for Energy Access.