Thursday, October 29, 2009

Energy Law Prof. KK DuVivier Authors Op-Ed Commentary About The Need to Protect Solar Access in Denver's City Code

Prof. KK DuVivier, who teaches energy law and mining law at DU, makes a compelling case in an op-ed commentary published yesterday in The Denver Post ("Retain Solar Access in Code," Oct. 28, 2009) that the city zoning code, which is poised to be updated soon, must take into account solar access protections.

Prof. DuVivier wrote, "The proposed code is ambitious and visionary and could move Denver forward in many ways. But we must also move forward, and not back, with solar access. Only then can Denver be proud of its legacy as a model to the nation for sustainability."

She noted that despite the fact that Denver has on average 300 days a year of sunshine and is in an ideal location for solar power, a "solar bulk plane" protection was removed from the zoning code in 2003. Bearing in mind the need for more secure sources of energy and current incentive programs, "Everyone has a stake in keeping these solar panels protected from 'shade pollution,'" she wrote.

Prof. DuVivier is no stranger to energy-related issues. Before becoming a lawyer, she worked as a geologist in the uranium mining business so she understands all aspects of the often complicated area of energy policy. Students who come to DU benefit from professors like KK DuVivier who understand the past and are looking to the future. Check her op-ed out. I think you will agree.

No comments:

Post a Comment