The U.S. Department of Energy recently awarded a $4.6 million American Recovery and Reinvestment Act grant to the State of Colorado. The funding will be used to create an open-loop geothermal system at the State Capitol, which is among the first in the nation and is expected to save about $95,000 in heating and cooling costs per year.

"This is a great project to highlight the significant potential that geothermal energy has here in Colorado, and it serves as a shining example of how the New Energy Economy creates jobs, diversifies our energy resources and bolsters energy security," Gov. Bill Ritter said. "By tapping into the steady temperature below the earth's surface we will be able to heat and cool the Capitol building with a reliable and clean source of renewable energy at a reduced cost to the people of Colorado."

The first phase of the project, which has already begun, includes drilling a well deeper than 900 feet into the Arapahoe Aquifer. The second phase of the project, which will begin during spring 2011, will include HVAC upgrades and drilling a second well.

Once the project is finished, the geothermal system will use water from the aquifer to heat the State Capitol in the winter and cool it in the summer. The project came about after a geothermal ground source heating pump was successfully installed at the Governor's Residence last year.

The new geothermal project is expected to cost about $6 million, with the remainder of the funding coming from Certificates of Participation and a lease-purchase agreement with Chevron, which will guarantee that utility savings are sufficient enough to make the yearly payments.

"Today's announcement is another example of how the Recovery Act is benefiting Colorado and states across the country," Secretary of Energy Dr. Steven Chu said. "This project will help save taxpayers money, reduce our dependence on foreign oil, and support Colorado's role as a leader in the clean energy economy of the future."

Montbello High School recently announced that it will offer the Broadband Opportunity Learning Development program, a course that will train students for technical jobs in the cable and broadband industry. The course was created by JonesNCTI, the Urban League of Metropolitan Denver and other partners.

According to an article by The Denver Post, students participating in the program will be able to complete their coursework online, and can earn up to six college credits upon completion of the course. The program lasts between five and 10 weeks and is tailored to each student.

Although the program typically costs $1,200 per student, JonesNCTI, ULMD and Hope Online are covering the costs for a pilot class of 17 students. The school hopes to eventually enroll up to 200 students per year in the course. Future classes could potentially be paid for by companies looking to hire students who complete the program.

Although completion of the program will result in a certification allowing students to be an installer in the broadband industry, the program also will expose students to careers beyond that industry. Students will ultimately learn how to connect with people and develop professional relationships.

One unique aspect of the course is that it features a scaled version of a home that will be used to teach students how to install Internet, video and phone service. The model house was donated by Tuff Shed, while Arris, an equipment manufacturer, donated tools.