BOULDER - The city of Boulder has created a webpage to provide an explanation of the modeling process that led to recent conclusions that a local electric utility could utilize more renewable sources of energy and significantly cut emissions while offering similar or better rates and reliability.

The city is in the process of determining if it can run its own utility and part ways with current energy provider Xcel Energy Inc.

The page includes a flow chart that depicts each of the steps in the analysis, as well as links to information about the inputs and assumptions used at each stage. The page is at www.BoulderEnergyFuture.com. Click on the "Modeling Information" link at the top to view the new page.

"While most of this data was contained in the memo we prepared for city council for Feb. 26, we heard that some of the information was difficult to find. We set out immediately to address this feedback from our potential customers and create a tool that is easier to access and understand," said Heather Bailey, executive director of Energy Strategy and Electric Utility Development for the city of Boulder. "The decision about whether to create a local electric utility is incredibly important, and we want to help individuals understand all of the factors we are weighing."

The city will update the webpage as more information becomes available and when the city conducts more modeling, which is anticipated in upcoming months.