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Colorado ranks No. 3 for LEED-certified buildings

ColoradoBiz Staff //March 5, 2026//

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Colorado ranks No. 3 for LEED-certified buildings

ColoradoBiz Staff //March 5, 2026//

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DENVER — Colorado ranked No. 3 in the nation for LEED-certified commercial space per capita, according to the U.S. Council’s 2026 annual Top 10 LEED list. The state climbed six spots from the previous year and has appeared in the top 10 for seven consecutive years.

In Brief:
  • Colorado ranked No. 3 nationally for LEED-certified commercial space per capita on the U.S. Green Building Council’s 2026 list.
  • The state completed 67 LEED-certified projects in 2025 totaling more than 16.1 million square feet.
  • Colorado has appeared in the USGBC Top 10 LEED rankings for seven consecutive years.
  • Officials say energy-efficient buildings help reduce emissions and lower utility costs for residents and businesses.

In 2025, Colorado recorded 67 LEED-certified projects totaling 16,193,018 square feet.

Gov. Jared Polis said the ranking reflects the state’s focus on energy-efficient construction that can reduce electricity costs.

“In Colorado, we are investing in construction that is energy efficient and saves people money on electricity bills,” Polis said. “I am excited Colorado has again been recognized as a leader in improving sustainability and in buildings across our state.”

The U.S. Green Building Council said higher education projects continued to account for a steady share of LEED certifications in Colorado. The organization also noted that certifications for warehouses and distribution centers have remained steady over the past three years.

Executive Director Will Toor said energy efficiency policies help reduce emissions and lower costs for residents and businesses.

“Beyond decreasing climate emissions, energy efficiency lowers utility bill costs for owners and renters, helps reduce air pollution and improves indoor comfort,” Toor said.

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