Good morning, Denver.

Xcel Energy is offering a $10,000 rebate for backup battery systems for customers who depend on electricity for medical devices — Photon Brothers CEO Matthew Raichart said his Tesla Powerwall 3 provided 24 hours of power during outages and estimated CPAP and oxygen users will pay about $1,500 after the rebate.

During National Small Business Week, consultant Frank Robinson of JPMorganChase in Denver advises entrepreneurs to use a strong business plan and pricing to overcome challenges while offering coaching and workshops; a Digital Marketing and AI workshop will be held on May 28 at the Iliff and Chambers branch (registration required).

Aurora collected $22.3M in sales taxes this February—a 6.6% drop—as variable sales fell for four consecutive months while food and clothing sales grew.

A Retail Strategy Steering Committee is drafting a plan to support local businesses, set to roll out this summer.

Yesterday, Denver residents and junk removal crews cleaned up yards filled with fallen trees and branches after a heavy snowstorm brought much-needed moisture amid a drought.

The Junk Trunk is offering discounts on storm cleanup services through Friday.

Rep. Gabe Evans said gas prices will drop when the conflict in the Middle East ends as his district's energy-dominant strategy buffers rising costs; Coloradans now pay around $4.42 per gallon amid heightened tensions at the Strait of Hormuz.

The legislature passed a bill Wednesday to lower credit card swipe fees by removing local taxes from fee calculations and sent it to the governor’s desk.

Denver retailers hope to lower costs while critics warn that new systems may complicate setups + delay processing.

Colorado’s cold weather does not directly cause sickness, but experts say sharp temperature drops can weaken immune defenses and help viruses spread.

Dr. Eric Lung recommends well-ventilated spaces, regular hand washing, and avoiding close contact with those who are ill.