Xcel Energy signs PPA for 298 MW Solar project in USA

Xcel Energy and Lightsource bp have announced the development of a new 298-megawatt solar farm in Pueblo, Colorado. 

The Sun Mountain Solar farm will power approximately 53,540 US homes and abate 404,080 tons of CO2 annually, the equivalent of taking over 87,000 cars off the road each year. Additionally, the project will create 300 jobs during the construction for locals.

Lightsource bp will finance, build, own and operate the facility and deliver the solar energy it generates to Xcel Energy under a long-term power purchase agreement. Construction of the project is expected to begin before the end of 2021.

Will Toor, Executive Director, Colorado Energy Office, said: “The Sun Mountain Solar farm illustrates yet again thoughtful partnerships that continue to deliver on jobs and clean infrastructure in Southern Colorado.  These and other recent projects within the region are meaningful initiatives to meet state’s ambitious greenhouse gas emissions goals, all while creating cleaner and healthier communities – and contributing to the local economy.”

The Sun Mountain power purchase agreement complements Xcel Energy’s broader Colorado Energy Plan to deliver 55% renewable energy to the grid and reduce carbon emissions up to 60% by 2026.