Wyoming Public Service Commission approves Black Hills Energy voluntary renewable energy program for state businesses, agencies

Black Hills Energy announced Wednesday that the Wyoming Public Service Commission (WPSC) approved its voluntary renewable energy subscription program for large commercial and industrial businesses and governmental agencies.

The commission also approved the company’s request to construct a 40 megawatt (MW) wind project near Cheyenne, Wyo., that will serve as the dedicated energy supply for the program.

“We are delighted by the positive response to our Renewable Ready Service Tariff and accompanying Corriedale Wind Energy Project,” Shirley Welte, Black Hills Energy’s vice president of electric and gas operations for Wyoming, said. “This innovative program supports our customers’ growing interest in locally-produced, cost-effective renewable energy.”

The company expects to place the $57 million Corriedale wind project into service in the fall of 2020. The project will be jointly owned by Black Hills Energy’s electric utility subsidiaries in Wyoming and South Dakota.

Later this year, the company will conduct an open subscription period for customers interested in the program. Welte noted that, based on early indications of interest, the company expects the program to be fully subscribed.

“Cost-effective renewable energy is an increasingly important part of our balanced mix of generation resources,” Welte said. “We are pleased to bring a significant local construction project to our state, further demonstrating Black Hills Energy’s commitment to Wyoming and to our customers.”