Mortenson chosen by Xcel Energy to build Colorado wind farm
Xcel Energy selected Mortenson to construct the 500-megawatt Cheyenne Ridge Wind Project, located in Cheyenne and Kit Carson counties in Colorado.
Vestas will be supplying 225-V120 turbines and 25-V110 turbines for the project, which is slated for completion in December 2020.
“The Cheyenne Ridge Wind Project is a key part of our Colorado Energy Plan and will be another important component in Xcel Energy’s efforts to achieve its aspirational ‘zero-carbon strategy’,” Gerald Kelly, Xcel Energy project manager, said. “We have worked extensively with Mortenson on previous wind projects, including the Rush Creek Wind Project, and look forward to continuing our strong relationship as we move forward with Cheyenne Ridge.”
The new wind project aligns with Colorado Gov. Jared Polis’ plan for the state to use 100 percent renewable electricity by 2040.
Mortenson, which has offices in Denver among several other locations in the United States, will perform all civil, foundation, turbine erection, collection and substation construction.
“We are thrilled to continue our partnership with Xcel Energy and Vestas and contribute toward Colorado’s energy transformation,” Tim Maag, vice president and general manager at Mortenson, said. “Building on our recent collaboration and successful completion of the Xcel Energy 600-megawatt Rush Creek Wind Project near Limon, Colorado.”
Colorado ranks eighth in the country for installed wind capacity, according to the American Wind Energy Association. The state generates more than 17 percent of its electricity from wind power.
