Xcel Energy, Lightsource bp team up for solar farm in Pueblo, Colo.

Xcel Energy and Lightsource bp are in the process of developing a 298-megawatt MW solar farm in Pueblo, Colo.

Lightsource bp will build, own and operate the facility, called Sun Mountain Solar farm, while Xcel Energy will deliver the solar energy it generates under a long-term power purchase agreement.

“Lightsource bp is continuing to expand our investment in Colorado’s clean power future. As long-term members of the Pueblo community, we are thrilled this project will further contribute to the local jobs ecosystem and tax base while delivering cost-effective renewable energy for decades to come,” Kevin Smith, CEO of Lightsource bp, Americas, said.

This is Lightsource bp’s second project in Pueblo. The other one is called Bighorn Solar, which provides an additional 300MW of solar-generated electricity to Xcel Energy. Combined, the two projects represent a half-billion-dollar private investment in Colorado’s clean power infrastructure.

“Xcel Energy is thrilled to be working with Lightsource bp on another major solar project in Pueblo that adds even more renewable energy to our system while also creating jobs in the community. This collaboration is a win for Pueblo and for the State of Colorado and demonstrates our commitment to the communities as we lead the energy transition. We will continue to explore new and innovative projects that benefit our customers,” Alice Jackson, president of Xcel Energy–Colorado.

The Sun Mountain Solar farm will abate 404,080 tons of CO2 annually and create 300 jobs during construction.

“The Sun Mountain Solar farm illustrates yet again thoughtful partnerships that continue to deliver on jobs and clean infrastructure in Southern Colorado. Our state boasts 300 days of sunshine each year, and I’m excited to see the regional collaboration occurring to capture our state’s great natural resources,” Will Toor, executive director, Colorado Energy Office, said.

Construction is slated to begin before the end of 2021.

“I am thrilled that Lightsource bp is once again partnering with Xcel Energy on the Sun Mountain Solar field in Pueblo. The construction jobs will greatly benefit Pueblo and the surrounding community, and the end product will help reduce our carbon footprint. Pueblo is quickly becoming the renewable energy center of Colorado, and Lightsource bp is one of the reasons why, Pueblo Mayor Nick Gradisar said.