Black Hills Energy, a subsidiary of US utility group Black Hills Corp , has unveiled an ambitious plan to significantly boost its renewable energy capacity in Colorado, with a proposal to add 400 megawatts (MW) of new renewables to its state footprint.
In a recent announcement, Black Hills Energy revealed that it had submitted a 120-Day report to the Colorado Public Utilities Commission (PUC), outlining its preferred combination of resources for the expansion. The proposed plan includes the addition of 200 MW of utility-scale solar, 150 MW of wind power, and 50 MW of battery storage, all to be integrated with the company's existing dispatchable generation assets.
This strategic move aligns with Black Hills Energy's commitment to advancing its 2030 Ready Clean Energy Plan and achieving significant reductions in greenhouse gas emissions. The company anticipates an estimated 89% reduction in greenhouse gas emissions by 2030 through the implementation of these added renewable resources.
Black Hills Corp emphasized the success of its competitive bidding process, which garnered over 100 bids for resources to be brought online in 2026 and 2027. The selected resources from this process will play a crucial role in bolstering the company's renewable energy portfolio and driving its transition towards a cleaner, more sustainable energy future.
Linn Evans, President and CEO of Black Hills Corp, expressed enthusiasm for the proposed expansion, stating, “Our plan to add new renewable energy resources in Colorado will allow us to achieve our emissions reduction goals and prudently advance the energy transition for our Colorado customers and communities.”
Evans highlighted the company's commitment to reliable, safe, and cost-effective energy, noting Black Hills Energy's status as one of the cleanest utilities in the state, with a portfolio consisting of renewable and natural gas generation.
