Lightsource Teams Up with Xcel and McCarthy to Put New Solar Project in Colorado Online

• Lightsource bp, Xcel Energy and McCarthy Building Companies have brought the 293-MWDC Sun Mountain solar project in Pueblo, Colorado, into commercial operation. The project is part of Xcel Energy’s 2018 resource plan and supports its Colorado Energy Plan to provide electricity from renewable sources and reduce carbon emissions.

What happened?

Lightsource bp, Xcel Energy and McCarthy Building Companies have brought the 293-MWDC Sun Mountain solar project in Pueblo, Colorado, into commercial operation. The project is Lightsource bp’s second in the city with power sales to Xcel, representing a cumulative half-billion-dollar private investment in Colorado’s clean power infrastructure. The solar project was part of Xcel Energy’s 2018 resource plan and supports the company’s current Colorado Energy Plan that is expected to provide electricity from approximately 80% renewable sources and reduce carbon emissions 85% by 2030.

Why does it matter?

This project is an important step in Colorado’s transition to renewable energy and reducing carbon emissions. It is providing enough clean, affordable energy to power more than 53,000 homes and is creating hundreds of U.S. jobs across the supply chain, while supporting domestic manufacturers and low carbon products. The project is also conserving over 3,000 acres of shortgrass prairie, creating habitat for wildlife while bolstering the sites’ ability to sequester carbon. 

What's next?

The Sun Mountain solar project is the latest in a series of projects by Lightsource bp, Xcel Energy, and McCarthy Building Companies that are helping Colorado transition to renewable energy. Going forward, Lightsource bp plans to continue to invest in Colorado to help power the state’s low carbon future, while providing affordable clean energy for decades. This project is a great example of the progress that can be made with collaboration and commitment to a shared goal.