(Editor’s note: The following article and courtesy photo were provided by Colorado Springs Utilities, Fort Carson’s utility provider. A video about the Pike Solar project can be viewed at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=N0Tawwmyio8/)
Protecting air quality and reducing carbon emissions are at the forefront of Colorado Springs Utilities (Springs Utilities) energy future. It all starts with Springs Utilities Sustainable Energy Plan, which provides a roadmap to:
· Maintain a safe and reliable energy system.
· Responsibly manage costs and support a strong economy.
· Expand energy resources while reducing emissions to protect the environment.
· Build dynamic relationships with customers so they can make the best choices to power their lives.
As part of this plan, Springs Utilities is implementing a diverse portfolio of new generation systems. Some of these include energy storage systems, natural gas generators as seen at the Martin Drake Power Plant and the 175-megawatts of power generated from a nearby solar array.
Just south of Colorado Springs, the largest solar facility in the region – Pike Solar – is now generating electricity to Springs Utilities customers. The 175-megawatt solar array, located on 1,310 acres, has been officially in commercial operation since December.
Pike Solar is expected to generate enough electricity annually to serve the energy needs of roughly 46,300 homes and businesses in Springs Utilities’ service territory.
“Now the largest solar array on our system, Pike Solar represents a significant step toward our goal of an 80-percent reduction in carbon emissions by 2030,” said Springs Utilities Chief Executive Officer Travas Deal. “While this is a major development, our work is just beginning. Pike Solar joins many other projects and initiatives in our Sustainable Energy Plan to provide our community with a cleaner energy future and a resilient and sustainable electric grid.”
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