# Solar Energy Colorado’s Impact on Local Homes

- Link: https://greenlivingguy.com/2011/03/solar-energy-colorados-impact-on-local-homes/
- Published: 2011-03-22T22:48:17-04:00
- Author: greenlivingguy

## Xcel Energy and SunPower Announce 19-Megawatt Solar Plant in Colorado

Clean energy is getting a major boost in Colorado. Xcel Energy and SunPower Corp.
have announced plans to build a 19-megawatt photovoltaic (PV) solar power plant 
in Alamosa County. Moreover, this project will deliver enough electricity to power
nearly 5,000 Colorado homes with renewable energy.

## Supporting Colorado’s Clean Energy Goals

Xcel Energy is committed to expanding its renewable energy portfolio. In addition,
this project aligns with Colorado’s goals to increase clean energy generation and
reduce carbon emissions.

SunPower will design and build the solar facility. Moreover, they will use their
advanced SunPower® [Tracker system](https://greenlivingguy.com/2011/05/nrg-energy-solar-initiative-for-clean-energy/),
which positions solar panels to follow the sun. This technology maximizes energy
production throughout the day.

### Project Details and Timeline

Construction is scheduled to begin later this year. Additionally, the plant is expected
to start delivering power by the end of 2011. Xcel Energy will purchase all of the
electricity generated through a long-term power purchase agreement (PPA).

![Technicians inspect solar panels at xcel energy and sunpowers solar facility in
alamosa county colorado with mountains in the background](https://i0.wp.com/greenlivingguy.
com/wp-content/uploads/2011/03/041E7252-1345-4D30-A1B8-1569902164BE.png?resize=400%
2C267&quality=50&ssl=1 "041E7252-1345-4D30-A1B8-1569902164BE - The Green Living 
Guy")

Xcel Energy and [SunPower partner](https://greenlivingguy.com/2019/03/sierra-club-and-sunpower-partner-to-help-create-a-sustainable-future/)
on a 19 megawatt solar facility bringing clean power to Colorado communities

Furthermore, the plant will help Xcel meet Colorado’s Renewable Energy Standard,
which requires utilities to deliver increasing amounts of power from renewable sources.

### Boosting the Local Economy

In addition to delivering clean energy, the project is expected to provide economic
benefits. For example, it will create local construction jobs and generate tax revenue
for Alamosa County.

Moreover, the solar plant will showcase Colorado’s leadership in renewable energy.
It demonstrates how public-private partnerships can deliver reliable, sustainable
power.

### Proven Technology for Greater Efficiency

SunPower’s solar tracking technology [increases](https://greenlivingguy.com/2011/05/in-2011-utility-scale-solar-energy-got-serious/)
energy capture by up to 25% compared to fixed-tilt systems. Additionally, these 
trackers are designed to withstand harsh weather conditions, making them ideal for
Colorado’s climate.

Therefore, the plant will produce more energy with less land use. Moreover, it will
deliver reliable performance over decades.

### A Cleaner Energy Future for Colorado

By investing in large-scale solar projects, Xcel Energy is helping reduce dependence
on fossil fuels. Additionally, they are working to deliver cleaner air and a healthier
environment for Colorado communities.

Furthermore, projects like this one demonstrate the power of innovation and collaboration.
With continued investment, Colorado can meet its renewable energy goals and build
a sustainable energy future.

### Learn More About Solar Energy

For more information on solar power and renewable energy projects:

 1. [Xcel Energy Renewable Energy Programs](https://www.xcelenergy.com/programs_and_rebates)
 2. [SunPower Corporation](https://us.sunpower.com/)
 3. [Colorado Energy Office](https://energyoffice.colorado.gov/)

![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/df91669667126e1290c21ee0342c386e2da19d588d4d9ca6560bd82ed59a9641?
s=300&d=monsterid&r=g)

 greenlivingguy

 The Green Living Guy, Seth Leitman is an independent power producer, a green living
expert, and Editor of the McGraw-Hill, TAB Green Guru Guides. Seth is also an Author,
Radio Host, Reporter, Writer and an Environmental Consultant on green living. The
Green Living Guy writes about green living, green lighting, the green guru guides
and more. Seth's books range from: # Build Your Own Electric Vehicle by Bob Brant
and Seth Leitman (2nd and 3rd editions) # Build Your Own Plug-in Hybrid Electric
Vehicle by Seth Leitman # Build Your Own Electric Motorcycle by Carl Vogel # Green
Lighting by Seth Leitman, Brian Clark Howard and Bill Brinsky # Solar Power For 
Your Home by David Findley # Renewable Energies For Your Home by Russel Gehrke #
Do-it-Yourself Home Energy Audits by David Findley # Build Your Own Small Wind Power
System by Brian Clark Howard and Kevin Shea # and more green living books to follow.

 [See Full Bio](https://greenlivingguy.com/author/greenlivingguy/) [  ](https://greenlivingguy.com/author/greenlivingguy/)