LPEA has its future power needs covered, says LPEA CEO Chris Hansen during his coffee talk rounds with members.
When the current Tri-State contract ends in April 2026, LPEA will begin to receive 30% of its power under a new Tri-State contract. Then between 2026 and 2028, power broker Mercuria will deliver 60% of LPEA’s power through new suppliers. The remaining 10% of LPEA’s power will come from LPEA’s own Sunnyside solar facility.
Because LPEA’s power supply will be covered, no local need exists for the proposed Hesperus Solar project to provide LPEA power. No purchase power agreement exists between LPEA and Primergy, Hesperus Solar’s developer.
Hansen says the minimal talks between the two entities did not even contemplate any provided power until at least 2028, when Mercuria is expected to have long-term purchase power agreements secured for LPEA.
Without Hesperus Solar providing local power, it is easier to see no benefit to La Plata County. Easier to lean into opposing Hesperus Solar’s 500,000 solar panels that would destroy a Colorado Parks and Wildlife-designated High Priority Habitat wildlife wintering range and elk migration path.
Before Primergy destroys the rural environment of Southwest La Plata County, before Primergy builds its 155-megawatt solar facility with a 45-year life in a Colorado State Fire-designated “moderate-to-high fire danger area with a high probability of burning,” Primergy should fold its tents, stop preparing a second run at getting a construction permit from the county and return to its California home.
Barry Spear
Hesperus
