174 Power Global developing 200-MW Colorado solar project for regional utility

174 Power Global has entered a 15-year PPA with Black Hills Energy to develop the 200-MW Turkey Creek Solar facility in Pueblo County, Colorado.
“We are glad to partner with Black Hills Energy on the Turkey Creek Solar project, which will provide long-lasting environmental and economic benefits to the Pueblo community, as well as dependable solar power,” said Henry Yun, 174 Power Global president. “We look forward to bringing Black Hills customers sustainable, cost-competitive, clean energy and working with the Pueblo and Fremont county communities.”
The utility-scale solar facility is expected to generate enough electricity to power an estimated 46,000 Colorado homes. Once operational, Turkey Creek will contribute to Black Hills Energy’s Renewable Advantage plan, a clean-energy growth strategy that is forecasted to deliver nearly $178 million through state, local and federal taxes.
The project has an estimated construction cost of over $200 million and will create approximately 250 construction jobs, with the potential for up to 450 workers during certain phases of construction.
“We are very pleased by the broad community support that is driving our Renewable Advantage plan forward,” said Vance Crocker, Black Hills Energy’s VP for Colorado utilities. “With a project of this magnitude — the first and largest utility-scale solar project for Black Hills Energy — we will assure significant cost savings for our customers while achieving long-lasting environmental benefits and economic vitality for our local and regional economies for years to come.”
Construction of the facility is expected to commence in 2022, with the project coming online in 2023. Under the terms of the agreement, Black Hills Energy will purchase all power generated by the project. 174 Power Global will lead project development and construction, the engagement and permitting process with local agencies, including Pueblo and Fremont Counties, and will own and operate the facility.