Sandhills energy and the Nebraska Municipal Energy Agency (MEAN) are celebrating the completion of two solar projects within a community solar portfolio of 16 projects. The two projects in Delta and Fort Morgan, Colorado, fall within MEAN’s supply region of 60 communities in Colorado, Iowa, Nebraska and Wyoming.
Delta
The new 875 kW installation in Delta will offset part of the city’s peak electricity demand and diversify the city’s energy portfolio. The array will increase the resiliency of the electric grid and provide cost stability for residents and local businesses.
“The facility reflects Delta’s commitment to taking control of our energy future,” said Adam Suppes, Delta Municipal Light & Power Manager. “This installation strengthens Delta’s local electric grid and improves our ability to manage energy costs for customers. The project was developed with Delta’s specific needs in mind and supports our goal of providing our residents with reliable, sustainable energy and long-term value.”
The 3.8 MW facility in Fort Morgan is one of the largest solar projects in the MEAN portfolio. The project is expected to generate enough electricity to power 850 homes annually. It improves the city’s energy mix while delivering local and economic benefits through construction and ongoing operations.
Fort Morgan
“Fort Morgan is proud to be part of this growing network of communities investing in renewable, reliable energy,” said Brent Nation, city manager. “Our city has a long history of innovation – from the early irrigation reservoirs to the adoption of electric street lighting in 1906 – and this solar energy project continues that legacy. It will help stabilize our energy costs, create local jobs and reinforce Fort Morgan’s commitment to responsible growth and sustainability.”
Sandhills Energy partnered with MEAN and its member communities in 2021 to develop a portfolio of solar installations with 15 locations in Colorado, Iowa and Nebraska. The solar projects, more than half of which are now online, help participating member communities generate some of their own energy locally. Portfolio power meets up to 5% of municipal energy needs while reducing exposure to wholesale price volatility. The innovative collaboration supports energy independence in the following communities:
- Colorado: Delta, Fort Morgan, Wray and Yuma
- Iowa: Indianola, Sergeant Bluff and Waverly
- Nebraska: Alliance, Ansley, Crete, Gering, Imperial, Pender, Pierce, Sidney and Stuart
