Electric Co-ops Add More Wind Energy

Wind catches the blades of some of the 74 new wind turbines now powering electric co-op consumer-members from the eastern plains of Colorado.

Project achieved commercial operation in late October, adding 200 megawatts of clean, renewable energy resources

A total of 200 megawatts of new wind resources were added to electric cooperatives’ power supply in October. The addition of these renewable resources was celebrated November 4 with a dedication ceremony at the Niyol Wind Energy Center near Fleming.

The 74 wind turbines are owned by a subsidiary of NextEra Energy Resources, and the electricity generated is being purchased by Tri-State Generation and Transmission Association, Inc., and distributed to Tri-State’s 43 member cooperatives throughout Colorado, Nebraska, Wyoming and New Mexico.

“It is particularly gratifying for Tri-State and its members to see our Responsible Energy Plan projects come to fruition. Completion of Niyol Wind is another significant step in our energy transformation,” said Duane Highley, Tri-State CEO. “NextEra Energy Resources brought a wealth of renewable energy development knowledge and experience to Colorado to help us make this effort a reality.”

“This is a great day for our state as we work toward a more sustainable future that provides Coloradans with access to low-cost, clean, renewable energy, generated by our own wind resources,” Lt. Governor Dianne Primavera said. “I am pleased that this project also includes Colorado state lands and, along with the clean energy, will generate additional revenue to support our schools and children.”

One-third of the Niyol Wind Energy Center’s turbines are located on trust land governed by the Colorado State Land Board.

The new wind project represents the second of eight new wind and solar projects to be constructed by Tri-State by 2024 under its Responsible Energy Plan