Community generates enough electricity to power 1,500 homes for a year   

Longmont’s solar efforts are shining more brightly than ever. The City and its electric customers have now installed more than 10 megawatts of solar power, generating enough electricity annually to power 1,500 homes for a year.

Most of that power comes from privately-owned solar panels on homes and businesses throughout Longmont. The City also recently added to that total with its Iluminar Community Solar program, which has panels at the Longmont Waste Services building and the Ascent at Hover Crossing housing development.

“This is exciting for us, not least because our community has done so much to make it happen,” said Darrell Hahn, director of electric services for Longmont Power & Communications. “Renewable energy starts with the everyday choices of our own homes and businesses, and it’s part of what’s making Longmont a more sustainable city.”

On a larger scale, both Longmont and its wholesale power provider, Platte River Power Authority, have been working to eventually make all of their electric generation noncarbon. Platte River currently expects to generate over 80% of its power from solar, wind and hydroelectric sources by 2030. In March, construction finished on Platte River’s Black Hollow Sun complex near Severance, the largest solar project in northern Colorado.

About Longmont Power & Communications 

Longmont Power & Communications has been Longmont’s municipally-owned electric utility since 1912. Our dedicated, innovative team connects the community to affordable, reliable, and environmentally responsible electric services, empowering our community’s transition to a sustainable, carbon-free future. To learn more, visit www.longmontcolorado.gov/lpc.