Sandhills Energy and MEAN celebrate new solar facilities in Colorado

OMAHA, Neb — Sandhills Energy and the Municipal Energy Agency of Nebraska (MEAN) celebrated the launch of new solar facilities in Delta and Fort Morgan, Colorado, with ribbon-cutting events on Dec. 3 and Dec. 4. The events marked a significant milestone in a project over three years in the making. Jake Pole, Sandhills Energy Vice President, expressed gratitude for the partnerships that brought the projects to fruition, saying, “We produce energy for entire communities, but installations like these only come to life through partners and personal relationships.” Bruce Doll, Director of Utility Services and Member Relations at MEAN, highlighted the importance of local leadership, stating, “The local leadership in these communities is what makes municipal power great.” The Fort Morgan facility, one of the largest in the MEAN portfolio, is expected to generate enough electricity to power 850 homes annually. Brent Nation, Fort Morgan City Manager, emphasized the city’s commitment to renewable energy, noting the collaboration with MEAN and Sandhills Energy. In Delta, the 0.875-megawatt facility will offset a portion of the city’s peak electricity demand. Adam Suppes, Delta Municipal Light & Power Manager, highlighted the cost benefits for residents, saying, “We’ve brought the cost of energy down to almost unheard-of rates for this region.” The solar projects are part of a 15-site portfolio across Colorado, Iowa, and Nebraska, developed by Sandhills Energy and MEAN to enhance energy independence and reduce exposure to wholesale pricing volatility.