Xcel Energy responds to homeowners concerns over proposed Amarillo solar farm

AMARILLO, Texas (KVII) — Homeowners near Amarillo are expressing concerns about a proposed 1,400-acre solar farm, fearing it could negatively impact their property values.

Taylor Brewster, a local homeowner, said, “I wouldn’t want to buy a home that had that. So I’m concerned about what do I do if this comes in? Is this going to be my permanent home forever?”

Residents have also raised issues about the project’s location and a perceived lack of communication from Xcel Energy.

Brewster noted that only a few neighbors were notified, adding, “Which is frustrating too, because they have told us when I called that we need about 10% of the area to fight against it, and they’ll most likely go away. But how can 10% fight it when they haven’t even notified 10%?”

Adrian Rodriguez, president of Southwestern Public Service Company, Xcel’s parent company, responded to these concerns, stating, “You know, I think one of the things that we try to do is to be a very good neighbor to our neighbors in the community. This process is starts early, and I’m glad that the neighbors are engaged.”

Rodriguez explained that notices were sent to 105 landowners and certain community officials, in compliance with the Public Utility Commission of Texas procedures. He acknowledged that some notices might still be in transit and assured that the company takes these requirements seriously.

Rodriguez also announced plans to host a meeting next week to hear directly from the community.