What is the proposed Primergy Hesperus Solar Facility project?
The Hesperus Solar Project (Project) is a proposed 155-megawatt AC (MWac) solar energy project on approximately 1,920 acres near the town of Breen La Plata County, Colorado. The project will interconnect into the existing Tri-State Generation and Transmission’s Hesperus 115-kilovolt (kV) Substation by way of a 0.97-mile-long overhead transmission line. This project application will be reviewed as a 1041 permit under the La Plata County Land Use Code (LUC).
What is a 1041 Permit?
A 1041 permit is for projects designated as an “Area and Activity of State Interest”. Projects that fall under this classification have the potential to impact areas beyond the immediate site of the project. Due to the “larger scale” of these impacts, they are subject to Chapter 69 in the LUC. Follow this link for a comprehensive explanation of what constitutes a 1041 permit in the LUC.
Why does this project classify as an area of state interest?
The type of permit required for a solar facility in the LUC depends on the facility’s power generation or size. This project meets the definition of “solar energy facility” in Sec. 69-2 definitions and in the Colorado Revised Statutes: C.R.S. § 39-4-101 (pg. 123 of 861).
Shouldn't this project fall under Section 73-19 in the La Plata County Land Use Code (LUC) for solar facility projects?
No. This project exceeds the acreage and power generation standards for a large solar facility under Sec. 73-19 and will be subject to the requirements under Chapter 69.
What is the project number for this permit application, and where do I go to look at the submittal materials?
The project number for this project is: 2021-0331. To review the project in its entirety, follow this link to access the county project portal for the Primergy Hesperus permit application submittal materials.
This area is agricultural land. Will Primergy or the landowners have to change the zoning to commercial/industrial use?
No. Except for the defined area of the Animas Valley, La Plata County does not have traditional zoning.
How many public hearings will there be for this project?
There will be at least two public meetings: a neighborhood compatibility meeting and a hearing before the decision-making body, the Board of County Commissioners (BOCC). If the director deems it necessary, more than one neighborhood meeting may be required. Staff shall notify the public in accordance with Sec. 66-14 for any public meeting.
How can I get involved in this project?
The County considers community interest and input crucial to any major project. To fully participate in this process, the county encourages community members to attend scheduled public meetings and submit comments to the public comment portal located here.
Where can I find out updated information about this project?
The County will update the public on upcoming steps in the project and opportunities for involvement. Stay informed by signing up for the Planning Department Newsletter and visiting the Planning Department’s website.
Whom can I contact for more information about this project?
Please direct questions about the Primergy Hesperus Solar project to the Natural Resource Planner, Christy Kost, in the La Plata County Planning Department. She can be contacted at (970)382-6375 or by email at Christy.Kost@co.laplata.co.us.