Bronco Plains II Energy Center : Guzman Energy and Holy Cross Energy expand renewable energy access with new agreement

Guzman Energy and Holy Cross Energy (HCE) have announced a power offtake sharing agreement through the Bronco Plains II Energy Center, enhancing their renewable energy offerings in Colorado. Located in Kit Carson County on the eastern plains of Colorado, this 200 MW wind facility is poised to generate enough electricity to power approximately 40,000 households annually.

Developed, operated, and owned by NextEra Energy Resources, the Bronco Plains II Energy Center began its operation in late 2023 with 72 wind turbines. Under the new agreement, during the winter months, HCE will receive 150 MW of the facility’s output, while Guzman Energy will receive 50 MW. In the summer months, the output will be evenly split, with each entity receiving 100 MW. This strategic sharing aligns with the seasonal energy demands of their respective service areas.

The partnership not only boosts the renewable energy capabilities of both Guzman Energy and HCE but also supports HCE’s ambitious “100×30” goal, which aims to provide its members with 100% clean energy by 2030. HCE is on track to achieve more than 90% clean energy by the end of 2025. “We are grateful for our partnership with Guzman, which is expanded through the Bronco Plains II Energy Center. This partnership allowed us to provide additional low-cost renewable energy to the communities we serve, helping us to meet our clean energy goals,” said Sam Whelan, Vice President of Finance for HCE.

Robin Lunt, Chief Commercial Officer of Guzman Energy, also emphasized the benefits of this collaboration, noting that the addition of Bronco Plains II to their portfolio provides price certainty and a sustainable energy option for their wholesale customers.

Since Guzman Energy became a wholesale power partner of HCE in 2019, the collaboration has significantly enhanced HCE’s clean energy portfolio while saving over $30 million in power supply costs over the past five years. The agreement not only underlines the commitment of both organizations to environmental stewardship but also highlights their dedication to providing economic benefits to the communities they serve.

This collaboration between Guzman Energy and Holy Cross Energy exemplifies how strategic partnerships in the energy sector can facilitate significant advances in renewable energy adoption. The Bronco Plains II Energy Center represents a critical step forward in meeting regional clean energy goals, demonstrating a scalable model for other utilities and energy companies.