LPEA is proud to announce the launch of the Sunnyside Community Solar Garden this year, a groundbreaking initiative that marks our first venture into LPEA owned and operated solar energy projects. Situated along Highway 550, just south of Durango, this 1.7-megawatt solar garden is 9.4 acres within a larger 55-acre property, establishing itself as the county's most significant solar installation.

Designed to produce 4,643,000 kilowatt-hours of electricity each year, the solar garden is expected to power around 600 homes, embodying LPEA's dedication to fostering energy independence, enhancing local decision-making, and empowering our community through renewable energy.

At LPEA, we recognize that not everyone can access rooftop solar installations, especially renters and low-income families. To address this, we are developing a cooperative model for the Sunnyside Community Solar Garden. This inclusive approach would allow individuals or businesses to buy into the project by purchasing units that correspond to a portion of the garden's monthly energy production. In the initial plan, about 50% of this clean, green power would be reserved at a reduced rate for members who qualify based on income, making sustainable energy accessible to a broader segment of our community.

The initiative also holds particular importance for La Plata County, which has stepped forward as the "anchor tenant" through a $2 million investment. This partnership ensures that a significant portion of the solar garden's output is dedicated to the county, meeting energy reduction goals and adhering to new building performance standards. Notably, this collaboration is poised to aid in preserving historical buildings like the La Plata County Courthouse, which face unique challenges in achieving energy efficiency.

LPEA's mission is fueled further by a significant boost from the U.S. Department of Agriculture— $13.4 million in funding earmarked for an even larger solar project. This expansion aligns with our goals of energy independence, local decision-making, and grid resilience. It also mirrors a nationwide shift towards renewable energy, spurred on by initiatives such as the 2022 Inflation Reduction Act, which provides significant financial incentives for projects like ours.

The Sunnyside Community Solar Garden is more than just an energy project; it's a beacon of community collaboration and innovation in the pursuit of sustainability. Together, we're lighting the way to a brighter, self-sufficient future.