Wind Energy Leaders to Deliver the Next Large-Scale Wind Project in Colorado

By Mortenson Wind Energy team

Xcel Energy in Colorado has selected long-time partner Mortenson to construct the Cheyenne Ridge Wind Project, located in Cheyenne and Kit Carson counties, Colorado. Slated for completion in December 2020, the 500-megawatt wind project will be the second-largest single-phase wind project in the state. Vestas will be supplying 202-V120 turbines and 27-V110 turbines.

“The Cheyenne Ridge Wind Project is a key part of our Colorado Energy Plan and will be another important component in Xcel Energy’s efforts to achieve its aspirational ‘zero-carbon strategy’,” said Gerald Kelly, Xcel Energy project manager. “We have worked extensively with Mortenson on previous wind projects, including the Rush Creek Wind Project, and look forward to continuing our strong relationship as we move forward with Cheyenne Ridge.”

In addition to furthering Xcel’s ambitious carbon reduction efforts, the new wind project aligns with Colorado Gov. Jared Polis’ recently announced roadmap for helping the state reach 100% renewable electricity by 2040.

Xcel Energy, Mortenson and Vestas all have deep roots in Colorado. With 37 years as a top-ranked contractor in Colorado, Mortenson has been a national leader in Wind Energy construction for 24 years. Vestas is a global wind energy company that has four wind turbine manufacturing facilities in Colorado that provide many high-quality jobs for Colorado residents. Xcel Energy is Colorado’s largest electric utility company and provides electricity to more than 1.5 million customers.

The scope of work includes access roads, foundations, collection, substation, O&M building, turbine erection and tower wiring. Mortenson will self-perform all civil, foundation, turbine erection, collection and substation construction.

“We are thrilled to continue our partnership with Xcel Energy and Vestas and contribute toward Colorado’s energy transformation,” said Tim Maag, Vice President and General Manager at Mortenson. “Building on our recent collaboration and successful completion of the Xcel Energy 600-megawatt Rush Creek Wind Project near Limon, Colorado.”

According to the American Wind Energy Association (AWEA), Colorado ranks eighth in the country for installed wind capacity and generates more than 17% of its electricity from wind power. Xcel Energy has been a leading utility wind provider for more than a decade. The state is home to 17 manufacturing facilities creating high-quality jobs and producing components for the wind industry, including global companies such as wind turbine manufacturer Vestas. Colorado ranks third in the nation for wind industry employment.

About Mortenson

Mortenson is a U.S.-based, top-20 builder, developer, and engineering services provider serving the commercial, institutional, and energy sectors. Mortenson’s expanding portfolio of integrated services helps its customers move their strategies forward, ensuring their investments result in high-performing assets. The result is a turnkey partner, fully invested in the business success of its customers.

Founded in 1954, Mortenson has operations across the U.S. with offices in Chicago, Denver, Fargo, Iowa City, Milwaukee, Minneapolis, Phoenix, Portland, San Antonio, Seattle, and Washington, D.C. For additional information, visit www.mortenson.com.

About Xcel Energy

Xcel Energy (NASDAQ: XEL) provides the energy that powers millions of homes and businesses across eight Western and Midwestern states. Headquartered in Minneapolis, the company is an industry leader in responsibly reducing carbon emissions and producing and delivering clean energy solutions from a variety of renewable sources at competitive prices. For more information, visit xcelenergy.com or follow us on Twitter and Facebook.

About Vestas

Vestas is the energy industry’s global partner on sustainable energy solutions. We design, manufacture, install, and service wind turbines across the globe, and with more than 105 GW of wind turbines in 80 countries, we have installed more wind power than anyone else. Through our industry-leading smart data capabilities and unparalleled more than 86 GW of wind turbines under service, we use data to interpret, forecast, and exploit wind resources and deliver best-in-class wind power solutions. Together with our customers, Vestas’ more than 24,500 employees are bringing the world sustainable energy solutions to power a bright future. We invite you to learn more about Vestas by visiting our website at www.vestas.com