Weld County approves $1.67B Chalk Bluffs wind and solar project

The Weld County Board of Commissioners approved the Chalk Bluffs Wind Energy Facility in a 3-2 vote following seven hours of public testimony. Developed by Enyo Energy, the $1.67 billion project is expected to span approximately 25,000 acres between U.S. Highway 85 and Colorado State Highway 390, extending from Weld County into southern Laramie County, Wyoming.

The facility will consist of 79 wind turbines and 2,293 acres of solar panels, aiming to generate 805 megawatts of energy—enough to power an estimated 600,000 homes. Construction is projected to begin in 2027 with completion by 2029. Economic benefits cited by the developer include a $47 million property tax payout over 30 years and approximately $3.8 million in annual local long-term earnings.

The decision met significant opposition from local ranching families and landowners. Critics raised concerns regarding wildlife impact, destruction of viewsheds, dust, road damage, and the loss of agricultural land. Conversely, supporters and land use attorneys noted that the project provides essential supplemental income for participating landowners, potentially aiding the viability of generational farming in a changing energy landscape.