Adams County reviews conditional use permits for Vegas solar energy facility project

A significant proposal for renewable energy took center stage at the Adams County Public Hearing on July 1, 2025, as officials discussed the Vegas solar energy facility. The project, located at the intersection of East 112th Avenue and Hanks Crescent Road, seeks approval for three conditional use permits: one for a large-scale solar energy facility, another for a utility substation, and a third for a battery energy storage system.

Spanning approximately 981 acres in eastern Adams County, the site is currently vacant and primarily used for agricultural purposes. The area is zoned for agricultural use, aligning with the county's comprehensive plan that supports large lot agricultural land and corporate agricultural operations. Notably, the land previously housed oil and gas wells, which have yet to be plugged and abandoned.

If approved, construction is slated to begin in the second quarter of 2027, with operations expected to commence around May 2029. The solar panels will be mounted on a single-axis tracking system to optimize energy production, with heights ranging from 8 to 10 feet. The project also includes a battery storage system designed to manage excess energy efficiently and safely.

To address environmental concerns, the proposal incorporates wildlife corridors and plans for minimal site illumination to reduce light pollution. Additionally, an 8-foot premier fencing will be installed to protect local wildlife, adhering to best practices outlined by Colorado Parks and Wildlife.

The project aims to contribute significantly to the local energy grid while ensuring environmental stewardship. A formal decommissioning plan will also be required to manage the site's restoration after its estimated 30 to 50-year lifespan. As the county weighs the merits of this ambitious renewable energy initiative, the outcome could mark a pivotal step toward sustainable energy development in the region.