Excel Energy outlines plans for 187‑turbine Lariat wind project; county seeks road‑use details

Excel Energy representatives told the Parmer County Commissioners Court on June 9 that the company is in the process of purchasing the Lariat wind project and, pending approval from the Public Utility Commission, intends to construct 187 wind turbines and more than 40 transmission lines that will feed into the Tolk station.

The presentation, given to the Court by Excel Energy staff, set preliminary construction timing from March 2027 through a projected completion in February 2029. Commissioners asked Excel for detailed road‑use agreements and maps of proposed road locations so county crews can prepare roads for heavy construction traffic. County officials also requested culvert sizing of 24 inches on roads that will be used during construction.

Judge Isabel Carrasco noted the county remains engaged in preconstruction coordination concerns, and commissioners emphasized the need to preserve road integrity and clarify responsibilities for repair or maintenance once construction begins. The Court did not vote on any agreements at the meeting; commissioners requested materials (road maps and specifications) from Excel to inform future decisions.

The project as described to the Court requires additional regulatory approvals before construction may begin; the Court’s requests about culvert size and road‑use agreements are preparatory steps intended to limit damage to county infrastructure and to set expectations with the developer.

Next steps recorded in the minutes included Excel supplying maps and road‑use details to the commissioners for follow up and further review by county staff.