Alamosa County commissioners unanimously approved a massive $330 million solar project at their January 14 meeting, combining 110 megawatts of panels with battery storage across 1,190 acres despite concerns about water rights and transmission capacity. The Adapture Renewables Haynach Solar Hybrid Project represents the county’s largest utility-scale development, promising $2 million in annual operations revenue and 119 construction jobs starting in 2028. Commissioners Vern Heersink, Arlan Van Ry and Lori Laske approved the 40-year permit with 18 conditions after extensive discussion about economic impacts and infrastructure concerns, with the final vote passing 3-0.
Project Details and Timeline
Adapture Renewables acquired the project from Samsung in 2024 after previous permits expired. The company operates 38 renewable energy projects nationwide with 4 gigawatts in development.
The single-axis tracker system would reach maximum heights of 15 feet when tilted, using 4-foot piles across seven quarter sections. Construction would take 14-16 months starting in 2028, with operations beginning by 2030.
Developer Luis Meneses said the company has secured landowner agreements and submitted interconnection requests to Public Service Company of Colorado. Power purchase agreement negotiations and interconnection studies are planned for mid-2026.
Staff Recommendation
Land Use Director Richard Hubler recommended approval with 17 conditions, supported by consultant Lindsay Sharman’s third-party evaluation. Staff determined all approval criteria were met, noting the site’s location in an energy overlay area identified in the comprehensive plan.
Colorado Parks and Wildlife found minimal impact, stating the project was “properly cited” with appropriate wildlife protections.
Key conditions include mandatory decommissioning agreement, emergency response plan, road use agreement, and 90-day construction notification. The project must begin construction within 36 months or face public hearing requirements for extensions.
Commissioners added an 18th condition during deliberations limiting installed panel height to 20 feet above ground level, addressing concerns about final specifications.
Public Opposition
Keith Holland, representing local landowners, supported solar development but questioned panel height, citing concerns about installations visible from miles away. He raised drainage ditch concerns and traffic impacts on deteriorating roads.
Terry Hammond of Mosca opposed the project, claiming it provides “no help to valley residents” while harming land.
Economic Analysis and Commissioner Concerns
County Administrator Roni Wisdom projected $170,000-175,000 annually in property and sales taxes over 40 years, calling it a clean industry providing good jobs. She noted 16-month construction sales tax benefits and 119 construction jobs likely filled by existing local workers, though expressed concern about out-of-state ownership lacking local investment.
Van Ry questioned transmission capacity, noting mixed messages about moving power out of the valley and projects hoping for future improvements taking decades. He said projects create jobs for non-local benefit while residents lose scenic beauty and face unknown environmental impacts from panels.
Commissioners questioned the 40-year permit duration versus historical 30-year terms. Hubler explained utility-scale projects need longer terms for financial viability given the $300 million investment compared to recent $20 million projects.
Commissioners demanded absolute assurance that water rights remain protected during the 40-year permit term. The applicant plans using one well for operations while transferring remaining rights to Rio Grande Water Conservation District. Staff noted any water right transfer requires water court proceedings with neighbor notification.
Agricultural Context
The project sits on Conservation District land in potato production, with farm and water rights expected to retire. Staff noted groundwater pumping restrictions threaten farming viability, making the site suitable for renewable energy transition.
A groundwater summary shows transfers to Rio Grande Water Conservation District, with the property owner retaining some rights. Decommissioning costs are estimated at $18 million.
Technical Specifications
Technical specifications include single-axis tracking panels with anti-glare coatings and maximum 15-foot heights when articulated, similar to existing local projects. Studies showed minimal environmental impact with required wildlife fencing and invasive weed management.
The site previously held 2012 permits for San Luis Valley Solar Farm, with portions transferred to create current Hooper solar while other phases expired unused. Adapture Renewables completed interconnection studies, site surveys and community outreach including participation in Alamosa Roundup and September 2025 public meetings.
Other Business
Commissioners also handled routine business including December meeting minutes, bills and obligations, and consent agenda items. They supported Rio Blanco County’s appeal for denied FEMA funds related to August fires and mudslides.
A planned ceremonial item was postponed due to scheduling conflicts and will be rescheduled when all participants can attend.
The approval moves forward the valley’s transition toward renewable energy development, though questions remain about transmission infrastructure and long-term community impacts. Adapture Renewables must complete multiple agreements and studies before breaking ground on what would become Alamosa County’s most significant solar investment.
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