UV proposes 40MW Canyonland Solar project to Montezuma County officials

On May 15, 2025, the Montezuma County Planning and Zoning meeting featured a significant discussion regarding the Canyonland Solar project, a proposed solar energy facility aimed at addressing the region's growing energy needs. The project, initially known as Coyote Gulch Solar, has undergone extensive community engagement since its inception in 2020, including presentations to the Board of County Commissioners and multiple neighbor meetings to gather input from local residents.

Dave Kimmett, the manager of planning for the solar development company UV, and his colleague Nick Miller, the director of development, presented the project details to the planning board. They emphasized that the Canyonland Solar project is designed to generate 40 megawatts of solar power, which is sufficient to meet the energy demands of approximately 30,000 average Colorado households. Notably, the project does not include a battery energy storage system, focusing solely on solar photovoltaic technology.

The discussions highlighted the importance of renewable energy initiatives in Montezuma County, particularly in light of increasing energy demands and the push for sustainable energy solutions. The project is classified under the county's land use code as a major facility of a public or private utility, requiring a high impact special use permit.

As the meeting progressed, the implications of the Canyonland Solar project were clear: it represents a step towards enhancing local energy infrastructure while also addressing community concerns through ongoing dialogue and transparency. The planning board's decision on the permit will be pivotal in determining the project's future and its potential contribution to the region's energy landscape.

In conclusion, the Montezuma County Planning and Zoning meeting underscored the significance of the Canyonland Solar project as a key player in the transition to renewable energy. The outcome of the permit application will not only impact local energy availability but also reflect the community's commitment to sustainable development.