Wyoming Approves $1.2 Billion Solar Farm That Will Power Around 771,000 Homes

Wyoming has been long hailed as the top coal producer in the United States (U.S.) but now has given the green light to a monumental $1.2 billion solar farm project that notably powers electric vehicles (EVs). In a landmark decision approved by Wyoming’s Industrial Siting Council, the state will develop the Cowboy Solar I and II project.

In detail, Enbridge has received a siting permit from Wyoming’s Industrial Siting Council to develop Cowboy Solar I and II on private land leases in Laramie County. This project will contain 771 megawatts (MW) of utility-scale solar power combined with battery storage according to Enbridge.

For the Cowboy Solar I, it will feature 400 MW of solar power along with 136 MW of battery storage. As for the Cowboy Solar II, it will contain an additional 371 MW of solar power and 133 MW of battery storage. Altogether, both solar farms will supply electricity to around 771,000 homes, marking a major achievement for the state of Wyoming.

Wyoming’s venture in expanding its solar energy solution projects has been lacking with the state only ranked 50th in installed solar capacity in 2023 and now ranked 46th with only around 36,000 residential solar installations in 2023 according to the Solar Energy Industries Association (SEIA). Also, Wyoming has been renowned for providing about 40% of America’s coal. Nevertheless, The approval of Cowboy Solar I and II underlines Wyoming’s dedication to diversify its energy portfolio while cutting down reliance on non-renewable energy solutions.

The construction of Cowboy Solar I and II is scheduled to start in March 2025, with an estimated peak onsite workforce of around 375 workers in April 2025. Enbridge has stated that it will be aiming to have Cowboy Solar I operational by January 2027 and Cowboy Solar II operational by August 2027.

As Wyoming launches on this renewable energy journey, the Cowboy Solar project brings a new era of sustainability and innovation. With 771 MW of solar capacity, supplemented by 268 MW of battery energy storage, the Cowboy Solar project will place Wyoming higher in the ranks in regards to developing renewable energy solutions in the nation.

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