Colorado Energy Co-op Hits 100% Renewable Power for March

Holy Cross Energy just made history by powering all its members' electricity needs with 100% renewable energy for an entire month. The Colorado cooperative reached the breakthrough milestone in March 2026, marking a major step toward their goal of year-round clean power by 2030.

Serving communities across Colorado's Western Slope, Holy Cross Energy tapped into a mix of wind and solar facilities to meet every kilowatt of demand throughout March. Mild spring temperatures and lower electricity usage created the perfect conditions for renewable sources to shine.

The cooperative's renewable portfolio includes the Hunter solar array and Bronco Plains II wind farm, both developed through partnerships with neighboring energy providers. These locally built projects aren't just checking boxes. They're generating power that's time-matched with Renewable Energy Certificates, meaning the clean electricity flows exactly when it's needed.

Bryan Hannegan, the cooperative's President and CEO, called the achievement an important milestone while staying focused on the road ahead. "We still have important work ahead to achieve our 2030 goal throughout an entire year, in a responsible way that continues to safely provide the affordable and reliable electricity supply we all depend upon," he said.

The numbers tell an encouraging story. Through April 2026, Holy Cross Energy has delivered an average of 92% clean energy to its members. Some hours push past 100% renewable power, while others still need backup from conventional sources to keep the lights on.

The Ripple Effect

This breakthrough shows what's possible when communities invest in local clean energy infrastructure. About 60% of Holy Cross Energy's renewable power comes from projects built specifically for their members, creating jobs and keeping energy dollars in Colorado.

The cooperative's partnership with The Energy Authority has been crucial too. Advanced analytics help them buy renewable power at the right times while keeping costs down and the grid stable. Even their backup power agreement with Xcel Energy is getting cleaner as that utility ramps up its own renewable investments.

Other energy cooperatives across the country are watching closely. Holy Cross Energy's success proves that even rural and mountain communities can transition to clean power without sacrificing reliability or affordability.

March 2026 might have been just one month, but it's a powerful preview of what's coming for Colorado's clean energy future.