Sun Bear
(tavach kwiyagat)
Solar Project
The Sun Bear Solar Project and associated generation interconnect line are proposed for development on Ute Mountain Ute Tribal lands.
The Environmental Assessment is currently in review with the Bureau of Indian Affairs.
EMPLOYMENT:
The Sun Bear Solar project is experiencing extremely high levels of interest in employment on the upcoming construction portion of this endeavor.
The EPC contractor plans to begin construction in the November timeframe, and we will provide a link to their employment website around September where those interested can fill out their profile online and apply for employment.
The Contractor will be relying on this process to screen and hire those interested locally. We are looking forward to the start of construction and excited with the great interest expressed by the local community in employment opportunities.
TRAINING AND APPRENTICESHIPS:
A detailed program for both training and apprenticeships is being developed and will be posted on this site shortly.
VENDORS:
Per inquiries for vendor and subcontractor opportunities, the EPC contractor is in the design phases of the project and will not be looking for pricing or inquiries until late fall. We will provide a link at that time for local vendors to express their interest. We do look forward to working with local vendors and subcontractors to execute this project.
The Sun Bear project is a TERO compliant program. More details on that program will be posted with updates per employment and vendors information but for more information on the Ute Mountain Ute TERO program contact Marcie Lopez, Ute Mountain TERO Director, P.O. Box 234, 420 Sunset Blvd. Towaoc, CO 81334. Ph: 970-564-5717, MLopez@utemountain.org
OUR PARTNERS
PROJECT SUMMARY:
Sun Bear aligns with the Ute Mountain Ute Tribe Climate Action Plan goals to generate a long-term and predictable source of revenue, enable energy self-sufficiency, and reduce GHG.
Sun Bear also aligns with U.S. federal goals to attain 100% carbon pollution-free electricity by 2035 and achieve net-zero emissions by 2050.
The proposed project requires the Bureau of Indian Affairs approval of a lease agreement between the UMU and Canigou.
The timeline of the Proposed Action includes 2-4 years of site preparation and construction, a 35-year project life, and 2-4 years of decommissioning and reclamation.
FACTS AT A GLANCE:
Up to 971-megawatt direct current, which would displace 1,700 to 2,400 GW hours per year. This is equivalent to greenhouse gas emissions from 214,363 homes' energy use for one year.
Located on approximately 3,800-4,224 acres of Ute Mountain Ute Tribal land, south of Towaoc, along U.S. Hwy 160.
Gen-tie line (4.97 mi) connecting the project to a regional transmission line nearby.
Construction would require ~600-1,000 employees. Once operational, 10-50 full-time employees.
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PROJECT TIMELINE
