85% is an A-plus for Holy Cross Energy

Glenwood Springs-based electrical cooperative has gone from less than 50% to 85% emissions-free energy in just a few years

Holy Cross Energy last week reported that 85% of its electricity in 2025 had come from renewable sources.

It’s easier to post high numbers in spring, when demand is less, the days are longer and more solar energy is being tapped. Plus, the winds on the eastern plains of Colorado are picking up. Holy Cross gets a hunk of its power from Bronco Plains II Wind Project about 140 miles east of Denver. Holy Cross achieved 97% in May. It’s harder to do in mid-winter when demands in Aspen and Vail rise.

Gov. Jared Polis took note of the accomplishments of Holy Cross in his state-of-the-state address on Jan. 15:

“I am excited about bright spots like Holy Cross Energy serving Eagle, Pitkin, Garfield, Mesa, and Gunnison Counties. At its peak last spring, Holy Cross generated 96% of its energy from low-cost clean sources.”

We keep a careful eye on Holy Cross, which has been thinking hard about its journey toward a goal of 100% in 2030. Since he arrived at Holy Cross in 2017, Bryan Hannegan, the chief executive, has said this journey beyond 85% will be the hardest.