Blog post

Horizon Utility Campus - ensuring reliability with cleaner energy

A graphic rendering of four natural gas generators next to a geodesic dome. The generators feature short exhaust stacks next to industrial grade machinery.

A graphic rendering of the natural gas generators planned to be built at the Horizon Utility Campus.

We have selected PROENERGY Services LLC. to construct and install 400 megawatts (MW) of natural gas-fired generators at our 160-acre Horizon Utility Campus, located near the Colorado Springs Airport and Drennan Road and Foreign Trade Zone Boulevard. PROENERGY Services LLC. is based in Sedalia, Mo.

The generators have an estimated commissioning date of May 2028, with construction scheduled to begin in the second quarter of 2026.

New generators similar to those at Drake site

Horizon’s 400 MW of generation will include 10 individual generating units that feature similar technology to the generators located on the former site of the Martin Drake Power Plant. The technology is highly efficient, requires a smaller footprint than conventional power plants and produces less emissions than other options.

The new generation will help meet both current and future customer energy needs with cleaner, efficient and more cost-effective power amid an evolving regulatory landscape. Power demands are increasing across our service territory due to expanding technology in homes and businesses, electric vehicles and artificial intelligence, among other uses. 

Site selection

The Horizon Utility Campus site was selected because it is already owned by Colorado Springs Utilities and is zoned for utility use, with an approved master plan for a power plant. Additionally, the site is home to an existing electric substation (completed in 2024), has existing water and wastewater connections, and provides direct access to current and future natural gas supplies.

PROENERGY Services LLC. was selected as the contractor based on the company’s experience building similar generation, pre-engineered design and turn-key solutions, and first-hand experience with the operational and maintenance needs of plant employees. 

In addition to the 400 MW of natural gas-based generation and substation, the Horizon Utility Campus will eventually be home to 100 MW of battery energy system storage, two natural gas gate stations and a Springs Utilities service center.

Get involved, stay informed

A virtual public meeting is scheduled for May 7, 2025, at 6:30 p.m. If you plan to attend, please register here.

Follow us on social media or visit the Horizon Utility Campus project page for the latest information and additional details.