Cowboy Solar I & II and BESS Project

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Why was this location selected?

Cowboy Solar was sited following extensive environmental, engineering, land use, and permitting evaluations. The project is located on privately-owned land in Laramie County that is currently used primarily for seasonal cattle grazing and is surrounded by agricultural land. The site offers strong solar resources, access to existing electrical infrastructure, compatible land uses, and relatively flat terrain that reduces the need for significant grading or ground disturbance. Environmental and technical studies completed as part of the permitting process also identified the area as suitable for renewable energy development while minimizing impacts to surrounding land uses. 

2. Can farming, grazing, or hay production continue? 

Solar development does not necessarily remove land from agricultural use. Many projects continue to support livestock grazing, hay production, pollinator habitat, or other agricultural activities throughout the life of the project.

3. What sort of soil protection measures are in place? 

Construction activities will be conducted in accordance with environmental permits and regulatory requirements, including erosion and sediment control measures, stormwater management practices, dust suppression, and restoration requirements. The project's vegetation and weed management plans are also designed to protect existing soils, reduce erosion risks, and support long-term revegetation. 

4. Does Enbridge have a reclamation plan? 

Enbridge is committed to restoring the property to a suitable state at the end of the project's operating life. Long-term stewardship and responsible land management are important parts of the project lifecycle, from development through operations and eventual decommissioning. Enbridge's lease agreements, permits, and posted reclamation bond will require the project to be decommissioned and returned to original ranch land conditions. Project infrastructure would be removed in accordance with applicable regulatory requirements, and disturbed areas would be reclaimed and revegetated.

5. Has the local fire department been engaged? 

Yes. Our Project team engages with local officials and emergency services throughout project development, construction, and operations. Enbridge recognizes that early and ongoing engagement with emergency responders is essential for any energy project.

6. What safety measures have been developed to address concerns related to the solar facility and battery energy storage system? 

Safety is Enbridge's top priority. Multiple layers of monitoring, controls, and protective systems are incorporated into the facility design to prevent incidents and support rapid response should an issue occur. Cowboy Solar and its battery energy storage facilities are being designed, constructed, and operated in accordance with applicable industry standards, regulatory requirements, and manufacturer specifications.

7. What measures are being taken to address increased traffic during construction? 

To minimize impacts, Enbridge and its contractors will implement traffic management measures that may include designated haul routes, coordination with local authorities, road-use agreements, scheduling considerations for heavy equipment deliveries, signage, and ongoing communication with nearby landowners and stakeholders. Site access locations have been established in coordination with local authorities, and traffic impacts will be monitored throughout construction. 

8. Will the project increase electricity prices for local customers? 

No. Cowboy Solar being constructed to provide additional electricity to meet growing demand in the region. Electricity rates for individual customers are determined by utilities and regulators through established regulatory processes. 

9. What benefits will Cowboy Solar bring to the local community? 

The project will generate economic activity through construction employment, local purchasing opportunities, tax revenues, infrastructure improvements, and ongoing operations spending. Enbridge is committed to working with communities throughout development, construction, and operations and seeks to create lasting benefits through local partnerships, community investment initiatives, and ongoing stakeholder engagement.