Williams Creek Generating Station

The Williams Creek Generating Station is designed to complement renewable energy resources while supporting electric reliability.

The fast-start generating units can quickly respond to changing energy needs, helping provide electricity when demand is high or when renewable generation levels fluctuate.

Natural gas remains an important bridge fuel as renewable resources expand and emerging technologies continue to be evaluated.

By providing flexible generation that can respond rapidly to changing conditions, the project helps support a reliable and resilient electric system while we continue transitioning to a cleaner energy portfolio.

No. The Williams Creek Generating Station was identified through our long-term resource planning process as a solution to help maintain electric reliability, support future electricity needs and advance our energy transition strategy.

It is not being developed specifically for a data center.

The facility will include basins used to manage and process wastewater on site, helping ensure there is no wastewater discharge from the facility.

These basins will be lined with protective materials designed to prevent seepage and protect groundwater resources. Stormwater ponds will also be included to collect and manage runoff from the site.

The project is designed so that local groundwater resources and private wells will not be affected.

Environmental studies and permitting activities are underway and include evaluations of air quality, water resources, wildlife, vegetation and other environmental considerations.

Information from these studies will help inform project design and any required mitigation measures.

The project is still in the design phase. We will consider rural night-sky conditions while balancing operational and safety requirements.

Facility lighting is expected to use downcast fixtures, and opportunities to reduce skyglow will be evaluated as design progresses.

The site is located on City of Colorado Springs-owned property near existing utility infrastructure we manage. This includes the Williams Creek Substation, Williams Creek Pump Station and Southern Delivery System pipeline.

The location provides access to existing utility infrastructure while supporting the project's operational needs.

The Colorado Springs Fire Department serves as the primary emergency response agency for the facility. Through mutual aid agreements and a countywide emergency response framework, fire departments and emergency agencies throughout El Paso County can respond and provide support during larger incidents.

This countywide approach helps ensure appropriate resources are available when needed. We also maintain trained employee resources that may assist with infrastructure protection during larger or more complex incidents.

Yes. We anticipate additional opportunities for community engagement as the project progresses through planning, design and permitting.

Information about future meetings and engagement opportunities will be shared on this webpage.