850 Kilowatt Hydroelectric Plant in Manitou

In order to meet state requirements, by the year of 2015, 10 percent of Colorado's power must be from renewable energy sources. On February 17, 2009, Colorado Springs Utilities began building a brand-new 850 kilowatt hydroelectric plant in Manitou Springs, costing up to 4.5 million dollars. Water from a pipeline from Crystal Creek Reservoir on Pikes Peak will be used. There are three other hydroelectric plants in the city, and the newest addition will produce enough electricity to power up to 530 homes. The construction of the building will be completed in the next six months, and Colorado officials are also planning on buying additional wind power to help meet the new standards.