Salida Hydro

Location: Poncha Springs, Colorado, on the South Arkansas River.

Plant Description: Salida is a hydroelectric generating station.

Power Production Capabilities: The plant has two units capable of producing a total of 1.4 MW of electricity.

Fuel Source: Water from the South Arkansas River and tributaries.

Plant History: Original project construction occurred in 1906 and consisted of two powerhouses. An upper plant unit was installed in 1929 to replace two original smaller units. The lower plant was built in 1906 and originally consisted of two units. One has since been retired. The project was part of the Colorado Power Company with Shoshone Hydro, which in 1924 became part of Public Service Company of Colorado, a predecessor to Xcel Energy.

Interesting Features: The plant originally provided power for mining interests in the area.

Environmental Highlights: With water as its only fuel, Salida Hydro has no air, land or water emissions.

Community Involvement: Salida Hydro is a popular tour site for local schools and historical groups.

Contact Information:

• Plant Information and Tour Requests — 1-800-895-4999
• Media Inquiries — 303-294-2300