Ute Mountain Ute Tribe Farm and Ranch Enterprise Implements Innovative Conduit Hydropower System

The Ute Mountain Ute tribe Farm and Ranch enterprise, a tribally owned farm known for its agricultural practices, announced the installation of the first enterprise-wide conduit hydropower system across its 7700 acres of irrigated farmland. 

This collaborative project with Rentricity Inc. integrates sustainable energy production with the farm's irrigation system, converting excess water pressure into clean electricity using Rentricity’s Renewable Energy AgriPower™ (REAP™) systems. 

The installation comprises five hydropower sites generating 115 kilowatts (kW) of clean energy seasonally.  

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The hydropower sites are spread across 1,000 acres of farmland, dedicated to growing alfalfa, corn, and wheat, alongside cattle grazing operations.  

This technology enhances water-use efficiency and helps power the farm’s operations without interrupting irrigation, making it an ideal fit for the region's desert environment.  

Simon Martinez, General Manager of the Ute Mountain Ute Tribe Farm and Ranch Enterprise said, “We are thrilled to lead the way in integrating Rentricity's in-conduit hydropower technology into our irrigation systems.”  

He added, “These projects not only showcase our commitment to sustainability but also provide a replicable model for other agricultural enterprises looking to adopt clean energy solutions. We are proud to contribute to our community's energy needs while maintaining our dedication to efficient and innovative farming practices." 

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The project also involved enhancing 18 center-pivots to optimize hydropower and irrigation efficiency. 

In addition to generating clean power, the project has garnered support from key stakeholders. The Colorado Department of Agriculture (CDA) and the United States Department of Agriculture’s Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) have played vital roles in the project’s development.  

The CDA provided technical expertise through its ACRE3 energy recovery hydropower initiative, while the NRCS funded the project under the Regional Conservation Partnership Program (RCPP).