The Short Version

The records we have do not show that the entire Horse Creek project has received every government approval needed for construction and operation. Internal company approval, preliminary agency discussions and final permits are not the same thing.

Why It Matters

The word “approved” can mean almost anything unless it comes with a permit number, issuing agency, date and description of exactly what was approved.

What We Know So Far

  • County Planning had discussed regulatory requirements with Black Hills Energy by April 24, 2026.

  • The County considers the proposed use permissible as an essential service.

  • That County letter is regulatory direction, not a final site-plan approval.

  • A commercial site plan and other applicable County permits are still identified as requirements.

  • The PSC resource-plan filing discusses possible RICE generation and storage but is not a Horse Creek construction permit.

  • The documents currently in our library do not include a final Horse Creek air permit, Industrial Siting permit, generation certificate, water plan, pipeline route approval or transmission approval.

What We Still Need to Know

  • What approvals has Black Hills received internally?

  • What applications have been submitted to government agencies?

  • What permit and docket numbers belong specifically to Horse Creek?

  • Which approvals remain before construction?

  • Have any pipeline or transmission applications been filed under another company name?

  • What conditions could be attached to each approval?

  • When will residents receive formal notice?

Key Documents

  • Laramie County Regulatory Direction to Black Hills Energy — April 24, 2026 — Shows what the County told Black Hills and what was still required.

  • 2026 Cheyenne Light, Fuel & Power Integrated Resource Plan — PSC Public Notice — A planning proceeding, not a Horse Creek construction approval.

  • State Engineer Explains the 800 Acre-Foot Water Yield Review Threshold — Explains a possible water-review requirement.

  • Horse Creek / Black Hills Energy — HOA Briefing and Action Roadmap — Lists permits and approvals that residents should track separately.

  • Browse the Full Document Library

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