Custer County’s utility map
By area, the Colorado Energy Office territory map shows Sangre de Cristo Electric Association (65%), San Isabel Electric Association (23%), Black Hills Energy (Colorado Electric) (13%), Xcel Energy (Public Service Company of Colorado) (8%). Area isn’t population — towns are often served by a different utility than the surrounding countryside.
The largest by area, Sangre de Cristo Electric Association, is a electric cooperative that banks exported solar as kWh credits that offset later use one-for-one.
Custer County facts that matter for solar
Custer County grew about 18.8% between 2020 and 2025 (4,707 → 5,590). It has 2 communities on our map, the largest being Silver Cliff, Westcliffe.
Terrain varies: Westcliffe sits near 7,880 feet while the county’s geographic center is around 8,670 feet, so snow load, shading and access can differ a lot from one address to the next.
It’s part of our Southern Front Range region. The county center is about 114 miles from our Denver office.
Permitting across Custer County
Permitting in Custer County depends on whether you’re inside a town. Towns with their own building departments issue their own permits; unincorporated areas go through the county, and the State Electrical Board handles electrical permits in many smaller jurisdictions.
FAQ
Questions we hear
Which electric utilities serve Custer County?
By area, the state map shows Sangre de Cristo Electric Association, San Isabel Electric Association, Black Hills Energy (Colorado Electric), Xcel Energy (Public Service Company of Colorado). The county seat, Westcliffe, maps to Sangre de Cristo Electric Association. Your bill is the final word.
Do you install solar in Custer County?
Yes — our own Colorado crews install throughout Custer County, including permits and utility interconnection.
How high is Westcliffe, and does it matter for solar?
Westcliffe sits at about 7,880 feet. Cooler, clearer air helps panel efficiency, but roof orientation and shading matter far more; we model both per address.