ALAMOSA, COLO. -- Solar energy and jobs are heading for Alamosa.

Energy Department officials say that a North Carolina energy producer has been offered a $90.6 million conditional commitment loan guarantee in order to help construct a solar generation project.

Officials say the loan will support developing the Alamosa Solar Generating Project.

The company estimates the project will generate about 85 construction and operations jobs.

Colorado Democratic Sen. Mark Udall says that the plant will be one of the largest and most innovative plants in the country.

Officials think the project will eliminate more than 43,000 tons of carbon dioxide per year and create about 75,000 megawatt hours of renewable energy.

That's enough energy for more than 6,500 homes.

-Alia Willson