http://investor.firstsolar.com/phoenix.zhtml?c=201491&p=irol-newsArticle&ID=1368252 First Solar and NRG Energy Open Largest Solar PV Power Plant in California
Blythe Photovoltaic Solar Project Generates Renewable, Clean Electricity for Southern California Edison
PRINCETON, N.J., Dec 21, 2009 (BUSINESS WIRE) -- First Solar, Inc. (Nasdaq: FSLR) and NRG Energy, Inc. (NYSE: NRG) today announced the start of commercial operation for the largest photovoltaic (PV) solar project in California. First Solar developed and built the 21-megawatt (MW) power plant in Blythe, Calif., which was acquired last month by NRG through its wholly owned subsidiary NRG Solar. Electricity generated by the solar facility is being sold to Southern California Edison (SCE) under a 20-year power purchase agreement.
Located in Riverside County about 200 miles east of Los Angeles, the Blythe plant is the largest thin film PV project in the United States and is five times the size of the next largest PV project in California. NRG estimates that at peak capacity, the project can supply the power needs of almost 17,000 homes while helping California meet its renewable energy goals. Approximately 175 people built Blythe during its three-month construction and installation period.
"It is no surprise that America's largest thin film solar project was built right here in California, where my Administration has successfully created a climate where green businesses can thrive," said California Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger. "It is forward-thinking businesses such as First Solar that will help California reach its nation-leading greenhouse gas reduction and Renewable Portfolio Standard goals, as well as create the new green jobs that will help spur our economic recovery."
"Solar is the great untapped resource in California, and we are pleased to be part of this significant milestone for solar development in our state," said Marc Ulrich, SCE vice president, Renewables and Alternative Power. "Bringing this power to the grid helps SCE maintain its position as the nation's leading utility for renewable energy."
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