Sempra Generation, a unit of Sempra Energy (NYSE: SRE), this week announced plans for a major photovoltaic solar project in Arizona.
Phase One of the Mesquite Solar I project will generate 150 megawatts (MW) at a capital investment estimated at $500 million. Sempra controls sufficient land at the site in Arlington, Ariz., to build up to 600 MW of solar power. The cost of full build-out is estimated at $2 billion capital investment.
Sempra has entered into a 20-year power-purchase agreement with Pacific Gas & Electric Co. (PG&E)(NYSE PCG) for the full phase one output of 150 MW.
Arlington, Ariz., is located about 40 miles west of Phoenix.
The solar installation will connect to the power grid at the nearby Hassayampa switchyard, a major energy hub that provides access to consumer markets throughout the Western U.S.
Construction on Mesquite Solar I is expected to begin in 2011, creating
approximately 300 construction jobs at peak and as many as 10 long-term
solar jobs to operate the facility. Mesquite Solar I is scheduled for completion in 2013.
Jeffrey W. Martin, president and CEO of Sempra Generation, said: “Mesquite Solar represents a major step forward for Sempra Generation as we continue down the path toward our goal of becoming the first company in the U.S. to own and operate 500 megawatts of solar energy.”
Mesquite Solar I is Sempra Generation’s third solar energy project. The 10-MW El Dorado Solar facility was built in 2008 and the 48-MW Copper Mountain Solar project will be completed by the end of 2010. Both facilities are located in Boulder City, Nev.
Loading...