The first utility-scale solar concentrating photovoltaic (CPV) plant just moved a step closer to fruition.
The U.S. Department of Energy has offered a conditional commitment to Cogentrix for a $90.6 million loan guarantee to support construction of the Alamosa Solar Generating Project. The 30-megawatt (MW) project would be located in south-central Colorado near the city of Alamosa.
Cogentrix estimates the project will create about 75 solar jobs during construction and 10 permanent jobs. The project also will source over 80% of its components from the U.S.
The CPV system consists of concentrating optics and multi-junction solar cell panels that are controlled by a dual-axis tracking system. The tracking system rotates and tilts the cells throughout the day so the surface of the solar panel maintains an optimal angle with respect to the sun. The panels will be supplied by Amonix, Inc.
According to Cogentrix, the multi-junction solar cells are nearly 40% efficient or about double that of more traditional PV panels used in areas with high amounts of direct sunlight, such as Alamosa County.
CPV has yet to capture much of the solar market, as it is more expensive to produce. But now that traditional photovoltaics are reaching the ceiling of their energy conversion efficiencies, CPV is a possible path to reaching higher output levels. The technology is particularly well-suited for utility-scale applications in sunny and dry climates.
In 2010, Amonix completed a high-profile series B funding round of $130 million and established a manufacturing facilities in Nevada and Arizona.
The Alamosa Solar Generating Project will sell all of its electricity output to Public Service Company of Colorado.
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