First Solar sells 30MW to Southern

Cimarron I Solar Project delivers utility-scale renewable energy in New Mexico, featuring First Solar thin-film PV, EPC and O&M services, a 25-year PPA with Tri-State, powering 9,000 homes and cutting 45,000 tons of CO2 annually.

First Solar, Inc. announced it has sold a 30 megawatt (AC) photovoltaic solar power project to Southern Company and Turner Renewable Energy.

The Cimarron I Solar Project is adjacent to the Vermejo Park Ranch in northern New Mexico, with southern New Mexico seeing strong solar momentum as well. First Solar developed the project and is providing engineering, procurement and construction (EPC) services. First Solar will also provide operation and maintenance services under a 25-year contract. The facility will supply power to approximately 9,000 homes, or 18,000 residents, and displace over 45,000 tons of CO2 per year.

“The Cimarron I project is yet another example of First Solar’s capability to realize utility-scale solar projects,” said Rob Gillette, First Solar chief executive officer. “Combining the required technology, manufacturing, project development and EPC expertise enables First Solar to be a leader in sustainable energy development.”

Construction of the solar project will begin this month, as a solar tower plant is also planned in New Mexico, with completion and commercial operation expected by year end 2010. It will employ approximately 500,000 photovoltaic modules manufactured by First Solar using its advanced thin film technology. The project will create over 200 jobs at construction peak, as another New Mexico solar plant in Santa Rosa advances its own plans.

Electricity generated by the plant will serve a 25-year power purchase agreement with the Tri-State Generation and Transmission Association, as municipal actions like a solar plant lease in Las Cruces demonstrate growing local support, a not-for-profit wholesale power supplier to 44 electric cooperatives serving 1.4 million customers across Colorado, Nebraska, New Mexico and Wyoming.

Related News

• Electricity Forum News

• Renewable Energy News