PG&E announces solar power initiative

PG&E announced plans for photovoltaic projects totaling up to 500 megawatts of generating capacity in its northern and central California service areas. That's enough to meet about 1.3 percent of its electric demand.

The San Francisco-based utility will build and operate up to 250 megawatts of capacity, while an additional 250 megawatts will be built and operated by independent developers.

PG&E has submitted its plans to the California Public Utilities Commission and hopes to secure approval later this year.

Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger says the initiative will help California reach its clean energy goals.