Mar 16 2010
First Solar has sold a 30-MW (AC) photovoltaic solar power project to Turner Renewable Energy and Southern Company. The financial terms were not disclosed for the transaction.
First Solar developed the Cimarron I Solar Project, located near Vermejo Park Ranch in northern New Mexico. The company is providing EPC (engineering, procurement and construction) services for project. In addition, under a 25-year contract, maintenance and operation services will also be provided by First Solar. The project will provide electricity to about 9,000 homes and will prevent more than 45,000 tons of carbon dioxide emissions per year.
CEO of First Solar, Rob Gillette, said the Cimarron I Solar Project reaffirms the capabilities of the company to develop utility-scale solar power projects. First Solar’s experience in manufacturing, project development and EPC enabled the company to be a leader in the renewable energy development market, Gillette said.
The construction on the project is scheduled to begin this month and expected to commence operations by 2010 year end. The solar project will comprise about 500,000 First Solar photovoltaic modules. At the peak of its construction, the solar project will employ over 200 workers.
The power generated from the solar energy facility will be purchased by Tri-State Generation and Transmission Association under a 25-year contract.