Greentech Lead America: NRG Energy and First Solar
announced an agreement for First Solar to build NRG’s 26 MW Avra Valley solar
project near Tucson, Ariz.
Electricity from the Avra Valley solar project will be
sold to Tucson Electric Power under a 20-year power purchase agreement.
The project will utilize First Solar’s thin-film
photovoltaic technology, mounted on the company’s single-axis tracker system,
which rotates the solar modules to follow the sun throughout the day. The
tracker system extends the peak energy production period, providing more
electricity in the afternoon, when energy demand is greatest.
“NRG and First Solar have built a very strong
working relationship, starting with our first 21 megawatt project in Blythe,
California, to our most recently completed 20 megawatt Roadrunner solar
generating station in New Mexico,” said James Kelly, director of Development
for NRG Solar.
Construction on the project, which is expected to begin
this month, will create an estimated 200 jobs. First Solar expects to complete
Avra Valley by the end of 2012.
“We are proud to once again work with NRG as they
add to their renewable energy portfolio and create clean energy for Arizona.
We’re excited to construct this utility-scale project using our proprietary
tracker system, which maximizes the energy output of a solar facility,”
said Jim Lamon, First Solar
Senior Vice President for EPC and Operation and Maintenance.
First Solar is delivering an economically viable
alternative to fossil-fuel generation today. From raw material sourcing through
end-of-life collection and recycling, First Solar is focused on creating
value-driven renewable energy solutions that protect and enhance the
environment.