Solar Tribune

Construction begins on world’s biggest PV project

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Construction is now under way on the world’s largest solar power development, the 579 MW Antelope Valley Solar Projects.

The Antelope Valley development is actually made up of two projects, located in Kern and Los Angeles counties in California, and is a collaboration between MidAmerican Solar and SunPower.

The 579 MW development is the largest solar power project currently under construction, and will power around 400,000 homes. According to the solar firms, the development will take three years to complete, employing around 650 people in the construction process.

Credit: SunPower Corp

Credit: SunPower Corp

“The start of construction on the Antelope Valley Solar Projects underscores that solar is a reliable, cost-competitive energy source,” said Howard Wenger, SunPower president, regions.

The renewable solar power generated by the projects will displace around 775,000 metric tons of carbon dioxide per year. That’s about the same as taking 3 million cars off the road over the next 20 years.

Furthermore, Antelope Valley – designed by SunPower and owned by MidAmerican Solar – will generate over $500 million in knock-on economic benefit in the region.

“The Antelope Valley Solar Projects are already creating needed jobs and economic opportunity in local communities, while at the same time, providing direct, long-term  environmental benefits,” said Paul Caudill, president of MidAmerican Solar.

The clean solar energy generated from the Antelope Valley Solar Projects will reach consumers via Southern California Edison under two long-term power purchase contracts.

“Southern California Edison appreciates the opportunity to work with MidAmerican Solar and SunPower to meet California’s renewable energy goals and recognizes the start of construction as an important step on that path,” said Steven Eisenberg, Southern California Edison’s vice president of energy contracts.

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