News Article
Five Millionth PV Module Installed on Topaz Solar Farms
MidAmerican Solar and First Solar, Inc are marking a major milestone at Topaz Solar Farms, located in San Luis Obispo County, Calif. This week, the five millionth solar module was installed on one of the largest solar projects under construction in the world.
When complete, the 550-megawattAC project will include more than 8 million PV modules. The first solar module was installed May 16, 2012.
"The installation of the five millionth module is a major accomplishment for everyone involved with the project," said Paul Caudill, president of MidAmerican Solar.
"A project of this magnitude requires extraordinary teamwork - from local communities and government and environmental leaders to contractors and suppliers - to ensure it is successful in safely and reliably delivering renewable energy to California."
The Topaz project is owned by MidAmerican Solar and is being constructed by First Solar, which also will provide operations and maintenance services. Construction began in late 2011 and is expected to be complete by early 2015.
"First Solar is no stranger to setting records, and Topaz Solar Farms is no exception," said Georges Antoun, First Solar's Chief Operating Officer. "Installation of the five millionth module not only marks a major milestone for the project, but it's the first time First Solar has installed that many modules at a single solar site. We are incredibly proud of the hard-working men and women who work daily to integrate utility-scale solar energy into the landscape of the Carrizo plains."
During its three-year construction period, the Topaz project will create an average of approximately 400 construction jobs. According to an economic benefits study by The Brattle Group and California Polytechnic State University, the Topaz project is estimated to infuse $417 million into the local economy, the majority of which will be generated during construction.
Pacific Gas and Electric Company will purchase the electricity from the Topaz project under a 25-year power purchase agreement, helping California meet its mandate to generate 33 percent of its power from renewable sources by 2020.
