World's Largest Solar Photovoltaic Project To Be Built In Nevada

Las Vegas - Powered by Renewables (PBR) of Nevada announced it will partner with SunEdison of Maryland to develop the world's largest solar photovoltaic (PV) project in Nevada. The 18 megawatt (MW) project almost doubles what is currently the world's largest PV project (10MW) located in Germany.

PBR and SunEdison will develop a total of 36 MWs of PV projects in Nevada, enough energy to power 36,000 homes. Construction in Clark County is expected to begin in July and at other sites in early 2007.

"I'm really pleased that PBR and SunEdison are teaming up to develop a world-class solar project using Nevada's unrivaled solar resources," said U.S. Senator Harry Reid. "These are the kinds of ventures we hope to repeat across the West, and the nation, as part of our drive for energy independence by 2020."

"Energy independence is an important strategy for our military," said Tim Carlson, PBR's President. "Because our project is powered by the sun, it reduces our dependence on foreign oil. And since energy from the sun is a free, sustainable, renewable resource, it also allows the military to control their energy costs. That's important for tax payers," he continued.

The proposed project will be privately owned and operated. The military intends to purchase electricity from the project.

"Working with a prominent local partner is important and there are none better than PBR. They represent the best renewable energy talent in the state," said Jigar Shah, Managing Partner, SunEdison. "We couldn't have picked a better partner," he continued.

Projects developed by PBR and SunEdison will provide sustainable solutions to Nevada's growing energy needs, help reduce the state's $3 billion a year energy deficit, increase energy security, reduce energy-related emissions, and diversify Nevada's economy.

"The PBR-SunEdison partnership is one good example of what our state and, in fact, our nation needs in the important development of renewable resources," said Roberto Denis, Senior Vice President, Generation and Energy Supply, Sierra Pacific Resources. "Our Nevada Power utility intends to purchase renewable energy credits from this project for several decades and we are pleased to participate as our state continues to play a leadership role in the expanding field of renewable energy."

SOURCE: Powered by Renewables