The California Energy Commission (CEC) has approved the construction of the Abengoa Mojave Solar Project, which is being proposed by Mojave Solar LLC, a subsidiary of Abengoa Solar Inc. In a unanimous vote, the CEC adopted the presiding member's proposed decision (PMPD) that recommended licensing the 250 MW facility planned in San Bernardino County.
The PMPD for the Abengoa Mojave Solar Project said the facility, as mitigated, will have no significant impacts on the environment and complies with applicable laws, ordinances, regulations and standards. The PMPD was based solely on the record of facts that were established during the facility's certification proceeding.
The project would start construction in the fourth quarter of this year, with commercial service by the first quarter of 2013.
The Abengoa Mojave Solar Project is among nine large solar thermal projects scheduled to go before the commission for a decision before the end of the year in order to qualify for federal stimulus dollars. More than 4,300 MW of solar power will be added if all nine projects are approved.
SOURCE: California Energy Commission