BrightSource Energy Inc., developer of utility-scale solar thermal power plants, says the California Energy Commission siting committee has issued a proposed decision recommending approval of BrightSource's Ivanpah Solar Electric Generating System.
The proposed decision moves BrightSource one step closer to commencing construction of the 392 MW project. When constructed, Ivanpah will be the world's largest solar energy project, nearly doubling the amount of solar thermal electricity produced in the U.S. today, according to BrightSource.
The proposed decision marks the beginning of a 30-day public comment period, after which the project will be put before the full California Energy Commission for a final decision. The Ivanpah project is also being reviewed by the federal Bureau of Land Management (BLM).
The BLM is expected to issue its Final Environmental Impact Statement for the Ivanpah project in the near future, followed by a final Record of Decision. BrightSource expects to have all of the necessary permits to commence construction in fall 2010.
SOURCE: BrightSource Energy Inc.
