First Solar Inc. has signed a cooperation framework agreement with the Ordos City, China, government. According to First Solar, the deal marks a critical step towards the realization of the world's largest solar power plant in the autonomous region of Inner Mongolia, China.
First Solar President Bruce Sohn and Mayor Yun Guangzhong of the Ordos City Government signed the agreement in the presence of Chinese Vice Premier Li Keqiang, Vice Minister Liu Qi of the National Energy Administration, and U.S. Secretary of Energy Steven Chu.
The agreement spells out additional project details and local support that advance the development of 2 GW solar power plant and confirm the June 1, 2010, expected construction start date for the 30 MW first phase. First Solar and Ordos also agreed to establish two committees to ensure the successful execution of the project and to develop a new energy industry in Ordos.
The 2 GW First Solar project is to be built in multiple phases, beginning with the 30 MW Phase 1. Phases 2, 3 and 4 are to be 100 MW, 870 MW and 1,000 MW, respectively. Phases 2 and 3 are to be completed by 2014 and Phase 4 is to be completed by 2019.
SOURCE: First Solar
