Sempra Generation says that three blocks of solar panels totaling 42 MW have been installed at its Mesquite Solar 1 project and are now delivering electricity to the power grid.
Construction on the 150 MW photovoltaic solar installation in Arlington, Ariz., began in June. Sempra Generation anticipates that the project will be completed in early 2013. Power from the facility is sold to Pacific Gas and Electric Co. under a 20-year contract.
Approximately 450 construction workers are currently on-site at Mesquite Solar 1 and are installing an average of 4,500 photovoltaic solar panels each day, the company says. Mesquite Solar 1 represents the first phase of Sempra Generation's Mesquite Solar Complex, a facility that could grow to 700 MW.