In a groundbreaking ceremony, Cleantech America turned the shovel on CalRENEW-1, a 5MW (AC), 6.25 MW DC solar farm under construction in Mendota, CA. The project is said to be the first utility-scale photovoltaic installation to be approved under the state’s Renewables Portfolio Standard program.
Electricity generated by the power plant will be provided to Pacific Gas & Electric under a long-term power purchase agreement. The facility–which will feature Sharp amorphous-silicon thin-film modules–is slated to begin operation before the end of the year.
Cleantech America was recently bought by Meridian Energy, the largest electricity generator in New Zealand, which generates power entirely from renewable resources. CalRENEW-1 is the company’s first U.S. solar project.
Specialized contractor Quanta Services will provide engineering, procurement, and construction services for the project.
Officials from the City of Mendota, Cleantech America, and Meridian Energy at the August 24 groundbreaking of CalRENEW-1.
