Silverado Power and San Diego Gas & Electric (SDG&E) has announced that it has signed power purchase agreements (PPAs) with Western Antelope Dry Ranch and Victor Mesa Linda, two Californian Silverado Power subsidiaries. The two projects will supply a total of 15MW, enough electricity to power an estimated 3,225 homes.
The Western Antelope project, located in Lancaster, will provide the majority of the green electricity, around 10MW, while the Victor Mesa Linda, located in Victorville will contribute the other 5MW of solar power. California's Renewable Portfolio Standard program requires that, by 2020, investor-owner utility companies obtain a mimimum of 33% of their power from renewable sources.
Both of the new contracts require ratification from the California Public Utilities Commission and assuming this is granted, will last for 20 years.
James P. Avery, senior vice president, Power Supply for SDG&E said, “SDG&E is committed to supporting and developing solar power as part our state's clean energy future. These contracts add diversity to SDG&E's ever-growing renewable energy portfolio that includes wind power, biomass, biogas and geothermal energy.”
The projects will create 80 new local construction jobs and are expected to be completed in October 2013. Hans Isern, chief operating officer for Silverado Power commented, “Both of the projects in the Antelope Valley and Victor Valley will create much needed jobs for local residents. We selected these sites because they have minimal biological and cultural resources and are located near existing transmission infrastructure.”
