The solar power generating facility will be powered by concentrating PV (CPV) systems supplied by Amonix that uses optics and a dual-axis tracking system to focus sunlight onto PV cells.
The facility, to be located in the San Luis Valley of Colorado immediately adjacent to the existing transmission system of Xcel Energy, will produce enough electricity to power approximately 6,500 homes.
Cogentrix, which has finalized local permits and is currently in the process of securing financing for the project, expects to begin the construction on the facility in the first quarter of 2011. The project will begin providing electricity in the second quarter of 2012 under terms of a 20-year contract with Xcel Energy.
Tom Bonner, president of Cogentrix Energy, said: “Our focus has always been on developing quality power generation facilities that deliver reliable power to our customers. We’re pleased that our Alamosa Solar Generating project continues in that tradition.
“We have enjoyed a long relationship with Xcel Energy with other electric generating projects on their system and are excited at the opportunity to now be in position to assist them in meeting their renewable portfolio requirements.”
