Key Project Benefits:
- 150 MW of clean, renewable and sustainable energy; 450,000 MWh annually
- Highly predictable and dependable fuel supply: 95% availability, 100% dispatchability, load following
- Incorporates energy storage to provide operating stability for the grid and a cost effective way to meet Arizona’s peak electricity demand profile
- Boost the local economy by creating up to 450 construction jobs, and also significant property tax revenues that will benefit the local community and region
Solar Facility Key Elements:
- Large circular field of mirrors (heliostats) that reflect the sun’s energy onto a central receiver tower
- A conventional steam turbine generator to produce electricity
- Insulated tanks to store the hot and cold liquid salt heat transfer fluid
- The solar plant will utilize a wet cooled system, which will enhance performance during peak electricity demand periods and significantly reduce the current water consumption in the area.
Quick Facts:
Location: |
1.25 miles north of the intersection of Interstate 8 and Paloma Road |
|---|---|
Technology: |
Concentrating Solar Thermal with Storage |
Size: |
150 MW |
Water Use: |
TBD |
Site: |
4 square miles (private land) |
Transmission: |
~9 miles |
Fuel: |
Sunlight |
Maricopa County Comprehensive Plan Amendment (approval December 2010)
- Because a solar facility is not in compliance with current Maricopa County Comprehensive Plan, a Comprehensive Plan Amendment is required in concert with the Special Use Permit.
Arizona Corporation Commission Certificate of Environmental Compatibility (approval February 2011)
- Before a thermal solar facility can be built, an application for a Certificate of Environmental Compatibility must be approved by the Arizona Power Plant and Transmission Line Siting Committee and the Arizona Corporation Commission.
Major Permitting Requirements: Maricopa County Special Use Permit (expected 2012)
- Because a solar facility does not fall under standard Maricopa County zoning districts, this permit is required.