California to develop three more solar projects

Apr 7, 2010 - Xinhua

Solar Millennium LLC company is developing three solar project sites in California deserts that, once completed, will generate enough electricity to power more than 500,000 California households, it was announced on Wednesday.

The electricity generated by each plant will prevent a quarter megaton of global warming pollution from being emitted into the atmosphere, according to California Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger 's Office.

The reduction of pollution by the solar plants is equivalent to taking about 40,000 cars off the road each year, said the office.

The new solar projects will add to seven the total number of solar projects being built in the state. The deserts of Southern California are blessed with sunshine and are among the best places in the world to build solar energy power plants, the office said. The region has high solar radiation levels, more than 300 cloudless days per year, and is close to major load centers in California, Arizona and Nevada.

"Effectively harnessing and developing this abundant resource is the right thing to do, and it will require both strong political leadership and advanced technology," the office said.

"Solar energy is a win-win for Southern California, and the tangible economic benefits are critical to the region. The construction and operation of the seven facilities will create thousands of new jobs... as well as millions of dollars in local economic benefits each year."

Southern California's desert regions can lead the drive to reduce the nation's dependence on foreign oil by cultivating safe and renewable energy sources, the office noted.

"It will not only protect our nation, but also give a healthy boost to the local economy for years to come. The industry was born here, and we should make sure it stays here."