Energy Commission Approves 663.5-MW Solar Power Plant in Southern California

California Energy Commission - October 28, 2010

 

The California Energy Commission today approved the Calico Solar Project in San Bernardino County, the seventh solar power plant licensed in the past two months.

Since August, the Commission has licensed 3,492.5 megawatts of renewable solar power in the California desert.

The Energy Commission unanimously adopted the presiding member's proposed decision (PMPD) that recommended licensing the 663.5-MW project. In order to qualify for federal stimulus funds, the project needed to be approved by the Energy Commission before December 31, 2010. During the construction of the Calico Solar Project, a peak workforce of 700 will be required, with another 180 jobs when the plant is in operation.

"California's commitment to increasing the amount of clean, renewable solar power is demonstrated in today's licensing decision," said Energy Commissioner Anthony Eggert. "These desert solar projects will provide clean power for our schools, homes, and businesses while reducing fossil fuel consumption, creating local jobs, and reducing the greenhouse gas emissions that threaten California's economy and environment."