First Solar to build 200MW solar power plant in Twiggs County, Georgia

Solar industry news : US photovoltaic manufacturer First Solar said that it will build a new 200MW solar power plant in Twiggs County in the US state of Georgia.

The new solar power project was bagged by First Solar under the 525MWac Request for Proposals for Georgia Power’s Renewable Energy Development Initiative (REDI).

Currently, the new Twiggs County solar farm is in an advanced developed stage, and has the backing of Georgia Power, which will buy the power generated from it.

Construction of the new US solar power project is likely to start in November with an aim to commission it in late 2019. First Solar claims that the Twiggs County solar farm will be the largest independent PV solar power project in the southeastern US.

Solar power plant panels. Photo courtesy of Naypong at FreeDigitalPhotos.net.

Commenting on the Twiggs County solar farm, Kathryn Arbeit – Vice President of Project Development – Americas for First Solar, said: “This is a tremendously exciting opportunity for First Solar to demonstrate our capability to develop solar assets in the Southeast and help Georgia Power meet the renewable energy needs of its customers.

“Georgia Power’s significant commitment to renewable energy, paired with Twiggs County’s strong leadership and supportive business environment, combine to serve as a great example of how solar can be seamlessly included in the region’s energy mix.”

First Solar revealed that the new solar power project will be constructed on an area of 2,000 acres near Warner Robins and will be made up of more than half a million thin film solar modules.

The Twiggs County solar farm is likely to produce over 450GWh of power annually, while creating 300-400 construction jobs.

Wilson Mallard – Director of Renewable Development for Georgia Power, commenting on the 200MW Twiggs County solar farm of First Solar, said: “We are committed to working with the Georgia Public Service Commission to create programs, like REDI, that help grow renewable energy in Georgia and add value for all of our customers.

“Recently completed large-scale solar projects across Georgia are serving customers today, and the Twiggs County project will be the latest addition, allowing Georgia Power customers to benefit from cost-effective, competitive solar as part of our diverse generation mix.”

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