First Solar begins construction on first phase of Barilla solar project in US

US-based solar photovoltaic (PV) systems provider First Solar has commenced construction on the first phase of the Barilla solar power project in Pecos county, Texas.

The company will construct, commission and operate the solar power project that would start commercial operation in mid-2014.

According to First Solar, the electricity generated by the Barill solar power plant will be sold to customers, including municipal utilities, electric cooperatives, and larger commercial and industrial users.

Once completed, the power project will provide electricity to more heavily populated areas that have greater peak energy demand, said the company.

First Solar business development senior vice president Tim Rebhorn said the Barilla solar power project would provide clean and reliable electricity at competitive rates.

"The project will contribute to Texas’ immediate energy needs and demonstrate how solar power can provide a generating resource that can be effectively integrated into the ERCOT grid and help meet Texas’ energy demand, particularly during critical peak hours," Rebhorn added.

First Solar project development vice president Brian Kunz said the project would enable the company meet peak electricity demand in Texas.

"An additional benefit is that solar power plants require no water to generate electricit. This is important in West Texas, where scarce water resources must be preserved," Kunz added.