World's largest solar power project approved

Combined, the four 250 MW (megawatt) plants will deliver 1,000 MW of nominal generating capacity, or enough electricity to power more than 300,000 homes annually.

Construction of the first two Blythe power plants is expected to begin by the end of this year.

The Blythe Solar Power Project is being developed by Solar Millennium, LLC, a subsidiary of Solar Trust of America. The project site is located in an unincorporated area of Riverside County, Southern California.

The applicants have applied for a right-of-way authorization from the Bureau of Land Management for 9,400 acres (about 3,800 hectares), with 7,025 acres (about 2,845 hectares) of it for construction and operation.

"We are honored to receive formal approval today from the California Energy Commission," stated Josef Eichhammer, President of Solar Trust of America and CEO of Solar Millennium, LLC. "

Together with the State of California's leadership we are committed to restoring the state as the global leader in renewable energy. This multi-billion dollar facility will be the largest solar generating facility in the world and will help solidify that reputation."

Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger said in a statement that he applauded the CEC's decision to approve the construction of the Blythe Solar Power Project.

"I am excited to see other solar projects move forward," he said. "Projects like this need our immediate attention, as solar and renewable power are the future of the California economy. Hopefully this approval of the Blythe project will attract more companies to look to the Golden State for their projects."

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