First Solar, a manufacturer of advanced solar modules and a provider of comprehensive photovoltaic (PV) system solutions, has completed the divestment of two Canadian solar PV projects to NextEra Energy Resources, a supplier of clean energy in North America.
The two projects are located in St. Clair, Ontario, Canada and their total capacity is 40 MW. The facilities have commenced operation in February, 2012 and they are owned and managed by NextEra Energy Canada, a subsidiary of NextEra Energy Resources.
First Solar has designed and established the solar facilities using its superior thin film PV modules. These projects deliver sufficient electricity to power approximately 6,440 homes. The solar-generated power is anticipated to prevent about 45,000 tons of carbon dioxide emissions per year, which is equivalent to discarding nearly 8,600 cars off the road annually. The Ontario Power Authority purchases the electricity generated by the solar facilities through long-term agreements under the Renewable Energy Standard Offer Program (RESOP).
Mike O'Sullivan, Senior Vice President of Development of NextEra Energy Resources, stated that the acquisition perfectly matches with their strategy to add entirely contracted renewable assets to their portfolio. Solar energy will help advance a renewable-energy economy in Ontario and decrease the state’s reliance on fossil fuels.
First Solar’s VP for Business Development, Canada, Peter Carrie also added that the St. Clair solar projects help Ontario to meet its economic and clean energy objectives and these are the first large-scale solar projects that are permitted under the Renewable Energy Approval process of the state.
Source: http://www.firstsolar.com/