SolFocus joined with Mexican land and real estate developer Grupo Musa and U.S.-based energy developer Synergy Technologies LLC to announce the launch of a landmark solar power plant in Baja California near Tecate, Mexico.
The project, planned as a 450 MW total capacity, will be built in 50 MW tranches, with construction on the first tranche starting in late 2012 and being operational before the end of 2013. The power plant, which will use SolFocus Concentrator Photovoltaic (CPV) equipment, will be owned and operated by SolMex Energy S.A. de C.V., the new company formed by Grupo Musa and Synergy Technologies for the production of clean solar energy in Mexico.
“The project is in direct alignment with the Mexico and U.S. bilateral clean energy agenda,” said Lic. David Munoz, Director General of the Baja California State Commission of Energy. “The countries share a common goal of achieving strong economic growth and energy security while addressing climate change and increasing the reliability of energy infrastructure. Mexico has been successful with wind energy, and now this large solar project will support our energy infrastructure and economic development efforts in the very near future. This project adds to Governor Osuna Millan’s vision of a sustainable Baja California.”
Historically, the renewable energy market in Mexico has been comprised primarily of wind power. However, with the launch of this project, solar has made a major step forward as an energy source for the country. Grupo Musa recognized this opportunity for providing low-cost, dependable energy and will be consuming most of the initial 50 MW installation to meet energy demands at its various facilities. The power plant is being built on land owned by Grupo Musa near Tecate. Northern Mexico has the third greatest solar resource in the world, making it an ideal location for this project.
This project has been a collaborative effort of both public and private enterprises. Instrumental in the execution of the project were ProMéxico and Asian Pacific Development Corporation (APDC). The APDC brought together the consortium of partners, worked with the Mexican government, and facilitated many aspects of the project including engagement of international financing corporation FINEXIM for a commitment on debt financing.
Tell Us What You Think!