8minutenergy and saferay have already signed an agreement to jointly develop the 15MW utility-scale solar generation facility, which will now sell the output to PG&E under the latest power purchase agreement, which is subject to approval from the California Public Utilities Commission.
The proposed project will feature solar PV modules, related power electronics, and other components including an advanced tracking system that follows the sun to maximize energy production.
Spanning across 80 acres of low-productivity farmland, the plant will begin construction in 2014 and start operations by December 2015.
8minutenergy Renewables CEO Martin Hermann said the project will create around 38 direct and 75 indirect jobs during construction, significantly contributing to the local economy.
"This project will provide economic benefits to the people of Kern County, which has a very high unemployment rate. We take pride in generating jobs and in helping California meet its clean energy goals," added Hermann.
8minutenergy Renewables president Tom Buttgenbach said the project will generate around 36 million kWh of electricity annually, which is enough to serve 6,750 households in California.
"We are pleased by the support we have received from state, county and local officials in moving this project along. With our partner, saferay, we look forward to the next step in further developing this solar project," added Buttgenbach.
