US-based OCI Solar Power has commenced the construction of the 41MW Alamo I solar power project in San Antonio, Texas.

The facility is being developed under the first phase of a 400MW project in partnership with municipal-owned utility CPS Energy.

OCI Solar Power president Tony Dorazio said that the partnership with CPS will provide the template for future public-private collaborations that can boost the development of renewable energy in the country.

"Through its commitment to the environment and the economy, CPS Energy is powering its customers with clean renewable energy, while attracting renewable energy-related companies and manufacturing that promote economic development and good jobs," added Dorazio.

Nexolon America will manufacture the high efficiency solar panels to be employed for the project while ERCAM Trackers will produce the two-axis photovoltaic solar trackers and single- and fixed-axis trackers.

KACO new energy will supply the photovoltaic inverter and power electronics, for the project expected to be completed by the end of 2013.

CPS Energy will purchase the electricity generated from the 400MW solar power project, expected to be fully commissioned in 2016, under a 25-year power purchase agreement.