Performance testing of the new 8.6MW net San Emidio power plant includes guaranteed output, capacity, reliability and continuous operation tests.
The power plant must pass the tests to achieve both commercial operation under the power purchase agreement (PPA) and substantial completion under the EPC contract, US Geothermal said.
Component commissioning of the plant was carried out during the past three weeks and the plant has operated at generation levels of up to 9MW net.
During commissioning and performance testing, all power generated is sold under the PPA at a rate of $50.00 per MWh until commercial operation is achieved.
Upon acceptance of commercial operation by NV Energy, the power rate will increase to $89.75 per MWh with a 1% annual escalation, the company said.
Under a fixed price contract, the EPC contractor is providing its services for the facility and it includes financial guarantees for the original completion date and power output of the plant.
US Geothermal is a renewable energy company focused on the development, production and sale of electricity from geothermal energy.
