First Solar buys Macho Springs power project in US

First Solar has acquired the 50MW Macho Springs solar project in New Mexico, US, from Element Power Solar.

Located in Luna county, Macho Springs will be the largest solar power development in the state once completed in 2014.

The project will feature First Solar’s advanced thin-film PV modules and create up to 400 construction jobs.

It is expected to generate enough clean electricity to power over 18,000 homes in the region, and displace 40,000t of carbon dioxide annually.

Under a power purchase agreement that is subject to regulatory approvals, American utility El Paso Electric will purchase the electricity generated from the facility.

Element Power Solar COO Raimund Grube said: "The sale of Macho Springs Solar to First Solar is the result of a strong working relationship that draws on each company’s strengths."

First Solar has completed a 22MW solar project for PNM Resources and the Southern Company-owned 30MW Cimarron Solar facility in New Mexico.

Image: The 50MW Macho Springs project would generate enough clean electricity to power more than 18,000 homes in the region. Photo: courtesy of First Solar.