June 5, 2007

Huge Solar Plants using Sterling Engine

Two of Southern California's utility companies are developing the largest solar power facilities in the world.

Southern California Edison and San Diego Gas & Electric are developing 500 MW and 300MW solar power plants using sterling engines to convert the sun's heat into electricity. That is more solar power than the combined solar power capacity of the entire United States right now. Construction of the facilities is expected to begin in 2008 and be completed in 2010.

They believe that the plants will generate electricity with an efficiency of 30%, two to three times higher efficiency than conventional photo-voltaic solar panels.

Huge Solar Plants Bloom in the Desert