GWS announces planned solar project

SCOTTSDALE, USA: GWS Technologies Inc., an alternative energy company developing renewable energy solutions, has submitted preliminary plans to the Salt River Project Agricultural Improvement and Power District (SRP) to develop a solar farm near the Phoenix-Mesa Gateway Airport in Mesa.

Because the submission was prior to the June 1, 2009 deadline, when SRP reduced its rebate to $2.25 per watt from $2.50 per watt for commercial solar production, GWS secured the higher rebate for the first phase of the project.

GWS will provide equipment and technology integration on the project, with initial cost estimates for solar equipment for the entire project at approximately $30 million. Arizona has recently become a focal point for solar projects because of a climate uniquely suited to solar energy production, as well as the availability of significant state and federal subsidies and billions of dollars in economic-stimulus money earmarked for solar power.

SRP provides electricity to nearly 930,000 retail customers in the Phoenix area. It operates or participates in 11 major power plants and numerous other generating stations, including thermal, nuclear, natural gas and hydroelectric sources. SRP also invests in renewable energy technologies such as solar power and landfill gas projects.

In the spring of 2006, SRP's Board of Directors approved a management proposal that sets a target of 15 percent of SRP retail sales to be met through sustainable resources by fiscal year 2025.