Switch Station 1 and Switch Station 2 solar power plants, with a combined generation capacity of 179MWac, were formally recognized as fully commissioned and in commercial operation.
"Less than a decade ago, Nevada's solar energy landscape was nonexistent, but this commissioning helps fulfill the vision I had to make our state the leader in renewable energy development," said U.S. Senator Harry Reid. "A technology giant like Switch committing to using 100% renewable energy is truly visionary and grows our clean energy economy by creating hundreds of good-paying labor construction jobs here."
"Technology is revolutionizing the way renewable, clean energy is produced, delivered and consumed and we are proud to be leaders in driving that change," said Switch Executive Vice President of Strategy Adam Kramer. "Switch Station 1 and Switch Station 2 reflect our company's bedrock value of ensuring the data that runs our planet does not ruin our planet by building new, local, renewable energy resources."
"I am proud to participate in the dedication of Switch Station 1 and Switch Station 2 solar projects. This is another great example of the Federal Government and private industry collaborating on improving our nation's energy independence and infrastructure under the auspices of multiple use of our shared public lands," said John Ruhs, BLM Nevada State Director.
"The project represents another clear demonstration of EDF RE's ambition in the solar business and also our first opportunity in Nevada, a state with world-class solar resources," said Cliff Graham, Vice President, U.S. Development for EDF Renewable Energy. "EDF RE is positioned to invest $3 billion between now and 2020 in renewable projects across the country; we anticipate to deliver on our projection and bring more jobs, tax dollars and investment to Nevada."
"Between 2005 and 2015, Nevada tripled its in-state renewable energy production and reduced carbon emissions in the electricity sector by 44 percent," said Dave Ulozas, NV Energy Senior Vice President of Renewable Resources. "These two important Switch Station projects are two of 16 solar resources that are currently meeting the needs of our customers and companies here in Nevada, and NV Energy has more planned for the future."
"The Switch Station solar projects are a great example of how our commitment to renewable energy has helped to stimulate economic growth in the County. The solar projects created hundreds of construction jobs and economic benefits, and the use of our abundant natural resources are fueling long-term, high-tech job creation centers such as Switch," said Steve Sisolak, Chairman of the Clark County Commission.
"This project confirms that solar energy is now available and priced competitively with other energy sources that rely on carbon-based fuels," said Kathryn Arbeit, Vice President of Project Development Americas for First Solar. "Our photovoltaic technology is setting the standard for affordable, clean, renewable energy. By continuously innovating, we are driving down the cost of solar electricity and providing a solution that addresses energy security and water scarcity. We are thrilled to continue working with our partners to deliver on our joint commitment to build a more sustainable energy future."