China’s second-largest solar-panel maker, Trina Solar, is planning to build in the western Xinjiang region a power plant with one gigawatt (GW) of capacity, about the same as a new nuclear reactor.
Trina has signed a framework agreement with local authorities in Turpan Prefecture to develop the ground-mounted solar farm, the Changzhou, China-based company said in a statement.
It is also planning a factory in the area to supply components for the project.
“The solar plants will ensure a stable supply of clean energy and improve reliability of electricity supply to the surrounding regions,” Chief Executive Officer Gao Jifan said in the statement.
“Trina Solar’s position as a global PV industry leader makes us the ideal partner for this exciting new project, which upon completion is slated to be the largest solar power plant project in Xinjiang,” he said.
“Xinjiang’s abundant land and solar resources make Turpan an ideal location for this project.
“At the same time, the module production facility will also create jobs and stimulate the growth of the local economy.”
The project will be built in phases over four years starting the next few months.
The commencement of each phase of development is subject to certain conditions, including approvals from the local government and State Grid
The company expects the first two phases, totalling 300 megawatts (MW) in capacity, to be completed and connected to the grid by the end of this year.
Trina Solar will also invest in the construction of a PV module production facility in the local area to supply modules to the solar power plants.
Trina is China’s largest solar-panel maker after Yingli Green Energy.
