SunPower will build a 20MWac solar PV power plant in Arizona and has agreed to sell the electricity generated via a 20-year PPA signed with Sulphur Springs Valley Electric Cooperative (SSVEC). The plant is scheduled to be commenced operating by the end of 2016.

"This SunPower solar power plant supports SSVEC's commitment to community growth and quality of life, and brings us to about 95% of the renewable energy goal established by the Arizona Corporation Commission that SSVEC is to meet by 2025," said SSVEC Chief Executive Officer Creden Huber. "SunPower brings a complete solution to solar power plant development and operation that is proven to maximize energy delivery over the long term, optimizing the cost-effective, emission-free solar power that SSVEC provides its customers."

SunPower plans to design and build a SunPower® Oasis® Power Plant system at the site. Oasis is SunPower's fully integrated, modular solar power block solution for utility-scale solar projects that is designed to optimize land use and is engineered for rapid, cost-effective installation. In addition, SunPower will likely offer the project for sale to 8point3 Energy Partners LP, the YieldCo joint venture formed by SunPower and First Solar, once it is operational. SSVEC has the option to purchase the facility at a later date.