China, First Solar, sign agreement

TEMPE, Ariz., Sept. 8 (UPI) -- A U.S. solar power company and Chinese officials signed agreements to build a 2-gigawatt solar power plant in Ordos City, China.

First Solar Inc. and Chinese officials signed a memorandum of understanding that outlines the project in the company offices in Tempe, Ariz., the Phoenix Business Journal reported Tuesday.

Plans call for a First Solar to design and construct the 2-gigawatt facility, starting with a 30-megawatt demonstration project.

First Solar will also be contracted to supply the solar panels for the project.

Construction is scheduled to begin in June 2010 with additional capacity added in 2014 and 2019, the newspaper said.

"This major commitment to solar power is a direct result of the progressive energy policies being adopted in China to create a sustainable, long-term market for solar and a low carbon future for China," First Solar Chief Executive Officer Mike Ahearn said in a statement.

"Discussions with First Solar about building a factory in China demonstrate to investors in China that they can confidently invest in the most advanced technologies available," Cao Zhichen, the vice mayor of Ordos said.