Dominican Republic, Sunovia work on solar

SANTO DOMINGO, Dominican Republic, Feb. 2 (UPI) -- The Dominican Republic government has signed an agreement with U.S. firm Sunovia Energy Technologies to have the country's first solar energy plant installed.

Officials in Santo Domingo said the deal affirms their commitment to renewable energy.

The contract is worth about $200 million and is expected to provide about 2,500 jobs.

"President (Leonel) Fernandez and his team have shown a tremendous passion for solving the country's energy difficulties," Sunovia Energy Technologies Chief Executive Officer Carl Smith said.

Eddy Martinez, minister of the Center for Export and Investment, said the country also wants to attract development of hybrid vehicles.