DeSoto Next Generation Solar Energy Center

President Barack Obama visits FPL's DeSoto Next Generation Solar Energy Center

Facts

• Construction commenced in late 2008 and was completed in October 2009
• At 25 megawatts, the DeSoto Next Generation Solar Energy Center opened as the largest solar photovoltaic plant in the country
• Annual estimated generation is about 42,000 megawatt-hours or enough power to serve about 3,000 homes
• Located on FPL-owned property in DeSoto County, Fla.
• Plant consists of more than 90,500 solar panels

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Benefits

• The project provided around 400 jobs during the peak of construction
• DeSoto County will receive more than $2 million in additional property taxes through 2010
• The project represents one of the largest private capital investments in the county
• Over 30 years, the solar facility will prevent the emission of more than 575,000 tons of greenhouse gases; 
  according to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, this is the equivalent of removing more than 4,500 cars from the road every year for the entire life of the project
• Will decrease fossil-fuel usage by approximately 7 billion cubic feet of natural gas and 277,000 barrels of oil
• Photovoltaic technology requires no water
• Solar energy can help Florida secure its energy future since it is not subject to oil supply disruptions or price volatility