"This is a significant step in the development and deployment of renewable solar power," said Michael W. Allman, president and chief executive officer of Sempra Generation in a press release.

The project’s solar modules employ an advanced thin-film semiconductor technology to convert sunlight into electricity without air emissions or water use.  These modules will generally produce more electricity under real-world conditions than conventional solar modules with similar power ratings, according to the release.

Unlike some solar power projects, El Dorado Energy’s solar power plant will not use water or other liquids in the power-generation process.  This water conservation feature makes the project especially suitable to the arid U.S. Southwest.

Sempra operates natural gas fueled electric plants throughout the Pacific Southwest and northern Mexico. The company plans to expand the Nevada plant and is looking to build another near Phoenix.

Sempra sees a ready market in California. That state is requiring utilities to use renewable sources for 20% of the power it sells by 2010.