SunPower Corp. started construction on the 56-megawatt (AC) Gala Solar Power Plant in Crook County, Oregon. The project, which is expected to be the state's largest operating solar power plant when it is completed by the end of 2017, is anticipated to create approximately 300 jobs during peak construction.

"I've often said that in Oregon, we don't believe economic development and environmental stewardship are mutually exclusive ideas," said Governor Kate Brown. "The approximately 300 jobs expected to be created by the Gala Solar Power Plant are proof we can grow our rural communities and support a vibrant and innovative renewable energy industry."

SunPower's third-generation SunPower Oasis platform for solar power plants will be installed on the site to maximize the project's long-term energy production. The Oasis platform is a complete power plant solution that installs quickly and optimizes site utilization to lower the cost of energy for customers. Product features include 50 percent fewer parts than conventional solar plant systems and an integrated solar tracker design that streamlines construction and reduces operations and maintenance costs.

"While solar is cost-competitive today, SunPower is continuing to drive the cost of energy down through innovation and integrated complete solutions such as our Oasis platform," said Ty Daul, SunPower Vice President, Americas Power Plants. "We're pleased to contribute to economic development in Oregon with the construction of this milestone project."

"Solar power projects deliver a range of regional benefits, including job creation and affordable emission-free power," said Ann Beier, Assistant Planning Director, Crook County Community Development. "We are proud that, working in partnership with SunPower on the Gala Solar Power Plant, Crook County is helping lead the way in Oregon in supporting increased solar development."