During construction, the designer improved the heliostat configuration from a single pane with a reflective area of 78 sq ft to two separate mirrors on a single frame, doubling the reflective surface of each to 163 sq ft. An improved tracking system and assembly line also enhanced the original strategy, resulting in greater efficiency.

Committed to minimum disturbance to the desert, the team limited grading, efficiently augered holes and installed pylons and minimized concrete foundations.

The safety of native tortoises was ensured. At one point, the federal government shut down the operation temporarily to relocate the threatened species.

Key Players

Contractor/Lead Engineer Bechtel Power Corp.

Owner NRG Energy Inc.

Design BrightSource

Boiler Engineer Riley Power

Subcontractors Siemens Energy; Conedrive; Gestamp Renewables; Prospect Steel; TEAM Industries; Las Vegas Paving; Elemental Energy