Norwegian power generator Statkraft opened its first solar power plant Casale in Aprilia, Italy. At the same time, the company announced an agreement with Siemens Energy to build more solar power plants in Italy.

The new plant has a capacity of 3.3 MW and an annual power production of 4.5 GWh, which is enough for energy needs of about 1200 Italian households.

As for that agreement with Siemens Energy, the two companies plan to build up to 40 MW of new solar power capacity in Italy during 2010. The agreement covers Statkraft's project pipeline in the country and construction of the next solar plant is expected to commence in spring 2010.

Siemens Energy will act as a Engineering Procurement Construction (EPC) contractor, handling engineering, project management and turnkey construction of the PV plants. The German giant will also be responsible for operation and maintenance for the first five years.

Statkraft's goal is to develop 75 MW of solar power generating capacity by 2012. Their geographical focus is Italy, Spain and France…

[source: Statkraft]