A Major Step Toward An Ambitious Energy Goal

"The facility would open in late 2010 and produce enough energy annually to power up to 5,000 homes."

"It would also raise the monthly electricity bill of an average Austin homeowner, who uses 1,000 kilowatt-hours, by an estimated 60 cents, according to Austin Energy. And it has generated concern among some of Austin's large manufacturers, who say the plant could raise their bills substantially."

"The average monthly electricity bill in fiscal year 2008 among Austin single-family homes was $98.51, the utility said."

"The city has already decided to reduce its dependence on fossil fuels, and the plant would put Austin Energy on pace to meet its goal of getting 30 percent of its power from renewable power sources by 2020, utility officials said."

"'We think this is a good project,' said Michael McCluskey, Austin Energy's chief operating officer, 'and we think this is a very competitive solar project.'"