Puerto Rico unveils region’s largest operational solar plant

SAN JUAN, Puerto Rico – Puerto Rico has unveiled what officials say is the Caribbean’s largest solar plant in operation.

Gov. Ricardo Rossello said Friday that the plant will produce more than 100,000 megawatts of energy an hour in its first year. He said that would reduce carbon dioxide emissions equivalent to the consumption of 162,000 barrels of oil.

Puerto Rico is seeking to reduce its heavy dependence on petroleum amid high energy bills.

The $160 million Oriana Solar Plant features 183,000 photovoltaic panels and is located in the northwest coastal town of Isabela. It was built by Puerto Rico-based Oriana Energy LLC, a subsidiary of Sonnedix Group, in partnership with Yarotek.