Two solar specialists are to design and build the world’s two largest solar power towers in California. Abengoa, a technology solutions provider for sustainable development, and BrightSource Energy, a concentrating solar thermal technology company, have announced that work will begin on the project at the end of the year, creating more than 2,000 jobs. The plant is due to be operational by 2016.

As joint partners, the two pioneers in solar power tower technology will work together to permit and finance the 500 MW Palen Solar Electric Generating System. Abengoa will build the plants as the Engineering, Procurement and Construction contractor, and will lead the operation and maintenance (O & M) of the plants once online. BrightSource will provide the solar field technology and plant design.