Sempra U.S. Gas and Power has announced that it has completed construction of Mesquite Solar 1, the first 150-megawatt (MW) phase of the company's Mesquite Solar complex in Arlington, Ariz., about 40 miles west of Phoenix.

The photovoltaic solar energy project is now operational and ranks among the largest in the U.S., generating enough clean electricity to power about 56,000 homes.

"We are pleased to continue the momentum of our solar program with the completion of Mesquite Solar 1 and will now focus on the development of the remaining 4,000-acre complex," said Jeffrey W. Martin, president and chief executive officer of Sempra U.S. Gas and Power.

"This accomplishment puts us solidly on track to own and operate more than 1,000 megawatts of renewable energy capacity by the end of this year. We are excited about the future. This milestone would not have been possible without the strong support of neighboring communities, regulators and local and state elected officials."

"Arizona continues to lead the nation in the production of clean, renewable solar energy," said Ariz. Gov. Jan Brewer. "Projects like Sempra U.S. Gas and Power's Mesquite Solar 1 not only create clean energy, they also generate quality jobs for Arizonans.

"I am thrilled to see our great state at the forefront of this promising industry and I look forward to Arizona continuing to establish itself as our nation's solar capital."

Construction began in June 2011 and employed more than 450 workers. The power has been sold to Pacific Gas and Electric under a 20-year contract.

Future phases planned at the solar complex could produce up to 700 MW, making it one of North America's largest solar power installations.