Expansion of APS Yucca Power Plant on schedule

Arizona Public Service Co. says it is nearing completion of two new generating units that will help ensure reliable electric service in the Yuma area this summer.

Workers last week installed the engine that will power one of two 48-megawatt generators being placed into service at APS\\\' Yucca Power Plant on the northwest side of Yuma, the utility said in a news release.

The engine is contained within a 180,000-pound skid, allowing for ease of assembly once on site. Construction of both units, a $77 million project that began in October, is scheduled to be complete in July, in time to help meet the 2008 summer peak.

One megawatt is enough for the summertime energy needs of about 250 Yuma homes, according to APS officials.

In addition to electricity, the new units will offer employment opportunities. At the height of construction, expected this month, APS expects 80 full-time specialized workers to be employed for this project.

APS operates the Yucca Power Plant, which first came online in 1959. The APS-owned units already on site have a generating capacity of 147 megawatts.