Construction of the SolarTAC site began in late-October 2008 and is progressing as per the plan.

Dustin T. Smith has been appointed executive director of SolarTAC, a technology centre planned for accelerating the commercialisation of solar technology.

Smith will report into Midwest Research Institute’s (MRI) research operations, effective March 16, and provide strategic leadership and overall direction for SolarTAC, while also developing and implementing operational plans for the center and its members. MRI is managing the engineering design and construction effort for the site.

The entities involved in SolarTAC include: Abengoa Solar, SunEdison and Xcel Energy, who are the founding members, and the City of Aurora, The Colorado Renewable Energy Collaboratory, and MRI.

As far as the contruction of SolarTAC is concerned, MRI, an independent scientific research institute, stated that the basic grading and elevation work have been completed and all civil construction, including drainage, basic roadways, and installation of underground utilities and service lines, is slated for completion by mid-May 2009.

Related links:

Six companies join hands for a solar test site

Info on site management