Titus: Use state labor and companies on huge solar project

(Appeal Capitol Bureau) - State Sen. Dina Titus has called on the developers of the Solar One electrical generating plant to hire Nevada workers to build and operate the 64-megawatt utility station in Boulder City.

"Developing Nevada's abundant renewable energy resources is one of the keys to our state's economic future and our nation's energy independence," said Titus, a supporter of renewable-energy legislation.

She said the first commercial solar plant in the nation in 14 years, and the first ever in Nevada, should tap Nevada's construction, engineering and technical skills.

"Nevada gave considerable tax breaks and incentives to this company," she said. "The very least they can do is hire Nevada workers."

The Nevada Commission on Economic Development last year approved in property and sales tax breaks to help attract the project.

Titus, a Democratic candidate for governor, has consistently supported the Renewable Portfolio Standard requiring Nevada utilities to use solar, geothermal and wind energy resources.