In recognition of the growing demand for large-scale solar energy projects around the country, First Solar has announced that it is forming a new business group to focus on this emerging niche in the world of clean power.

According to First Solar, it will have power purchase agreements in place for 2.2 gigawatts of utility-scale solar projects once its ongoing acquisition of NextLight is completed later this quarter. The company also noted that it has built or begun construction on 189 megawatts of utility-scale solar projects in North America.

"With the pending completion of First Solar's acquisition of NextLight, this part of our global business represents the next leg of growth for our industry and First Solar," said Rob Gillette, First Solar CEO.

Along with acquiring more utility-scale business opportunities, the company also indicated that it hopes to continue doing its part to make solar energy more affordable than fossil fuels.

Utility-scale solar projects have been particularly common in Southwestern states like Arizona and California, but photovoltaic arrays and other clean energy systems have been growing rapidly in most other states as well.