Japanese electronics giant Sharp has announced that it will be playing a major role in what is expected to become one of the largest solar photovoltaic projects in the world.

According to the company, it has signed a supply agreement for the Avenal photovoltaic project in California, which will generate about 58 megawatts of clean electricity. Upon completion, the project is expected to supply power to more than 36,000 homes.

"This project is one of the largest solar power installations in the world, and one of the largest Sharp has supplied to date. It also marks a significant step forward for California's renewable energy efforts and we are proud that our cutting edge thin-film modules will help deliver clean power to the residents of California," said Eric Hafter, a senior vice president with Sharp's solar energy division.

The California project is jointly owned by Eurus Energy and NRG Energy. Another entity, Ryan Company, will provide engineering, procurement and construction services on the project.

Construction is reported to be getting underway in the very near future, with all three photovoltaic installations comprising the project are expected to be complete by the middle of 2011.