Ivanpah Concentrating Solar Power Plant

operating with uncertain future

Ivanpah is a 392-megawatt concentrating solar power plant located at Ivanpah Dry Lake in California. It uses software-controlled mirrors (heliostats) to reflect sunlight onto boilers atop three towers, generating steam and electricity. The plant began commercial operations in 2014 as the world's largest concentrating solar power facility at the time. The project was backed by the U.S. Department of Energy with $1.6 billion in loan guarantees. The plant has faced challenges including high costs, wildlife concerns (notably bird fatalities due to solar flux), and competition from cheaper photovoltaic solar panels. PG&E attempted to terminate contracts for two units in 2026, but California regulators rejected the plan in December 2025, citing reliability and cost concerns. The plant is expected to continue operating under safety requirements.