More pictures at the link below (AP pics, don’t post here)
http://fuelfix.com/blog/2014/02/13/huge-thermal-plant-opens-as-solar-industry-grows/#20607-2
Using technology known as solar-thermal, nearly 350,000 computer-controlled mirrors roughly the size of a garage door reflect sunlight to boilers atop 459-foot towers. The sun’s power is used to heat water in the boilers’ tubes and make steam, which drives turbines to create electricity.
While many people are familiar with rooftop solar, or photovoltaic panels, “these are a little bit different. This takes the sun’s rays and reflects them onto towers,” said NRG spokesman Jeff Holland.
The plant can be a startling sight for drivers heading toward Las Vegas along busy Interstate 15. Amid miles of rock and scrub, its vast array of 7-by-10-foot mirrors creates the image of an ethereal lake shimmering atop the desert floor. In fact, it’s built on a dry lakebed.
Indeed, it is a spectacular site, where not so long ago there was nothing. I drove by it yesterday. It's just south of Stateline, Nev., and about 10 miles north of Mountain Pass, Calif.
Anyone hoping for a vicious hail storm? What about the desert tortoise’s habitat? Oh, an exemption? I see. As long as it’s green, a little “red” is acceptable.