RIGA, Oct 24 (LETA) - SP Austrumi and SP Rietumi plan to invest about EUR 140 million in two solar energy parks, LETA learned from the owner of both companies, Anastastija Udalova.

SP Austrumi will invest EUR 60 million in a solar park in Jelgava, and SP Rietumi will invest up to EUR 80 million in a solar park in Vidzeme.

Asked about the idea of the two solar parks, Udalova said that when receiving gas and electricity bills for Daugavpils Lokomotivju Remonta Rupnica train engine repair plan and H.A.Brieger cosmetics company, interest in power generation came up.

At present, the project in the territory of Jelgava airport has received a permission from the Economics Ministry, and Augstsprieguma Tikls transmission system operator is preparing technical regulations. As soon as these regulations are approved, the solar panels will be ordered and investments will start.

Udalova said that up to 70 percent of funds will be attracted from banks.

SP Rietumi plans to establish a solar park in Vidzeme, but a deal on purchase of a land plot is yet to be signed.

The solar park in Jelgava will generate up to 80 MW, and in Vidzeme - up to 100 MW, which will be sufficient for both plants.

Udalovs said that the park in Jelgava should be completed by the end of next year, while the second plant will be created in two and a half years.