The solar thermal power plant, the first of two planned in Europe, relies on mirrors to target the sun's rays on to the top of a 300-foot (100-meter) tower. A heat receiver converts the energy into steam, which then drives the turbines.

The plant currently generates 11 megawatts of electricity, which can power 6,000 homes—with no pollution.

Ultimately, the plant will produce enough power for 600,000 residents of Seville, BBC News reported.

The lines on the photograph are due to reflections on the solar panels.

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