Gradient Resources Signs EPC Agreement with SAIC's Benham Constructors (SAI)

Gradient Resources, a vertically integrated developer of geothermal energy projects, announced today that it has executed an engineering, procurement and construction contract with Science Applications International Corporation's SAI wholly-owned, design-build subsidiary, Benham Constructors LLC, for the delivery of a new 60 (net) megawatt ("MW") modular binary cycle power plant at its Patua project in northern Nevada. SAIC's technology partner for this project is TAS Energy Inc. (TAS), of Houston, Texas.

Gradient's Patua site, near Fernley NV, is the company's first geothermal power plant. Drilling at Patua recommenced in February 2010. Physical construction of the first 60 MW phase of the power plant will begin in the second quarter of 2011; and the anticipated date for commercial operations is the 3rd quarter of 2012.