TORONTO, ONTARIO--(Marketwire - Feb. 27, 2009) - Timminco Limited ("Timminco") (TSX:TIM) announced today it will host a conference call on Tuesday, March 17, 2009 at 5:00 pm ET to discuss its financial results for the fourth quarter and year ended December 31, 2008. Timminco will report its fourth quarter and year end financial results via news release on Tuesday, March 17, at approximately 4:30 pm ET.
To access the conference call by telephone, dial 416-644-3417 or 1-800-732-9303. Please connect approximately 15 minutes prior to the beginning of the call to ensure participation. The conference call will be archived for replay until Tuesday, March 24, 2009 at midnight. To access the archived conference call, dial 416-640-1917 or 1-877-289-8525 and enter the reservation number 21297430#.
A live audio webcast of the conference call will be also available at www.timminco.com. Please connect at least 15 minutes prior to the conference call to ensure adequate time for any software download that may be required to join the webcast. The webcast will be available for replay at www.timminco.com following the live presentation.
ABOUT TIMMINCO
Timminco is a leader in the production of low cost solar grade silicon for the rapidly growing solar photovoltaic energy industry. Using its proprietary, patent pending technology, Timminco purifies silicon metal into solar grade silicon (also known as upgraded metallurgical silicon) for use in the manufacture of solar cells. Timminco also produces silicon metal, magnesium extrusions and other specialty metals for use in a broad range of industrial applications serving the aluminum, chemical, pharmaceutical, electronics and automotive industries.
Friday, February 27, 2009
German Wacker Chemie To Build Billion Dollar Solar Plant in Tennessee
CLEVELAND, Tenn. – Wacker Chemie AG, a German chemical company, announced Thursday that it will build a $1 billion plant with 500 jobs in southeastern Tennessee to produce hyperpure polycrystalline silicon, a product used to make solar panels and semiconductors.
Company executives, Gov. Phil Bredesen and economic development officials said the company has purchased a 550-acre site about 30 miles northeast of Chattanooga.
Wacker Chemie President and CEO Rudolph Staudigl declined to give a timetable for the start of production, saying that will be driven partly by demand for the product. He said construction will take at least two or three years. Staudigl declined to discuss wages but said workers will be "well paid" and will need special training.
Tennessee Economic and Community Development Commissioner Matt Kisber said his office has been talking to Wacker Chemie executives and competing for the project since 2005.
Staudigl declined to identify any other states that competed for the plant.
Kisber said the state's incentives package for the company will be worth between $75 million and $100 million and will include tax credits and help with infrastructure and job training... read the rest
Thursday, February 26, 2009
DeSoto Next Generation Solar Energy Center Breaks Ground
Florida Power & Light Co. broke ground Thursday on its DeSoto Next Generation Solar Energy Center, which the company says will bring commercial-scale solar photovoltaic power to the Sunshine State for the first time.
The 25-megawatt plant will be the largest photovoltaic solar facility in the nation when it is complete at the end of this year. The center will use 90,000 photovoltaic panels on 180 acres, and provide enough electricity to power more than 3,000 homes, which is nearly 20 percent of the population in DeSoto County, according to Juno Beach-based FP&L.
“Solar power will help promote a new clean-energy economy in Florida, reduce our dependence on fossil fuels, and address global climate change through the production of emissions-free energy,” FPL Group President and Chief Operating Officer Jim Robo said.
Photovoltaic panels convert sunlight directly into electricity, which can be fed onto the electrical grid without the need of a turbine generator.
“The facility will provide significant economic benefits to DeSoto County, creating more than 200 jobs during peak construction and providing more than $2 million in annual tax revenues by the end of 2010 to help boost the local economy,” FP&L said in a news release.
This is one of three new solar facilities FP&L is building in Florida. In December, it broke ground on the Martin Next Generation Solar Energy Center, which will be the world’s first hybrid solar energy plant and the second-largest solar thermal plant in the nation.
The company will build a third facility at NASA’s Kennedy Space Center, which will add 10 megawatts to the state’s photovoltaic solar capacity.
Shares of parent company FPL Group were down 98 cents to $46.44 in afternoon trading. The 52-week high was $68.98 on May 2. The 52-week low was $33.81 on Oct. 10.
The 25-megawatt plant will be the largest photovoltaic solar facility in the nation when it is complete at the end of this year. The center will use 90,000 photovoltaic panels on 180 acres, and provide enough electricity to power more than 3,000 homes, which is nearly 20 percent of the population in DeSoto County, according to Juno Beach-based FP&L.
“Solar power will help promote a new clean-energy economy in Florida, reduce our dependence on fossil fuels, and address global climate change through the production of emissions-free energy,” FPL Group President and Chief Operating Officer Jim Robo said.
Photovoltaic panels convert sunlight directly into electricity, which can be fed onto the electrical grid without the need of a turbine generator.
“The facility will provide significant economic benefits to DeSoto County, creating more than 200 jobs during peak construction and providing more than $2 million in annual tax revenues by the end of 2010 to help boost the local economy,” FP&L said in a news release.
This is one of three new solar facilities FP&L is building in Florida. In December, it broke ground on the Martin Next Generation Solar Energy Center, which will be the world’s first hybrid solar energy plant and the second-largest solar thermal plant in the nation.
The company will build a third facility at NASA’s Kennedy Space Center, which will add 10 megawatts to the state’s photovoltaic solar capacity.
Shares of parent company FPL Group were down 98 cents to $46.44 in afternoon trading. The 52-week high was $68.98 on May 2. The 52-week low was $33.81 on Oct. 10.
Act Solar, Inc. to Present at Pacific Crest's 2009 Emerging Technology Summit
SANTA CLARA, Calif., Feb. 26 /PRNewswire/ -- The founder and CEO of Act Solar, Andrew Foss, will be presenting at the Pacific Crest's 2009 Emerging Technology Summit on Friday morning, Feb. 27, 2009. Act Solar, Inc. is a power management company that provides optimization solutions for solar power plants.
Mr. Foss will provide an update on Act Solar's products, in particular, the company\'s flagship product, PowerString, which improves array performance by 6-11% using its patent-pending Injection Boost(TM) technology. Extensive field tests and historical modeling have shown that PowerString will cumulatively deliver 40-80% more power over 20-40 years of operations. He\'ll also discuss how Act Solar products and services dramatically lower the cost of solar generated electricity over the life of a system by allowing each module in an array to perform at its maximum potential, regardless of asymmetric electrical conditions caused by shading, soiling, ground faults, etc. Its wireless management features further lower costs by eliminating design constraints and providing full system monitoring, analysis and unmatched diagnostic reporting.
Mr. Foss' presentation will be held on Friday, February 27 at 9:30am at the Pacific Crest Summit Clean Technology Conference, being held at the St. Regis Hotel in San Francisco.
Mr. Foss will provide an update on Act Solar's products, in particular, the company\'s flagship product, PowerString, which improves array performance by 6-11% using its patent-pending Injection Boost(TM) technology. Extensive field tests and historical modeling have shown that PowerString will cumulatively deliver 40-80% more power over 20-40 years of operations. He\'ll also discuss how Act Solar products and services dramatically lower the cost of solar generated electricity over the life of a system by allowing each module in an array to perform at its maximum potential, regardless of asymmetric electrical conditions caused by shading, soiling, ground faults, etc. Its wireless management features further lower costs by eliminating design constraints and providing full system monitoring, analysis and unmatched diagnostic reporting.
Mr. Foss' presentation will be held on Friday, February 27 at 9:30am at the Pacific Crest Summit Clean Technology Conference, being held at the St. Regis Hotel in San Francisco.
Coolerado Makes Solar Powered Air Conditioning a Reality
LAS VEGAS & DENVER--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Coolerado Corporation today announced that it has revealed its revolutionary design for solar powered air conditioning systems to the general public through an online video that documents the unique system at http://www.coolerado.com/?page_id=111. Targeting solar contractors, the video demonstrates the simplicity of simultaneously cooling air, while boosting solar power generation. Using computer animation, the video illustrates how to incorporate the affordable system into different commercial and residential building types.
Coolerado is exhibiting its solar powered air conditioning systems this week at RETECH 2009, running February 25-27 at the Las Vegas Convention Center, in Hall N1, booth #510.
“Coolerado chose to disclose the design so that wide scale deployment of the systems can occur,” said Rick Gillan, executive vice president of Coolerado. “We could have limited availability through exclusive licenses, but have chosen a broader approach that allows us to focus on our core air conditioning business.”
Any solar contractor can work with air conditioning installers in the Coolerado distribution network to pair the air conditioner with a solar photovoltaic (PV) system. Only a few PV panels are needed to power Coolerado air conditioners, so most systems have plenty of excess power available for other electric devices.
The mobile demonstrator the company shows in the video is set up to display real time, side-by-side comparisons of the added power generation created by the system. “The system definitively shows how power production is increased by more than 15 percent by employing the innovative approach. Industry experts who have seen the system are also amazed at the tiny amount of power being drawn by the air conditioner,” Gillan said.
There is significant world wide demand for affordable off-grid and grid tied solar powered air conditioners, and Coolerado’s system works with either. The off-grid system documented in the video uses a Coolerado air conditioner capable of cooling 3,000 square feet of space with only 600 watts of power, so only four PV panels are needed to power it.
Coolerado is exhibiting its solar powered air conditioning systems this week at RETECH 2009, running February 25-27 at the Las Vegas Convention Center, in Hall N1, booth #510.
“Coolerado chose to disclose the design so that wide scale deployment of the systems can occur,” said Rick Gillan, executive vice president of Coolerado. “We could have limited availability through exclusive licenses, but have chosen a broader approach that allows us to focus on our core air conditioning business.”
Any solar contractor can work with air conditioning installers in the Coolerado distribution network to pair the air conditioner with a solar photovoltaic (PV) system. Only a few PV panels are needed to power Coolerado air conditioners, so most systems have plenty of excess power available for other electric devices.
The mobile demonstrator the company shows in the video is set up to display real time, side-by-side comparisons of the added power generation created by the system. “The system definitively shows how power production is increased by more than 15 percent by employing the innovative approach. Industry experts who have seen the system are also amazed at the tiny amount of power being drawn by the air conditioner,” Gillan said.
There is significant world wide demand for affordable off-grid and grid tied solar powered air conditioners, and Coolerado’s system works with either. The off-grid system documented in the video uses a Coolerado air conditioner capable of cooling 3,000 square feet of space with only 600 watts of power, so only four PV panels are needed to power it.
Wednesday, February 25, 2009
Solar Energy Systems, LLC (SES) Designs and Installs the Largest Multi-Unit Residential PV System in New York City
NEW YORK, Feb. 25 /PRNewswire/ -- Having earned original acclaim for world-renowned architect I.M. Pei's innovative use of cast-in-place exposed concrete, the distinctly modern design of Kips Bay Towers stood in stark contrast to the traditionally brick facades that had come to dominate many cityscapes of the 1960's. Now, under the management of Cooper Square Realty and in partnership with Solar Energy Systems, LLC (SES), Kips Bay has distinguished itself once again. The 1,120 unit property installed the largest multi-family residential solar array in New York City, a 54.28 kW DC solar photovoltaic (PV) system, which is now located atop the 20 story towers.
"Installing solar panels on the bulkhead of a 20 story building in the middle of Manhattan presents an obvious physical challenge. From an electrical standpoint, older NYC buildings can offer a variety of infrastructure challenges as well," said SES President, David Buckner. "Fortunately, we overcame that at Kips Bay by finding a code compliant interconnection point up at the top instead of in the basement. Overall, this project was a success due to the concerted effort of everyone involved," Buckner added.
Care was taken to avoid disruptions to resident life during installation. According to Yvette Diaz, Senior Property Manager at Kips Bay Towers, "We got no complaints and no interruptions whatsoever when they did the electrical turnover, which was amazing!" From a client perspective, "It was a pleasure working with SES," Diaz added. "They kept us informed, assisted with a Q&A packet for residents and helped get the community to vote 'yes' on the project," said Diaz.
Through the NYSERDA Solar Electric Incentives Programs, the project was eligible for a rebate that covered nearly 50% of the cost. Additional incentives (state and federal tax credits, a property tax abatement and annual energy savings) made "going green" an exceptionally wise investment for Kips Bay Towers.
"Installing solar panels on the bulkhead of a 20 story building in the middle of Manhattan presents an obvious physical challenge. From an electrical standpoint, older NYC buildings can offer a variety of infrastructure challenges as well," said SES President, David Buckner. "Fortunately, we overcame that at Kips Bay by finding a code compliant interconnection point up at the top instead of in the basement. Overall, this project was a success due to the concerted effort of everyone involved," Buckner added.
Care was taken to avoid disruptions to resident life during installation. According to Yvette Diaz, Senior Property Manager at Kips Bay Towers, "We got no complaints and no interruptions whatsoever when they did the electrical turnover, which was amazing!" From a client perspective, "It was a pleasure working with SES," Diaz added. "They kept us informed, assisted with a Q&A packet for residents and helped get the community to vote 'yes' on the project," said Diaz.
Through the NYSERDA Solar Electric Incentives Programs, the project was eligible for a rebate that covered nearly 50% of the cost. Additional incentives (state and federal tax credits, a property tax abatement and annual energy savings) made "going green" an exceptionally wise investment for Kips Bay Towers.
Solargy Systems Announces 2nd Solar Farm Project in Florida
FT. LAUDERDALE, FL--(Marketwire - February 24, 2009) - Solargy Systems Inc. (PINKSHEETS: SLGS) Managing Director (MD) Carl Nurse recently indicated certain developments at the company.
Solargy Systems Inc. is pleased to announce that they have received a signed letter of intent from Barron Properties to develop and install a solar farm utility site for the production of electricity via Solargy's branded solar panels. The site will be located in Wellington and the energy produced shall be sold pursuant to a power purchase agreement to Florida Power and Light for the term of no less than twenty years. The solar farm will consist of approximately 14,000 solar panels on the property and the interconnection of the solar units to the FP&L grid. The signed letter of intent for the solar panel installation is for $15,000,000.This project is in addition to a previously announced solar farm project in Chiefland, Florida.
"We are excited to move forward with our business plan and to expand our operations here in the United States. With the search for alternative energy sources and implementation of green technology in such high demand, we are pleased to begin showing Solargy's technology and cost saving benefits," stated C.E.O. (MD) Carl Nurse.
"Since we have refocused on the alternative energy industry, we have been aggressively pursuing contracts for projects whilst simultaneously looking for factory space to manufacture panels and the capital to start manufacturing. We have identified a building here in Miami and we have also identified a funding source who is interested in participating in the $100,000,000 manufacturing operation, subject to certain conditions," Mr. Nurse stated.
Mr. Nurse also added, "We are working on funding for our plant. We have also cleared some final issues with our proposed waste to energy facility and we expect executed documents and a bank guarantee very shortly. In the coming weeks we will release details of each project as we get executed documents. These projects have a total value of $180,000,000. As soon as we get a commitment from a lender for the funding for the manufacturing plant we will publish the details, but we have expressions of interest from a few entities and we are working to meet the conditions imposed."
Solargy Systems Inc. is pleased to announce that they have received a signed letter of intent from Barron Properties to develop and install a solar farm utility site for the production of electricity via Solargy's branded solar panels. The site will be located in Wellington and the energy produced shall be sold pursuant to a power purchase agreement to Florida Power and Light for the term of no less than twenty years. The solar farm will consist of approximately 14,000 solar panels on the property and the interconnection of the solar units to the FP&L grid. The signed letter of intent for the solar panel installation is for $15,000,000.This project is in addition to a previously announced solar farm project in Chiefland, Florida.
"We are excited to move forward with our business plan and to expand our operations here in the United States. With the search for alternative energy sources and implementation of green technology in such high demand, we are pleased to begin showing Solargy's technology and cost saving benefits," stated C.E.O. (MD) Carl Nurse.
"Since we have refocused on the alternative energy industry, we have been aggressively pursuing contracts for projects whilst simultaneously looking for factory space to manufacture panels and the capital to start manufacturing. We have identified a building here in Miami and we have also identified a funding source who is interested in participating in the $100,000,000 manufacturing operation, subject to certain conditions," Mr. Nurse stated.
Mr. Nurse also added, "We are working on funding for our plant. We have also cleared some final issues with our proposed waste to energy facility and we expect executed documents and a bank guarantee very shortly. In the coming weeks we will release details of each project as we get executed documents. These projects have a total value of $180,000,000. As soon as we get a commitment from a lender for the funding for the manufacturing plant we will publish the details, but we have expressions of interest from a few entities and we are working to meet the conditions imposed."
Cogentrix Energy Completes Solar Acquisition
CHARLOTTE, N.C.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Cogentrix Energy, LLC (“Cogentrix”), through its wholly owned subsidiary Cogentrix Solar Services, has closed its acquisition of Sunray Energy, Inc., the owner and operator of facilities formerly known as Solar Energy Generation Systems I and II (“SEGS I” and “SEGS II”), completing a transaction that was entered into on September 30, 2008. SEGS I and II represent the first two utility-scale solar trough plants built in the world and deliver up to approximately 43 megawatts of electric capacity under contract to Southern California Edison (“SCE”). The plants were completed and placed in service in 1984 and 1985 and are located in San Bernardino County, California.
“This acquisition affirms our commitment to renewable energy. Cogentrix has an established track record of investing in, developing, constructing and operating power generation projects throughout the United States. We are now moving forward to deliver these core competencies to the renewable energy sector,” said Larry Kellerman, President of Cogentrix.
Cogentrix plans to make a significant investment in retrofitting and upgrading the delivery capability and reliability of SEGS I and II to enable the plants to continue to supply power into the California renewable market. In solar trough plants, energy from the sun is collected on specially designed mirrors and directed onto glass enclosed collectors where the heat generated is captured and used to produce steam for powering turbine-generators in the production of electricity.
Details of the SEGS I & II acquisition were not disclosed.
“This acquisition positions Cogentrix firmly in the solar business and we are excited about the future,” said Bill Felts, Senior Vice President at Cogentrix. “Renewable energy is a major component of our nation’s energy strategy to help ensure greater energy independence. It is our goal to help ensure that electricity can be provided from renewable sources in an economic and reliable fashion.” With over 25 years of experience in the electric power generation industry, Mr. Felts leads the overall development effort at Cogentrix.
Cogentrix continues to expand its development capabilities. Recent additions to the Cogentrix development staff are Mr. Edouard (Ed) MacGuffie as Vice President of Solar Development; Charles (Chuck) Muoio, Vice President of Development; William (Bill) Heck, Vice President of Southwest Development; Gary Palo, Vice President of California Development; and Eduardo Hernandez-Carstens, Vice President of Wind and DSM Development.
Prior to joining Cogentrix, Ed MacGuffie was Executive Director, Solar for FPL Energy. Mr. MacGuffie’s experience in the solar market includes managing the acquisition of the Kramer SEGS III-VII plants in California; initiating a $100 million solar field recapitalization effort at both Kramer SEGS III-VII and Harper SEGS VIII-IX solar generating facilities; and identifying and negotiating a joint-venture for solar development in Spain.
Chuck Muoio joins Cogentrix from Goldman Sachs where he served as Vice President, Alternative Energy Group. Mr. Muoio has over 30 years of experience in the energy business including responsibility for development, construction and asset management for energy projects. Mr. Muoio was previously with FPL Energy as Vice President of Development with responsibility for mergers and acquisitions, wind quality improvement programs and solar thermal assets.
Gary Palo comes to Cogentrix from FPL Energy where he was Director of Development, managing the development of the Beacon Solar Energy Project, a 250 MW concentrating solar power facility proposed in the western Mojave Desert region of California. Mr. Palo also has extensive experience in the development of natural gas fired electric power projects, including associated interconnecting transmission lines in California. He has been active in the independent power industry for the past 24 years.
Bill Heck joins Cogentrix from Nevada Power Company and its sister company Sierra Pacific Power Company where he served as Development Director-Renewables. Mr. Heck was instrumental in the development of both the 12MW Nellis Solar Star photovoltaic generating facility and the 64MW Nevada Solar One concentrating solar thermal generating facility. He was also responsible for compliance with both the Nevada and California renewable portfolio standards and the procurement of approximately 400MW of geothermal generation.
Eduardo Hernandez-Carstens has over 25 years experience with Petroleos de Venezuela (“PDVSA”), a large integrated energy company where he participated in acquisitions of international downstream assets. Mr. Hernandez-Carstens was responsible for the introduction and negotiation of long term supply contracts of a patented boiler fuel to North American utilities, and structured complex multi-party capital investments in the power industry, marketing projects in Europe, Latin America, Canada and the United States.
Founded in 1983 and headquartered in Charlotte, N.C., Cogentrix is a recognized leader in the independent power industry for its proven capabilities in meeting regulatory and commercial commitments. The Company has offices in Virginia, California, Florida and Nevada in addition to the corporate offices in Charlotte, North Carolina. Cogentrix is a subsidiary of The Goldman Sachs Group, Inc.
“This acquisition affirms our commitment to renewable energy. Cogentrix has an established track record of investing in, developing, constructing and operating power generation projects throughout the United States. We are now moving forward to deliver these core competencies to the renewable energy sector,” said Larry Kellerman, President of Cogentrix.
Cogentrix plans to make a significant investment in retrofitting and upgrading the delivery capability and reliability of SEGS I and II to enable the plants to continue to supply power into the California renewable market. In solar trough plants, energy from the sun is collected on specially designed mirrors and directed onto glass enclosed collectors where the heat generated is captured and used to produce steam for powering turbine-generators in the production of electricity.
Details of the SEGS I & II acquisition were not disclosed.
“This acquisition positions Cogentrix firmly in the solar business and we are excited about the future,” said Bill Felts, Senior Vice President at Cogentrix. “Renewable energy is a major component of our nation’s energy strategy to help ensure greater energy independence. It is our goal to help ensure that electricity can be provided from renewable sources in an economic and reliable fashion.” With over 25 years of experience in the electric power generation industry, Mr. Felts leads the overall development effort at Cogentrix.
Cogentrix continues to expand its development capabilities. Recent additions to the Cogentrix development staff are Mr. Edouard (Ed) MacGuffie as Vice President of Solar Development; Charles (Chuck) Muoio, Vice President of Development; William (Bill) Heck, Vice President of Southwest Development; Gary Palo, Vice President of California Development; and Eduardo Hernandez-Carstens, Vice President of Wind and DSM Development.
Prior to joining Cogentrix, Ed MacGuffie was Executive Director, Solar for FPL Energy. Mr. MacGuffie’s experience in the solar market includes managing the acquisition of the Kramer SEGS III-VII plants in California; initiating a $100 million solar field recapitalization effort at both Kramer SEGS III-VII and Harper SEGS VIII-IX solar generating facilities; and identifying and negotiating a joint-venture for solar development in Spain.
Chuck Muoio joins Cogentrix from Goldman Sachs where he served as Vice President, Alternative Energy Group. Mr. Muoio has over 30 years of experience in the energy business including responsibility for development, construction and asset management for energy projects. Mr. Muoio was previously with FPL Energy as Vice President of Development with responsibility for mergers and acquisitions, wind quality improvement programs and solar thermal assets.
Gary Palo comes to Cogentrix from FPL Energy where he was Director of Development, managing the development of the Beacon Solar Energy Project, a 250 MW concentrating solar power facility proposed in the western Mojave Desert region of California. Mr. Palo also has extensive experience in the development of natural gas fired electric power projects, including associated interconnecting transmission lines in California. He has been active in the independent power industry for the past 24 years.
Bill Heck joins Cogentrix from Nevada Power Company and its sister company Sierra Pacific Power Company where he served as Development Director-Renewables. Mr. Heck was instrumental in the development of both the 12MW Nellis Solar Star photovoltaic generating facility and the 64MW Nevada Solar One concentrating solar thermal generating facility. He was also responsible for compliance with both the Nevada and California renewable portfolio standards and the procurement of approximately 400MW of geothermal generation.
Eduardo Hernandez-Carstens has over 25 years experience with Petroleos de Venezuela (“PDVSA”), a large integrated energy company where he participated in acquisitions of international downstream assets. Mr. Hernandez-Carstens was responsible for the introduction and negotiation of long term supply contracts of a patented boiler fuel to North American utilities, and structured complex multi-party capital investments in the power industry, marketing projects in Europe, Latin America, Canada and the United States.
Founded in 1983 and headquartered in Charlotte, N.C., Cogentrix is a recognized leader in the independent power industry for its proven capabilities in meeting regulatory and commercial commitments. The Company has offices in Virginia, California, Florida and Nevada in addition to the corporate offices in Charlotte, North Carolina. Cogentrix is a subsidiary of The Goldman Sachs Group, Inc.
Padre Dam Municipal Water District Dedicates Solar Energy System in Partnership with Borrego Solar and SunEdison
SANTEE, Calif.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--The Padre Dam Municipal Water District, a provider of water, waste water, recycled water and recreation services to the eastern suburbs of San Diego, today announced the activation of an 862 kilowatt (kW) photovoltaic solar energy system. The zero-emission system hosted at Santee Lakes was deployed through a partnership with Borrego Solar Systems, Inc., a leading designer and installer of grid-tied solar electric power systems, and SunEdison, North America’s largest solar energy services provider.
The system, hosted by Padre Dam and built by Borrego Solar in less than 100 days, provides 300 shaded parking spaces for RV storage customers at the Santee Lakes Recreation Preserve. Deployed under a long-term solar power services agreement, SunEdison financed and will maintain the system.
“Our vision is to conserve and protect our natural resources. Santee Lakes is part of that vision. By hosting a solar energy system in the Preserve, Padre Dam is taking another step to protect and improve the local environment,” said Allen Carlisle, Director of Park and Recreation, Padre Dam Municipal Water District. “Working with Borrego Solar and SunEdison means that our visitors benefit from an innovative system design that provides shade and allows us to budget around our energy costs.”
During the first complete year of operation, the system is estimated to produce more than 1.48 million kilowatt hours (kWh) of clean solar energy and more than 27 million kWh over 20 years, enough energy to power more than 2,500 homes for one year. Over 20 years of production, the zero-emission system will offset more than an estimated 28.2 million lbs. of carbon dioxide that would have been emitted during the production of electricity from fossil fuels.
“The ongoing commitment from forward-thinking organizations like Padre Dam Municipal Water District is vital to secure the accelerated adoption of solar energy,” said Aaron Hall, CEO of Borrego Solar Systems, Inc. “We are honored to have been selected by Padre Dam to integrate the system and to work with SunEdison. With the right partners, PV solar energy systems can be deployed quickly. This project is proof.”
“SunEdison is proud to have worked closely with Borrego Solar on this innovative project, which benefits the local community and Preserve visitors,” said Brian Jacolick, General Manager, Americas, SunEdison. “Today, being environmentally and financially responsible can go hand in hand. Contributing to solar energy generation through system hosting also allows Padre Dam to create long-term savings around a portion of its energy costs.”
The solar renewable energy credits (S-RECS) and other environmental attributes generated by this solar facility are owned by a third party, and not by the host, as part of the finance structure for the facility.
The system, hosted by Padre Dam and built by Borrego Solar in less than 100 days, provides 300 shaded parking spaces for RV storage customers at the Santee Lakes Recreation Preserve. Deployed under a long-term solar power services agreement, SunEdison financed and will maintain the system.
“Our vision is to conserve and protect our natural resources. Santee Lakes is part of that vision. By hosting a solar energy system in the Preserve, Padre Dam is taking another step to protect and improve the local environment,” said Allen Carlisle, Director of Park and Recreation, Padre Dam Municipal Water District. “Working with Borrego Solar and SunEdison means that our visitors benefit from an innovative system design that provides shade and allows us to budget around our energy costs.”
During the first complete year of operation, the system is estimated to produce more than 1.48 million kilowatt hours (kWh) of clean solar energy and more than 27 million kWh over 20 years, enough energy to power more than 2,500 homes for one year. Over 20 years of production, the zero-emission system will offset more than an estimated 28.2 million lbs. of carbon dioxide that would have been emitted during the production of electricity from fossil fuels.
“The ongoing commitment from forward-thinking organizations like Padre Dam Municipal Water District is vital to secure the accelerated adoption of solar energy,” said Aaron Hall, CEO of Borrego Solar Systems, Inc. “We are honored to have been selected by Padre Dam to integrate the system and to work with SunEdison. With the right partners, PV solar energy systems can be deployed quickly. This project is proof.”
“SunEdison is proud to have worked closely with Borrego Solar on this innovative project, which benefits the local community and Preserve visitors,” said Brian Jacolick, General Manager, Americas, SunEdison. “Today, being environmentally and financially responsible can go hand in hand. Contributing to solar energy generation through system hosting also allows Padre Dam to create long-term savings around a portion of its energy costs.”
The solar renewable energy credits (S-RECS) and other environmental attributes generated by this solar facility are owned by a third party, and not by the host, as part of the finance structure for the facility.
Solar Manufacturing, Inc. Leases Building
SOUDERTON, Pa.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Solar Manufacturing recently secured lease on a building near its corporate headquarters in Souderton, Pa. The facility will support the manufacturing of new extraordinarily large vacuum furnaces. This addition also provides Solar Manufacturing with the needed space to support ongoing manufacturing growth.
The modern building with its 30’ high ceilings, bridge crane, and additional 15,000 square feet of manufacturing capacity makes it uniquely suited for the manufacturing of large vacuum furnaces. In 2009, Solar Manufacturing has plans to build a 36-foot long vacuum car bottom furnace and a vertical bottom loading furnace. These furnaces have been sold to customers overseas in the titanium mill products and aircraft/aerospace industries.
This additional space is needed due to continued growth, explained Jim Nagy, president of Solar Manufacturing, Inc. “This location is ideally situated close to our main operation and affords us access to adequate roads capable of special heavy haul trucking to service our domestic customers and access to near-by seaports to service our overseas customers,” he added.
Solar Manufacturing, Inc. is part of Solar Atmospheres family of companies. With combined sales of $50 million, the Solar Companies are progressive leaders in the global thermal processing industry as service providers and manufacturers. To learn more about their diverse product line, visit their website at www.solarmfg.com.
The modern building with its 30’ high ceilings, bridge crane, and additional 15,000 square feet of manufacturing capacity makes it uniquely suited for the manufacturing of large vacuum furnaces. In 2009, Solar Manufacturing has plans to build a 36-foot long vacuum car bottom furnace and a vertical bottom loading furnace. These furnaces have been sold to customers overseas in the titanium mill products and aircraft/aerospace industries.
This additional space is needed due to continued growth, explained Jim Nagy, president of Solar Manufacturing, Inc. “This location is ideally situated close to our main operation and affords us access to adequate roads capable of special heavy haul trucking to service our domestic customers and access to near-by seaports to service our overseas customers,” he added.
Solar Manufacturing, Inc. is part of Solar Atmospheres family of companies. With combined sales of $50 million, the Solar Companies are progressive leaders in the global thermal processing industry as service providers and manufacturers. To learn more about their diverse product line, visit their website at www.solarmfg.com.
First Solar Passes $1 Per Watt Industry Milestone
TEMPE, Ariz.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--First Solar, Inc. (Nasdaq: FSLR) today announced it reduced its manufacturing cost for solar modules in the fourth quarter to 98 cents per watt, breaking the $1 per watt price barrier.
“This achievement marks a milestone in the solar industry’s evolution toward providing truly sustainable energy solutions,” said Mike Ahearn, First Solar chief executive officer. “First Solar is proud to be leading the way toward clean, affordable solar electricity as a viable alternative to fossil fuels.”
First Solar began full commercial operation of its initial manufacturing line in late 2004. From 2004 through today, manufacturing capacity has grown 2,500 percent to more than 500 megawatts in 2008. First Solar’s annual production capacity will double in 2009 to more than 1 gigawatt, the equivalent of an average-sized nuclear power plant. These escalating volumes have been accompanied by a rapid reduction in manufacturing costs. From 2004 through today, First Solar’s manufacturing costs have declined two-thirds from over $3 per watt to less than $1 per watt. First Solar is confident that further significant cost reductions are possible based on the yet untapped potential of its technology and manufacturing process.
First Solar is not only committed to making solar power affordable but also to making it environmentally sustainable. The Company takes responsibility for its products throughout their life cycle, ensuring that First Solar modules have the smallest carbon footprint of any current photovoltaic (PV) technology. First Solar is proud to have the industry’s first and only comprehensive pre-funded, end-of-life module collection and recycling program, recycling more than 90 percent of each collected module into new products.
Ahearn expressed thanks to governments in Germany and other countries for making today’s milestone possible. “Without forward-looking government programs supporting solar electricity, we would not have been able to invest in the capacity expansion which gives us the scale to bring costs down,” he said. “First Solar’s ongoing focus on cost reduction enables continued growth even as subsidies decline. In the meantime, those initial investments are paying off in a cleaner environment and in the creation of thousands of jobs with a clear future.”
“This represents a major milestone for the solar industry,” said Ken Zweibel, an industry veteran currently serving as Director of the Institute for the Analysis of Solar Energy at The George Washington University and former Program Leader for the Thin Film Partnership Program at the National Renewable Energy Laboratory in Golden, Colo. “In order to address climate change in a meaningful way, we need energy technologies that are affordable, scalable and have a low environmental impact on a life-cycle basis. With this announcement, First Solar continues to demonstrate the ability of thin film PV technology to provide an alternative to traditional fossil fuels and for solar power to provide a meaningful contribution in addressing climate change.\"
“This achievement marks a milestone in the solar industry’s evolution toward providing truly sustainable energy solutions,” said Mike Ahearn, First Solar chief executive officer. “First Solar is proud to be leading the way toward clean, affordable solar electricity as a viable alternative to fossil fuels.”
First Solar began full commercial operation of its initial manufacturing line in late 2004. From 2004 through today, manufacturing capacity has grown 2,500 percent to more than 500 megawatts in 2008. First Solar’s annual production capacity will double in 2009 to more than 1 gigawatt, the equivalent of an average-sized nuclear power plant. These escalating volumes have been accompanied by a rapid reduction in manufacturing costs. From 2004 through today, First Solar’s manufacturing costs have declined two-thirds from over $3 per watt to less than $1 per watt. First Solar is confident that further significant cost reductions are possible based on the yet untapped potential of its technology and manufacturing process.
First Solar is not only committed to making solar power affordable but also to making it environmentally sustainable. The Company takes responsibility for its products throughout their life cycle, ensuring that First Solar modules have the smallest carbon footprint of any current photovoltaic (PV) technology. First Solar is proud to have the industry’s first and only comprehensive pre-funded, end-of-life module collection and recycling program, recycling more than 90 percent of each collected module into new products.
Ahearn expressed thanks to governments in Germany and other countries for making today’s milestone possible. “Without forward-looking government programs supporting solar electricity, we would not have been able to invest in the capacity expansion which gives us the scale to bring costs down,” he said. “First Solar’s ongoing focus on cost reduction enables continued growth even as subsidies decline. In the meantime, those initial investments are paying off in a cleaner environment and in the creation of thousands of jobs with a clear future.”
“This represents a major milestone for the solar industry,” said Ken Zweibel, an industry veteran currently serving as Director of the Institute for the Analysis of Solar Energy at The George Washington University and former Program Leader for the Thin Film Partnership Program at the National Renewable Energy Laboratory in Golden, Colo. “In order to address climate change in a meaningful way, we need energy technologies that are affordable, scalable and have a low environmental impact on a life-cycle basis. With this announcement, First Solar continues to demonstrate the ability of thin film PV technology to provide an alternative to traditional fossil fuels and for solar power to provide a meaningful contribution in addressing climate change.\"
Tuesday, February 24, 2009
International Automated Systems’ (IAUS) New Solar Technology and Bladeless Steam Turbine Set to Revolutionize Industry
SALT LAKE CITY--(BUSINESS WIRE)--INTERNATIONAL Automated Systems, Inc. (Pink Sheets:IAUS) and RENEWABLE Energy Development Corporation (REDCO) are pleased to announce that REDCO will be working with IAS to purchase IAS’s solar panels and new bladeless turbine for utility-scale solar projects.
After completing its due diligence of the IAS technology that included a thorough analysis of the independent engineering review of IAS’s new solar panels and turbine, REDCO has concluded that the IAS technology is commercially viable.
The third party engineering review was conducted by reputable engineers with Ph.D. and M.S. degrees in Physics, Mechanical Engineering and Nuclear Engineering from prestigious Universities such as M.I.T., U.C. Berkley, U.C. Davis, and DePaul. Collectively, these scientists have many years of accumulated specialized expertise in optical engineering and efficiency, thermal dynamics, combustion stability, liquid rocket engine performance, system optimization, mechanical and fluid systems analysis, solid and gel propellant performance, structural dynamics, rotating machinery and vibration with application to turbine blade rubbing. This review supports that the IAS bladeless turbine and solar panels meet and in some cases exceed all performance and efficiency projections. Perhaps the most telling outcome of this independent engineering review was the conclusion that the IAS bladeless steam turbine can operate as a part of an overall closed loop system or as a stand-alone component.
The composite analysis also supports that compared to other solar technologies the IAS technology has a higher overall annual efficiency factor than photovoltaic (PV), traditional concentrated solar power (CSP) such as towers and troughs, and is better or comparable to CSP dish technology. The net conclusion is that based on the functionality and the low-cost design, an IAS solar thermal power plant needs to convert only 5% of the gross annual solar energy hitting its panels to electricity in order to compete with the lowest priced solar technology available today. An IAS solar thermal power plant has an annual solar-to-electric efficiency of nearly 24%.
Ryan Davies, President & CEO of REDCO said, “I am excited to work with IAS and we anticipate building many solar power plants using their technology. After careful analysis of their technology and of the independent reviews conducted verifying their projections, I believe that the IAS technology is unique, revolutionary and ready for commercial application. I believe that the IAS turbine combined with their solar panels and heat exchanger will produce reliable solar energy at a fraction of the cost of traditional solar.”
Mr. Davies is no stranger to new technology and emerging businesses. He has had a successful career as an entrepreneur and businessman, starting Found, Inc in 1997, which later sold to CRS Retail Systems for $110 million; starting O2 Blue in 2001 which later sold to Prebon Energy and as the founder of REDCO, a privately financed renewable energy development company. Mr. Davies has raised over $50 million in private equity throughout his career. REDCO indicated that it will soon announce its first of several commercial solar energy projects – all of which will use the IAS solar technology.
After completing its due diligence of the IAS technology that included a thorough analysis of the independent engineering review of IAS’s new solar panels and turbine, REDCO has concluded that the IAS technology is commercially viable.
The third party engineering review was conducted by reputable engineers with Ph.D. and M.S. degrees in Physics, Mechanical Engineering and Nuclear Engineering from prestigious Universities such as M.I.T., U.C. Berkley, U.C. Davis, and DePaul. Collectively, these scientists have many years of accumulated specialized expertise in optical engineering and efficiency, thermal dynamics, combustion stability, liquid rocket engine performance, system optimization, mechanical and fluid systems analysis, solid and gel propellant performance, structural dynamics, rotating machinery and vibration with application to turbine blade rubbing. This review supports that the IAS bladeless turbine and solar panels meet and in some cases exceed all performance and efficiency projections. Perhaps the most telling outcome of this independent engineering review was the conclusion that the IAS bladeless steam turbine can operate as a part of an overall closed loop system or as a stand-alone component.
The composite analysis also supports that compared to other solar technologies the IAS technology has a higher overall annual efficiency factor than photovoltaic (PV), traditional concentrated solar power (CSP) such as towers and troughs, and is better or comparable to CSP dish technology. The net conclusion is that based on the functionality and the low-cost design, an IAS solar thermal power plant needs to convert only 5% of the gross annual solar energy hitting its panels to electricity in order to compete with the lowest priced solar technology available today. An IAS solar thermal power plant has an annual solar-to-electric efficiency of nearly 24%.
Ryan Davies, President & CEO of REDCO said, “I am excited to work with IAS and we anticipate building many solar power plants using their technology. After careful analysis of their technology and of the independent reviews conducted verifying their projections, I believe that the IAS technology is unique, revolutionary and ready for commercial application. I believe that the IAS turbine combined with their solar panels and heat exchanger will produce reliable solar energy at a fraction of the cost of traditional solar.”
Mr. Davies is no stranger to new technology and emerging businesses. He has had a successful career as an entrepreneur and businessman, starting Found, Inc in 1997, which later sold to CRS Retail Systems for $110 million; starting O2 Blue in 2001 which later sold to Prebon Energy and as the founder of REDCO, a privately financed renewable energy development company. Mr. Davies has raised over $50 million in private equity throughout his career. REDCO indicated that it will soon announce its first of several commercial solar energy projects – all of which will use the IAS solar technology.
Sunrise Solar Begins Development of Industrial Solar Applications
SAN ANTONIO--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Sunrise Solar Corp. (OTCBB:SSLR). Sunrise solar has begun the internal development of a new solar technology for industrial applications. This technology will aim to deliver clean, green power on a commercial scale for industry, including other green industries such as biofuels, biodiesel and ethanol production.
Industry must increasingly consider ways to reduce its carbon footprint by reducing the amount of energy consumed from fossil fuels. SSLR’s technology development will be aimed at delivering a direct reduction in the use of oil & gas by replacing it with industrial levels of solar energy.
“We have initiated the development of industrial solar applications to help industry reduce dependence of fossil fuels,” noted Eddie Austin, Chairman and CEO of Sunrise Solar Corp. “Every company must consider how to reduce its carbon footprint in the next five years, and we see industrial solar technologies as a key answer to that challenge.”
“We are positioning our product development to focus on the needs of industry rather than the home and consumer market where most of our competition is focused,” Austin concluded.
The world is awakening to the importance of solar power both to the reduction of carbon emissions and to energy independence. Companies such as British Petroleum (NYSE: BP PLC) are aggressively diversifying into solar development with installations in over 100 countries. Japan is aggressively developing solar technologies in a joint venture with Shell Oil (NYSE: RDS.A) to build a $900 million solar power plant. As these giants break ground, mid-size industries will quickly follow in the implementation of solar energy projects.
Industry must increasingly consider ways to reduce its carbon footprint by reducing the amount of energy consumed from fossil fuels. SSLR’s technology development will be aimed at delivering a direct reduction in the use of oil & gas by replacing it with industrial levels of solar energy.
“We have initiated the development of industrial solar applications to help industry reduce dependence of fossil fuels,” noted Eddie Austin, Chairman and CEO of Sunrise Solar Corp. “Every company must consider how to reduce its carbon footprint in the next five years, and we see industrial solar technologies as a key answer to that challenge.”
“We are positioning our product development to focus on the needs of industry rather than the home and consumer market where most of our competition is focused,” Austin concluded.
The world is awakening to the importance of solar power both to the reduction of carbon emissions and to energy independence. Companies such as British Petroleum (NYSE: BP PLC) are aggressively diversifying into solar development with installations in over 100 countries. Japan is aggressively developing solar technologies in a joint venture with Shell Oil (NYSE: RDS.A) to build a $900 million solar power plant. As these giants break ground, mid-size industries will quickly follow in the implementation of solar energy projects.
Mitsubishi Electric Photovoltaics Light Up Butte College
CYPRESS, Calif.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--With national attention being focused on renewable energy policies, Butte College proved its leadership in the use of solar power by unveiling its newest set of solar panels at its Oroville campus on Feb 18.
The 2,400 185-watt Mitsubishi Electric solar modules make an impressive statement on a sloping hillside near the tennis courts, absorbing sunlight into the solar cells and converting it into electricity. This recent addition of three solar arrays totaling 450 kW DC will produce an estimated 675,000 kWh of solar electricity annually.
The project will save the college money over time, save on emissions and encourage students interested in renewable energy careers. By taking advantage of the California Solar Initiative rebate, Butte College was able to save nearly $700,000 of the total project cost.
Other solar projects on the campus include panels at the water treatment plan and a roof-mounted solar array on top of the facilities building. Together, the projects will power 10 buildings and save the college an estimated $40,000 a year in energy costs.
The college plans to complete the final portion of the solar projects this spring, with more panels near the Physical Sciences building and the Child Development Center. Once the additional solar panels are installed, about half the electrical needs of the college will be provided by solar.
“We commend Butte College for moving forward with their goals of becoming carbon-neutral by 2015 and are impressed with the college’s timely plans to incorporate solar energy into its curriculum,” says Gina Heng, director of sales and marketing for Mitsubishi Electric’s Photovoltaic Division.
The solar electric system was designed and built by Chico Electric, an electrical company with more than 49 years of experience. Chico Electric helped the school meet its goals for this project by donating a portion of the materials near the sewer treatment facility for educational use by students. Classes will assemble and disassemble the panels as training for future jobs in energy technology. The college will also have an educational kiosk on campus where students can see the real-time performance of the solar system and touch an interactive monitor that teaches them how solar works.
Norm Nielsen, president of Chico Electric, said the industry is currently lacking people who are trained for positions that will be developing as interest in new energy sources grows.
The campus is already ratcheting up its “green classes” including launching a certificate in sustainability studies, and offering green building courses and workshops on the weekends. The solar panels will be used this semester to show students solar technology at work, just as the green buildings on campus are toured as part of the curriculum.
Josh Pierce, associate faculty member, explained that state and federal government energy policies are changing, and many studies are being conducted to find out where future jobs will be available. A solar tech program, for example, may be needed at campuses in the future.
The 2,400 185-watt Mitsubishi Electric solar modules make an impressive statement on a sloping hillside near the tennis courts, absorbing sunlight into the solar cells and converting it into electricity. This recent addition of three solar arrays totaling 450 kW DC will produce an estimated 675,000 kWh of solar electricity annually.
The project will save the college money over time, save on emissions and encourage students interested in renewable energy careers. By taking advantage of the California Solar Initiative rebate, Butte College was able to save nearly $700,000 of the total project cost.
Other solar projects on the campus include panels at the water treatment plan and a roof-mounted solar array on top of the facilities building. Together, the projects will power 10 buildings and save the college an estimated $40,000 a year in energy costs.
The college plans to complete the final portion of the solar projects this spring, with more panels near the Physical Sciences building and the Child Development Center. Once the additional solar panels are installed, about half the electrical needs of the college will be provided by solar.
“We commend Butte College for moving forward with their goals of becoming carbon-neutral by 2015 and are impressed with the college’s timely plans to incorporate solar energy into its curriculum,” says Gina Heng, director of sales and marketing for Mitsubishi Electric’s Photovoltaic Division.
The solar electric system was designed and built by Chico Electric, an electrical company with more than 49 years of experience. Chico Electric helped the school meet its goals for this project by donating a portion of the materials near the sewer treatment facility for educational use by students. Classes will assemble and disassemble the panels as training for future jobs in energy technology. The college will also have an educational kiosk on campus where students can see the real-time performance of the solar system and touch an interactive monitor that teaches them how solar works.
Norm Nielsen, president of Chico Electric, said the industry is currently lacking people who are trained for positions that will be developing as interest in new energy sources grows.
The campus is already ratcheting up its “green classes” including launching a certificate in sustainability studies, and offering green building courses and workshops on the weekends. The solar panels will be used this semester to show students solar technology at work, just as the green buildings on campus are toured as part of the curriculum.
Josh Pierce, associate faculty member, explained that state and federal government energy policies are changing, and many studies are being conducted to find out where future jobs will be available. A solar tech program, for example, may be needed at campuses in the future.
Delta Rolls Out Innovative, Advanced Renewable Energy Solutions at PV Expo 2009 in Tokyo
TAIPEI, Taiwan--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Long dedicated to innovation, energy efficiency and environmental protection, Delta Group is presenting a variety of innovative and advanced renewable energy solutions at the upcoming 2nd Int\'l Photovoltaic Power Generation Expo 2009 (PV Expo 2009), Asia’s largest PV Expo, held in Tokyo, Japan. Delta Electronics, Inc., Delta Energy Systems, and DelSolar Co., Ltd., will showcase a wide range of renewable energy applications including high concentrating PV modules, advanced solar cells, and highly efficient PV inverters with industry-leading power output at Booth No. PV6-23, West Hall 1.
Mark Ko, president and chief operating officer of Delta Electronics, Inc., said, “This is the second year Delta Group has demonstrated our capabilities for developing a full portfolio of world-leading PV system solutions at PV Expo in Japan. Hundreds of companies from around the world are gathered there to display cutting-edge PV technologies and products. Delta is honored to be there to share our experience, our alternative energy solutions and, most importantly, our vision for a cleaner world.”
Delta’s Featured Products at PV Expo 2009
High Concentrating Photovoltaic (HCPV) System Solution – Delta Electronics, Inc. http://www.delta.com.tw/product/cp/cpv/cpv_main.asp
Since 2005, Delta’s strategic partnership with Spectrolab has developed high quality concentration photovoltaic receivers for their high efficiency multi-junction solar cells. Two standard cell assemblies (CA0505 and CA1010) are already available to the market and are used by many CPV module makers worldwide. Delta’s first generation MA0505 high concentrating photovoltaic (HCPV) module uses Spectrolab’s 37% high efficiency multi-junction solar cell and has constantly achieved over 25% efficiency in production. The HCPV module has passed the 13 testing criteria of IEC62108 and Delta has shipped over 4,000 units to customers.
Besides the HCPV module, Delta will also debut its own tracker and sensor products during PV Expo to offer complete system solutions to customers. Meeting strict requirements for operating in harsh environments, Delta’s tracker has sensors with anti-jamming functions for cloudy conditions and it is able to achieve a high precision tracking accuracy of 0.05 degrees. All Delta products are RoHS compliant.
Highly Efficient Central Inverter System – Delta Energy Systems www.solar-inverter.com
Delta Energy System is presenting a prototype of its new highly efficient CI 100 Central Inverter, which offers maximum flexibility, user-friendliness and high reliability due to its modular system concept. The modular central inverter system has up to nine inverter modules, which can provide a power output of 11 kW to 100 kW. The transformer based system has a peak efficiency up to 95.6%. With the CI 100 Delta is meeting the demands of the market in terms of flexible inverter solutions with higher power ratings.
Advanced c-Si Solar Cells and Solar Modules – DelSolar Co. Ltd. www.delsolarpv.com
With strong technology, innovative R&D, and in-house automation, DelSolar has successfully developed a new series of cells with conversion efficiencies of 18.3% for mono-crystalline and 16.6% for multi-crystalline silicon cells. This industry-leading achievement is scheduled for volume production in Q3 this year.
In addition to high-efficiency, the new cells also feature a low temperature coefficient, less light-induced degradation, minimal module hot spot risk, and provide an extra premium to module and system customers with their high power output.
Mark Ko, president and chief operating officer of Delta Electronics, Inc., said, “This is the second year Delta Group has demonstrated our capabilities for developing a full portfolio of world-leading PV system solutions at PV Expo in Japan. Hundreds of companies from around the world are gathered there to display cutting-edge PV technologies and products. Delta is honored to be there to share our experience, our alternative energy solutions and, most importantly, our vision for a cleaner world.”
Delta’s Featured Products at PV Expo 2009
High Concentrating Photovoltaic (HCPV) System Solution – Delta Electronics, Inc. http://www.delta.com.tw/product/cp/cpv/cpv_main.asp
Since 2005, Delta’s strategic partnership with Spectrolab has developed high quality concentration photovoltaic receivers for their high efficiency multi-junction solar cells. Two standard cell assemblies (CA0505 and CA1010) are already available to the market and are used by many CPV module makers worldwide. Delta’s first generation MA0505 high concentrating photovoltaic (HCPV) module uses Spectrolab’s 37% high efficiency multi-junction solar cell and has constantly achieved over 25% efficiency in production. The HCPV module has passed the 13 testing criteria of IEC62108 and Delta has shipped over 4,000 units to customers.
Besides the HCPV module, Delta will also debut its own tracker and sensor products during PV Expo to offer complete system solutions to customers. Meeting strict requirements for operating in harsh environments, Delta’s tracker has sensors with anti-jamming functions for cloudy conditions and it is able to achieve a high precision tracking accuracy of 0.05 degrees. All Delta products are RoHS compliant.
Highly Efficient Central Inverter System – Delta Energy Systems www.solar-inverter.com
Delta Energy System is presenting a prototype of its new highly efficient CI 100 Central Inverter, which offers maximum flexibility, user-friendliness and high reliability due to its modular system concept. The modular central inverter system has up to nine inverter modules, which can provide a power output of 11 kW to 100 kW. The transformer based system has a peak efficiency up to 95.6%. With the CI 100 Delta is meeting the demands of the market in terms of flexible inverter solutions with higher power ratings.
Advanced c-Si Solar Cells and Solar Modules – DelSolar Co. Ltd. www.delsolarpv.com
With strong technology, innovative R&D, and in-house automation, DelSolar has successfully developed a new series of cells with conversion efficiencies of 18.3% for mono-crystalline and 16.6% for multi-crystalline silicon cells. This industry-leading achievement is scheduled for volume production in Q3 this year.
In addition to high-efficiency, the new cells also feature a low temperature coefficient, less light-induced degradation, minimal module hot spot risk, and provide an extra premium to module and system customers with their high power output.
Solar Energy Initiatives, Inc. and Solar Energy Alternatives, LLC Enter Long-Term Solar Projects Agreement
PONTE VEDRA BEACH, Fla. & WESTLAKE VILLAGE, Calif.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Solar Energy Initiatives, Inc. (“SNRY”) (OTCBB:SNRY), and Solar Energy Alternatives, LLC (“SEA”) have agreed to enter into a marketing, contract, finance, installation and operating agreement for commercial and residential solar photovoltaic installations in the Unites States and certain foreign markets.
Under the terms of the Agreement SEA will handle marketing, power purchase contracts, and project financing. SNRY will provide feasibility and due diligence analysis, supply the solar panels and ancillary equipment, contract site engineering and installation of equipment, and operate and maintain the installation. This Agreement brings over $7.2 Million in Letters of Intent adding to a SNRY project pipeline that now exceeds $60 Million.
Commenting on the announcement, Greg Bakeman, President of SNRY said, “Paul and Terrell bring projects and financing contacts that complement our core competencies of configuring, supplying and installing photovoltaic systems that effectively manage the cost of electricity for commercial clients. This Agreement has far reaching opportunities for both companies and their associates.”
Under the terms of the Agreement SEA will handle marketing, power purchase contracts, and project financing. SNRY will provide feasibility and due diligence analysis, supply the solar panels and ancillary equipment, contract site engineering and installation of equipment, and operate and maintain the installation. This Agreement brings over $7.2 Million in Letters of Intent adding to a SNRY project pipeline that now exceeds $60 Million.
Commenting on the announcement, Greg Bakeman, President of SNRY said, “Paul and Terrell bring projects and financing contacts that complement our core competencies of configuring, supplying and installing photovoltaic systems that effectively manage the cost of electricity for commercial clients. This Agreement has far reaching opportunities for both companies and their associates.”
Monday, February 23, 2009
New Product Can Mitigate Shade, Making More Roofs Available to Solar
SANTA CLARA, Calif., Feb. 23 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- Most installers of solar photovoltaic (PV) systems (54 percent) believe no amount of shading is acceptable on residential and commercial rooftop solar installations, a new survey shows. National Semiconductor Corp. (NYSE: NSM) commissioned the study to better understand installers' views on the impact of partial or temporary shading.
Due to the characteristics of solar arrays, small amounts of shade (for example, shading of less than 10 percent of the surface area of a PV system) can lead to disproportionate power losses of more than 50 percent. National will introduce a technology later this spring which will allow installers and homeowners to embrace shade and recoup up to 50 percent of power losses associated with partial shading.
Causes of shade include structural objects such as trees, chimneys and dormers, and intermittent debris including falling leaves, bird droppings and dust. In the case of structural shade, even correctly installed solar systems can be partially blocked from the sun at certain times of the day or during certain days of the year.
The survey, conducted by Greenberg Quinlan Rosner Research, found:
* 41 percent of solar installers encounter shade when selling or installing a PV system;
* Of those, 87 percent "frequently" or "always" design around shade;
* Another 28 percent "frequently" or "always" tell the owner that solar cannot be installed
The study also revealed that installers often place smaller solar arrays in order to avoid shady sections of customers' roofs. Roughly one third of installers said designing around shading increases system costs, and many said they lose time doing so. Additionally, nearly half of all installers have seen solar arrays whose performance has been impaired by shading.
"Shade happens, and customers and solar installers are picking up the tab," said Ralf Muenster, director of National Semiconductor's Renewable Energy Key Market Segment. "There is a real need to educate the market that shade does not mean 'lights out' for solar. Shade can be mitigated."
Shade need not be terminal for solar power. While solar cell manufacturers have poured millions of dollars into research and development to improve conversion efficiencies by a fraction of one percent, solving power mismatches from different panels within a single solar array, whether caused by shade or other problems, can yield improvements in system performance of more than 30 percent.
Later this spring, National Semiconductor will introduce its SolarMagic(TM) power optimizer, a new energy management product that will mark National's strategic entry into the photovoltaic market. The power optimizer will enable installers to embrace shade, placing PV systems on roofs previously regarded as receiving inadequate levels of sunlight to justify a solar array.
According to the study, solar installers and integrators appear to be the principal victims of shade as they frequently absorb the costs of shade rather than pass them on to the consumer. Issues for installers include increased installation time and costs, and losing many customers altogether after discovering during time-consuming site visits that their roofs are too shady.
"Many customers are seeing impaired performance from the solar systems in which they have invested thousands of dollars," added Muenster. "Lessening the impact of partial or temporary shading by retrofitting power optimizers will help owners of existing solar systems. But SolarMagic technology will also contribute to the growth of the PV market, allowing the installation of solar arrays on roofs previously regarded as unsuitable."
Muenster added: "Power optimizers will make life easier for installers by giving them more flexibility in where they install solar systems. SolarMagic technology will allow installers to live with shade in a way that previously has been impossible. It will dramatically increase the reliability and maximize the energy harvest of photovoltaic panels in imperfect real world conditions."
The survey of photovoltaic solar system installers was carried out by telephone in January 2009. Greenberg Quinlan Rosner Research spoke to a total of 150 installers across the United States.
Due to the characteristics of solar arrays, small amounts of shade (for example, shading of less than 10 percent of the surface area of a PV system) can lead to disproportionate power losses of more than 50 percent. National will introduce a technology later this spring which will allow installers and homeowners to embrace shade and recoup up to 50 percent of power losses associated with partial shading.
Causes of shade include structural objects such as trees, chimneys and dormers, and intermittent debris including falling leaves, bird droppings and dust. In the case of structural shade, even correctly installed solar systems can be partially blocked from the sun at certain times of the day or during certain days of the year.
The survey, conducted by Greenberg Quinlan Rosner Research, found:
* 41 percent of solar installers encounter shade when selling or installing a PV system;
* Of those, 87 percent "frequently" or "always" design around shade;
* Another 28 percent "frequently" or "always" tell the owner that solar cannot be installed
The study also revealed that installers often place smaller solar arrays in order to avoid shady sections of customers' roofs. Roughly one third of installers said designing around shading increases system costs, and many said they lose time doing so. Additionally, nearly half of all installers have seen solar arrays whose performance has been impaired by shading.
"Shade happens, and customers and solar installers are picking up the tab," said Ralf Muenster, director of National Semiconductor's Renewable Energy Key Market Segment. "There is a real need to educate the market that shade does not mean 'lights out' for solar. Shade can be mitigated."
Shade need not be terminal for solar power. While solar cell manufacturers have poured millions of dollars into research and development to improve conversion efficiencies by a fraction of one percent, solving power mismatches from different panels within a single solar array, whether caused by shade or other problems, can yield improvements in system performance of more than 30 percent.
Later this spring, National Semiconductor will introduce its SolarMagic(TM) power optimizer, a new energy management product that will mark National's strategic entry into the photovoltaic market. The power optimizer will enable installers to embrace shade, placing PV systems on roofs previously regarded as receiving inadequate levels of sunlight to justify a solar array.
According to the study, solar installers and integrators appear to be the principal victims of shade as they frequently absorb the costs of shade rather than pass them on to the consumer. Issues for installers include increased installation time and costs, and losing many customers altogether after discovering during time-consuming site visits that their roofs are too shady.
"Many customers are seeing impaired performance from the solar systems in which they have invested thousands of dollars," added Muenster. "Lessening the impact of partial or temporary shading by retrofitting power optimizers will help owners of existing solar systems. But SolarMagic technology will also contribute to the growth of the PV market, allowing the installation of solar arrays on roofs previously regarded as unsuitable."
Muenster added: "Power optimizers will make life easier for installers by giving them more flexibility in where they install solar systems. SolarMagic technology will allow installers to live with shade in a way that previously has been impossible. It will dramatically increase the reliability and maximize the energy harvest of photovoltaic panels in imperfect real world conditions."
The survey of photovoltaic solar system installers was carried out by telephone in January 2009. Greenberg Quinlan Rosner Research spoke to a total of 150 installers across the United States.
Insurance Upgrade Helps Homeowners Go "Green" After a Loss
WARREN, NJ--(Marketwire - February 23, 2009) - If a home is damaged or destroyed, homeowners may want to rebuild with "green" materials and processes, but the additional cost can be prohibitive. Now, homeowners can obtain insurance through the Chubb Group of Insurance Companies that will pay to rebuild using environmentally friendly materials, low-impact processes and ultra-efficient heating and cooling technology after an insured loss.
Under Chubb's Masterpiece® GreenWise(SM) Upgrade coverage option, Chubb will pay the difference between rebuilding the house as it was and rebuilding "green," up to the amount of GreenWise insurance purchased. The new upgrade option can also help customers who have homes that have already been "green" certified to rebuild to the most recent certification standards.
Policyholders can purchase 10 percent to 100 percent of the insured value of the home. Other insurers typically provide only up to 10 percent of the dwelling limit for "green" coverage.
More than one in four (28%) Americans plan to spend more money making their homes more "green," based on the current economic environment, according to a nationwide survey of 1,000 people sponsored by the Chubb Group of Insurance Companies. Most respondents said they would reduce spending on other home improvements, such as renovations and additions, and home maintenance and repairs, according to the survey.
"Homeowners are increasingly conscious of the need to preserve natural resources and protect the environment," said Christie Alderman, new products and services manager for Chubb Personal Insurance. "They also recognize the economic value of going green, as it can save them thousands or tens of thousands of dollars over the long haul."
Because the GreenWise Upgrade coverage option is provided as an aggregate limit, customers can choose to rebuild with green building products, use green methods of construction or invest in the green certification of their homes as they see fit and without sub-limits. Further, Chubb's coverage accepts hundreds of national and local green standards, not limiting customers solely to LEED standards and ENERGY STAR designated products.
The new optional offering complements another recently introduced Chubb coverage that reimburses additional expenses customers incur (up to $50,000 per occurrence) to purchase power from a utility while their home's solar, wind or geothermal power-generating system is being repaired, or to purchase water from a utility when an alternative water system is being repaired. GreenWise utility expenses, which is automatically included in the homeowners policy at no additional cost, provides reimbursement for lost income due to an insured loss to a solar, wind or geothermal system that generates excess energy purchased by the utility.
"Many people wish they could do more to help the environment, but a full retrofit to green technologies can be cost prohibitive," Alderman said. "GreenWise can make something good come from a bad situation. If you had to go through the anguish of suffering a loss to your home, you may at least be comforted knowing you were rebuilding in a way that lessened your impact on the environment."
GreenWise Upgrade coverage is now available in Colorado, beginning a nationwide roll-out.
The 2008 Chubb National Home Protection Survey was conducted in early November by Opinion Research Corporation, a worldwide research and consulting firm in Princeton, NJ.
The member insurers of the Chubb Group of Insurance Companies form a multi-billion dollar organization providing property and casualty insurance for personal and commercial customers worldwide through 8,500 independent agents and brokers. Chubb's global network includes branches and affiliates in North America, Europe, Latin America, Asia and Australia. Chubb is a worldwide leader in insuring fine homes, automobiles, yachts, antiques and other collectibles, and personal liability. Additional information on Chubb can be found at www.chubb.com/personal.
Under Chubb's Masterpiece® GreenWise(SM) Upgrade coverage option, Chubb will pay the difference between rebuilding the house as it was and rebuilding "green," up to the amount of GreenWise insurance purchased. The new upgrade option can also help customers who have homes that have already been "green" certified to rebuild to the most recent certification standards.
Policyholders can purchase 10 percent to 100 percent of the insured value of the home. Other insurers typically provide only up to 10 percent of the dwelling limit for "green" coverage.
More than one in four (28%) Americans plan to spend more money making their homes more "green," based on the current economic environment, according to a nationwide survey of 1,000 people sponsored by the Chubb Group of Insurance Companies. Most respondents said they would reduce spending on other home improvements, such as renovations and additions, and home maintenance and repairs, according to the survey.
"Homeowners are increasingly conscious of the need to preserve natural resources and protect the environment," said Christie Alderman, new products and services manager for Chubb Personal Insurance. "They also recognize the economic value of going green, as it can save them thousands or tens of thousands of dollars over the long haul."
Because the GreenWise Upgrade coverage option is provided as an aggregate limit, customers can choose to rebuild with green building products, use green methods of construction or invest in the green certification of their homes as they see fit and without sub-limits. Further, Chubb's coverage accepts hundreds of national and local green standards, not limiting customers solely to LEED standards and ENERGY STAR designated products.
The new optional offering complements another recently introduced Chubb coverage that reimburses additional expenses customers incur (up to $50,000 per occurrence) to purchase power from a utility while their home's solar, wind or geothermal power-generating system is being repaired, or to purchase water from a utility when an alternative water system is being repaired. GreenWise utility expenses, which is automatically included in the homeowners policy at no additional cost, provides reimbursement for lost income due to an insured loss to a solar, wind or geothermal system that generates excess energy purchased by the utility.
"Many people wish they could do more to help the environment, but a full retrofit to green technologies can be cost prohibitive," Alderman said. "GreenWise can make something good come from a bad situation. If you had to go through the anguish of suffering a loss to your home, you may at least be comforted knowing you were rebuilding in a way that lessened your impact on the environment."
GreenWise Upgrade coverage is now available in Colorado, beginning a nationwide roll-out.
The 2008 Chubb National Home Protection Survey was conducted in early November by Opinion Research Corporation, a worldwide research and consulting firm in Princeton, NJ.
The member insurers of the Chubb Group of Insurance Companies form a multi-billion dollar organization providing property and casualty insurance for personal and commercial customers worldwide through 8,500 independent agents and brokers. Chubb's global network includes branches and affiliates in North America, Europe, Latin America, Asia and Australia. Chubb is a worldwide leader in insuring fine homes, automobiles, yachts, antiques and other collectibles, and personal liability. Additional information on Chubb can be found at www.chubb.com/personal.
New Steam Technology Sees Solar Application
TORONTO--(Marketwire - February 23, 2009) - W2 Energy Inc. (PINKSHEETS: WTWO), a developer of green energy, is pleased to announce it has successfully built and test-operated its rotary steam engine. The engine, based on US patent number 5,720,251, runs on low pressure steam.
W2 Energy will be using this engine, which W2 Energy called the Steam Ray, to generate electricity from steam derived from its biomass to energy machines, and other green energy technologies which W2 Energy will be bringing online.
Video of the Steam Ray can be seen on the W2 Energy website (www.w2energy.com).
W2 Energy will be connecting an electrical generator onto the Steam Ray as soon as possible, so that true operational efficiency figures can be generated.
"We built the Steam Ray to make our green energy technologies more efficient," says Mike McLaren, CEO of W2 Energy. "Based on the performance we have seen so far from the Steam Ray, we believe that we may be able to double the efficiency of currently available small steam turbines."
The Steam Ray has been tested at only 15 pounds per inch of steam pressure and delivered usable work at that pressure, because the Steam Ray derives its power more from steam volume than pressure. W2 Energy will now begin testing engine performance at 80 pounds per square inch and above.
"We built the Steam Ray because we thought it would operate at a high efficiency, and be able to run very effectively on low pressure steam. Our initial tests on this first model of the Steam Ray have confirmed our optimism," says McLaren. "We look forward to building even more efficient and powerful versions of the Steam Ray design. Based on the results so far our opinion is that the Steam Ray will prove to be a game changer in many applications, including solar power, the HVAC industry, and even in the transportation sector."
W2 Energy will be using this engine, which W2 Energy called the Steam Ray, to generate electricity from steam derived from its biomass to energy machines, and other green energy technologies which W2 Energy will be bringing online.
Video of the Steam Ray can be seen on the W2 Energy website (www.w2energy.com).
W2 Energy will be connecting an electrical generator onto the Steam Ray as soon as possible, so that true operational efficiency figures can be generated.
"We built the Steam Ray to make our green energy technologies more efficient," says Mike McLaren, CEO of W2 Energy. "Based on the performance we have seen so far from the Steam Ray, we believe that we may be able to double the efficiency of currently available small steam turbines."
The Steam Ray has been tested at only 15 pounds per inch of steam pressure and delivered usable work at that pressure, because the Steam Ray derives its power more from steam volume than pressure. W2 Energy will now begin testing engine performance at 80 pounds per square inch and above.
"We built the Steam Ray because we thought it would operate at a high efficiency, and be able to run very effectively on low pressure steam. Our initial tests on this first model of the Steam Ray have confirmed our optimism," says McLaren. "We look forward to building even more efficient and powerful versions of the Steam Ray design. Based on the results so far our opinion is that the Steam Ray will prove to be a game changer in many applications, including solar power, the HVAC industry, and even in the transportation sector."
NRG Energy, Inc. to Develop Up To 500 Megawatts of Solar Thermal Power Plants Using eSolar Technology
PRINCETON, N.J. & PASADENA, Calif.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--NRG Energy, Inc. (NYSE: NRG) has signed an agreement with eSolar, a leading provider of modular, scalable solar thermal power technology to develop solar power plants with a total generation capacity of up to 500 megawatts (MW) at sites in California and the Southwest. When at peak capacity, these units can power more than 400,000 homes with 100% clean solar electricity. The first plant is anticipated to begin producing electricity as early as 2011.
At closing, NRG will invest approximately $10 million for equity and associated development rights for three projects on sites in south central California and the Southwest US and a portfolio of PPAs to develop, build, own and operate up to 11 eSolar modular solar generating units at these sites. These development assets will use eSolar’s concentrating solar power (CSP) technology to sell renewable electricity under contracted power purchase agreements (PPAs) with local utilities seeking competitively priced, zero-carbon solar power.
“This is NRG’s first venture into solar power and it brings an exceptionally important component to the low- and no-carbon focus of our RepoweringNRG program,” said Michael Liebelson, Chief Development Officer Low Carbon Technology for NRG Energy. “By coupling NRG’s construction capabilities and regional operating expertise with eSolar’s innovative CSP technology, we can advance NRG’s renewable energy portfolio while helping to accelerate development of these important projects on a commercial scale.”
eSolar is currently completing its first commercial demonstration CSP plant in Southern California. The facility will be the first fully functioning solar thermal power tower plant built in the United States. In building this first plant, eSolar is obtaining valuable design, construction and operational insights to provide NRG the foundation for the implementation of commercial scale facilities.
“eSolar’s breakthrough modular power plants use more software and less steel to allow solar energy to be competitive with fossil fuels for the first time ever,” said Bill Gross, CEO of eSolar. “NRG Energy’s extensive project skills and focus on advancing a diverse portfolio of energy generation technology will help accelerate the deployment of eSolar’s CSP technology in locations across the US.”
eSolar’s global leadership shares an extensive and proven track record of experience in solar technologies and renewable energy projects. By leveraging a proprietary combination of optics and software in a pre-fabricated form factor, eSolar achieves economies of scale while focusing on the key business obstacles that have characterized large solar installations—price, scalability, speed of deployment and grid impact. eSolar has partnered with Idealab, Google.org, Oak Investment Partners, and other investors to develop large and utility-scale power projects around the world.
A conference call to discuss this announcement will be held at 2 PM ET/11 AM PT on Monday, February 23rd, and will be hosted by Michael Liebelson and Bill Gross. The conference can be accessed by dialing 877.407.9205 or 201.689.8054. Send requests for high-resolution renderings of eSolar's plants to Casey Cronin at casey@antennagroup.com
At closing, NRG will invest approximately $10 million for equity and associated development rights for three projects on sites in south central California and the Southwest US and a portfolio of PPAs to develop, build, own and operate up to 11 eSolar modular solar generating units at these sites. These development assets will use eSolar’s concentrating solar power (CSP) technology to sell renewable electricity under contracted power purchase agreements (PPAs) with local utilities seeking competitively priced, zero-carbon solar power.
“This is NRG’s first venture into solar power and it brings an exceptionally important component to the low- and no-carbon focus of our RepoweringNRG program,” said Michael Liebelson, Chief Development Officer Low Carbon Technology for NRG Energy. “By coupling NRG’s construction capabilities and regional operating expertise with eSolar’s innovative CSP technology, we can advance NRG’s renewable energy portfolio while helping to accelerate development of these important projects on a commercial scale.”
eSolar is currently completing its first commercial demonstration CSP plant in Southern California. The facility will be the first fully functioning solar thermal power tower plant built in the United States. In building this first plant, eSolar is obtaining valuable design, construction and operational insights to provide NRG the foundation for the implementation of commercial scale facilities.
“eSolar’s breakthrough modular power plants use more software and less steel to allow solar energy to be competitive with fossil fuels for the first time ever,” said Bill Gross, CEO of eSolar. “NRG Energy’s extensive project skills and focus on advancing a diverse portfolio of energy generation technology will help accelerate the deployment of eSolar’s CSP technology in locations across the US.”
eSolar’s global leadership shares an extensive and proven track record of experience in solar technologies and renewable energy projects. By leveraging a proprietary combination of optics and software in a pre-fabricated form factor, eSolar achieves economies of scale while focusing on the key business obstacles that have characterized large solar installations—price, scalability, speed of deployment and grid impact. eSolar has partnered with Idealab, Google.org, Oak Investment Partners, and other investors to develop large and utility-scale power projects around the world.
A conference call to discuss this announcement will be held at 2 PM ET/11 AM PT on Monday, February 23rd, and will be hosted by Michael Liebelson and Bill Gross. The conference can be accessed by dialing 877.407.9205 or 201.689.8054. Send requests for high-resolution renderings of eSolar's plants to Casey Cronin at casey@antennagroup.com
Colorado Inkjet Systems Manufacturer Enters Solar Market; Establishes Solar Division
BOULDER, Colo.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Addressing the global need for efficient, economic renewable energy, imaging Technology international (iTi) Corporation today announced iTi Solar, an equipment manufacturing division established to advance the development of precision industrial inkjet systems that enable solar cell producers to improve production efficiency and reduce manufacturing costs.
Environmental and global warming concerns along with issues of national security and energy independence are driving increased interest and investment in solar and other sources of natural, renewable energy. High materials and manufacturing costs are a key barrier to the broad adoption of solar energy, making it more expensive than traditional energy sources. Inkjet is emerging as a key enabling application printing technology that advances manufacturing processes and the production of highly efficient, low cost solar cells for both silicon-based and next generation thin-film photovoltaic cells.
“Harnessing solar power efficiently and at a reasonable cost requires significant breakthroughs in cost and performance versus traditional solar cell manufacturing technologies,” said Dr. Harry Zervos, technology analyst at IDTechEx, a leading research firm. “Inkjet fabrication is in an enviable position as it can be applied to today’s technologies as well as to the solar technologies of tomorrow. With its advantage of efficiently applying materials onto a variety of flexible and rigid substrates, we believe inkjet fabrication is one of the key enabling technologies for driving substantial solar cell manufacturing cost and energy conversion efficiencies.”
Inkjet printing of flexible and rigid thin-film photovoltaic solar cells offers a way to manufacture solar cells at a fraction of the cost of present day technologies. Glass, ceramic, printed circuit boards, and thicker plastics are examples of rigid substrates that can support thin-film technology and are less expensive than silicon, although flexible substrates offer the biggest cost improvement opportunities. Inkjet fabrication techniques, combined with thin-film photovoltaics, provide significant advantages compared with leading silicon alternatives. Inkjet systems minimize materials usage and waste through the use of non-contact, digitally-controlled and additive applications, increasing manufacturing efficiencies and reducing costs. In addition, the non-contact nature of inkjet deposition results in less damage to materials, minimizing waste while offering compatibility with a wide array of higher-efficiency substrate materials.
In its February 2009 report, IDTechEx estimates that the market for thin-film photovoltaics will reach $10 billion in 2012 and $17 billion by 2014.
“iTi Corporation is leveraging our extensive inkjet experience and patented technologies with the formation of iTi Solar to become an integral part of the new energy economy in Colorado,” said Bruce Morgan, chief executive officer, iTi Corporation. “Previously, solar cell manufacturers have shown interest in adding inkjet technologies to their processes, but the intricacies of inkjet have made it difficult to implement successfully. With our proven track record and knowledge of how to make inkjet processes effective and economical, our solar division will enable solar cell producers to advance their manufacturing technologies and make their products more affordable.”
Lower cost, flexible thin-film photovoltaic cells are suitable for applying solar panels to many surfaces including roof shingles, siding, tinted windows, cell phones, notebook computers and cars. Thin-film solar panels, using inkjet technologies, can be “printed” onto rolled backing, eliminating many of the highly energy- and chemical-intensive processes that are typical in conventional solar cell manufacturing.
“iTi has a long history of partnering with best-in-class providers to deliver turnkey solutions to industrial markets, and iTi Solar will continue that practice,” said Dr. Ross Mills, chief technology officer, iTi Corporation. “We’re pleased that iTi Solar will be announcing a number of key partnerships with suppliers, researchers and solar cell manufacturers this coming year.”
iTi Solar’s Inkjet Materials Deposition Systems are currently being used for solar research by a number of labs throughout the world, including the University of New South Wales in Australia and Printed Electronics, Ltd in Cambridge, England.
About iTi Solar
iTi Solar, a division of imaging Technology international (iTi) Corporation, has been established to advance the economics of clean, renewable energy through the use of industrial inkjet technologies. iTi Solar develops precision industrial inkjet systems for use in the manufacturing of efficient, low-cost solar cells. Inkjet technologies combined with flexible, thin film substrates have the potential to significantly reduce solar cell manufacturing costs, producing solar energy that cost less than today’s traditional energy sources such as hydro electric power, coal, oil and gas. iTi Solar’s vision is to develop new technologies for printheads and nanomaterials that will revolutionize the solar cell market. Information about iTi Solar is available at www.itisolar.com and www.iticorp.com.
Environmental and global warming concerns along with issues of national security and energy independence are driving increased interest and investment in solar and other sources of natural, renewable energy. High materials and manufacturing costs are a key barrier to the broad adoption of solar energy, making it more expensive than traditional energy sources. Inkjet is emerging as a key enabling application printing technology that advances manufacturing processes and the production of highly efficient, low cost solar cells for both silicon-based and next generation thin-film photovoltaic cells.
“Harnessing solar power efficiently and at a reasonable cost requires significant breakthroughs in cost and performance versus traditional solar cell manufacturing technologies,” said Dr. Harry Zervos, technology analyst at IDTechEx, a leading research firm. “Inkjet fabrication is in an enviable position as it can be applied to today’s technologies as well as to the solar technologies of tomorrow. With its advantage of efficiently applying materials onto a variety of flexible and rigid substrates, we believe inkjet fabrication is one of the key enabling technologies for driving substantial solar cell manufacturing cost and energy conversion efficiencies.”
Inkjet printing of flexible and rigid thin-film photovoltaic solar cells offers a way to manufacture solar cells at a fraction of the cost of present day technologies. Glass, ceramic, printed circuit boards, and thicker plastics are examples of rigid substrates that can support thin-film technology and are less expensive than silicon, although flexible substrates offer the biggest cost improvement opportunities. Inkjet fabrication techniques, combined with thin-film photovoltaics, provide significant advantages compared with leading silicon alternatives. Inkjet systems minimize materials usage and waste through the use of non-contact, digitally-controlled and additive applications, increasing manufacturing efficiencies and reducing costs. In addition, the non-contact nature of inkjet deposition results in less damage to materials, minimizing waste while offering compatibility with a wide array of higher-efficiency substrate materials.
In its February 2009 report, IDTechEx estimates that the market for thin-film photovoltaics will reach $10 billion in 2012 and $17 billion by 2014.
“iTi Corporation is leveraging our extensive inkjet experience and patented technologies with the formation of iTi Solar to become an integral part of the new energy economy in Colorado,” said Bruce Morgan, chief executive officer, iTi Corporation. “Previously, solar cell manufacturers have shown interest in adding inkjet technologies to their processes, but the intricacies of inkjet have made it difficult to implement successfully. With our proven track record and knowledge of how to make inkjet processes effective and economical, our solar division will enable solar cell producers to advance their manufacturing technologies and make their products more affordable.”
Lower cost, flexible thin-film photovoltaic cells are suitable for applying solar panels to many surfaces including roof shingles, siding, tinted windows, cell phones, notebook computers and cars. Thin-film solar panels, using inkjet technologies, can be “printed” onto rolled backing, eliminating many of the highly energy- and chemical-intensive processes that are typical in conventional solar cell manufacturing.
“iTi has a long history of partnering with best-in-class providers to deliver turnkey solutions to industrial markets, and iTi Solar will continue that practice,” said Dr. Ross Mills, chief technology officer, iTi Corporation. “We’re pleased that iTi Solar will be announcing a number of key partnerships with suppliers, researchers and solar cell manufacturers this coming year.”
iTi Solar’s Inkjet Materials Deposition Systems are currently being used for solar research by a number of labs throughout the world, including the University of New South Wales in Australia and Printed Electronics, Ltd in Cambridge, England.
About iTi Solar
iTi Solar, a division of imaging Technology international (iTi) Corporation, has been established to advance the economics of clean, renewable energy through the use of industrial inkjet technologies. iTi Solar develops precision industrial inkjet systems for use in the manufacturing of efficient, low-cost solar cells. Inkjet technologies combined with flexible, thin film substrates have the potential to significantly reduce solar cell manufacturing costs, producing solar energy that cost less than today’s traditional energy sources such as hydro electric power, coal, oil and gas. iTi Solar’s vision is to develop new technologies for printheads and nanomaterials that will revolutionize the solar cell market. Information about iTi Solar is available at www.itisolar.com and www.iticorp.com.
BioSolar “Could Significantly Reduce the Cost of Solar Cells” Claims TheFutureofThings.com
SANTA CLARITA, Calif.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--BioSolar, Inc. (OTCBB: BSRC), developer of a breakthrough technology to produce bio-based materials from renewable plant sources that reduce the cost of photovoltaic solar modules, was touted as a “novel technology” that “could significantly reduce the cost of solar cells," according to an article posted February 18 on TheFutureOfThings.com.
As the company moves towards production, BioSolar continues to sustain media attention for its cost-saving and environmentally-friendly BioBacksheetTM solar cell technology and its role in helping solve our Nation’s energy woes. In an interview with Ken Silverstein of EnergyBiz Insider, Dr. David Lee, CEO of BioSolar is quoted as saying, “For technology developers to be successful in the next five years, they have to reduce costs and improve quality." Dr. Lee also discussed the importance of reducing dependency on petroleum in a Partners Green article posted February 19, 2009.
“We are pleased to see the continued media interest in BioSolar and our BioBacksheetTM technology. As the production stage draws closer, we hope the increasingly positive coverage drives us to the forefront of the solar industry where manufacturers are looking for any and all ways to reduce the cost of their solar panels,” said Dr. Lee.
As the company moves towards production, BioSolar continues to sustain media attention for its cost-saving and environmentally-friendly BioBacksheetTM solar cell technology and its role in helping solve our Nation’s energy woes. In an interview with Ken Silverstein of EnergyBiz Insider, Dr. David Lee, CEO of BioSolar is quoted as saying, “For technology developers to be successful in the next five years, they have to reduce costs and improve quality." Dr. Lee also discussed the importance of reducing dependency on petroleum in a Partners Green article posted February 19, 2009.
“We are pleased to see the continued media interest in BioSolar and our BioBacksheetTM technology. As the production stage draws closer, we hope the increasingly positive coverage drives us to the forefront of the solar industry where manufacturers are looking for any and all ways to reduce the cost of their solar panels,” said Dr. Lee.
OKI Joins the Photovoltaic Power Conditioner Market
TOKYO--(BUSINESS WIRE)--OKI Electric Industry (TOKYO:6703) and OKI Power Tech (OPT), an OKI Group company developing and manufacturing power supply units, today announced that OPT, together with JFE Electrical & Control Systems, has developed a photovoltaic (PV) power conditioner. This industry’s first power conditioner applies a DSP (Digital Signal Processing) controller to an insulated DCDC converter, which offers high efficient power generation even in insulated applications where power conversion efficiency has been an issue. OPT will exhibit the product at the 2nd International Photovoltaic Power Generation Expo, which will be held in Tokyo from February 25. The power conditioner will be available through OKI, OPT and JFE Electrical & Control Systems’ sales channel from October 2009.
“We are excited to enter the PV market with our power conditioners, leveraging our advanced DSP control technology. We will first offer a 10kW output product to Japan’s industrial market and will sequentially expand our product lineup to include models with higher capacity,” said Akira Ugawa, President of OKI Power Tech. “From October 2009, we plan to offer the product to companies offering systems for use in industrial and commercial applications. In addition, working together with solar battery manufacturers and trading companies, we aim to further expand our business by providing the products to overseas markets.”
This newly developed 10kW PV power conditioner system is a compact high-frequency insulated power conditioner to be used outdoors with a focus on heat dissipation and maintainability. Using OPT’s advanced DSP control technology, the power conditioner offers energy-saving by maintaining high efficiency over a wide range of input power. The power conditioner adopts the “multi-phase control method,” in which a number of DCDC converters are controlled through a DSP control for best operation and conversion rates, enabling the power conditioner to flexibly control the input/output power voltage and current. Thus, compared to conventional DCDC converter control, it can maintain high power conversion efficiency even when electricity production from solar batteries is low and can maintain a conversion efficiency of over 90% at only 50% output. The power conditioner enables not only parallel operation with multiple units, but also includes a network connection function, in which OKI excels. In addition, it can easily increase output capacity that was difficult with previous power conditioners, and can enable monitoring functions.
The PV system market is expanding 30-40% yearly worldwide, and thus, PVs are expected to find increased use in various applications. In Japan, clean energy is an area that is carefully watched, and various frameworks are being organized to support the installation of PVs to reduce CO2. OPT is an expert in designing, developing, manufacturing and selling power supply units and electronic devices. Based on its long years of developing technologies, OPT will continue to develop and offer highly efficient power conditioners that respond to customer needs.
“We are excited to enter the PV market with our power conditioners, leveraging our advanced DSP control technology. We will first offer a 10kW output product to Japan’s industrial market and will sequentially expand our product lineup to include models with higher capacity,” said Akira Ugawa, President of OKI Power Tech. “From October 2009, we plan to offer the product to companies offering systems for use in industrial and commercial applications. In addition, working together with solar battery manufacturers and trading companies, we aim to further expand our business by providing the products to overseas markets.”
This newly developed 10kW PV power conditioner system is a compact high-frequency insulated power conditioner to be used outdoors with a focus on heat dissipation and maintainability. Using OPT’s advanced DSP control technology, the power conditioner offers energy-saving by maintaining high efficiency over a wide range of input power. The power conditioner adopts the “multi-phase control method,” in which a number of DCDC converters are controlled through a DSP control for best operation and conversion rates, enabling the power conditioner to flexibly control the input/output power voltage and current. Thus, compared to conventional DCDC converter control, it can maintain high power conversion efficiency even when electricity production from solar batteries is low and can maintain a conversion efficiency of over 90% at only 50% output. The power conditioner enables not only parallel operation with multiple units, but also includes a network connection function, in which OKI excels. In addition, it can easily increase output capacity that was difficult with previous power conditioners, and can enable monitoring functions.
The PV system market is expanding 30-40% yearly worldwide, and thus, PVs are expected to find increased use in various applications. In Japan, clean energy is an area that is carefully watched, and various frameworks are being organized to support the installation of PVs to reduce CO2. OPT is an expert in designing, developing, manufacturing and selling power supply units and electronic devices. Based on its long years of developing technologies, OPT will continue to develop and offer highly efficient power conditioners that respond to customer needs.
Saturday, February 21, 2009
Government of Canada Announces New Support for Solar Water Heating in B.C. Homes
VANCOUVER, BRITISH COLUMBIA--(Marketwire - Feb. 20, 2009) - More British Columbians will be able to take advantage of renewable energy renovations to their homes thanks to the new SolarBC initiative.
"This is an investment that works for Canadians by generating new economic activity, helping homeowners control their energy costs and reducing harmful emissions," said South Surrey-White Rock Cloverdale M.P. Russ Hiebert, who made the announcement on behalf of the Honourable Lisa Raitt, Minister of Natural Resources. "Investing in green energy technologies will stimulate the growth of a domestic clean energy industry, create high-quality jobs for Canadians and help to protect and preserve our environment."
Under the SolarBC initiative, Eaga Canada Services Inc. will receive $1.6 million through the ecoENERGY for Renewable Heat program. This investment will support installation of domestic solar water heating systems in a total of 1,600 homes, with a focus on seven leading solar communities.
A solar water heating system can supply up to 60 percent of a Canadian home's hot water needs and could cut energy costs by more than $300 a year - reducing the household's annual greenhouse gas emissions by one tonne.
It is estimated that there are fewer than 500 solar hot water systems installed in B.C. today. The idea is to start slowly with a goal of 100,000 solar roofs by 2020.
"The rest of the world is going in this direction - everyone is going solar," said Liz Kelly of Eaga Canada. "SolarBC makes it really easy to install solar hot water, and we're aiming to rank B.C. alongside world leaders such as Germany and China."
The ecoENERGY for Renewable Heat program is one of a series of ecoENERGY initiatives through which the Government of Canada is investing more than $3.6 billion to increase Canada's supply of clean, renewable energy, help Canadians reduce their energy costs and emissions and stimulate economic activity in all regions of Canada.
Budget 2009 includes new measures totalling almost $2.4 billion to support a cleaner and more sustainable environment and help meet Canada's climate change objectives.
"This is an investment that works for Canadians by generating new economic activity, helping homeowners control their energy costs and reducing harmful emissions," said South Surrey-White Rock Cloverdale M.P. Russ Hiebert, who made the announcement on behalf of the Honourable Lisa Raitt, Minister of Natural Resources. "Investing in green energy technologies will stimulate the growth of a domestic clean energy industry, create high-quality jobs for Canadians and help to protect and preserve our environment."
Under the SolarBC initiative, Eaga Canada Services Inc. will receive $1.6 million through the ecoENERGY for Renewable Heat program. This investment will support installation of domestic solar water heating systems in a total of 1,600 homes, with a focus on seven leading solar communities.
A solar water heating system can supply up to 60 percent of a Canadian home's hot water needs and could cut energy costs by more than $300 a year - reducing the household's annual greenhouse gas emissions by one tonne.
It is estimated that there are fewer than 500 solar hot water systems installed in B.C. today. The idea is to start slowly with a goal of 100,000 solar roofs by 2020.
"The rest of the world is going in this direction - everyone is going solar," said Liz Kelly of Eaga Canada. "SolarBC makes it really easy to install solar hot water, and we're aiming to rank B.C. alongside world leaders such as Germany and China."
The ecoENERGY for Renewable Heat program is one of a series of ecoENERGY initiatives through which the Government of Canada is investing more than $3.6 billion to increase Canada's supply of clean, renewable energy, help Canadians reduce their energy costs and emissions and stimulate economic activity in all regions of Canada.
Budget 2009 includes new measures totalling almost $2.4 billion to support a cleaner and more sustainable environment and help meet Canada's climate change objectives.
Friday, February 20, 2009
Entech Solar Appoints GridPoint CEO Peter L. Corsell to Board of Directors
FORT WORTH, Texas--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Entech Solar (OTC BB: ENSL.OB), a leader in concentrating solar energy systems, announced today that it has appointed GridPoint CEO Peter L. Corsell to its Board of Directors.
"We are delighted to have Peter Corsell join Entech Solar. In addition to being a successful entrepreneur, he is a true visionary in the clean technology industry,” said Frank Smith, CEO of Entech Solar.
Mr. Corsell is CEO and founder of GridPoint, Inc., a leading smart grid company whose software platform benefits electric utilities, consumers and the environment. He is Chairman of the World Economic Forum’s Global Agenda Council on Alternative Energies and serves on a number of boards and committees, including Newsweek’s Global Environment and Leadership Advisory Committee, Xcel Energy’s Smart Grid Advisory Board, the Environmental Media Association’s Corporate Board and the board of directors of Standard Renewable Energy. MIT’s Technology Review magazine has recognized Mr. Corsell as one of the world’s top innovators under age 35 for developing a practical solution to advance the development of a Smart Grid.
Mr. Corsell’s appointment follows several changes to the Board announced earlier this year, including David Gelbaum’s appointment as Chairman of the Board, Joseph Bartlett’s appointment to the Board, and the resignation of former board members Hong Hou, Reuben Richards and Quentin Kelly.
"We are delighted to have Peter Corsell join Entech Solar. In addition to being a successful entrepreneur, he is a true visionary in the clean technology industry,” said Frank Smith, CEO of Entech Solar.
Mr. Corsell is CEO and founder of GridPoint, Inc., a leading smart grid company whose software platform benefits electric utilities, consumers and the environment. He is Chairman of the World Economic Forum’s Global Agenda Council on Alternative Energies and serves on a number of boards and committees, including Newsweek’s Global Environment and Leadership Advisory Committee, Xcel Energy’s Smart Grid Advisory Board, the Environmental Media Association’s Corporate Board and the board of directors of Standard Renewable Energy. MIT’s Technology Review magazine has recognized Mr. Corsell as one of the world’s top innovators under age 35 for developing a practical solution to advance the development of a Smart Grid.
Mr. Corsell’s appointment follows several changes to the Board announced earlier this year, including David Gelbaum’s appointment as Chairman of the Board, Joseph Bartlett’s appointment to the Board, and the resignation of former board members Hong Hou, Reuben Richards and Quentin Kelly.
KYOCERA Breaks Ground on New Solar Module Plant in China
KYOTO, Japan--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Kyocera Corporation (NYSE:KYO)(TOKYO:6971) today announced the construction of a new solar module manufacturing plant in Tianjin City, China in order to expand production capacity at KYOCERA (Tianjin) Solar Energy Co., Ltd. (herein Kyocera Tianjin Solar).
Construction of the new plant is timed to align the production capacity of solar modules with the increase in production of solar cells which Kyocera is set to expand to 650MW by March, 2012. Manufacturing modules mainly for the Asian market, the target production capacity of Kyocera Tianjin Solar will be bolstered to the eventual goal of 240MW from 2011, an increase to four times the current capacity of 60MW.
Construction of the new manufacturing plant will begin in April, with completion scheduled for spring of 2010. Upon completion of the new plant, all Kyocera Tianjin Solar manufacturing operations will subsequently be transferred to the new facility.
On February 18, the groundbreaking ceremony for the scheduled construction of the new plant was held on the site adjacent to the current facility.
Presently, the solar energy industry is garnering global attention. In 2003, anticipating future growth in the Asian market starting with China and Japan, Kyocera was the first Japanese company to establish a solar module manufacturing plant in China. With the Kyocera Group operating manufacturing facilities for solar modules in Japan, Mexico, the Czech Republic and the Tianjin facilities in China, Kyocera Tianjin Solar supplies solar modules to the leading Asian markets of Japan, South Korea and China as one of the group’s four global manufacturing centers.
Kyocera will continue to increase production capacity from here on to correspond with market demand, aiming for the further expansion of its solar energy business.
Construction of the new plant is timed to align the production capacity of solar modules with the increase in production of solar cells which Kyocera is set to expand to 650MW by March, 2012. Manufacturing modules mainly for the Asian market, the target production capacity of Kyocera Tianjin Solar will be bolstered to the eventual goal of 240MW from 2011, an increase to four times the current capacity of 60MW.
Construction of the new manufacturing plant will begin in April, with completion scheduled for spring of 2010. Upon completion of the new plant, all Kyocera Tianjin Solar manufacturing operations will subsequently be transferred to the new facility.
On February 18, the groundbreaking ceremony for the scheduled construction of the new plant was held on the site adjacent to the current facility.
Presently, the solar energy industry is garnering global attention. In 2003, anticipating future growth in the Asian market starting with China and Japan, Kyocera was the first Japanese company to establish a solar module manufacturing plant in China. With the Kyocera Group operating manufacturing facilities for solar modules in Japan, Mexico, the Czech Republic and the Tianjin facilities in China, Kyocera Tianjin Solar supplies solar modules to the leading Asian markets of Japan, South Korea and China as one of the group’s four global manufacturing centers.
Kyocera will continue to increase production capacity from here on to correspond with market demand, aiming for the further expansion of its solar energy business.
Gov. Crist Dedicates Solar Roof By Advanced Green Technologies
FORT LAUDERDALE, Fla.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Gov. Charlie Crist dedicated a new solar roof at Florida Atlantic University installed by Advanced Green Technologies, a renewable energy solutions provider, on Wednesday.
Crist, accompanied by Advanced Green Technologies’ Rob Kornahrens, cut a ribbon on a 240-panel system at FAU, which the university indicates will produce 34 kilowatts of electrical power.
“It is important that we in the Sunshine State have the opportunity to have solar energy,” Crist said at the unveiling of the City’s first totally green roof. “As we continue to go green, we will provide new jobs and economic opportunities for fellow Floridians.”
Kornahrens has been working with Gov. Crist over the past year to identify additional opportunities for the state to transition to more solar power. Advanced Green Technologies procures building-integrated renewable energy products. As a leading distributor for FlexLight PV and GE Brilliance Solar Systems, Advanced Green Technologies provides the products, designs, and support for installations of the most advanced, cost effective, and efficient green solutions for customers. In just a few years Advanced Green Technologies has helped hundreds of educational and commercial facilities reduce greenhouse gas emissions and set a course for environmental stewardship.
“The solar panels convert sunlight into electricity and when combined with energy efficient roof systems provide a significant reduction on the usage of air conditioned electricity,” said Kornahrens. “It’s about time Floridians did our part to reduce the amount of electricity currently used every day.”
The solar roof at FAU will result in energy savings. The savings will be used to fund the University’s Sun Fund Scholarship, the United States\' first scholarship literally funded by the sun.
Advanced Green Technologies, based in Fort Lauderdale, also has offices in North Carolina, Oregon, California and Europe. For more information, call 954-735-2641 or visit www.agt.com.
Crist, accompanied by Advanced Green Technologies’ Rob Kornahrens, cut a ribbon on a 240-panel system at FAU, which the university indicates will produce 34 kilowatts of electrical power.
“It is important that we in the Sunshine State have the opportunity to have solar energy,” Crist said at the unveiling of the City’s first totally green roof. “As we continue to go green, we will provide new jobs and economic opportunities for fellow Floridians.”
Kornahrens has been working with Gov. Crist over the past year to identify additional opportunities for the state to transition to more solar power. Advanced Green Technologies procures building-integrated renewable energy products. As a leading distributor for FlexLight PV and GE Brilliance Solar Systems, Advanced Green Technologies provides the products, designs, and support for installations of the most advanced, cost effective, and efficient green solutions for customers. In just a few years Advanced Green Technologies has helped hundreds of educational and commercial facilities reduce greenhouse gas emissions and set a course for environmental stewardship.
“The solar panels convert sunlight into electricity and when combined with energy efficient roof systems provide a significant reduction on the usage of air conditioned electricity,” said Kornahrens. “It’s about time Floridians did our part to reduce the amount of electricity currently used every day.”
The solar roof at FAU will result in energy savings. The savings will be used to fund the University’s Sun Fund Scholarship, the United States\' first scholarship literally funded by the sun.
Advanced Green Technologies, based in Fort Lauderdale, also has offices in North Carolina, Oregon, California and Europe. For more information, call 954-735-2641 or visit www.agt.com.
Thin Film Silicon Mass Production Ahead of Schedule
TAIPEI, Taiwan & TRUBBACH, Switzerland--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Oerlikon Solar and Sun Well Solar, a subsidiary of CMC Magnetics, announced today that the ramp-up of the 40 MW amorphous thin film silicon production line has been completed one month ahead of schedule. The installation includes the innovative Oerlikon Solar LPCVD TCO front and back contact technology, which has clearly proven its capability in mass production over the last 6 months. Average module power production yields exceeded contractual targets. The Sun Well IEC certification was accomplished in October 2008. The completion of the Sun Well production ramp-up marks the first successful “end-to-end” installation of a thin film silicon production line within the PV industry.
Every 50 seconds a PV module leaves the Sun Well Solar manufacturing line, resulting in more than 1,250 panels or 110 kW produced per day. At this stage of the emerging and quickly growing thin film silicon PV industry this output is equivalent to about 10% of the world’s module production, making Sun Well one of the largest in Asia. Oerlikon Solar and Sun Well have already announced plans to expand Sun Well’s production capacity in the future.
“Our decision to utilize Oerlikon Solar technology has been impressively confirmed by the timely completion of our first thin film production line”, said Bob Wong, Chairman of CMC Magnetics group. “Especially in this challenging market environment, the performance of our production has to be the most cost competitive in the industry.”
Success through cooperation
Experienced Sun Well engineers were very helpful in resolving critical issues during the ramp up with Oerlikon Solar specialists. Together, the project team was able to achieve all important milestones.
“This was our first end-to-end project and a very visible test of both our technology and our execution capability”, said Jeannine Sargent, CEO of Oerlikon Solar. “The teams exceeded all expectations. I am very proud of their work. Through their efforts we are demonstrating to customers that we can deliver on our promises.”
On this project Oerlikon Solar has implemented a special high performance front and back contact method in its production lines. A Low Pressure Chemical Vapor Deposition (LPCVD) process is used to generate a transparent and conductive Transparent Conductive Oxide (TCO) layer which is superior to conventional methods. The light transmission and scattering properties of this layer are very important for the efficiency, with which the solar module can convert sun light into electric power. The excellent performance of the Sun Well PV modules and the outstanding line productivity clearly demonstrate Oerlikon Solar’s TCO technology mass production is mature and ready for the scale that the industry will demand.
“Just one more milestone in Oerlikon Solar’s mission to make solar power economically viable.”
Every 50 seconds a PV module leaves the Sun Well Solar manufacturing line, resulting in more than 1,250 panels or 110 kW produced per day. At this stage of the emerging and quickly growing thin film silicon PV industry this output is equivalent to about 10% of the world’s module production, making Sun Well one of the largest in Asia. Oerlikon Solar and Sun Well have already announced plans to expand Sun Well’s production capacity in the future.
“Our decision to utilize Oerlikon Solar technology has been impressively confirmed by the timely completion of our first thin film production line”, said Bob Wong, Chairman of CMC Magnetics group. “Especially in this challenging market environment, the performance of our production has to be the most cost competitive in the industry.”
Success through cooperation
Experienced Sun Well engineers were very helpful in resolving critical issues during the ramp up with Oerlikon Solar specialists. Together, the project team was able to achieve all important milestones.
“This was our first end-to-end project and a very visible test of both our technology and our execution capability”, said Jeannine Sargent, CEO of Oerlikon Solar. “The teams exceeded all expectations. I am very proud of their work. Through their efforts we are demonstrating to customers that we can deliver on our promises.”
On this project Oerlikon Solar has implemented a special high performance front and back contact method in its production lines. A Low Pressure Chemical Vapor Deposition (LPCVD) process is used to generate a transparent and conductive Transparent Conductive Oxide (TCO) layer which is superior to conventional methods. The light transmission and scattering properties of this layer are very important for the efficiency, with which the solar module can convert sun light into electric power. The excellent performance of the Sun Well PV modules and the outstanding line productivity clearly demonstrate Oerlikon Solar’s TCO technology mass production is mature and ready for the scale that the industry will demand.
“Just one more milestone in Oerlikon Solar’s mission to make solar power economically viable.”
Santa Clara University, SolarTech to Celebrate Solar Energy and Sustainability
SANTA CLARA, Calif.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Santa Clara University and SolarTech will celebrate an exciting collaboration as California Energy Commission’s Public Interest Energy Research (PIER) grant partners on Friday, Feb. 20.
Leaders from the three organizations will join Santa Clara Mayor Patricia Mahan to shed light on their vision for clean energy and sustainability.
This is an especially important year for SCU. Santa Clara students are working on the next house that they hope will claim the top spot at the 2009 Department of Energy Solar Decathlon Competition in Washington, D.C.
Students will present this year’s plans at Friday’s Solar Celebration and give tours of the 2007 Solar Decathlon house that won third place at the international event. At that contest, Santa Clara University beat out Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cornell University, and two-time decathlon winner University of Colorado, Boulder. It was the first year SCU entered the biennial competition that’s sponsored by the Department of Energy, in which 20 student teams compete to design, build, and operate the most attractive, effective, and energy-efficient house, powered exclusively by the sun.
Solar Celebration takes place Friday, Feb. 20 from 3:30 p.m. to 5:30 p.m. at Santa Clara University’s Bannan Engineering Laboratories in the Multipurpose Room.
Leaders from the three organizations will join Santa Clara Mayor Patricia Mahan to shed light on their vision for clean energy and sustainability.
This is an especially important year for SCU. Santa Clara students are working on the next house that they hope will claim the top spot at the 2009 Department of Energy Solar Decathlon Competition in Washington, D.C.
Students will present this year’s plans at Friday’s Solar Celebration and give tours of the 2007 Solar Decathlon house that won third place at the international event. At that contest, Santa Clara University beat out Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cornell University, and two-time decathlon winner University of Colorado, Boulder. It was the first year SCU entered the biennial competition that’s sponsored by the Department of Energy, in which 20 student teams compete to design, build, and operate the most attractive, effective, and energy-efficient house, powered exclusively by the sun.
Solar Celebration takes place Friday, Feb. 20 from 3:30 p.m. to 5:30 p.m. at Santa Clara University’s Bannan Engineering Laboratories in the Multipurpose Room.
Thursday, February 19, 2009
CVD Equipment Corporation Launches EasyTube™ CVD Systems for Solar and Energy
RONKONKOMA, N.Y.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--CVD Equipment Corporation (Nasdaq: CVV) announces the introduction of a family of EasyTube™ Systems with a focus on Quality Control and Research & Development for next generation process development in the Solar and Energy fields aimed at reducing the global dependence on oil and gas. The EasyTube™ platform provides a framework of solutions that can be quickly and cost efficiently customized to a wide variety of thin film process requirements needed to accelerate the commercialization of next generation solar cell/modules and smart windows.
For example, our EasyTube™ 3000-SiQC systems have been sold to qualify Silicon precursor materials for the solar and semiconductor industry (http://www.cvdequipment.com/ET3000_SiQC 1 12.pdf). These systems are used for quality control of the Chlorosilane precursors used to manufacture polycrystalline silicon rods. By using the same precursor to deposit an epitaxial film that is measured for purity, the purity of the Silicon precursor material can be determined. This quality control tool will help develop lower cost manufacturing methods for Polysilicon precursors being proposed to manufacture solar cells with only slightly reduced photovoltaic conversion efficiencies.
In addition, the EasyTube™ research systems are capable of other film depositions, for example Amorphous Silicon, Polysilicon, Silicon Nitride, High or Low temperature Silicon Dioxide, Silicon and Silicon-Germanium Epitaxial, Transparent Conductive Oxides (SnO2, ZnO, etc.), Sulfurization, Selenization, Rapid Thermal Annealing, POCl3 and other related diffusion driven processes needed for next generation Silicon and CIGS solar cell process optimization. The EasyTube™ system can be equipped with a wide variety of options, including a Loadlock, operation at high or low pressures, substrate rotation for deposition and composition uniformity, rapid heating and many others. The EasyTube™ process gas handling system accommodates pyrophoric, flammable, corrosive, toxic, solid and liquid source materials. Optional gas, liquid or solid source delivery and process gas exhaust treatment enable turn-key process solutions that save both time and money.
The highly successful EasyTube™ product line has been sold worldwide to Universities and Research Laboratories for applications in the Nanotechnology and Semiconductor Research Markets. The expanded EasyTube™ product line focuses on applications in the Solar and Energy industry to provide lower cost research and faster delivery to develop solar and energy related manufacturing processes.
For example, our EasyTube™ 3000-SiQC systems have been sold to qualify Silicon precursor materials for the solar and semiconductor industry (http://www.cvdequipment.com/ET3000_SiQC 1 12.pdf). These systems are used for quality control of the Chlorosilane precursors used to manufacture polycrystalline silicon rods. By using the same precursor to deposit an epitaxial film that is measured for purity, the purity of the Silicon precursor material can be determined. This quality control tool will help develop lower cost manufacturing methods for Polysilicon precursors being proposed to manufacture solar cells with only slightly reduced photovoltaic conversion efficiencies.
In addition, the EasyTube™ research systems are capable of other film depositions, for example Amorphous Silicon, Polysilicon, Silicon Nitride, High or Low temperature Silicon Dioxide, Silicon and Silicon-Germanium Epitaxial, Transparent Conductive Oxides (SnO2, ZnO, etc.), Sulfurization, Selenization, Rapid Thermal Annealing, POCl3 and other related diffusion driven processes needed for next generation Silicon and CIGS solar cell process optimization. The EasyTube™ system can be equipped with a wide variety of options, including a Loadlock, operation at high or low pressures, substrate rotation for deposition and composition uniformity, rapid heating and many others. The EasyTube™ process gas handling system accommodates pyrophoric, flammable, corrosive, toxic, solid and liquid source materials. Optional gas, liquid or solid source delivery and process gas exhaust treatment enable turn-key process solutions that save both time and money.
The highly successful EasyTube™ product line has been sold worldwide to Universities and Research Laboratories for applications in the Nanotechnology and Semiconductor Research Markets. The expanded EasyTube™ product line focuses on applications in the Solar and Energy industry to provide lower cost research and faster delivery to develop solar and energy related manufacturing processes.
IXYS Introduces Solar Power Battery Charger Evaluation Boards
MILPITAS, Calif.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--IXYS Corporation (NASDAQ: IXYS), a leader in power semiconductors for power conversion and motion control applications, announced today the introduction of five evaluation boards designed to demonstrate both standard and innovative uses of the IXYS Solar Cells, IXOLAR ‘Solar Bit’, as surface mountable solar cells. These evaluation boards show how the ‘Solar Bit’ can be used to increase battery life, help design solar cell based products, provide customer convenience and reduce the disposal of batteries. The boards are designed to assist customers in understanding the features of the IXYS Solar Cells in the form of Solar Bits.
EVIX-CX3AA – Showcases three different IXYS components which are used to create a battery charger. This demonstrates an entirely ‘off-grid’ design which automatically disconnects the battery from the solar cells in low or no-light conditions thereby preventing inadvertent discharging with no additional circuitry required.
EVIX-10 – This highly configurable evaluation board provides 10 ‘Solar Bits’ which can be individually set to series or parallel configuration with the other cells. In addition, several EVIX-10 boards can be connected together, also in either parallel or series. This allows users to customize the configuration precisely to a specific need. Changes to the configuration take only seconds and are made via simple jumpers.
EVIX-USB – As USB devices become more prevalent, the use of the USB connection to charge batteries while away from a computer increases in value. The EVIX-USB demonstrates how the innovative design of the ‘Solar Bit’ can be used to create a simple USB charger. By utilizing the IXYS ‘Solar Bit’ in this application users can develop products that substantially extend the usable time for USB charged products while away from a computer and utilizing the power of the sun rather than an AC power source.
EVIX-LED – With the advent of several emerging technologies we are now able to provide completely battery-less power sources for remote applications. The EVIX-LED demonstrates how the IXYS ‘Solar Bit’, combined with super-capacitor technology, can be used to provide a burst of energy for a short period with a rapid recharge time. This solution is completely off-grid and does not require a battery. In this case it powers a bright LED for over one full second and recharges in full sun in just a few minutes. Designers now have the capability of using the IXYS ‘Solar Bit’ to provide battery-less solar power sources for applications requiring an intermittent burst of energy.
EVXOB17-12X1 – This simple evaluation board connects 10 IXOLAR ‘Solar Bits’ in series for general experimentation and use in a small footprint, as a Solar Panel to charge batteries, for portable devices, like MP3 players, cell phones, PDA’s, test instruments, portable medical devices, etc.
These evaluation boards are available at www.ixyscolorado.com or directly from IXYS Colorado (Directed Energy) Tel. (970) 493-1901, Fax (970) 493-1903, Email sales@ixyscolorado.com, www.ixyscolorado.com or through your local authorized IXYS /IXYSRF sales representative or, or from IXYSRF, www.ixysrf.com .
EVIX-CX3AA – Showcases three different IXYS components which are used to create a battery charger. This demonstrates an entirely ‘off-grid’ design which automatically disconnects the battery from the solar cells in low or no-light conditions thereby preventing inadvertent discharging with no additional circuitry required.
EVIX-10 – This highly configurable evaluation board provides 10 ‘Solar Bits’ which can be individually set to series or parallel configuration with the other cells. In addition, several EVIX-10 boards can be connected together, also in either parallel or series. This allows users to customize the configuration precisely to a specific need. Changes to the configuration take only seconds and are made via simple jumpers.
EVIX-USB – As USB devices become more prevalent, the use of the USB connection to charge batteries while away from a computer increases in value. The EVIX-USB demonstrates how the innovative design of the ‘Solar Bit’ can be used to create a simple USB charger. By utilizing the IXYS ‘Solar Bit’ in this application users can develop products that substantially extend the usable time for USB charged products while away from a computer and utilizing the power of the sun rather than an AC power source.
EVIX-LED – With the advent of several emerging technologies we are now able to provide completely battery-less power sources for remote applications. The EVIX-LED demonstrates how the IXYS ‘Solar Bit’, combined with super-capacitor technology, can be used to provide a burst of energy for a short period with a rapid recharge time. This solution is completely off-grid and does not require a battery. In this case it powers a bright LED for over one full second and recharges in full sun in just a few minutes. Designers now have the capability of using the IXYS ‘Solar Bit’ to provide battery-less solar power sources for applications requiring an intermittent burst of energy.
EVXOB17-12X1 – This simple evaluation board connects 10 IXOLAR ‘Solar Bits’ in series for general experimentation and use in a small footprint, as a Solar Panel to charge batteries, for portable devices, like MP3 players, cell phones, PDA’s, test instruments, portable medical devices, etc.
These evaluation boards are available at www.ixyscolorado.com or directly from IXYS Colorado (Directed Energy) Tel. (970) 493-1901, Fax (970) 493-1903, Email sales@ixyscolorado.com, www.ixyscolorado.com or through your local authorized IXYS /IXYSRF sales representative or, or from IXYSRF, www.ixysrf.com .
Borrego Solar Systems Announces New Strategic Focus and Market Expansion
EL CAJON, Calif.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Borrego Solar Systems, Inc., a leading designer and installer of grid-tied solar electric power systems, today announced that the company will focus exclusively on its Commercial and Government Business Units, and expand its sales and installation operations to the Mid-Atlantic Region, beginning with the New York and New Jersey markets. In a related press release today, the company also announced the sale of its Residential Business Unit to groSolar of White River Junction, Vermont.
Effective immediately, Borrego will focus exclusively on commercial and government projects, which represented more than 75 percent of new revenue in 2008. Borrego finished 2008 with $60 million in revenue and more than $90 million in contracts, having completed some of the country’s largest projects in affordable housing, education and government. Moving forward, the company expects these markets to continue to outpace the residential market, allowing Borrego to have an even bigger impact on America’s conversion to clean and renewable solar power, and in creating “green collar” jobs in a number of regions around the country.
“For more than 25 years, we have been one of the premier designers and installers of residential solar projects, allowing families throughout California and Southern New England to benefit from low-cost, clean energy,” said Aaron Hall, President of Borrego Solar. “Our residential legacy combined with our recent commercial market success got us to where we are today—to a level of technical sophistication, service and scale that makes Borrego a natural fit for commercial and government customers. We believe that by focusing on those markets, we can have an accelerated impact on the economy and drive the next phase of U.S. solar adoption.”
The company also recently announced a $14 million round of venture financing which will allow Borrego to develop new, low-cost design and installation techniques for commercial and government customers. The financing will support Borrego’s expansion into new markets, like New York and New Jersey, giving it a much broader geographic reach.
Commercial and government customers in New York and New Jersey interested in a free solar system design consultation can contact Alex Sarly, director, Borrego Mid-Atlantic at asarly@borregosolar.com or (203) 240-0209 for more information.
Effective immediately, Borrego will focus exclusively on commercial and government projects, which represented more than 75 percent of new revenue in 2008. Borrego finished 2008 with $60 million in revenue and more than $90 million in contracts, having completed some of the country’s largest projects in affordable housing, education and government. Moving forward, the company expects these markets to continue to outpace the residential market, allowing Borrego to have an even bigger impact on America’s conversion to clean and renewable solar power, and in creating “green collar” jobs in a number of regions around the country.
“For more than 25 years, we have been one of the premier designers and installers of residential solar projects, allowing families throughout California and Southern New England to benefit from low-cost, clean energy,” said Aaron Hall, President of Borrego Solar. “Our residential legacy combined with our recent commercial market success got us to where we are today—to a level of technical sophistication, service and scale that makes Borrego a natural fit for commercial and government customers. We believe that by focusing on those markets, we can have an accelerated impact on the economy and drive the next phase of U.S. solar adoption.”
The company also recently announced a $14 million round of venture financing which will allow Borrego to develop new, low-cost design and installation techniques for commercial and government customers. The financing will support Borrego’s expansion into new markets, like New York and New Jersey, giving it a much broader geographic reach.
Commercial and government customers in New York and New Jersey interested in a free solar system design consultation can contact Alex Sarly, director, Borrego Mid-Atlantic at asarly@borregosolar.com or (203) 240-0209 for more information.
groSolar Acquires the Residential Solar Division of Borrego Solar Systems
WHITE RIVER JUNCTION, Vt. & EL CAJON, Calif.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Two of the nation’s leading solar power installers announced today that they have entered into an agreement for groSolar of White River Junction, Vt., to acquire the residential solar division of Borrego Solar Systems of El Cajon, Calif. Financial terms of the agreement were not disclosed. Borrego Solar residential division operates in California as well as Massachusetts.
As a result, groSolar will emerge as the fourth-largest residential solar power installer in the United States, while maintaining its national distribution and commercial operations as well. The firm, launched less than 10 years ago, will continue its rapid expansion and consolidation as the first truly North America-wide solar power company, with residential operations in nine states in addition to their commercial and distribution channels. NGP Energy Technology Partners and SJF Ventures, two of the premier energy technology private venture capital funds in the United States, have provided capital for groSolar through previous transactions.
With the purchase, the groSolar name will begin appearing at Borrego Solar’s residential locations in San Diego, Berkeley, Sonoma, Orange County, Silicon Valley, and Massachusetts.
In a related release, Borrego Solar today announced that the company will narrow its focus to its fast-growing Commercial and Government Divisions, while immediately expanding operations to New York and New Jersey. Commercial and Government projects comprised 75 percent of the company’s revenue in 2008. Borrego Solar, which recently announced a $14 million round of venture financing, will continue to maintain significant operations in New England and California. In addition to its corporate headquarters in El Cajon, Calif., the company currently operates regional offices in New England, the San Francisco Bay Area and New York.
groSolar officials expect the acquisition to benefit homeowners by making solar electric power even more affordable through groSolar’s advanced sales, marketing and installation capabilities . A homeowner can have a groSolar system installed in as little as two days—harnessing the sun’s power for electricity and / or hot water. Borrego will focus on the unique needs of commercial and government entities, designing and installing low-cost solar systems that can scale with organizations as they grow, while reducing the country’s dependence on non-renewable resources.
Jeff Wolfe, CEO of groSolar, said: “This is a great day for solar. Coupled with the new benefits in the Federal stimulus bill, groSolar is now poised to help with America’s energy independence and economic recovery, while making it simple, fast and affordable for customers to ‘go solar.’ We look forward to integrating the Borrego Solar residential division’s great reputation and quality into groSolar to benefit Californians.”
Wolfe added: “Dealers in groSolar’s existing distribution network will see immediate benefit, as we roll out additional best practices to serve our local installers, launch new programs to give homeowners easy access to solar power, and expand the largest distribution warehouse network in the industry and in California.”
“With the sale of our Residential Division to groSolar, we can better address growing demand within the commercial and government sectors while expanding geographically into new regional markets,” said Aaron Hall, Chairman and CEO of Borrego Solar. “Borrego was built on providing quality residential solar design and installation services for more than two decades, and we thank our customers and partners for their business and support during that time. groSolar has the same commitment to quality, excellence and service that earned us the trust of homeowners and partners throughout California and New England.”
groSolar has recently been on a rapid growth curve, with acquisitions of Energy Outfitters of Oregon in December 2006, and Chesapeake Solar of Maryland in July 2008. The same month, the company signed a $175 million, four-year purchase agreement with Evergreen Solar to assure supply of its photovoltaic solar panels. The company signed an exclusive North American distribution agreement in October 2008 with Motech Industries, a leading maker of inverters that turn electricity from photovoltaic solar panels into household electricity. groSolar also recently signed an exclusive distribution agreement for the PanelClaw flat roof solar mounting system.
groSolar has operations in 12 states as well as Canada – Vermont, New Jersey, New York, Connecticut, Massachusetts, Maryland, Delaware, Pennsylvania, Colorado, Oregon, Montana and California.
Jeff Wolfe appeared Dec. 11, 2008 on PBS-TV’s “This Old House,” showing how a Weston, Mass., couple quickly and affordably turned their modest 1970s-era house into a model for green technology. Before-and-after photos and how-tos may be seen at www.thisoldhouse.com. groSolar has also been featured on ABC-TV’s “Extreme Makeover: Home Edition.” Among its many large-scale projects was the recent installation of solar hot water heaters at Fenway Park, the Boston Red Sox ballpark.
Wolfe serves as chairman of the PV Division for the Solar Energy Industries Association, the leading solar energy trade group.
Borrego Solar finished 2008 with $60 million in revenue and more than $90 million in contracts, making it one of the country’s fastest growing solar companies. The company was the eleventh fastest growing private energy company according to Inc Magazine and #261 overall. Borrego has installed major systems on schools, affordable housing communities, grocery and retail businesses, and town and municipal facilities through California and New England.
Solar energy can be one of the best home improvement investments you make. Surveys have shown that for every $1,000 saved per year, $20,000 is added to a home\'s value. Typical systems take two to five days to install, and the panels are guaranteed for 25 years.
As a result, groSolar will emerge as the fourth-largest residential solar power installer in the United States, while maintaining its national distribution and commercial operations as well. The firm, launched less than 10 years ago, will continue its rapid expansion and consolidation as the first truly North America-wide solar power company, with residential operations in nine states in addition to their commercial and distribution channels. NGP Energy Technology Partners and SJF Ventures, two of the premier energy technology private venture capital funds in the United States, have provided capital for groSolar through previous transactions.
With the purchase, the groSolar name will begin appearing at Borrego Solar’s residential locations in San Diego, Berkeley, Sonoma, Orange County, Silicon Valley, and Massachusetts.
In a related release, Borrego Solar today announced that the company will narrow its focus to its fast-growing Commercial and Government Divisions, while immediately expanding operations to New York and New Jersey. Commercial and Government projects comprised 75 percent of the company’s revenue in 2008. Borrego Solar, which recently announced a $14 million round of venture financing, will continue to maintain significant operations in New England and California. In addition to its corporate headquarters in El Cajon, Calif., the company currently operates regional offices in New England, the San Francisco Bay Area and New York.
groSolar officials expect the acquisition to benefit homeowners by making solar electric power even more affordable through groSolar’s advanced sales, marketing and installation capabilities . A homeowner can have a groSolar system installed in as little as two days—harnessing the sun’s power for electricity and / or hot water. Borrego will focus on the unique needs of commercial and government entities, designing and installing low-cost solar systems that can scale with organizations as they grow, while reducing the country’s dependence on non-renewable resources.
Jeff Wolfe, CEO of groSolar, said: “This is a great day for solar. Coupled with the new benefits in the Federal stimulus bill, groSolar is now poised to help with America’s energy independence and economic recovery, while making it simple, fast and affordable for customers to ‘go solar.’ We look forward to integrating the Borrego Solar residential division’s great reputation and quality into groSolar to benefit Californians.”
Wolfe added: “Dealers in groSolar’s existing distribution network will see immediate benefit, as we roll out additional best practices to serve our local installers, launch new programs to give homeowners easy access to solar power, and expand the largest distribution warehouse network in the industry and in California.”
“With the sale of our Residential Division to groSolar, we can better address growing demand within the commercial and government sectors while expanding geographically into new regional markets,” said Aaron Hall, Chairman and CEO of Borrego Solar. “Borrego was built on providing quality residential solar design and installation services for more than two decades, and we thank our customers and partners for their business and support during that time. groSolar has the same commitment to quality, excellence and service that earned us the trust of homeowners and partners throughout California and New England.”
groSolar has recently been on a rapid growth curve, with acquisitions of Energy Outfitters of Oregon in December 2006, and Chesapeake Solar of Maryland in July 2008. The same month, the company signed a $175 million, four-year purchase agreement with Evergreen Solar to assure supply of its photovoltaic solar panels. The company signed an exclusive North American distribution agreement in October 2008 with Motech Industries, a leading maker of inverters that turn electricity from photovoltaic solar panels into household electricity. groSolar also recently signed an exclusive distribution agreement for the PanelClaw flat roof solar mounting system.
groSolar has operations in 12 states as well as Canada – Vermont, New Jersey, New York, Connecticut, Massachusetts, Maryland, Delaware, Pennsylvania, Colorado, Oregon, Montana and California.
Jeff Wolfe appeared Dec. 11, 2008 on PBS-TV’s “This Old House,” showing how a Weston, Mass., couple quickly and affordably turned their modest 1970s-era house into a model for green technology. Before-and-after photos and how-tos may be seen at www.thisoldhouse.com. groSolar has also been featured on ABC-TV’s “Extreme Makeover: Home Edition.” Among its many large-scale projects was the recent installation of solar hot water heaters at Fenway Park, the Boston Red Sox ballpark.
Wolfe serves as chairman of the PV Division for the Solar Energy Industries Association, the leading solar energy trade group.
Borrego Solar finished 2008 with $60 million in revenue and more than $90 million in contracts, making it one of the country’s fastest growing solar companies. The company was the eleventh fastest growing private energy company according to Inc Magazine and #261 overall. Borrego has installed major systems on schools, affordable housing communities, grocery and retail businesses, and town and municipal facilities through California and New England.
Solar energy can be one of the best home improvement investments you make. Surveys have shown that for every $1,000 saved per year, $20,000 is added to a home\'s value. Typical systems take two to five days to install, and the panels are guaranteed for 25 years.
Solar Energy Advocates Laud Berkeley Lab Study on Successful State PV Programs
SAN FRANCISCO--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Solar advocates announced that Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory (Berkeley Lab) released a study today indicating that the installed cost of solar photovoltaic systems in the U.S. decreased nearly 28 percent between 1998 and 2007. Tracking the Sun, attributes the cost reduction in large part to effective state solar incentive programs, most notably in California and New Jersey. Advocates from the Vote Solar Initiative, the Solar Alliance and the Solar Energy Industries Association (SEIA) lauded the findings as evidence that effective renewable energy policy can advance a strong solar market in the U.S.
“Our findings suggest that well-designed state programs can lower solar energy costs by driving economies of scale and fostering competition," said Ryan Wiser, staff scientist at Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory and co-author of the report. “Most notably, the two largest PV markets in the U.S. – California and New Jersey – have among the lowest average installed solar costs, supporting the premise that policies that accelerate deployment can have a direct, positive impact on the market price of solar."
Clean, abundant energy from the sun creates more jobs per megawatt than any other energy technology. In order to harness the economic and environmental benefits of this largely untapped energy opportunity, solar production and distribution need to be scaled up in order to bring costs down. Vote Solar, the Solar Alliance and SEIA work to advance energy policies that jump-start robust, self-sustaining solar markets in the United States.
“Solar will be big when it is cheap. This report demonstrates that local market development plays a key role in bringing solar costs down,” said Adam Browning, executive director of Vote Solar. “Competitive markets make for quality installers and service providers, which then lead to lower costs and more demand for solar: a virtuous circle.”
“Solid proof of a maturing, lower-cost solar market is welcome news,” said Carrie Cullen Hitt, president of the Solar Alliance. “Good policies such as net metering and easy interconnection, combined with meaningful incentives that decline over time, drive demand and ultimately benefit all consumers.”
“The explosive growth of the solar energy sector in the U.S. over the past three years clearly demonstrates that it is an economic engine, creating tens of thousands of jobs,” said Rhone Resch, president & CEO of the Solar Energy Industries Association. “With the right policies and continued price reductions, solar is poised to lead our economic recovery and contribute significantly to our nation’s energy supply.”
The report found that the most significant price reductions were achieved in non-module factors such as labor, permitting and balance of systems, which typically account for half of the total installed system cost. Whereas module pricing is almost entirely dictated by global market forces, non-module pricing may be more readily affected by state and local policies. As a result, Tracking the Sun suggests that strong state deployment programs have played an important role in driving down solar costs, by cultivating healthy competition among suppliers and service providers and prompting new supply chain efficiencies.
Tracking the Sun is based on an analysis of nearly 37,000 residential and non-residential PV systems. These systems total 363 megawatts (MW) or 76 percent of all grid-connected PV capacity installed in the U.S. by 2007, making the report the most comprehensive source of PV installed cost data in the United States. With the country’s largest PV market, California accounted for 83 percent of the data sample by installed capacity. Find more information and the full text of Tracking the Sun by visiting: http://eetd.lbl.gov/ea/emp/reports/lbnl-1516e.pdf
“Our findings suggest that well-designed state programs can lower solar energy costs by driving economies of scale and fostering competition," said Ryan Wiser, staff scientist at Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory and co-author of the report. “Most notably, the two largest PV markets in the U.S. – California and New Jersey – have among the lowest average installed solar costs, supporting the premise that policies that accelerate deployment can have a direct, positive impact on the market price of solar."
Clean, abundant energy from the sun creates more jobs per megawatt than any other energy technology. In order to harness the economic and environmental benefits of this largely untapped energy opportunity, solar production and distribution need to be scaled up in order to bring costs down. Vote Solar, the Solar Alliance and SEIA work to advance energy policies that jump-start robust, self-sustaining solar markets in the United States.
“Solar will be big when it is cheap. This report demonstrates that local market development plays a key role in bringing solar costs down,” said Adam Browning, executive director of Vote Solar. “Competitive markets make for quality installers and service providers, which then lead to lower costs and more demand for solar: a virtuous circle.”
“Solid proof of a maturing, lower-cost solar market is welcome news,” said Carrie Cullen Hitt, president of the Solar Alliance. “Good policies such as net metering and easy interconnection, combined with meaningful incentives that decline over time, drive demand and ultimately benefit all consumers.”
“The explosive growth of the solar energy sector in the U.S. over the past three years clearly demonstrates that it is an economic engine, creating tens of thousands of jobs,” said Rhone Resch, president & CEO of the Solar Energy Industries Association. “With the right policies and continued price reductions, solar is poised to lead our economic recovery and contribute significantly to our nation’s energy supply.”
The report found that the most significant price reductions were achieved in non-module factors such as labor, permitting and balance of systems, which typically account for half of the total installed system cost. Whereas module pricing is almost entirely dictated by global market forces, non-module pricing may be more readily affected by state and local policies. As a result, Tracking the Sun suggests that strong state deployment programs have played an important role in driving down solar costs, by cultivating healthy competition among suppliers and service providers and prompting new supply chain efficiencies.
Tracking the Sun is based on an analysis of nearly 37,000 residential and non-residential PV systems. These systems total 363 megawatts (MW) or 76 percent of all grid-connected PV capacity installed in the U.S. by 2007, making the report the most comprehensive source of PV installed cost data in the United States. With the country’s largest PV market, California accounted for 83 percent of the data sample by installed capacity. Find more information and the full text of Tracking the Sun by visiting: http://eetd.lbl.gov/ea/emp/reports/lbnl-1516e.pdf
Wednesday, February 18, 2009
T-Solar Launches Volume Production of World’s Largest Solar Panels on Applied Materials’ SunFab Thin Film Line
ORENSE, Spain--(BUSINESS WIRE)--T-Solar Global S.A. announced today that it has begun volume production of the world’s largest solar photovoltaic (PV) modules using a SunFab™ Thin Film Line supplied by Applied Materials, Inc. The solar panels, sized at 5.7m2, are ideally suited for large scale solar farm applications where installation costs can be reduced by about 20% over smaller scale panels. The SunFab line and modules produced by T-Solar have been awarded Intercert Certification, verifying achievement of all manufacturing, module efficiency and yield specifications.
“Our fully certified, higher-value solar panels will provide us with a significant opportunity to serve the expanding European market for large commercial buildings and solar farm applications,” said Juan Laso, general manager of T-Solar and president of the Photovoltaic Enterprise Association (AEF). “We’ve invested in what we believe is the best technology and equipment to manufacture solar panels that will allow us to continuously drive down the cost of solar energy generation.”
T-Solar is expected to annually produce 700,000m2 of PV panels with the potential to generate up to 45 megawatts equivalent module production per year with the SunFab line. T-Solar plans to eventually expand the line by 40% and expects to gain further production efficiencies and reduced material costs.
T-Solar and Applied Materials have also entered into a multiyear service agreement that guarantees fixed maintenance costs and is aimed at driving constant improvement in line output. The SunFab Performance Service™ program is designed to foster a strong, long-term alliance between the companies, who are both committed to continuously improving factory uptime, product quality and yield.
“We are pleased to be able to work with T-Solar to enable their success,” said Dr. Randhir Thakur, senior vice president and general manager, SunFab Thin Film Solar and Display Business Group at Applied Materials. “Our collaborative work on this line is yet another step toward unleashing the power of thin film PV technology to dramatically reduce the cost of solar energy.”
T-Solar’s SunFab line will also receive ISO 9000, ISO 14000 and EMAS certification for quality management and environmental production management, and meets OSHA’s European safety and health standards. In addition, T-Solar is a member of PV Cycle, the European association committed to PV waste management and recycling.
“Our fully certified, higher-value solar panels will provide us with a significant opportunity to serve the expanding European market for large commercial buildings and solar farm applications,” said Juan Laso, general manager of T-Solar and president of the Photovoltaic Enterprise Association (AEF). “We’ve invested in what we believe is the best technology and equipment to manufacture solar panels that will allow us to continuously drive down the cost of solar energy generation.”
T-Solar is expected to annually produce 700,000m2 of PV panels with the potential to generate up to 45 megawatts equivalent module production per year with the SunFab line. T-Solar plans to eventually expand the line by 40% and expects to gain further production efficiencies and reduced material costs.
T-Solar and Applied Materials have also entered into a multiyear service agreement that guarantees fixed maintenance costs and is aimed at driving constant improvement in line output. The SunFab Performance Service™ program is designed to foster a strong, long-term alliance between the companies, who are both committed to continuously improving factory uptime, product quality and yield.
“We are pleased to be able to work with T-Solar to enable their success,” said Dr. Randhir Thakur, senior vice president and general manager, SunFab Thin Film Solar and Display Business Group at Applied Materials. “Our collaborative work on this line is yet another step toward unleashing the power of thin film PV technology to dramatically reduce the cost of solar energy.”
T-Solar’s SunFab line will also receive ISO 9000, ISO 14000 and EMAS certification for quality management and environmental production management, and meets OSHA’s European safety and health standards. In addition, T-Solar is a member of PV Cycle, the European association committed to PV waste management and recycling.
J. Lohr Vineyards & Wines Unveils Wine Industry's Largest Solar Energy Tracking System
PASO ROBLES, Calif.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--J. Lohr Vineyards & Wines today unveils the largest solar tracking array in the wine industry, a 3-acre, state-of-the-art, 756 kilowatt solar photovoltaic (PV) single-axis tracking system designed to offset 75% of the winery’s energy usage at its Paso Robles operations. This new, ground-mounted installation is comprised of 4,320 PV modules that track the sun from east to west on a daily basis to optimize production of solar-generated electricity. The landmark system was designed and installed by Conergy, which is involved in 1 in 10 of the world’s solar photovoltaic projects.The unveiling of this new solar array takes place today in an intimate event held at J. Lohr’s winery and vineyards in Paso Robles. It is a noteworthy step in the company’s program of sustainable winegrowing and winemaking practices. These practices include utilization of organic soil amendments, limited use of chemicals, erosion control, water conservation, extensive pomace composting and materials recycling.
"J. Lohr has an impressive track record of environmental responsibility, and by both adopting sustainable practices and being willing to share its experience with others, is helping to expand the California wine industry\'s widespread sustainability movement," said Allison Jordan, executive director for CSWA, the California Sustainable Winegrowing Alliance.
J. Lohr will now be operating the largest solar PV tracking array by a winery in North America. As a result of this installation, the energy generated from J. Lohr’s system will reduce CO2 emissions by 29,887 tons over 25 years. In practical terms, this is equivalent to planting 512 acres of trees (which sequester carbon from our air), or eliminating the air pollution that comes from driving 97 million road miles.
“With numerous sunny days, Paso Robles isn’t just ideal for producing rich and flavorful Bordeaux and Rhône-style wines,” said Steve Lohr, senior vice president of planning and development with J. Lohr, “it is also perfect for producing clean, renewable energy. Owning our own solar tracking array is another important step in our commitment to environmentally-conscious practices. In our own way, we are working to protect the very climate that nurtures our grapes, while contributing to efforts that reduce the need for drilling off our spectacular coast.”
With a groundswell of consumer support for sustainable solutions that promote energy independence amidst escalating energy prices, the case for renewable energy has never been more compelling.
“With a strong, credible voice among industry professionals and a powerful commitment to environmental stewardship, J. Lohr recognized the importance of setting an example for the wine industry, for other energy-intensive businesses, and the public at large,” said Conergy Product Developer Michael DeSousa. “By investing in this bellwether system, J. Lohr becomes more energy independent and will enjoy more predictable energy costs for decades to come,” DeSousa added.
Founded more than three decades ago by Jerry Lohr, J. Lohr Vineyards & Wines crafts a full line of internationally-recognized wines from its 3,000 acres of estate vineyards in Paso Robles, Monterey County, and the Napa Valley. Offering an expressive range of styles, J. Lohr produces three tiers of signature wines showcasing its estate grapes – J. Lohr Estates, J. Lohr Vineyard Series and J. Lohr Cuvée Series. J. Lohr also produces an array of flavorful wines under its Cypress Vineyards, ARIEL (non-alcoholic) and Painter Bridge labels.
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