With the sun setting before 5 p.m., solar power may be the last thing on your mind these days.
But declining panel prices, a federal tax credit and a state rebate all make now a good time to at least investigate whether solar power might make sense for your home — and your budget.
"If you're thinking that you'd like to go solar within the next few years, right now is the time to do it," said Lynn Jurich, president and co-founder of SunRun, a San Francisco-based startup that provides solar financing for consumers who can't afford the upfront costs of buying their own solar systems. "Panels are on sale right now. There's a sweet spot where the state rebates are still relatively high, but the costs have come down."
And winter is a good season to research solar options, experts say. It's generally a slower time for the industry, which means companies may be willing to give you a better deal.
If you're thinking about going solar, here's a checklist of things to think about:
1. Take a good, hard look at your electricity usage over the past year or several months. You probably know how much you pay for electricity every month and have records of the checks or bills paid to PG&E or your municipal utility. But do you know how much electricity you actually use? Electricity is charged by the kilowatt-hour (kWh). Some people use as little as 300 kWh per month; others easily use more than 1,200 kWh a month.
In general, solar is a much better investment for people who use a lot of electricity. And PG&E has a tiered rate structure, so customers who use more electricity are charged more.
Understand how you use electricity," said Sue Kateley, executive director of CALSEIA, the California Solar Energy Industries Association. "Get out your bill and look at the tiered rates. If you don't use a lot of electricity — if you are a Tier One or Tier Two customer — then you really need to do a cost analysis to see if solar is cost-effective."
2. Take a look at the roof of your house. How old is your roof, and what kind of shape is it in? If your roof is due to be replaced, you'll want to do that before, or along with, adding solar.
And is your roof ideally situated for solar? Does it face south? "Shading" is also an issue: your roof should have clear, unobstructed access to the sun for most of the day and be free from shade from trees or other buildings.
3. Shop around. Ask friends and neighbors who have already installed solar power if they've been happy with their systems. Learn about financing options: Do you have to have the money for the entire system upfront, or does your installer offer a leasing option?
Interview at least three potential installers and obtain bids in writing before making a decision. Whatever the salesperson tells you should be in writing in the contract.... Read the rest
Copyright 2009 Mercury News
Monday, November 30, 2009
St. Charles, Maryland to Become International Model Green City
ST. CHARLES, Md., Nov. 30 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- American Community Properties Trust (ACPT) (NYSE Amex: APO) launched an initiative today that will make St. Charles, Maryland, its flagship 9,100 acre planned community in Charles County, the most comprehensive smart green community development project in the United States today. The project includes 4,000 undeveloped acres in the planned community, as well as retrofitting more than 12,000 existing homes and four million square feet of existing commercial space in St. Charles.
"Our vision is to make St. Charles the international model for 21st century smart green and growing communities," said Steve Griessel, CEO of the Maryland-based land development and property management company. "The transformational effect that will occur from our efforts will double St. Charles in size but actually lower today's carbon footprint and water usage for the community. This transformation will enable 40 percent of Charles County's population to live on approximately 2 percent of its land mass, making St. Charles truly a smart, green, and growing community," said Griessel.
Maryland Governor Martin O'Malley attended the launch event. "In Maryland, we are focused on New Ideas for New Jobs - connecting the challenges and opportunities of a workforce that leads in science, security and skills. Our goal is for St. Charles to serve as a model of a 21st century city - a green, healthy city that also has a viable, thriving economy, and a city that truly embodies the deep connection between healing our planet and creating a strong economy and good-paying jobs for generations of Marylanders to come," said Governor O'Malley. "It is an honor to be here today in the great city of St. Charles, with ACPT, to announce the creation of a Green City. As part of the innovative Green City initiative, St. Charles will represent a model for cities around the world, making vital connections between the creation of new jobs and a thriving economy, and the health of our planet."
Griessel outlined a plan that will include:
To make the project a reality, Mr. Griessel announced memorandums of understanding that ACPT has with the Charles County Government, SMECO, the College of Southern Maryland, and local and national businesses. Mr. Griessel announced several initiatives that will be taking place as the "green city" project gets underway, including:
"This is a great start, but there is so much more we will be doing," said Griessel. "With SMECO, we are testing LED lighting technology in our new community, Gleneagles. With the College of Southern Maryland, we will be working jointly to promote the Science, Technology, Engineering and Math (STEM) program. Charles County Public Schools is going to build a LEED certified high school on 98 acres we have donated. The Southern Maryland Agricultural Development Commission is helping us bring farmers markets, community gardens, and agricultural education programs to the green city. And we will be leading this effort in our future headquarters, which is going to be a LEED gold interior certified building," said Griessel.
For additional information, please visit www.stcharlesgreen.com
"Our vision is to make St. Charles the international model for 21st century smart green and growing communities," said Steve Griessel, CEO of the Maryland-based land development and property management company. "The transformational effect that will occur from our efforts will double St. Charles in size but actually lower today's carbon footprint and water usage for the community. This transformation will enable 40 percent of Charles County's population to live on approximately 2 percent of its land mass, making St. Charles truly a smart, green, and growing community," said Griessel.
Maryland Governor Martin O'Malley attended the launch event. "In Maryland, we are focused on New Ideas for New Jobs - connecting the challenges and opportunities of a workforce that leads in science, security and skills. Our goal is for St. Charles to serve as a model of a 21st century city - a green, healthy city that also has a viable, thriving economy, and a city that truly embodies the deep connection between healing our planet and creating a strong economy and good-paying jobs for generations of Marylanders to come," said Governor O'Malley. "It is an honor to be here today in the great city of St. Charles, with ACPT, to announce the creation of a Green City. As part of the innovative Green City initiative, St. Charles will represent a model for cities around the world, making vital connections between the creation of new jobs and a thriving economy, and the health of our planet."
Griessel outlined a plan that will include:
- Dedicating the balance of 4,000 acres of fully entitled land zoned for 11,000 new homes and over 5 million square feet of commercial, schools and community centers to be a smart green and growing community.
- Undertaking a massive retrofitting program for the existing businesses and nearly 40,000 residents to enhance energy and water efficiency.
- Creating 20,000 jobs through a Green Jobs Opportunity Zone, including 1,000 new jobs in the next 3 years towards of Maryland's goal to create 100,000 green jobs statewide .
- Designing and building desirable, quality homes, apartments and commercial buildings that cost less and perform better.
- Making St. Charles an international living laboratory for new technologies, products and services and sharing the results of programs with the world.
- Working with universities and colleges to create a green campus, research and development park, and incubator.
- Building the largest combination of clean energy infrastructure in the United States, including a 640 megawatt natural gas powered power plant, a 75-acre solar farm generating 10 megawatts, geothermal well fields for heating and cooling buildings, and a biomass gasification technology plant potentially incorporating methane from the Charles County landfill to produce additional renewable electricity.
To make the project a reality, Mr. Griessel announced memorandums of understanding that ACPT has with the Charles County Government, SMECO, the College of Southern Maryland, and local and national businesses. Mr. Griessel announced several initiatives that will be taking place as the "green city" project gets underway, including:
- Competitive Power Ventures (CPV), a Maryland based firm, has agreed to purchase land to construct a 75-acre 10-megawatt solar farm in St. Charles, the largest in the mid-Atlantic region.
- With IBM, ACPT will be seeking to create a common technology platform for the entire community that enables greater productivity, higher rates of conservation, improved public safety, and creates a greater sense of community.
- ACPT will develop its next neighborhood, a 625-mixed-unit community called Homefield, according to LEED standards for neighborhood design, and all homes, townhomes and apartments in the neighborhood will be built to LEED specifications as well. (LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) is a rating system for green building and development designed by the United States Green Building Council (USGBC).
- The Southern Maryland Electric Cooperative (SMECO) has requested Maryland Public Service Commission approval to install and test 1,000 smart meters at existing homes and businesses in St. Charles. In addition, SMECO and St. Charles have begun installing programmable thermostats, part of what it calls its Cool Sentry program, at up to 2,500 apartments in St. Charles. The program helps the electricity company manage energy loads during peak demand periods in the summer. ACPT and SMECO have agreed to work jointly to market these and other energy saving programs to homes, businesses, and homebuilders in St. Charles.
- ACPT will donate 98 acres in St. Charles to the Charles County Public Schools, for use for the county's next high school. The school will be a LEED certified building.
- ACPT will develop a summer farmer's market and other programs in conjunction with the Southern Maryland Agricultural Development Commission.
"This is a great start, but there is so much more we will be doing," said Griessel. "With SMECO, we are testing LED lighting technology in our new community, Gleneagles. With the College of Southern Maryland, we will be working jointly to promote the Science, Technology, Engineering and Math (STEM) program. Charles County Public Schools is going to build a LEED certified high school on 98 acres we have donated. The Southern Maryland Agricultural Development Commission is helping us bring farmers markets, community gardens, and agricultural education programs to the green city. And we will be leading this effort in our future headquarters, which is going to be a LEED gold interior certified building," said Griessel.
For additional information, please visit www.stcharlesgreen.com
CPV REC Announces Maryland's Largest Solar Farm in Conjunction with ACPT Planned Green Community
SILVER SPRING, Md., Nov. 30 /PRNewswire/ -- CPV Renewable Energy Company (CPV REC) today announced plans for a 10 megawatt (MW) solar farm in southern Maryland to be co-located with the proposed natural gas combined-cycle CPV St. Charles Energy Center. The announcement was made today as part of American Community Properties Trust (ACPT) 9,100 acre planned "Model Green City" in Charles County.
Named the CPV Piney Reach Solar Farm, the planned facility will begin permitting immediately and is expected to be in service by 2012. The solar farm will employ arrays of photovoltaic panels to turn sunlight directly into clean electricity. The project is the largest of its kind announced in the state.
Co-locating the solar farm with a natural gas generator represents a new "hybrid" approach to electricity generation being developed by CPV. This approach marries the environmental attributes of renewable electricity production with the controlability and low emissions rates of natural gas generation to yield clean, low-emission electricity that is available whenever the public demands.
"We are extremely excited to be bringing this solar project to the people of Maryland in conjunction with our CPV St. Charles Energy Center," said Competitive Power Ventures Chairman and CEO Doug Egan. "We believe this combination of renewable generation with natural gas generation will be the wave of the future and Maryland is on the cutting edge."
The project will also start Maryland on its way toward achieving its aggressive renewable portfolio standard goal of installing 1,500 megawatts of solar by 2022.
CPV REC is currently developing several major solar projects nationwide and has more than 5,000 MW of wind projects under development. 1,000 MWs of these projects are currently in negotiations for their output and are expected to be online by 2012.
For more information about the project and CPV please go to www.cpv.com.
Named the CPV Piney Reach Solar Farm, the planned facility will begin permitting immediately and is expected to be in service by 2012. The solar farm will employ arrays of photovoltaic panels to turn sunlight directly into clean electricity. The project is the largest of its kind announced in the state.
Co-locating the solar farm with a natural gas generator represents a new "hybrid" approach to electricity generation being developed by CPV. This approach marries the environmental attributes of renewable electricity production with the controlability and low emissions rates of natural gas generation to yield clean, low-emission electricity that is available whenever the public demands.
"We are extremely excited to be bringing this solar project to the people of Maryland in conjunction with our CPV St. Charles Energy Center," said Competitive Power Ventures Chairman and CEO Doug Egan. "We believe this combination of renewable generation with natural gas generation will be the wave of the future and Maryland is on the cutting edge."
The project will also start Maryland on its way toward achieving its aggressive renewable portfolio standard goal of installing 1,500 megawatts of solar by 2022.
CPV REC is currently developing several major solar projects nationwide and has more than 5,000 MW of wind projects under development. 1,000 MWs of these projects are currently in negotiations for their output and are expected to be online by 2012.
For more information about the project and CPV please go to www.cpv.com.
Major Solar Project in Philadelphia Navy Yard to Create 400 Jobs
PHILADELPHIA, Nov. 30 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- Governor Edward G. Rendell announced today that one of the world's most competitive and innovative thin-film solar panel producers will open a manufacturing facility in Philadelphia's Navy Yard, creating 400 jobs and leveraging hundreds of millions of dollars of private investment.
The Governor said the planned project by Heliosphera US represents an exciting development for Pennsylvania's green economy that will bolster the state and city's reputation as an emerging leader in solar technology and development.
"This was a very competitive project and Heliosphera's decision to locate this exciting facility at the Navy Yard speaks volumes about Pennsylvania's efforts to build a competitive economic climate and one that encourages growth and innovation in the renewable energy field that will define our future," said Governor Rendell.
"This project means a great deal for the city and the state, not only in terms of jobs and the sizeable investment the company is making here, but also in strengthening our state's presence in the solar energy industry. Solar is the fastest growing source of electric generation in the world. With this and other solar projects underway across the state, we're making a statement that we intend to be a leader in that growth."
Pennsylvania provided the company with a $49 million funding offer, coordinated through the Governor's Action Team, consisting of a variety of grants and loans.
Under Governor Rendell, Pennsylvania has been a leading state in advancing renewable energy technologies.
There are more than 1,300 solar projects underway in Pennsylvania today that, once completed, will bring the state's total solar capacity to nearly 60 megawatts, or enough to power 7,200 homes. That level of expected growth represents a fifteen fold increase in the amount of solar energy produced in the state in only a couple of years and will make Pennsylvania one of the top five states for solar production by 2010.
Pennsylvania is also one of the fastest growing states for wind power, ranking second nationally in wind power growth in the second and third quarters of 2009. By the end of 2009, Pennsylvania will have 17 operating wind farms providing 800 megawatts of electricity; enough to power 270,000 homes.
The Governor noted that Philadelphia is gaining a reputation as an emerging leader in solar technology and development. Earlier this year, the U.S. Department of Energy designated Philadelphia as a "Solar America City." Last summer, the nation's leading solar industry group, the Solar Energy Industries Association, chose Philadelphia as the site of its first "PV America" conference, which attracted corporate executives, energy leaders, small business owners and entrepreneurs from across the nation.
Governor Rendell said that Pennsylvania could attract even more renewable energy projects by expanding the state's alternative energy portfolio standards, which was first enacted in 2004 and led to the state's rapid growth in the industry. He urged the legislators to pass House Bill 80, which among other things would increase the share of energy electric companies must obtain from solar photovoltaic sources to 3 percent by 2026. The requirement is now 0.5 percent by 2020.
Heliopsphera Holding SA, an affiliate company of Heliosphera US, recently began operating its new 60 megawatt production facility in Peloponnesus, Greece. Production in that plant began in September 2009.
"Heliosphera US is pleased to announce the development of its new solar panel manufacturing facility in Pennsylvania. This investment will allow the company to address what we believe will be the largest solar market in the world. We would like to thank Governor Rendell and the commonwealth for their strong support in developing this project," said Dr. Panos Ninios, president of Heliosphera US.
Since Governor Rendell took office in 2003, the Governor's Action Team has successfully completed 1,190 projects, resulting in commitments to create 126,200 new jobs and retain 298,400 existing positions. The state has offered more than $2 billion in assistance for these projects, which will leverage more than $16 billion in additional investment.
For information on the Governor's Action Team, visit www.NewPA.com or call 1-866-466-3972.
The Governor said the planned project by Heliosphera US represents an exciting development for Pennsylvania's green economy that will bolster the state and city's reputation as an emerging leader in solar technology and development.
"This was a very competitive project and Heliosphera's decision to locate this exciting facility at the Navy Yard speaks volumes about Pennsylvania's efforts to build a competitive economic climate and one that encourages growth and innovation in the renewable energy field that will define our future," said Governor Rendell.
"This project means a great deal for the city and the state, not only in terms of jobs and the sizeable investment the company is making here, but also in strengthening our state's presence in the solar energy industry. Solar is the fastest growing source of electric generation in the world. With this and other solar projects underway across the state, we're making a statement that we intend to be a leader in that growth."
Pennsylvania provided the company with a $49 million funding offer, coordinated through the Governor's Action Team, consisting of a variety of grants and loans.
Under Governor Rendell, Pennsylvania has been a leading state in advancing renewable energy technologies.
There are more than 1,300 solar projects underway in Pennsylvania today that, once completed, will bring the state's total solar capacity to nearly 60 megawatts, or enough to power 7,200 homes. That level of expected growth represents a fifteen fold increase in the amount of solar energy produced in the state in only a couple of years and will make Pennsylvania one of the top five states for solar production by 2010.
Pennsylvania is also one of the fastest growing states for wind power, ranking second nationally in wind power growth in the second and third quarters of 2009. By the end of 2009, Pennsylvania will have 17 operating wind farms providing 800 megawatts of electricity; enough to power 270,000 homes.
The Governor noted that Philadelphia is gaining a reputation as an emerging leader in solar technology and development. Earlier this year, the U.S. Department of Energy designated Philadelphia as a "Solar America City." Last summer, the nation's leading solar industry group, the Solar Energy Industries Association, chose Philadelphia as the site of its first "PV America" conference, which attracted corporate executives, energy leaders, small business owners and entrepreneurs from across the nation.
Governor Rendell said that Pennsylvania could attract even more renewable energy projects by expanding the state's alternative energy portfolio standards, which was first enacted in 2004 and led to the state's rapid growth in the industry. He urged the legislators to pass House Bill 80, which among other things would increase the share of energy electric companies must obtain from solar photovoltaic sources to 3 percent by 2026. The requirement is now 0.5 percent by 2020.
Heliopsphera Holding SA, an affiliate company of Heliosphera US, recently began operating its new 60 megawatt production facility in Peloponnesus, Greece. Production in that plant began in September 2009.
"Heliosphera US is pleased to announce the development of its new solar panel manufacturing facility in Pennsylvania. This investment will allow the company to address what we believe will be the largest solar market in the world. We would like to thank Governor Rendell and the commonwealth for their strong support in developing this project," said Dr. Panos Ninios, president of Heliosphera US.
Since Governor Rendell took office in 2003, the Governor's Action Team has successfully completed 1,190 projects, resulting in commitments to create 126,200 new jobs and retain 298,400 existing positions. The state has offered more than $2 billion in assistance for these projects, which will leverage more than $16 billion in additional investment.
For information on the Governor's Action Team, visit www.NewPA.com or call 1-866-466-3972.
SpeedInfo Earns Patent for Breakthrough Solar-Powered Doppler Radar Sensor Technolog
SAN JOSE, Calif.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--SpeedInfo, a leading innovator of real-time traffic data network technology, announced today that it has received a U.S. patent for its market-leading innovations in developing solar-powered Doppler radar sensors, and the systems to process and share the information, in near real-time.
More than 950 SpeedInfo sensors have been deployed to date by over 10 state departments of transportation and municipal planning organizations, covering 2,000 miles of roadway. These organizations typically incorporate SpeedInfo sensors into their comprehensive area traffic management systems. Sensors are typically attached to interstate or arterial light or signage poles, but can be installed on almost any available infrastructure.
SpeedInfo sensors measure vehicles on both sides of the highway from a single device, sampling data to conserve power, and relay data via GPRS wireless enabling the sensors to operate with very modest energy needs supplied entirely by batteries and very small solar panels. This low profile and lightweight design approach minimizes wind loading and enables transportation agencies to utilize existing infrastructure, dramatically reducing costs, complexities and time to coverage.
“Awarding this patent recognizes the breakthrough SpeedInfo has developed in traffic management technology. In addition to providing a “green” solution, our sensor and server technologies enable our customers to provide accurate travel times and real-time road speeds using the lowest cost option for high quality, verifiable and directly measured traffic speed data. Because of this recognized innovation, our customers deliver better information to travelers while improving their financial efficiency , flexibility and road safety,” said Charlie Armiger, SpeedInfo’s Vice President of Program Development. “High quality information helps to minimize congestion around construction areas, at bottlenecks, such as bridges and tunnels, and during peak travel times. Less congestion translates to less energy consumed and pollution emitted by vehicles, not to mention less stress and strain on travelers.”
How SpeedInfo’s Technology Works
SpeedInfo’s Doppler radar sensors are located approximately every mile and collect traffic speed information continuously. Sensors forward data to the SpeedInfo Traffic Data Server via the AT&T™ Wireless data network with virtually no latency. SpeedInfo servers format the data for delivery to customers via the Internet. The data is available from SpeedInfo servers in a standard XML format, or if required, specialized formats. Unlike other solutions that are expensive, difficult to deploy and provide inaccurate data, SpeedInfo’s sensors install easily on existing infrastructure. Highway crews can cover as many as 15 miles of highway a day with no lane closures or disruptions to traffic.
ADB Airfield Solutions and Carmanah to Provide Solar LED Airfield Lighting Technology
COLUMBUS, Ohio & VICTORIA, British Columbia--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Airfield lighting technology provider ADB Airfield Solutions, LLC and solar technology provider Carmanah Technologies (TSX: CMH) have teamed up to provide a line of solar-based LED airfield lighting for ADB. The arrangement will augment ADB’s line of airfield lighting products with a range of solar-powered LED lighting alternatives. Formerly part of Siemens AG, ADB Airfield Solutions is widely recognized as a market leader in airfield visual guidance and ground lighting systems.
As a stand-alone lighting option, Carmanah solar-powered airfield lights can be quickly and easily deployed to challenging locations where the electrical infrastructure is incomplete or non-existent. The combination of ADB LED products and Carmanah solar power management technology will also enable the deployment of fully compliant lighting systems using solar as either the primary or as a back-up power source. According to Steve Rauch, ADB CEO, the addition of Carmanah’s solar-powered aviation technology will provide ADB customers with a comprehensive range of lighting alternatives. “Solar-based lighting is a fast-growing requirement in the aviation industry,” said Rauch. “We’re pleased to extend this solar technology to our customers as part of a full range of fixed and portable airfield lighting options.”
According to Ted Lattimore, Carmanah CEO, the opportunity to work alongside ADB in this capacity offers considerable benefits for both businesses and their customers. “ADB’s commitment to customer satisfaction is well known throughout the industry,” said Lattimore. “I’m confident Carmanah’s industry-proven technology will only strengthen that bond by delivering the type of powerful, time-tested technology that ADB customers have come to expect.”
ADB Airfield Solutions has been a significant innovative player in the airfield lighting sector since its establishment in 1947. More than 2,000 airports around the world have been equipped with systems from ADB.
With more than 250,000 solar-LED lights deployed worldwide, Carmanah solar-powered aviation lights are installed at some of the world's busiest airports, including Chicago O'Hare, Dubai, London Gatwick and Toronto Pearson international airports. For more information, visit www.carmanah.com.
Dr. Arun Jhaveri Joins One Million Lights as Executive Advisor
PALO ALTO, Calif.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--One Million Lights welcomes Dr. Arun Jhaveri onto its Executive Advisory Board. Jhaveri’s knowledge of the energy efficiency and renewable energy industries will help One Million Lights create holistic programs that serve the needs of rural developing regions living without electricity while also working towards clean and efficient energy solutions. He is spreading the message of One Million Lights with energy policy decision makers in the US and abroad.
Jhaveri is an active advisor to the Federal government on energy policy and recently co-authored “Carbon Reduction: Policies, Strategies and Technologies” (Fairmont Press, Georgia) with long time colleague and fellow engineer, Dr. Stephen Roosa. Jhaveri says it “is my first formal book. It is something I believe in.”
Two recent CleanTech projects of Jhaveri’s included comprehensive plans to green both the Los Angeles Unified School District, the second largest school district in the country, and the Mirage Hotel and Casino in Las Vegas.
Jhaveri was “invited by the Alliance to Save Energy, based in Washington, D.C., to speak [in April 2009] in Paris, France, at the Energy Efficiency Global Conference.” He spoke to and met “energy and environment experts from all over the world.” Jhaveri noted it was “quite an honor and a privilege for me.”
Jhaveri says his decision to join One Million Lights’ board of executive advisors “has to do with finding a real leader, who has Vision, Integrity, and Passion. I believe, these three skills are essential to succeed today and One Million Lights shows great promise.”
Anna Sidana, One Million Lights’ founder and CEO, is “thrilled to have someone of Arun’s caliber on our board of advisors. He brings depth of knowledge and contacts that are invaluable to us.”
Jhaveri is a multifaceted individual, to say the least. Originally, from Mumbai, Jhaveri is based in Seattle, WA. He has served as mayor of Burien, a small town in WA, he consults for cities, and large organizations on using renewable energy, he advises the Obama Administration on energy policy, he just completed a book, and he swims every day to stay in shape.
Veterans Affairs Hospitals and REC Solar Sign Contract to Build 1.7 Megawatts of Solar Power Systems in California, Arizona, and Nevada
SAN LUIS OBISPO, Calif.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Fast growing REC Solar, the leading solar installer in the U.S., today announced an agreement to build 1.7 megawatts of solar power systems on federal facilities in California, Arizona and Nevada. When completed at the end of spring in 2010, the systems will be the largest solar power systems in the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA). These systems are expected to create over 60 jobs during construction.
“We are pleased and honored to work with the VA Hospitals in their effort to increase the use of renewable energy in achieving their agency-wide goals," said Angiolo Laviziano, CEO of REC Solar. "Today, solar PV technology is competitively-priced for commercial and government applications. It's fast to install, and reliably delivers clean power, particularly during peak demand hours when the electricity rates are the most expensive," adds Laviziano. "We also make it simple for government entities to purchase solar by offering a turnkey solar power system in one single purchase through the standardized GSA Schedule."
The projects generate approximately 2.1 MWh of electricity per year, the equivalent of what would be used by 3,600 households. REC Group panels will be used for these projects. Many government agencies are discovering that there never has been a better time to switch to solar, avoiding volatile and increasingly high prices for conventional energy sources, while achieving federal policy goals for energy efficiency and renewable energy generation.
The PV systems will be installed at: four (4) California VA Medical Centers in Palo Alto, Fresno, Los Angeles, and Long Beach; as well as the VA Medical Centers in Tucson, AZ and Reno, NV. All systems will be completed in early 2010, and are expected to save the combined hospitals well over $175,000 a year in avoided electricity costs. These high-efficiency systems utilize over 7,000 REC Group AE-US PV modules mounted on a combination of roof, carport and ground mount applications. The systems utilize a range of Satcon inverters and are performance monitored by Energy Recommerce Inc.
Friday, November 27, 2009
Red Tape Threatens Green Future
California's renewable power boom is off to a slower start than planned.
Delays have hit more than half of the big solar, wind and geothermal energy projects under development throughout the state, according to a recent government report. They're still moving forward, but not at the pace their developers expected.
As a result, California probably won't meet its goal of getting 20 percent of its electricity from renewable sources by the end of 2010 - a key element of the state's fight against global warming.
In some cases, solar plants and wind farms have had difficulty lining up financing, particularly after last year's economic meltdown. Others need new transmission lines to carry their electricity to market. Some draw fire from environmentalists for their potential impact on plants and wildlife.
And for many, the process of winning government permits to begin construction has dragged on longer than expected. The local, state and federal agencies involved have been buried in applications, more than they can easily handle. Some agencies are now adding staff - a rarity in these times of constant budget cuts - to break the logjam.
"Until we solve the transmission and the permitting, it's going to be very difficult to move forward at the scale we need," said John Woolard, chief executive officer of BrightSource Energy, speaking at a renewable power conference in August.
Woolard's company, based in Oakland, is seeking state and federal approval to build large solar power plants in the Mojave Desert. "We're now 2 1/2 years into a one-year process," he said. "That's not what we need."... read the rest
Friday, November 27, 2009
Saginaw Hopes to Snag 500 Solar Jobs
Saginaw could land a $177 million solar modular production plant that officials say could employ 500 people within five years.
Officials say the city is in a bidding war with a Texas community also vying for the courting of GlobalWatt, a San Jose, Calif.-based solar industry company.
A GlobalWatt spokeswoman said the business could decide by late December whether to move in to the closed Enterprise Automotive Systems - Saginaw Division at 1200 Leon Scott.
“At this point, the company is still evaluating its options,” said Dawn Baetsen, GlobalWatt’s spokeswoman.
The decision will depend largely on economic incentives the two communities offer, she said... read more
Leading Solar Cell Manufacturer Expands Production with SOLARIS
BALZERS, Liechtenstein--(BUSINESS WIRE)--A leading European crystalline solar cell manufacturer places for the first time a large order for multiple SOLARIS systems. The SOLARIS, which offers various advantages with its revolutionary coating technology was introduced to the market just a few weeks ago. The customer will use the SOLARIS from Oerlikon Systems to significantly increase their production capacity in North America. The system is set for delivery during the coming year. “Our original strategy of offering a compact, cost-effective platform with single wafer handling is proving to be a very popular solution with Photovoltaic (PV) manufacturer,” says Andreas Dill, Head of Oerlikon Systems.
So far the core competence of Oerlikon Systems was mainly on Semiconductor and Coating Technologies. After the realignment, the focus is now diversifying into the promising nanotechnology applications. With this significant order for SOLARIS the Business Unit has made an important inroad into the PV crystalline cell manufacturing industry. Oerlikon has with this success established itself as pivotal in the PV industry as a technology and equipment manufacturer: with Oerlikon Solar for the Thin-Film technology and with Oerlikon Systems for the crystalline technology. “Both processes complement one another with their respective fields of application. For the Oerlikon Group the advantage and benefit is to be represented in both growth markets with its leading technology,” says Thomas Babacan, Chief Operating Officer at Oerlikon.
Low ‘cost of ownership’
SOLARIS was designed for front and backside coating of crystalline silicon solar cells using clean PVD sputtering technology. Its multi-layer capability allows passivation and SiN coating on the front side as well as coating of the backside with various materials. Its very small footprint (3.3 x 2.2 m) and easy integration into existing production lines give SOLARIS a remarkably low ‘cost of ownership’.
“For this client, the SOLARIS production solution provides a big step toward cost-effective production of solar cells. Ultimately, it will help PV technology – and the industry – achieve grid parity,” explains Andreas Dill, Head of Oerlikon Systems.
Counting on innovation
The SOLARIS order was preceded by thorough evaluation tests, where the system’s flexibility and reliably high output compared favorably with industry standard SiN coating solutions. “In going from concept to fully functional systems in only 24 months, our development and assembly teams drew from the innovative talent across the Oerlikon Group to get the new SOLARIS system to market quickly,” adds Oerlikon COO Thomas Babacan. The current success in the PV market is only the start for SOLARIS. In fact, the Oerlikon development teams are finalizing further mass-production solutions for touch screen panels, thermoelectric devices, and generators or thin film batteries (for the newest energy storage solutions).
Oerlikon – Enabling High Technology
Oerlikon (SIX:OERL) is one of the world’s leading international high-tech industrial groups specializing in machine and plant engineering. The company is a leader in the field of industrial solutions and innovative technologies for textile manufacture, thin-film solar and thin-film coating, drive, precision and vacuum systems. With roots in Switzerland and a long tradition stretching back 100 years, Oerlikon is a global player with a workforce of more than 16000 at 158 locations in 37 different countries. The company’s sales amounted to CHF 4.8 billion in 2008 and it ranks either first or second in the respective global market.
Wednesday, November 25, 2009
Solyndra, Inc. Signs Framework Agreement with Italy’s Sun System for Approximately $105 Million
FREMONT, Calif.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Solyndra, Inc., a manufacturer of innovative proprietary photovoltaic (PV) systems for commercial rooftops, announced it has signed a new multi-year framework agreement worth up to $105 million with solar integrator Sun System S.p.A., based in Milan, Italy. The solar panels for this Euro-based agreement will be manufactured at Solyndra's facilities in Fremont and Milpitas, California.
"We are excited to announce this relationship with Sun System, a highly innovative integrator of medium and large-scale commercial PV systems. Sun System’s strong presence in Italy and beyond, coupled with Solyndra’s advanced PV systems, will accelerate the deployment of world-class photovoltaic installations on commercial rooftops in southern Europe," said Dr. Chris Gronet, Solyndra’s CEO and founder.
Solyndra's cylindrical, thin film PV systems are designed to generate more electricity on an annual basis from typical low-slope commercial rooftops, while providing much lower installation costs than conventional flat panel PV technologies.
"As a company focused on cost, performance and reliability, we are very happy to announce this partnership. Solyndra’s technology sets a new standard of performance on commercial rooftops compared to conventional PV technologies in terms of installation cost, rooftop loading, non-penetrating wind performance, and energy production per roof," states Dr. Davide Scarantino, CEO of Sun System. "Solyndra´s innovative cylindrical module geometry and fast and easy mounting technology are leading the way toward a clean energy future," added Dr. Domenico Ruggeri, Technical Director of Sun System.
Quantum Announces Letter of Intent for $20 Million
IRVINE, Calif., Nov. 25 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- Quantum Fuel Systems Technologies Worldwide, Inc. (Nasdaq: QTWW), today announced that it and its subsidiary, Quantum Solar Energy, Inc. ("Quantum Solar"), has entered into a non-binding letter of intent with New Energy Systems, LLC ("NES"), which sets forth the terms by which NES would invest $20 million in Quantum Solar in exchange for a 34% ownership interest in Quantum Solar. Quantum Solar will use the investment proceeds to establish a state of the art solar photovoltaic module manufacturing facility in Irvine, California, with an expected annual capacity of 45 MW.
Quantum Solar will utilize the advanced crystalline silicon technologies and manufacturing expertise of asola Advanced and Automotive Solar Systems GmbH ("Asola"), an affiliate of Quantum and Quantum Solar. Serial production is anticipated to begin in the spring of 2010. Part of the production output from Quantum Solar is expected to be sold to NES for its solar energy business initiatives in California. Quantum Solar is also expected to supply modules to Schneider Power, Inc. for their portfolio of utility-scale solar energy generation projects. As announced on November 25, 2009, Quantum and Schneider Power have signed a definitive agreement for Quantum to acquire all of the outstanding capital stock of Schneider Power. That transaction is expected to close in the second quarter of 2010.
Pursuant to the terms of the Letter of Intent, NES would invest $20 million in exchange for Series A convertible preferred stock, which would be convertible into shares of Quantum Solar common stock on a one-for-one basis. NES would receive a cumulative preferred dividend equal to 2.5% of the investment amount, or $500,000 annually, for the lesser of seven (7) years or until such time that NES has received a total return on its investment equal to $6 million. The transaction is expected to close within ninety days. Upon closing, Quantum Solar would be owned 51% by Quantum, 34% by NES (on a fully converted basis), and 15% by Asola. Quantum and NES shall each have the right to appoint two members to serve on Quantum Solar's board of directors.
"We are very excited about the investment by NES", said Alan P. Niedzwiecki, the President and CEO of Quantum. "Their timely investment allows us to quickly launch our solar electricity generation products, which will be utilized in solar energy projects developed by NES as well as Schneider Power. NES has an impressive pipeline of renewable energy projects in California. We are seeing a jump in demand for high quality solar modules made in the USA, as customers and investors strive to ensure reliable long-term production of clean electricity, in many private and state- owned solar projects across the nation."
The closing is subject to and conditioned upon a number factors including NES' completion of due diligence and the successful negotiation and execution of definitive agreements.
Quantum Solar will utilize the advanced crystalline silicon technologies and manufacturing expertise of asola Advanced and Automotive Solar Systems GmbH ("Asola"), an affiliate of Quantum and Quantum Solar. Serial production is anticipated to begin in the spring of 2010. Part of the production output from Quantum Solar is expected to be sold to NES for its solar energy business initiatives in California. Quantum Solar is also expected to supply modules to Schneider Power, Inc. for their portfolio of utility-scale solar energy generation projects. As announced on November 25, 2009, Quantum and Schneider Power have signed a definitive agreement for Quantum to acquire all of the outstanding capital stock of Schneider Power. That transaction is expected to close in the second quarter of 2010.
Pursuant to the terms of the Letter of Intent, NES would invest $20 million in exchange for Series A convertible preferred stock, which would be convertible into shares of Quantum Solar common stock on a one-for-one basis. NES would receive a cumulative preferred dividend equal to 2.5% of the investment amount, or $500,000 annually, for the lesser of seven (7) years or until such time that NES has received a total return on its investment equal to $6 million. The transaction is expected to close within ninety days. Upon closing, Quantum Solar would be owned 51% by Quantum, 34% by NES (on a fully converted basis), and 15% by Asola. Quantum and NES shall each have the right to appoint two members to serve on Quantum Solar's board of directors.
"We are very excited about the investment by NES", said Alan P. Niedzwiecki, the President and CEO of Quantum. "Their timely investment allows us to quickly launch our solar electricity generation products, which will be utilized in solar energy projects developed by NES as well as Schneider Power. NES has an impressive pipeline of renewable energy projects in California. We are seeing a jump in demand for high quality solar modules made in the USA, as customers and investors strive to ensure reliable long-term production of clean electricity, in many private and state- owned solar projects across the nation."
The closing is subject to and conditioned upon a number factors including NES' completion of due diligence and the successful negotiation and execution of definitive agreements.
Tuesday, November 24, 2009
Small South Florida Company Helps Power the World's Largest Cruise Ship
MIAMI, Nov. 24 /PRNewswire/ -- When the world's largest cruise ship departs on its maiden voyage from Ft. Lauderdale on December 1, 2009, passengers aboard Royal Caribbean International's Oasis of the Seas can take comfort in knowing that their vacation is powered in part by guilt-free energy from the sun.
Royal Caribbean's commitment to the environment drove the company to design the largest and yet most energy efficient cruise ship the world has ever seen. The Oasis of the Seas was built with as many environmentally conscious technologies as possible. At the top of the list - and at the top of the ship - are over 550 solar panels that generate the power needed on the Royal Promenade--one of the ship's seven neighborhoods featuring eight retail outlets, nine restaurants and bars, a photo gallery, and men's salon. BAM Solar Power, a Miami-based solar design and installation company installed the panels.
"This demonstrates Royal Caribbean's commitment to environmental protection and the company's forward-thinking approach to reducing their consumption of fossil fuels," said Andrew Rasken, President of BAM Solar Power. "For a ship whose daily energy demands rival that of the Fort Lauderdale/Hollywood International Airport, the decision to transform over 30,000 square feet of the ship's top deck into a mini power plant was simple. While much attention is given to the ship's industry leading advancements - including a 'Central Park' and even an outdoor AquaTheatre - Royal Caribbean has shown that luxury and the environment do not have to be at odds and that 'going green' makes economic sense," said Rasken. "If you can meet a portion of your energy needs at a predictable upfront cost, that is very good for the company's bottom line. It also adds a new dimension of comfort for the customers, knowing that their vacation on the Oasis of the Seas has a reduced impact on the environment."
Based in Miami, Rasken founded BAM Solar Power two years ago to provide an array of cost-saving, sustainable energy solutions for commercial properties. In starting the company, he meshed his entrepreneurial skills with a personal passion to see the U.S. become less dependent on foreign energy sources. Rasken believes the Oasis of the Seas project will provide a big boost for his growing company.
"We are honored that a company like Royal Caribbean had the trust and confidence in us to help them turn the world's largest cruise ship into the world's most energy efficient cruise ship," said Rasken. "To be part of history is quite thrilling. This project will be great to show off our capabilities to the rest of the world."
Royal Caribbean's commitment to the environment drove the company to design the largest and yet most energy efficient cruise ship the world has ever seen. The Oasis of the Seas was built with as many environmentally conscious technologies as possible. At the top of the list - and at the top of the ship - are over 550 solar panels that generate the power needed on the Royal Promenade--one of the ship's seven neighborhoods featuring eight retail outlets, nine restaurants and bars, a photo gallery, and men's salon. BAM Solar Power, a Miami-based solar design and installation company installed the panels.
"This demonstrates Royal Caribbean's commitment to environmental protection and the company's forward-thinking approach to reducing their consumption of fossil fuels," said Andrew Rasken, President of BAM Solar Power. "For a ship whose daily energy demands rival that of the Fort Lauderdale/Hollywood International Airport, the decision to transform over 30,000 square feet of the ship's top deck into a mini power plant was simple. While much attention is given to the ship's industry leading advancements - including a 'Central Park' and even an outdoor AquaTheatre - Royal Caribbean has shown that luxury and the environment do not have to be at odds and that 'going green' makes economic sense," said Rasken. "If you can meet a portion of your energy needs at a predictable upfront cost, that is very good for the company's bottom line. It also adds a new dimension of comfort for the customers, knowing that their vacation on the Oasis of the Seas has a reduced impact on the environment."
Based in Miami, Rasken founded BAM Solar Power two years ago to provide an array of cost-saving, sustainable energy solutions for commercial properties. In starting the company, he meshed his entrepreneurial skills with a personal passion to see the U.S. become less dependent on foreign energy sources. Rasken believes the Oasis of the Seas project will provide a big boost for his growing company.
"We are honored that a company like Royal Caribbean had the trust and confidence in us to help them turn the world's largest cruise ship into the world's most energy efficient cruise ship," said Rasken. "To be part of history is quite thrilling. This project will be great to show off our capabilities to the rest of the world."
Apollo Solar Energy, Inc. Announces $9,000,000 Private Placement
CHENGDU, China, Nov. 24 /PRNewswire-Asia-FirstCall/ -- Apollo Solar Energy, Inc., (OTC Bulletin Board: ASOE; "Apollo Solar Energy" or "the Company"), a leading vertically integrated miner and refiner of tellurium (Te) and high-purity tellurium based metals for specific segments of the global electronic materials market, today announced that it has entered into a definitive agreement for the private placement of securities to certain accredited investors, which is expected to result in aggregate gross proceeds to the Company of $9,000,000 at the closing, before payment of placement agent commissions and other offering expenses.
The Private Placement
On November 20, 2009, the Company announced entry into a definitive agreement to sell 9,000,000 shares of its common stock at a purchase price per share of $1.00 for aggregate gross proceeds to the Company of approximately $9,000,000. The closing of the private placement is expected to take place within 60 days following the signing date, provided each party first obtains all required authorizations and approvals. Bengbu Glass Industry Design Institute ("Bengbu"), a subsidiary of publicly listed China National Building Materials Company Limited (3323.HK), will be the sole investor in the private placement. The Company intends to use the net proceeds from the private placement for increasing the Company's tellurium production and general corporate purposes.
"As was previously announced on November 13, 2009, we formed a joint venture with Bengbu and a local Chinese government agency" stated Mr. Hou Renyi, CEO and Chairman of Apollo Solar Energy, Inc. As part of that joint venture, Apollo Solar Energy was able to transfer a long-term loan of RMB 41.3 million or approximately $6,048,344 to the joint venture. In addition, Bengbu will contribute approximately RMB 77 million or approximately $11,276,573 to the joint venture entity. We are very pleased to announce that in addition to the formation of the joint venture, Bengbu has further invested directly in Apollo Solar Energy. We are very pleased to add Bengbu to our growing shareholder list and this investment further validates the company's strategy to become a leader in the mining and refining of tellurium (Te) and high-purity tellurium based metals for specific segments of the global electronic materials market."
McGovernWang LLC acted as the sole financial advisor to the Company with securities placed through Joseph Capital LLC.
The securities offered in the private placement have not been registered under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, or under applicable state securities laws and may not be offered or sold in the United States absent registration under such act and applicable state securities laws or an applicable exemption from those registration requirements. In connection with the financing, the Company has committed to file a registration statement under the Securities Act to cover the resale of the shares purchased in the private placement to the extent such shares are not otherwise available for resale within 180 days following the closing. This press release does not and will not constitute an offer to sell or the solicitation of an offer to buy these securities, nor shall there be any sale of these securities in any jurisdiction in which such offer, solicitation or sale would be unlawful prior to the registration or qualification under the securities laws of such jurisdiction.
The Private Placement
On November 20, 2009, the Company announced entry into a definitive agreement to sell 9,000,000 shares of its common stock at a purchase price per share of $1.00 for aggregate gross proceeds to the Company of approximately $9,000,000. The closing of the private placement is expected to take place within 60 days following the signing date, provided each party first obtains all required authorizations and approvals. Bengbu Glass Industry Design Institute ("Bengbu"), a subsidiary of publicly listed China National Building Materials Company Limited (3323.HK), will be the sole investor in the private placement. The Company intends to use the net proceeds from the private placement for increasing the Company's tellurium production and general corporate purposes.
"As was previously announced on November 13, 2009, we formed a joint venture with Bengbu and a local Chinese government agency" stated Mr. Hou Renyi, CEO and Chairman of Apollo Solar Energy, Inc. As part of that joint venture, Apollo Solar Energy was able to transfer a long-term loan of RMB 41.3 million or approximately $6,048,344 to the joint venture. In addition, Bengbu will contribute approximately RMB 77 million or approximately $11,276,573 to the joint venture entity. We are very pleased to announce that in addition to the formation of the joint venture, Bengbu has further invested directly in Apollo Solar Energy. We are very pleased to add Bengbu to our growing shareholder list and this investment further validates the company's strategy to become a leader in the mining and refining of tellurium (Te) and high-purity tellurium based metals for specific segments of the global electronic materials market."
McGovernWang LLC acted as the sole financial advisor to the Company with securities placed through Joseph Capital LLC.
The securities offered in the private placement have not been registered under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, or under applicable state securities laws and may not be offered or sold in the United States absent registration under such act and applicable state securities laws or an applicable exemption from those registration requirements. In connection with the financing, the Company has committed to file a registration statement under the Securities Act to cover the resale of the shares purchased in the private placement to the extent such shares are not otherwise available for resale within 180 days following the closing. This press release does not and will not constitute an offer to sell or the solicitation of an offer to buy these securities, nor shall there be any sale of these securities in any jurisdiction in which such offer, solicitation or sale would be unlawful prior to the registration or qualification under the securities laws of such jurisdiction.
Cyberlux and Sacred Power Receive Winning Evaluation from Sandia National Laboratories for Innovative, Proprietary Solar-Powered Lighting System
RESEARCH TRIANGLE PARK, N.C.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Cyberlux Corporation (OTCBB: CYBL), a leading provider of LED lighting solutions, announced today that the SP Cyberlight Solar LED Lighting System has successfully completed the Sandia National Laboratories testing protocol. The SP Cyberlight product is the solar-powered lighting system jointly developed by Cyberlux Corporation and Sacred Power Corporation for the Department of Defense (DoD) Power Surety Task Force. The Power Surety Task Force is tasked with identifying efficient energy solutions that support the Warfighter in the theater of operation, including portable solar lighting solutions for the night time security of Forward Base Operations.
Sandia National Laboratories evaluated the SP Cyberlight Solar LED Lighting System in two different modes of operation: one mode for checkpoint, access points and task lighting, and the other for perimeter lighting for forward bases, buildings and site security. The technical evaluation of each mode of operation addressed the optical properties of the lighting, the light beam profile and map, the light pattern, intensity and balance and the battery and battery charging performance. As part of the operational analysis, the Sandia assessment team also evaluated the product’s ease of use, the applicability of product features, the operability in expected conditions, the cost benefit and the product’s robustness.
In the overall findings published in the report, SAND2009-3730P, the Sandia assessment team concluded that the SP Cyberlight Solar LED Lighting System provides excellent lighting in the checkpoint mode of operation and site-specific task lighting uses such as construction. The product also gained technical approval for use in the perimeter security mode for forward base and general site security. The SP Cyberlight also received high marks for the solar and battery power capability, the overall usability of the LED lighting system, the product’s portability and ruggedness, and the cost of the system when compared to other tactical lighting solutions.
“The Sandia National Laboratories testing results verify that the SP Cyberlight LED Lighting System is an important portable lighting solution for Forward Base Operations, checkpoint security, perimeter security and general task lighting needs. This product also meets the Department of Defense mandate for renewable energy technologies that support the needs of the Warfighter. As a next step, the SP Cyberlight systems will be installed for field use, and we anticipate that this lighting solution will be quickly adapted by our deployed forces,” said Mark Schmidt, president and chief executive officer of Cyberlux. “Partnering with Sacred Power has been a significant ‘capability mulitplier’ for both companies and has resulted in the first of many LED lighting products that will combine Sacred Power’s renewable power expertise and our superior patented lighting technologies in a solar-powered LED lighting solution. We look forward to working hand-in-hand with Sacred Power on many future projects.”
Cyberlux and Sacred Power Corporation, a leading provider of renewable energy solutions, announced in October 2008 that the companies had entered into a teaming agreement to jointly develop the SP Cyberlight LED Lighting System product by incorporating the advanced capabilities of Cyberlux lighting and Sacred Power’s advanced solar power technology in order to deliver the solar-powered LED lighting solution as commissioned by the Power Surety Task Force. Sacred Power, a Native American owned and operated 8(a) certified company, specializes in solar power solutions and innovative renewable energy technologies and has significant government and military experience in the design and delivery of telecommunication, power generation and electrification projects.
The SP Cyberlight Solar LED Lighting System, now complete with the Sandia testing process, is being further evaluated at the Army’s National Training Center (NTC) located at Ft. Irwin, California. Reports from the NTC indicate that the systems will be shipped to Afghanistan for “in theater” demonstration purposes in preparation for requirements determination and ultimate procurement.
The SP Cyberlight LED Lighting System is built upon the patented and patent-pending technology behind the Cyberlux Tactical Illumination Systems. These LED lighting systems provide mission-critical visible and night-vision compatible lighting that use advanced optics, advanced solid-state lighting technology and advanced light-weight battery power, all contained in easily transportable cases. Cyberlux Tactical Illumination Systems provide broad area visible white lighting and night-vision compatible IR lighting capable of operating all night on battery power, qualities not available in traditional lighting systems. The U.S. Patent Office has awarded patent protection for 50 claims contained within the Company’s Portable Light Device patents, which provide Cyberlux with thorough patent protection for its lighting products and any future products developed on this patent foundation.
Suniva® Solar Cell Technology Powers India’s First Large-Scale Solar Project
NORCROSS, Ga.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Suniva®, Inc., a U.S. manufacturer of high-efficiency monocrystalline silicon solar cells and supplier of Suniva-branded solar modules, today announced the completion of its collaborative project with Titan Energy Systems Ltd. to create India’s first large-scale project in Jamuria, West Bengal. Suniva’s cells power the 1MW solar electric power plant which is expected to expand an additional 250kW early next year.
“High-efficiency solar technology presents significant advantages in terms of land use and balance of system costs, and Suniva is our key partner for delivering the high power and volumes needed to keep projects reliably moving forward,” said Sankar Chodagam, Managing Director of Titan Energy Systems Ltd.
The Indian government recently approved a National Solar Mission, which includes a target of deploying at least 20GW of solar projects by 2020, as part of its national strategy to provide power to millions of citizens and combat climate change. Over the next five years, Titan plans to develop a series of large-scale projects and installations in Andhra Pradesh, India. Suniva fully supports and looks forward to continuing its collaboration with the fast-growing Indian market.
“As India pursues its significant goals for solar power, innovative solar cell technology will be just as crucial as new system designs and deployment strategies,” said John Baumstark, CEO of Suniva. “We maintain a close and open dialogue with Titan in order to provide them with the best possible technology solutions and look forward to partnering with them in the recently announced 1GW project in Andhra Pradesh. Our collaborative projects in India, the United States and throughout the world will help shape the future of renewable energy.”
Worldwide interest in solar technology made in the United States continues to grow. Suniva’s technology is currently being integrated into a variety of installations throughout the United States, including a 550kW solar farm in North Carolina and a 10MW development in Georgia.
GWS Technologies to Distribute the Solaranda™ Solar Shade Structure
SCOTTSDALE, Ariz.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--GWS Technologies, Inc. (OTCBB: GWSC) an alternative energy company developing and marketing solar and wind-powered renewable energy products and solutions, announced today that it would begin distribution of the Solaranda™ Solar Shade Structure.
“The Solaranda is innovative, creative, and just the solution to give the solar industry a boost,” said GWS Technologies Vice President Michael Coskun. “The Solaranda appeals to a large consumer base and gives virtually everyone the opportunity to save money and lower their electric bills,” added Mr. Coskun.
The Solaranda™ is a shade structure that integrates solar photovoltaic panels into the roof structure to provide both shade and electricity for a home or business. These systems have been pre-engineered to meet many building code requirements around the country. The Solaranda™ kits include steel interior beams and posts with an aluminum covering that provides a No-Maintenance structure (with a lifetime warranty) for the solar panels.
“EnergyPro is very excited about partnering with GWS to distribute our Solaranda™ kits. It is a great option for installers nationwide to offer a new and unique product to their clients and that qualifies for all rebates and tax credits,” explained Nichole Koontz, President of EnergyPro, Inc. To learn more information about this product, visit: www.Solaranda.com
“The Solaranda is innovative, creative, and just the solution to give the solar industry a boost,” said GWS Technologies Vice President Michael Coskun. “The Solaranda appeals to a large consumer base and gives virtually everyone the opportunity to save money and lower their electric bills,” added Mr. Coskun.
The Solaranda™ is a shade structure that integrates solar photovoltaic panels into the roof structure to provide both shade and electricity for a home or business. These systems have been pre-engineered to meet many building code requirements around the country. The Solaranda™ kits include steel interior beams and posts with an aluminum covering that provides a No-Maintenance structure (with a lifetime warranty) for the solar panels.
“EnergyPro is very excited about partnering with GWS to distribute our Solaranda™ kits. It is a great option for installers nationwide to offer a new and unique product to their clients and that qualifies for all rebates and tax credits,” explained Nichole Koontz, President of EnergyPro, Inc. To learn more information about this product, visit: www.Solaranda.com
CIM Group Closes Purchase of SkyPower Corp. Solar Assets
LOS ANGELES--(BUSINESS WIRE)--CIM Group announced that on Friday it closed on its purchase of SkyPower Corp.’s assets, excluding SkyPower Corp.’s wind portfolio. The new entity, named SkyPower Limited, includes a 50 percent stake in the 9.1 megawatt First Light energy park—the first operational utility-scale solar energy project in Canada—as well as a pipeline of 50 additional projects representing the potential for more than 500 megawatts of solar power generation nameplate capacity.
“The opportunity to purchase this portfolio fits the longstanding goals for our infrastructure platform—namely to make investments that support the sustainability of urban communities,” commented Jennifer Gandin, First Vice President, CIM Group. “We are excited to acquire an existing solar energy platform, including an extensive set of promising projects.”
CIM also announced the appointment of Kerry Adler as President & Chief Executive Officer of SkyPower Limited. Mr. Adler will lead a team that will oversee the development and management of both utility-scale and micro-generation power projects.
Mr. Adler said: “I was highly attracted to CIM’s long and successful track record of working with communities, governments and other stakeholders as well as its financial resources and development expertise. This transaction demonstrates CIM’s commitment to solar energy, and it will also increase the amount of clean energy available to meet the growing needs of communities across the distribution grids of our customers throughout Canada and potentially in the U.S.”
CIM executed this transaction through its Infrastructure Fund, which partners with public agencies and makes other investments to develop and operate clean renewable resource projects, as well as transportation, communications and social services facilities—all of which support the growth and sustainability of North American urban communities.
The First Light project, which went into commercial operation on October 14, 2009, is expected to generate 11 million kilowatt hours of power annually, or enough to meet the electricity needs of approximately 1,000 homes. As a clean energy source, First Light will effectively eliminate approximately 7,500 metric tons of carbon from the air per year, the equivalent of removing approximately 1,750 cars from the road or planting more than seven million trees.
Monday, November 23, 2009
ET Solar Group Announces RMB400 Million Syndicate Loan
NANJING, China, Nov. 23 /PRNewswire-Asia/ -- ET Solar Group Corp. ("ET Solar"), a Nanjing-based photovoltaic ("PV") system turnkey solution provider and integrated manufacturer of PV products announced obtainment of an RMB400 million credit facility.
The RMB400 million credit facility (approximately US$59 million, or Euro40 million) was arranged by China Everbright Bank and joined by China Merchants Bank. It has a trade finance tranche and a working capital tranche with a 1- year tenor that would be renewable subject to satisfactory credit review.
The new facility brings total credit lines currently available to ET Solar by various Chinese banks well over RMB800 million (approximately US$120 million, or Euro80 million). It further diversifies ET Solar's banking relationships in China with both large national banks and leading regional banks as its lenders.
Fischer Chen, Chief Financial Officer of ET Solar, commented "This new loan facility further increases our financial flexibility and puts us in a more comfortable position to maintain our growth momentum and strengthen the bankability of our products and turnkey solution services. We are especially pleased with the strong commitment from China Everbright Bank and China Merchants Bank, which are both leading lenders in the fast growing Chinese economy."
"We are very pleased to have arranged the credit facility for ET Solar as we are very much impressed with its fast growth track record and differentiated business evolution roadmap," Hong Cheng, Deputy General Manager of China Everbright Bank, Nanjing Branch, added.
The RMB400 million credit facility (approximately US$59 million, or Euro40 million) was arranged by China Everbright Bank and joined by China Merchants Bank. It has a trade finance tranche and a working capital tranche with a 1- year tenor that would be renewable subject to satisfactory credit review.
The new facility brings total credit lines currently available to ET Solar by various Chinese banks well over RMB800 million (approximately US$120 million, or Euro80 million). It further diversifies ET Solar's banking relationships in China with both large national banks and leading regional banks as its lenders.
Fischer Chen, Chief Financial Officer of ET Solar, commented "This new loan facility further increases our financial flexibility and puts us in a more comfortable position to maintain our growth momentum and strengthen the bankability of our products and turnkey solution services. We are especially pleased with the strong commitment from China Everbright Bank and China Merchants Bank, which are both leading lenders in the fast growing Chinese economy."
"We are very pleased to have arranged the credit facility for ET Solar as we are very much impressed with its fast growth track record and differentiated business evolution roadmap," Hong Cheng, Deputy General Manager of China Everbright Bank, Nanjing Branch, added.
Sun Catalytix Receives Seed Financing From Polaris Venture Partners
CAMBRIDGE, Mass., Nov. 23 /PRNewswire/ -- Sun Catalytix Corporation, a distributed energy storage company, today announced it has received a third seed tranche from Polaris Venture Partners. The company has also exclusively licensed a portfolio of water-splitting catalysis patents from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT). The licensed patents, developed in the MIT laboratories of Professor and Sun Catalytix Co-Founder Daniel G. Nocera, are central to Sun Catalytix energy storage breakthroughs. Sun Catalytix technology readily and inexpensively stores renewable energy in the form of chemical bonds to enable distributed, round-the-clock use of solar- and wind-derived energy.
"Polaris has a long history of working successfully with entrepreneurial professors at MIT and other research universities around the world, and the addition of Sun Catalytix is an excellent fit with our growing portfolio of energy technology companies," said Bob Metcalfe, Sun Catalytix director as well as Ethernet inventor, 3Com founder and a general partner at Polaris leading the firm's energy investments.
"This investment supports the development of technology that will make affordable, renewable energy a reality," said Amir Nashat, general partner at Polaris and Sun Catalytix founding CEO. "The company has been briskly meeting its seed milestones, and we're now recruiting key members of the start-up team, including our next CEO."
In addition to Nocera, Metcalfe and Nashat, the Sun Catalytix team includes Co-Founder and Chairman Arthur L. Goldstein, former CEO of Ionix.
Sun Catalytix is developing inexpensive, safe, non-toxic, efficient catalyst technologies for storing solar energy to make it available when the sun is not shining. The catalysts mimic photosynthesis by using energy, captured from a photovoltaic cell or other source, to split water (H2O) into Hydrogen (H2) and Oxygen (O2). The company's electrolyzers are different from conventional technology in that they can use a broad range of water sources - including unpurified fresh or salt water - in benign conditions and at transformatively low costs. According to Nocera, "Sun Catalytix opportunities are in proliferating high-volume, low-cost electrolyzers in a decentralized fashion, rather than in improving today's expensive, large-scale electrolyzers."
MEMC Completes Acquisition of SunEdison
ST. PETERS, Mo., Nov. 23 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- MEMC Electronic Materials, Inc. (NYSE: WFR), a leading provider of silicon wafers to the semiconductor and solar industries, has completed the acquisition of privately held Sun Edison LLC, a developer of solar power projects and North America's largest solar energy services provider.
As previously disclosed, the purchase price of $200 million was paid 70% in cash and 30% in MEMC stock, plus certain retention payments, transaction expenses, and the assumption of net debt.
"This acquisition further enhances our positioning in the solar industry," said Ahmad Chatila, Chief Executive Officer of MEMC. "Renewable, clean solar energy is still in its infancy as a growing global industry. Our role in reducing costs in both the components of solar modules and well as the actual solar plants will help to further accelerate this growth."
"Our strategy is to drive revenue growth for our wafer business while SunEdison produces a recurring revenue stream from solar generated electricity. At the same time, SunEdison can directly benefit from the technological and cost advances that we are helping to create with continuing improvements in silicon wafer technology. This acquisition is the beginning of an exciting new chapter in the successful 50 year history of MEMC."
SunEdison is based in Beltsville, Maryland and employs approximately 300 people worldwide. It "simplifies solar" by managing the development, financing, operation and monitoring of solar power plants for commercial customers, including many national retail outlets, government agencies, and utilities. In a typical structure, SunEdison arranges third party, non-recourse financing for the facility and the customer has no upfront capital outlay.
With one of the strongest brands in solar, SunEdison will continue to operate with the SunEdison name, as a subsidiary of MEMC.
Former Ausra Co-Founder Joins GlassPoint Solar
SAN FRANCISCO--(BUSINESS WIRE)--GlassPoint Solar, a provider of solar industrial process heat systems, today announced the addition of John O’Donnell, formerly co-founder and EVP of Ausra, as Vice President of Business Development. Mr. O’Donnell joins GlassPoint following the company’s transition from CleanBoard, Inc., a manufacturer of solar-made gypsum wallboard, to a supplier of its solar thermal technology for industrial facilities that utilize large amounts of high-temperature process heat. In his new position, Mr. O’Donnell will drive the large scale adoption of GlassPoint’s technology while creating awareness for solar industrial process heat (SIPH) in new markets.
“John brings a valuable combination of passion, leadership, and industry knowledge to the team,” said Rod MacGregor, GlassPoint CEO and founder. “With a long history of bringing new innovations to market, including launching Ausra, one of the most recognized names in the solar thermal industry, John is the perfect candidate to guide GlassPoint’s growth as we rapidly expand our customer base and execute on the promise of delivering industrial process heat at a lower cost than natural gas.”
Mr. O’Donnell brings more than 20 years of experience leading successful startup ventures on the cutting edge of solar technology, digital video platforms and supercomputers. As co-founder and executive vice president of Ausra, Mr. O’Donnell was responsible for securing a funding round led by Khosla Ventures and Kleiner-Perkins, recruiting a talented team of engineers and executives, and was instrumental in building cross-industry and governmental relationships in support for solar thermal development. During his tenure, Ausra emerged as a global leader in the design and manufacture of large-scale solar thermal energy systems.
“The market opportunity for solar thermal energy for industrial use is immense, yet largely untapped due to high costs,” said Mr. O’Donnell. “GlassPoint’s fundamental innovation combines proven technologies and low-cost materials in a new architecture, bringing the cost of solar heat below the market price for fossil fuels. Huge economic forces will be unleashed as a result of improved customer energy costs and cost predictability.”
Prior to Ausra, Mr. O’Donnell cofounded and served as CTO at Equator Technologies, developing flexible platforms for networked digital media systems. In 2006, Equator was bought by Pixelworks where he served as vice president of technology and business development. Before Equator, Mr. O’Donnell was cofounder and vice president of engineering for Multiflow Computer, building the world’s first VLIW supercomputer processors and compilers.
Mr. O’Donnell began his career at the United States Department of Energy’s Princeton University Plasma Physics Lab. He holds eight patents in a wide range of technology fields. Mr. O’Donnell holds a bachelor's degree in computer science from Yale University.
First Solar Sells California Solar Power Project to NRG
TEMPE, Ariz.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--First Solar, Inc. (Nasdaq:FSLR), today announced the sale of the 21 megawatt (MW) AC solar energy project it has developed and constructed in Blythe, Calif., to NRG Energy, Inc.
Located in Riverside County about 200 miles east of Los Angeles, the Blythe project is California's first and largest utility-scale photovoltaic (PV) solar generation facility, and among the largest in North America. Construction began in September and is expected to be completed by year-end. Electricity from the plant will be sold to Southern California Edison under a 20-year power purchase agreement.
"First Solar is very pleased that the first of our utility-scale solar projects in California will be coming on line with a leading power producer like NRG," said Bruce Sohn, president of First Solar. "This clean, affordable, and sustainable energy will help California meet the goals of its Renewable Portfolio Standard."
Using First Solar's industry-leading thin film PV panels that convert sunlight directly into electricity with no water consumption during operation, the project will generate over 45,000 megawatt-hours of electricity per year. The solar generation displaces over 12,000 tons of carbon dioxide emissions per year—the equivalent of taking 2,200 cars off the road. The construction of this project created 175 green jobs.
First Solar will provide operations and maintenance services at Blythe under a long-term contract with NRG. Financial terms of the agreement were not disclosed.
First Solar is developing 1,300 megawatts of PV solar projects under contracts with utilities in California and the Southwest.
Premier Power Breaks Ground on Additional 1.0 MW Project in Southern Italy
EL DORADO HILLS, Calif.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Premier Power Renewable Energy (OTCBB: PPRW), a global leader in the development, design, engineering and construction of solar power systems for commercial, government and utility markets in the U.S., Spain and Italy, announced today that it has broken ground on an additional 1.0 mega watt (MW) solar project in Italy.
The project is located in the Puglia region of southern Italy and is part of the series of solar projects, valued in excess of $100 million, that are being developed as a result of Premier Power’s acquisition of Arco Energy in July 2009. Arco Energy is an Italian solar project developer, EPC and distributor.
The Company expects the fixed ground mount solar installation to be completed by January 2010. The project will utilize crystalline modules provided by Canadian Solar and inverters from PowerOne. The installation will be installed using environmentally friendly racking, ensuring minimal disruption to the land and surrounding environment.
Gestore dei Servizi Elettrici (GSE), the state-run Italian power management agency, expects total installed PV power in Italy will reach 900 MW by the end of 2009, representing 100% growth compared to 2008 and a potential market size of over 4 billion Euros. GSE expects the Italian market to grow to 1500 MW in 2010. The attractive feed-in tariff in Italy is setting the stage for Italy to become the second largest PV market in the world, behind Germany.
“Our local expertise, through the acquisition of Arco Energy, and our experience and best practices in both utility scale and rooftop installations, establish a platform that opens up both immediate opportunities in the development and construction of large scale projects in the Italian market and the longer term opportunity of Italian rooftop and BIPV activities, both of which are rapidly expanding in the region,” said Miguel de Anquin, chief operating officer of Premier Power.
Premier Power anticipates making further announcements in the very near term on additional projects in both Europe and the United States.
Praxair China Signs Agreement with MAGI Solar Energy Technology Co.
SHANGHAI--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Praxair China has signed a multi-year agreement with MAGI Solar Energy Technology Co., Ltd. to supply bulk and process gases for its solar cell and module manufacturing facility, located in the Jiangsu Yixing Economic Development Zone, Jiangsu Province. MAGI uses advanced processing technology to manufacture high efficiency, high quality monocrystalline solar cells and modules.
"The Praxair team helped us meet a tight schedule at our new facility in Jiangsu Province," said Ms. Wen Zhang, Managing Director of Magi Solar. “And Praxair’s service reaches beyond the supply of gases to include safety training on specialty gases handling and advice on complying with local regulations."
"We look forward to supporting MAGI Solar’s growth in China,” said David Chow, president of Praxair China. “Praxair is well positioned to serve the rapidly growing China solar market with our comprehensive offering of gas products and reliable supply network.”
Solar Power, Inc. Welcomes New Board Member
ROSEVILLE, Calif.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Solar Power, Inc. (“SPI”) (OTCBB: SOPW) announced today that Francis Chen, Vice Chairman with WI Harper Group, will join the Company’s Board of Directors. WI Harper group manages over $400 million in invested capital. Mr. Chen brings lengthy strategic and financial management experience to Solar Power Inc.’s Board of Directors.
“Solar Power, Inc. is a very well positioned company in one of the brightest business segments in the economy. Renewable energy has a very promising and growing global market,” said Mr. Chen. “I believe Solar Power, Inc. is positioned for leadership across several key vertical segments of the global photovoltaic solar market. I look forward to working with the other members of the Board as well as the SPI senior management team.”
“We welcome Francis to our Board of Directors,” said Stephen Kircher, Chairman & CEO of Solar Power, Inc. “The value of the experience he brings as our newest director is significant. We are entering an exciting time in our evolution as a company and I look forward to working with Francis and the entire Board of Directors as we begin to capitalize on the growing opportunities that lay before us.”
Thursday, November 19, 2009
Intersolar India Gets off to a Great Start
PFORZHEIM and FREIBURG, November 19 /PRNewswire/ -- The first ever Intersolar India in Hyderabad came to a close having proved a great success. Over 3,000 visitors to the three-day conference and accompanying trade fair gathered information on international trends and markets in the photovoltaics industry. The event focused in particular on the significance of the photovoltaics industry in India and local market developments. Intersolar India was organized in collaboration with SOLARCON(R) India.
Intersolar India, organized in collaboration with SOLARCON(R) India, came to a close having proved to be an enormous success. Overall, a total of over 3,000 interested visitors attended the three-day conference and accompanying trade fair, which were held from November 9 - 11, 2009. The conference attracted 645 participants and 45 speakers to Hyderabad in the state of Andhra Pradesh, India. The organizers' expectations were also far exceeded with regard to the accompanying trade fair, which recorded a total of 2,500 visitors and 70 exhibitors, 17 of whom were from abroad. As a result, plans are in place to increasingly expand the trade fair from 2010 onward.
Support for Intersolar India from Indian politicians
The event opened with a keynote speech from Prof. Dr. Eicke Weber, Director of the Fraunhofer Institute for Solar Energy Systems (ISE) in Freiburg, Germany. Among the guests present at the opening were Konijeti Rosaiah, Chief Minister of Andhra Pradesh and K. Lakshmi Narayana, Minister of Heavy Industries in the host state's government, as well as Dr. Debesh Das, the Government of West Bengal's Minister of Information Technology. This political backing underlines the increasing significance of solar energy in India.
India to back solar energy in future
The conference focused in particular on the significance of the photovoltaics industry in India as well as local market developments. At present, the country is faced with an energy deficit of 10 to 17 percent. A third of the Indian population, i.e. over 450 million people, currently has no access to electricity. Power failures deprive cities of energy for two to four hours on a daily basis, while rural areas face power cuts lasting up to 20 hours per day. In addition, experts predict a further increase in energy consumption, with per capita electricity demand rising from a current level of 660 kWh per year to as much as 2,000 kWh over the next 10 to 20 years. Average per capita consumption in Europe today lies at 6,500 kWh per year.
However, there may be a solution. Solar irradiation in India amounts to four to seven kWh per day. With around 300 days of sunshine per year, India is therefore well placed to use solar energy as a means of tackling its energy deficit in future. In order to make use of this immense potential, the Indian government plans to increase the capacity of Indian solar installations to a total of 20 gigawatts by the year 2020. These plans form part of the "National Solar Mission" and would offer a sustainable contribution to India's energy supply.
As an international meeting point for members of the solar industry, Intersolar India is a driving force behind the developments in India and serves as a platform for market players to discuss future challenges to the Indian solar market.
SOLARCON(R) India and Intersolar India 2009
Intersolar India is organized by Solar Promotion International GmbH and Freiburg Management and Marketing International GmbH (FMMI). The event was held for the first time in 2009 in Hyderabad, India. SOLARCON(R) India is organized by the PV Group, an initiative launched by SEMI, the international association of the semiconductor and photovoltaics industry. The India Semiconductor Association (ISA) is an additional cooperation partner.
Further information on Intersolar India 2010 will be available shortly.
For further information on Intersolar India and downloadable images, please visit our website at http://www.intersolar.in
Intersolar India, organized in collaboration with SOLARCON(R) India, came to a close having proved to be an enormous success. Overall, a total of over 3,000 interested visitors attended the three-day conference and accompanying trade fair, which were held from November 9 - 11, 2009. The conference attracted 645 participants and 45 speakers to Hyderabad in the state of Andhra Pradesh, India. The organizers' expectations were also far exceeded with regard to the accompanying trade fair, which recorded a total of 2,500 visitors and 70 exhibitors, 17 of whom were from abroad. As a result, plans are in place to increasingly expand the trade fair from 2010 onward.
Support for Intersolar India from Indian politicians
The event opened with a keynote speech from Prof. Dr. Eicke Weber, Director of the Fraunhofer Institute for Solar Energy Systems (ISE) in Freiburg, Germany. Among the guests present at the opening were Konijeti Rosaiah, Chief Minister of Andhra Pradesh and K. Lakshmi Narayana, Minister of Heavy Industries in the host state's government, as well as Dr. Debesh Das, the Government of West Bengal's Minister of Information Technology. This political backing underlines the increasing significance of solar energy in India.
India to back solar energy in future
The conference focused in particular on the significance of the photovoltaics industry in India as well as local market developments. At present, the country is faced with an energy deficit of 10 to 17 percent. A third of the Indian population, i.e. over 450 million people, currently has no access to electricity. Power failures deprive cities of energy for two to four hours on a daily basis, while rural areas face power cuts lasting up to 20 hours per day. In addition, experts predict a further increase in energy consumption, with per capita electricity demand rising from a current level of 660 kWh per year to as much as 2,000 kWh over the next 10 to 20 years. Average per capita consumption in Europe today lies at 6,500 kWh per year.
However, there may be a solution. Solar irradiation in India amounts to four to seven kWh per day. With around 300 days of sunshine per year, India is therefore well placed to use solar energy as a means of tackling its energy deficit in future. In order to make use of this immense potential, the Indian government plans to increase the capacity of Indian solar installations to a total of 20 gigawatts by the year 2020. These plans form part of the "National Solar Mission" and would offer a sustainable contribution to India's energy supply.
As an international meeting point for members of the solar industry, Intersolar India is a driving force behind the developments in India and serves as a platform for market players to discuss future challenges to the Indian solar market.
SOLARCON(R) India and Intersolar India 2009
Intersolar India is organized by Solar Promotion International GmbH and Freiburg Management and Marketing International GmbH (FMMI). The event was held for the first time in 2009 in Hyderabad, India. SOLARCON(R) India is organized by the PV Group, an initiative launched by SEMI, the international association of the semiconductor and photovoltaics industry. The India Semiconductor Association (ISA) is an additional cooperation partner.
Further information on Intersolar India 2010 will be available shortly.
For further information on Intersolar India and downloadable images, please visit our website at http://www.intersolar.in
SunPower Completes 1-Megawatt Solar Power System at Agilent Technologies Headquarters
SAN JOSE, Calif., Nov. 19 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- SunPower Corp. ( SPWRA, SPWRB), a Silicon Valley-based manufacturer of high-efficiency solar cells, solar panels and solar systems, today announced the completion of a 1-megawatt solar power rooftop system on three buildings at Agilent's headquarters in Santa Clara, Calif. This is SunPower's second project with Agilent, following the design and installation of a 1-megawatt solar tracking system at Agilent's Santa Rosa, Calif., campus last year. Agilent expects to save $3.5 million in energy costs in the first 10 years of operation.
"Agilent is pleased to partner with SunPower on this second significant project, reinforcing our commitment to clean, renewable solar power and protecting the environment," said Keith Morgan, Agilent director of environmental, health, safety and security. "Using high-efficiency solar technology maximizes the return on our investment and minimizes the environmental impact of our operations."
The system features the SunPower T5 Solar Roof Tile, the solar industry's first non-penetrating rooftop product that combines a high-efficiency SunPower solar panel, frame and mounting system into a single pre-engineered unit. Tilted at a five-degree angle, the T5 Roof Tile system approximately doubles the energy generated per square meter compared to systems that are mounted flat onto commercial rooftops.
"Combined with SunPower's high-performance solar panels, the T5 Roof Tile will deliver more solar energy per square foot and greater energy savings than conventional systems," said Bill Kelly, managing director at SunPower. "This is a real demonstration of Agilent's commitment to sustainable practices, and will help the company maintain its position as an innovative business leader."
According to conversion formulas provided by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Agilent's solar system in Santa Clara is expected to displace more than 50 million pounds of carbon dioxide over the next 30 years. This is equivalent to the emissions displaced from removing more than 4,200 cars from California's highways. Agilent owns the renewable energy credits and all environmental attributes associated with the system.
"Agilent is pleased to partner with SunPower on this second significant project, reinforcing our commitment to clean, renewable solar power and protecting the environment," said Keith Morgan, Agilent director of environmental, health, safety and security. "Using high-efficiency solar technology maximizes the return on our investment and minimizes the environmental impact of our operations."
The system features the SunPower T5 Solar Roof Tile, the solar industry's first non-penetrating rooftop product that combines a high-efficiency SunPower solar panel, frame and mounting system into a single pre-engineered unit. Tilted at a five-degree angle, the T5 Roof Tile system approximately doubles the energy generated per square meter compared to systems that are mounted flat onto commercial rooftops.
"Combined with SunPower's high-performance solar panels, the T5 Roof Tile will deliver more solar energy per square foot and greater energy savings than conventional systems," said Bill Kelly, managing director at SunPower. "This is a real demonstration of Agilent's commitment to sustainable practices, and will help the company maintain its position as an innovative business leader."
According to conversion formulas provided by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Agilent's solar system in Santa Clara is expected to displace more than 50 million pounds of carbon dioxide over the next 30 years. This is equivalent to the emissions displaced from removing more than 4,200 cars from California's highways. Agilent owns the renewable energy credits and all environmental attributes associated with the system.
Etrion and SunPower Partner on 4-Megawatt Italian Solar Power Plants
TORONTO and SAN JOSE, Calif., Nov. 19 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- Etrion Corporation (TSX: ETX), a Canadian energy company, and SunPower Corp. ( SPWRA, SPWRB), a US-based manufacturer of high-efficiency solar cells, solar panels and solar systems, today announced an agreement to build four solar power plants, totaling four megawatts, in the Puglia region of southern Italy. SunPower will design and construct the plants, and provide operations and maintenance services.
Etrion CEO Marco Northland commented, "Solar power generation will play an increasingly vital role in our efforts to build more renewable, clean energy sources. SunPower's experienced approach to solar power plant design and construction will allow us to quickly and reliably complete these important projects."
SunPower is installing proprietary SunPower® Tracker technology at the Italian sites. The Tracker follows the sun during the day and delivers up to 25 percent more energy than fixed-tilt systems, while significantly reducing land use requirements.
The Italian bank, Centrobanca, is providing 83 percent of the financing for the project, while an Etrion subsidiary is contributing 17 percent of anticipated project costs.
"SunPower offers a unique value proposition to power plant developers in terms of technology and bankability. Our proprietary Trackers optimize our clients' return on investment while our solid balance sheet and rigorous contract guarantees give financial institutions confidence," said SunPower European Sales Director Mario Riello. "We are very pleased to partner with Etrion to deliver clean, reliable solar power to the rapidly expanding Italian market."
Construction of the first of the four projects is targeted to begin by the end of this month. The first electricity sales from the projects under the Italian feed-in-tariff regime are expected during the third quarter of 2010.
SunPower has more than 500 megawatts of solar power plants installed or under contract around the world, including Italian power plants such as the 24-megawatt Montalto di Castro plant and a 5-megawatt plant in Tolentino. SunPower's Italian operations are located in Milan and Faenza.
Etrion CEO Marco Northland commented, "Solar power generation will play an increasingly vital role in our efforts to build more renewable, clean energy sources. SunPower's experienced approach to solar power plant design and construction will allow us to quickly and reliably complete these important projects."
SunPower is installing proprietary SunPower® Tracker technology at the Italian sites. The Tracker follows the sun during the day and delivers up to 25 percent more energy than fixed-tilt systems, while significantly reducing land use requirements.
The Italian bank, Centrobanca, is providing 83 percent of the financing for the project, while an Etrion subsidiary is contributing 17 percent of anticipated project costs.
"SunPower offers a unique value proposition to power plant developers in terms of technology and bankability. Our proprietary Trackers optimize our clients' return on investment while our solid balance sheet and rigorous contract guarantees give financial institutions confidence," said SunPower European Sales Director Mario Riello. "We are very pleased to partner with Etrion to deliver clean, reliable solar power to the rapidly expanding Italian market."
Construction of the first of the four projects is targeted to begin by the end of this month. The first electricity sales from the projects under the Italian feed-in-tariff regime are expected during the third quarter of 2010.
SunPower has more than 500 megawatts of solar power plants installed or under contract around the world, including Italian power plants such as the 24-megawatt Montalto di Castro plant and a 5-megawatt plant in Tolentino. SunPower's Italian operations are located in Milan and Faenza.
Clear Skies Launches Patented Wireless Monitoring System
MINEOLA, N.Y., Nov. 18 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- Clear Skies Solar, Inc. (OTC Bulletin Board: CSKH) today announced the launch of its patented XTRAX® technology into the smart-grid market through its subsidiary, Carbon 612 Corporation. C612 was formed last year to house the patented and patent pending technologies that have been developed in-house by CSS. One of the technologies CSS developed is the XTRAX wireless data monitoring system for renewable energy systems. XTRAX is a cellular powered data transmittal unit that tracks the clean energy power produced along with the renewable energy and carbon credits associated with clean energy systems. The system is now in final stages of preparation for commercial launch. Following the transfer of the XTRAX technology along with related assets and liabilities, about one-third of C612 will be sold in the initial funding round to a group of private investors.
In order to serve the growing solar market domestically as well as internationally, CSS filed for a patent in July 2004 and it was awarded on this technology in February, 2008. Since then, the technology has been developed and built to ANSI & UL guidelines with final testing awaiting third party verifications. The in-house testing has shown XTRAX to be operating at the required accuracy for the energy industry.
"We believe CSS holds the only patent awarded specifically for wireless renewable energy monitoring and our target is the sub 1 megawatt arena," says Ezra Green, CEO of Clear Skies Solar. "Our monitoring program is a low cost non-invasive system that makes it affordable for even the smallest of residential systems, which is the large majority of the installations in the U.S. We plan on offering monthly services starting at $10 per month and fully comprehensive commercial reporting and billing packages at up to $100 per month. We believe CSS has a unique low cost system of harvesting and monetizing production data that was previously categorized as too small. With an all-in cost of approximately $150 per unit, we believe it makes the cellular powered XTRAX program the most affordable in the market today."
With over 150,000 solar installations in the U.S. and hundreds of thousands of additional sub-system monitoring requirements, there is a large target market for XTRAX. The sub-system monitoring would consist of string, inverter and panel monitoring using a combination of radio and cellular technology in order to keep system downtimes to a minimum and production efficiency at a premium. We believe that the XTRAX system will also be a leader in the demand-reduction programs by automating the process as opposed to physically closing machinery switches, which makes it valuable to the energy efficiency industry. One of the market applications would include larger commercial buildings. With grid demands ever expanding, the need to reduce and control electrical consumption is more prevalent than ever before.
Carbon 612 Corporation is in the process of applying for final approvals from the appropriate agencies and obtaining third party verifications. Preliminary testing has shown that XTRAX is operating efficiently and is ready for the commercialization process.
In order to serve the growing solar market domestically as well as internationally, CSS filed for a patent in July 2004 and it was awarded on this technology in February, 2008. Since then, the technology has been developed and built to ANSI & UL guidelines with final testing awaiting third party verifications. The in-house testing has shown XTRAX to be operating at the required accuracy for the energy industry.
"We believe CSS holds the only patent awarded specifically for wireless renewable energy monitoring and our target is the sub 1 megawatt arena," says Ezra Green, CEO of Clear Skies Solar. "Our monitoring program is a low cost non-invasive system that makes it affordable for even the smallest of residential systems, which is the large majority of the installations in the U.S. We plan on offering monthly services starting at $10 per month and fully comprehensive commercial reporting and billing packages at up to $100 per month. We believe CSS has a unique low cost system of harvesting and monetizing production data that was previously categorized as too small. With an all-in cost of approximately $150 per unit, we believe it makes the cellular powered XTRAX program the most affordable in the market today."
With over 150,000 solar installations in the U.S. and hundreds of thousands of additional sub-system monitoring requirements, there is a large target market for XTRAX. The sub-system monitoring would consist of string, inverter and panel monitoring using a combination of radio and cellular technology in order to keep system downtimes to a minimum and production efficiency at a premium. We believe that the XTRAX system will also be a leader in the demand-reduction programs by automating the process as opposed to physically closing machinery switches, which makes it valuable to the energy efficiency industry. One of the market applications would include larger commercial buildings. With grid demands ever expanding, the need to reduce and control electrical consumption is more prevalent than ever before.
Carbon 612 Corporation is in the process of applying for final approvals from the appropriate agencies and obtaining third party verifications. Preliminary testing has shown that XTRAX is operating efficiently and is ready for the commercialization process.
DayStar Technologies Announces Appointment of Dr. Kang Sun to Board of Directors
SANTA CLARA, Calif., Nov. 18 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- DayStar Technologies, Inc. (Nasdaq: DSTI), a developer of solar photovoltaic products based on CIGS thin-film deposition technology, announced today that its board of directors has appointed Dr. Kang Sun, Ph.D. as an independent director of the board of directors of the company, effective immediately.
"I am very pleased to welcome Dr. Sun to the DayStar board of directors," said Peter Lacey, Chairman of the Board. "His demonstrated success and leadership as President and Chief Operating Officer of JA Solar and his depth of experience in technology companies will be of great value to DayStar as we move forward to commercialize DayStar's CIGS thin-film technology."
"I am pleased to join DayStar's board of directors and I look forward to working with Bill Steckel and the management team to contribute to the company's success in every way possible," said Dr. Sun. "I believe that DayStar's proprietary CIGS technology has significant commercial potential in the rapidly growing thin-film, photovoltaic market."
Dr. Sun is currently President and CEO of RayTracker Inc., an advanced photovoltaic tracking system manufacturer. Dr. Sun previously served as President, Chief Operating Officer and Director of China-based JA Solar Holdings Co., a world leader in photovoltaic products. At JA Solar, Dr. Sun was responsible for successfully securing $620 million in equity funding in 2007 and 2008 and led the business to profitability by growing revenue from $90 million in 2006 to approximately $800 million in 2008. Prior to joining JA Solar Holdings, Dr. Sun served as Managing Director, New Business Development & Chief Strategy Officer, New Business and New Products Group for Applied Materials where he was responsible for new business ventures and the company's corporate strategic licensing business. From 1990 to 2005, Dr. Sun held executive positions in several large business enterprises and technology start-ups, including serving as Vice President of New Venture Business at Honeywell International Inc., General Manager of the optical devices business at Allied Signal, Vice President of New Business and Technology at Oce, and Vice President of Business Development at Microfabrica. Dr. Sun received his Ph.D. degree in material science from Brown University, master's degree in chemistry from University of Georgia and bachelor's degree in chemistry from Nanjing University, China.
"I am very pleased to welcome Dr. Sun to the DayStar board of directors," said Peter Lacey, Chairman of the Board. "His demonstrated success and leadership as President and Chief Operating Officer of JA Solar and his depth of experience in technology companies will be of great value to DayStar as we move forward to commercialize DayStar's CIGS thin-film technology."
"I am pleased to join DayStar's board of directors and I look forward to working with Bill Steckel and the management team to contribute to the company's success in every way possible," said Dr. Sun. "I believe that DayStar's proprietary CIGS technology has significant commercial potential in the rapidly growing thin-film, photovoltaic market."
Dr. Sun is currently President and CEO of RayTracker Inc., an advanced photovoltaic tracking system manufacturer. Dr. Sun previously served as President, Chief Operating Officer and Director of China-based JA Solar Holdings Co., a world leader in photovoltaic products. At JA Solar, Dr. Sun was responsible for successfully securing $620 million in equity funding in 2007 and 2008 and led the business to profitability by growing revenue from $90 million in 2006 to approximately $800 million in 2008. Prior to joining JA Solar Holdings, Dr. Sun served as Managing Director, New Business Development & Chief Strategy Officer, New Business and New Products Group for Applied Materials where he was responsible for new business ventures and the company's corporate strategic licensing business. From 1990 to 2005, Dr. Sun held executive positions in several large business enterprises and technology start-ups, including serving as Vice President of New Venture Business at Honeywell International Inc., General Manager of the optical devices business at Allied Signal, Vice President of New Business and Technology at Oce, and Vice President of Business Development at Microfabrica. Dr. Sun received his Ph.D. degree in material science from Brown University, master's degree in chemistry from University of Georgia and bachelor's degree in chemistry from Nanjing University, China.
Clear Skies Solar to Monetize Part of its Carbon 612 Subsidiary Asset
MINEOLA, N.Y., Nov. 19 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- Clear Skies Solar, Inc. (OTC Bulletin Board: CSKH) today announced that approximately one third of its wholly owned subsidiary C612 would be sold to a group of private investors. C612 was formed last year to house the patented and patent pending technologies that have been developed in-house by CSS. The sale is expected to increase working capital available at CSS allowing for increased flexibility to meet upcoming growth plans and permit C612 to support its own working capital needs.
"We are excited to have the opportunity to monetize part of the C612 asset. Monetization of approximately one third of this asset via a sale to a group of private investors will allow us to reduce our monthly expenses by approximately 25% and allow C612 to better support the upcoming costs for third party testing of XTRAX," commented Ezra Green, CEO of Clear Skies Solar. "This move will also facilitate our movement into the smart grid market, which is one of the most exciting sectors within the overall clean technology space."
Clear skies Solar, Inc. formed the C612 subsidiary last year to house the patented and patent pending technologies that have been developed in-house by CSS. One of the technologies CSS developed is the Patented XTRAX® wireless data monitoring system for renewable energy systems. XTRAX is a cellular powered data transmittal unit that tracks and reports the clean energy power produced so that renewable energy and carbon credits can be validated associated with clean energy systems. The system is now in final testing and certification in preparation for future commercial launch.
With over 150,000 solar installations in the US and hundreds of thousands of additional sub-system monitoring requirements, there is a large target market for XTRAX. The sub-system monitoring would consist of string, inverter and panel monitoring using a combination of radio and cellular technology in order to keep system downtimes to a minimum and production efficiency at a premium. We believe that the XTRAX system will also be a leader in the demand-reduction programs by automating the process as opposed to physically closing machinery switches, which makes it valuable to the energy efficiency industry. One of the market applications would include larger commercial buildings. With grid demands ever expanding, the need to reduce and control electrical consumption is more prevalent than ever before.
"We are excited to have the opportunity to monetize part of the C612 asset. Monetization of approximately one third of this asset via a sale to a group of private investors will allow us to reduce our monthly expenses by approximately 25% and allow C612 to better support the upcoming costs for third party testing of XTRAX," commented Ezra Green, CEO of Clear Skies Solar. "This move will also facilitate our movement into the smart grid market, which is one of the most exciting sectors within the overall clean technology space."
Clear skies Solar, Inc. formed the C612 subsidiary last year to house the patented and patent pending technologies that have been developed in-house by CSS. One of the technologies CSS developed is the Patented XTRAX® wireless data monitoring system for renewable energy systems. XTRAX is a cellular powered data transmittal unit that tracks and reports the clean energy power produced so that renewable energy and carbon credits can be validated associated with clean energy systems. The system is now in final testing and certification in preparation for future commercial launch.
With over 150,000 solar installations in the US and hundreds of thousands of additional sub-system monitoring requirements, there is a large target market for XTRAX. The sub-system monitoring would consist of string, inverter and panel monitoring using a combination of radio and cellular technology in order to keep system downtimes to a minimum and production efficiency at a premium. We believe that the XTRAX system will also be a leader in the demand-reduction programs by automating the process as opposed to physically closing machinery switches, which makes it valuable to the energy efficiency industry. One of the market applications would include larger commercial buildings. With grid demands ever expanding, the need to reduce and control electrical consumption is more prevalent than ever before.
MiaSolé Announces Commercial Shipments to Multiple Customers
SANTA CLARA, Calif.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--MiaSolé, the emerging leader in the manufacture of CIGS thin-film photovoltaic modules, is pleased to announce that it has started shipping its CIGS thin-film modules from its California production facility.
“We have now shipped modules to 30 customer sites in Germany, Italy, Spain, France, Portugal and various locations in the United States; we now have commercial projects in the ground, under development and on the drawing board,” said Dr. Joseph Laia, Chief Executive Officer. “With complete UL/IEC certification and long-standing customer partnerships, we are now ramping our factory output and production capacity for 2010. We are confident our cost structure and manufacturing efficiencies will enable us to compete effectively in the large and growing solar energy market.”
About MiaSolé
California-based MiaSolé manufactures solar panels utilizing the thin-film copper indium gallium diselenide (CIGS) semiconductor. The company’s goal is to enable grid parity solar energy through high-volume manufacturing of low cost, high-efficiency thin-film solar modules.
Mitsubishi Electric 3MW Solar Panels to Power Italy's Coop Logistic Center
TOKYO--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Mitsubishi Electric Corporation (TOKYO:6503) announced today the completion of a 2,906-kilowatt (kW) photovoltaic (PV) installation for Coop's new CNNA-Prato logistic center in Prato, Italy. Of the 15,710 lead-free solder PV modules used for the 2,906kW system, 15,650 modules (2,895kW) have been installed on the warehouse roof, covering a surface of 21,000 square meters, equivalent to 5 soccer fields. The system will reduce dependence on non-renewable energy, and is expected to generate 3.2 million kWh per year, which will not only completely meet the energy needs of the new logistic center, but will also generate an estimated amount of 500,000 kWh excess electricity that will be transferred to the national distribution network.
The 2,895kW installation on the warehouse roof has become the largest rooftop PV system on a single building in Italy. The warehouse roof was specially designed for PV installations, given that rooftop installations in Italy receive a higher feed-in-tariff rate than those on the ground, and effectively use space. In addition to the 2,895kW rooftop system, an 11kW system of 60 PV modules has been installed on the parking lot grounds.
In January 2010, Mitsubishi Electric will launch its new product lineup of high-output lead-free solder photovoltaic modules with outputs of up to 235W. By utilizing these products and also expanding its product lineup in the future, Mitsubishi Electric intends to further strengthen its overseas PV business.
New Home Green Materials To Offer ET Solar Panels and Tracking Systems
DUBLIN, Calif.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--New Home Green Materials and Learning Center is proud to announce its new collaborative relationship with ET Solar Group Corp ("ET Solar"), one of the top providers of photovoltaic systems in the world today.
New Home, a soon-to-launch California-based chain of green home improvement superstores, is emerging as a leader in photovoltaic materials distribution with a unique partner approach for small to medium sized installers and contractors. With 39 categories of green materials, it offers one-stop shopping for installers.
"I'm excited about the new relationship between New Home and ET Solar," said New Home CEO and founder Rich Rifkin. "From what I've seen, ET is a solid company with a high quality product which our customers demand as a defense against some of the well-known lower performing products on the market."
ET Solar is a Nanjing-based vertical integrated manufacturer of photovoltaic ("PV") products (ingot, wafer, modules and tracking systems) and solar power solutions provider. ET Solar's projects range across the US, Europe, Asia, Australia, the Middle East and Africa. ET's high-power solar panels of 275 to 280 watts makes them a more economically viable choice for commercial installation because they are more cost-effective; requiring less labor and supplies. Their black frame modules can meet aesthetic requirements for residential and smaller commercial applications.
"New Home offers a very unique business model at the right moment in time. This exciting new retail concept will really give consumers a chance to do their share to help reduce their climate impact. We are very happy to be part of this effort as a supplier," said ET Vice President Linhui Sui PhD.
New Home is pleased to offer ET's excellent panels and tracking systems as one of our inaugural product lines in the launch of our renewable energy division.
NY Lawmakers Unanimously Approve Municipal Loan Programs for Solar, Efficiency Retrofits
ALBANY, NY--(BUSINESS WIRE)--In a special session held yesterday, New York State lawmakers unanimously passed legislation authorizing municipal loan programs for renewable and energy efficiency improvements on homes and Businesses. Called PACE (Property Assessed Clean Energy) financing, these municipal programs allow homeowners to go solar and make efficiency improvements without any upfront cost. Advocates at the national grassroots organization Vote Solar applauded the Governor, New York legislators, and Rep. Steve Israel (D-NY) for their leadership in passing this exciting clean energy legislation.
"PACE programs remove the single greatest barrier to solar adoption - upfront cost. That makes PACE an incredibly powerful tool for driving new economic opportunity, supporting green job growth and making real progress in the fight against climate change," said Shaun Chapman, East Coast Campaigns Director for Vote Solar. "Thanks to leadership from Governor Paterson and the State Legislature, New York can now take advantage of this innovative approach to clean energy finance. Congressman Israel also deserves special recognition for his particular commitment to advancing this bill and New York's renewable energy future. I look forward to seeing local governments throughout the state implement PACE and pass its many benefits on to New Yorkers."
"Through my '45 by 15' clean energy initiative, New York has significantly expanded energy efficiency and renewable energy incentive programs that are helping residents and businesses reduce their energy costs," Governor David A. Paterson said. "Now, thanks to the leadership of President Obama and Congressman Israel, the federal government is offering programs that encourage the use of PACE loan programs. But to strengthen New York's ability to tap this federal funding, we needed to pass this legislation, which will authorize municipalities to administer PACE loan programs. I want to thank the Legislature for recognizing this opportunity and for agreeing to pass this critical legislation in the extraordinary session."
Both the New York Senate and Assembly voted unanimously in favor of amending state law to authorize municipalities to establish PACE programs. Recognizing the model's job creation and economic benefits, the federal government has also recently announced that $454 Million in Recovery Act funds will be made available to support PACE programming. The deadline for municipalities to apply for federal PACE funds is December 14, 2009. For more information, visit: www.eecbg.gov
How PACE Works:
Cities or counties set up special clean energy finance districts capable of issuing low-interest bonds. The bonds are used to cover the costs of renewable energy and efficiency improvements on private property, and participants pay the loan back through a long-term assessment on their property taxes. This arrangement spreads the cost of energy improvements across a 20-year payment plan that is easily transferable to the next property owner. The property tax assessment is typically less than the electricity bill savings generated by the new solar system, delivering immediate cost savings to the propertyowner. The programs are entirely voluntary: there is no requirement for either municipalities to create PACE programs or for homeowners to participate in them.
PACE is now allowed by state law in California, Colorado, Florida, Louisiana, Maryland, Nevada, New Mexico, New York, Ohio, Oklahoma, Oregon, Texas, Vermont, Virginia and Wisconsin. For more information, visit:
http://votesolar.org/city-initiatives/solar-municipal-property-tax-financing
About Vote Solar:
Vote Solar is a non-profit grassroots organization working to combat climate change and foster economic development by bringing solar energy into the mainstream. Since 2002 Vote Solar has engaged in state, federal and local advocacy campaigns to remove regulatory barriers and implement policies needed to bring solar to scale.
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