CHENGDU, China, May 28 /PRNewswire-Asia-FirstCall/ -- Apollo Solar Energy, Inc. (OTC Bulletin Board: ASOE) ("Apollo Solar" or "the Company"), a refiner and producer of high purity tellurium (Te), tellurium-based compounds and other metals for the solar photovoltaic (PV) industry and specific segments of the electronic materials market worldwide, today announced that the Company has entered into a non-binding collaboration agreement with China Energy Conservation Solar Energy Technologies, Inc. ("CECS" or "China Energy Conservation") to build scaled thin-film solar energy power stations.
According to the non-binding collaboration agreement, both parties anticipate working jointly in three ways: first, Apollo Solar intends to provide CECS with thin film solar panels, upon request, on a long-term basis, which panels the parties intend to use in the construction of thin scaled film solar power stations and photovoltaic grid-connected systems; second, the parties intend to work jointly to construct thin scaled film solar energy power stations; and third, CECS intends to acquire the thin film solar energy power stations that may be built independently by Apollo Solar through its separate financing and technology.
"We are very pleased to sign a non-binding collaboration agreement with CECS," Mr. Renyi Hou, the CEO of the Company commented, "CECS is the only solar energy oriented company currently funded by the China Energy Conservation Investment Corporation, a state-owned company responsible for leading the new renewable energy industry by directing development throughout China."
"CECS, a wholly-owned subsidiary of China Energy Conservation Investment Corporation, is the largest operator of wind and solar power stations in China. CECS is in charge of the construction and operation of scaled solar power stations, and is the largest investor and systematic operator of solar photovoltaic technology in China," Mr. Zhao Youmin, senior vice president of CECS commented. "It is our duty to lead the direction of new renewable energy industry in China as a state owned investment corporation. We select Apollo as strategic partner for developing thin film solar power station since Apollo is a pioneer in thin film solar PV section with resource, technologies and network. We expect long term cooperation with Apollo under mutual benefit."
Mr. Hou further commented, "The Chairman of China's State Electricity Corporation, in a recent interview on CCTV News, announced that according to the Chinese government's recent promise to limit emissions, the State Electricity Corporation intends to accelerate the pace of construction of renewable energy sources, including solar power stations and photovoltaic grid-connected systems. The Chairman also estimated that, in his opinion, renewal energy sources, including wind and solar energy, will capture about a 20% share of nationwide energy demand in China by the year 2020."
"Today, renewable energy only accounts for less than 1% of the energy market share in China," Mr. Hou stated, "As a high-purity Te supplier, Apollo Solar expects to provide high-quality solar panel products with competitive pricing through OEM agreements with manufactures. We believe that working with CECS will improve our competitive advantage in our future construction of scaled solar energy power stations. Our management team believes the cooperation with CECS will lay a stable and sustainable base for the Company's future development."
Friday, May 28, 2010
With MCS Certification, Suntech Enters Promising UK Market
LONDON and WUXI, China, May 28 /PRNewswire-Asia/ -- Suntech Power Holdings Co., Ltd. (NYSE: STP), the world's largest producer of crystalline silicon photovoltaic modules, recently received official certification under the UK Microgeneration Certification Scheme (MCS) for its most popular models, a pre-requisite for selling solar panels in the UK market. The certification will enable customers and value-added resellers in the UK to utilize Suntech's solar panels for reliable electricity generation.
Issued by the leading UK test authority, the British Board of Agrement (BBA), the certification certifies that Suntech's modules meet or exceed relevant standards for sales in the UK. The MCS approval process includes a factory inspection, to ensure that all production processes conform or exceed safety and reliability standards, as well as thorough product performance evaluation.
Solar installers, such as The Green Electrician Ltd., are delighted to offer Suntech modules to their customers in the UK. Rupert Higgin, Director of The Green Electrician Ltd., has been impressed by the quality, excellent performance and reliability of Suntech modules installed in Germany. Mr. Higgin commented, "I would not hesitate in recommending Suntech's high-performance solar products to our customers in the UK. Suntech has a strong presence throughout Europe and they provide great support and quick responses to all my questions." Since installing their first system in April, The Green Electrician has developed about a dozen new systems using Suntech modules within the last month.
The forecast for the UK solar market is bright, judging by the activities of UK installers, such as The Green Electrician, who report robust consumer demand. The superior performance of Suntech's industry-leading solar panels, under all light and weather conditions, makes solar a viable energy solution almost everywhere under the sun. Coupled with strong government incentives to catalyze market growth, solar will provide an attractive return on investment to both commercial and private customers in the UK.
Jerry Stokes, Suntech's Vice President of Strategy and Business Development in Europe, added, "We see the UK as a strategically important market and had no hesitation in engaging BBA to assess our modules for the MCS certification. With a high degree of home ownership and a positive feed-in-tariff legislation, which offers secure returns, we are confident that the UK market offers great potential."
All of Suntech's products meet or exceed the most stringent international quality and safety standards. Launched in 2009, Suntech's advanced solar product testing facility is widely recognized as the best-in-class, as it has been awarded the Underwriters Laboratories Witness Testing Data Program Certificate as well as the VDE Test Data Acceptance Program Certificate in accordance with all requirements of IEC 61215 and IEC 61730.
Issued by the leading UK test authority, the British Board of Agrement (BBA), the certification certifies that Suntech's modules meet or exceed relevant standards for sales in the UK. The MCS approval process includes a factory inspection, to ensure that all production processes conform or exceed safety and reliability standards, as well as thorough product performance evaluation.
Solar installers, such as The Green Electrician Ltd., are delighted to offer Suntech modules to their customers in the UK. Rupert Higgin, Director of The Green Electrician Ltd., has been impressed by the quality, excellent performance and reliability of Suntech modules installed in Germany. Mr. Higgin commented, "I would not hesitate in recommending Suntech's high-performance solar products to our customers in the UK. Suntech has a strong presence throughout Europe and they provide great support and quick responses to all my questions." Since installing their first system in April, The Green Electrician has developed about a dozen new systems using Suntech modules within the last month.
The forecast for the UK solar market is bright, judging by the activities of UK installers, such as The Green Electrician, who report robust consumer demand. The superior performance of Suntech's industry-leading solar panels, under all light and weather conditions, makes solar a viable energy solution almost everywhere under the sun. Coupled with strong government incentives to catalyze market growth, solar will provide an attractive return on investment to both commercial and private customers in the UK.
Jerry Stokes, Suntech's Vice President of Strategy and Business Development in Europe, added, "We see the UK as a strategically important market and had no hesitation in engaging BBA to assess our modules for the MCS certification. With a high degree of home ownership and a positive feed-in-tariff legislation, which offers secure returns, we are confident that the UK market offers great potential."
All of Suntech's products meet or exceed the most stringent international quality and safety standards. Launched in 2009, Suntech's advanced solar product testing facility is widely recognized as the best-in-class, as it has been awarded the Underwriters Laboratories Witness Testing Data Program Certificate as well as the VDE Test Data Acceptance Program Certificate in accordance with all requirements of IEC 61215 and IEC 61730.
Independent Energy Solutions to Design and Build 1.15 Megawatt Solar Electric System for The Capital Group Companies
IRVINE, Calif., May 27 /PRNewswire/ -- Independent Energy Solutions, Inc. (IES), a firm based in Vista, California, has recently begun design and construction of a 1.15 MW solar photovoltaic system for The Capital Group Companies Irvine Campus. The solar system will be mounted on shade structures on the roofs of three parking garages and will provide nearly 50% of the energy used to power the campus data center and central plant equipment.
The Capital Group strives to provide an environmentally conscious work environment. This commitment, combined with the anticipated energy savings and available tax incentives, drove the organization to invest in solar energy. The Capital Group should benefit within five years from a full return on its investment, which is expected to save the organization more than $14 million in energy costs over the next 25 years.
IES will install approximately 5,472 Kyocera 210 W high-efficiency polycrystalline solar panels at the site, making it the largest solar energy array to date in Orange County. When completed, the system will produce 1.7 million kilowatt hours of power from the sun each year. Using solar power instead of conventional power reduces CO2 emissions by approximately 30,725 tons over the next 25 years, which is the environmental equivalent of 3.8 million miles not driven each year. "We're excited to take this step to make our Irvine Campus even greener, while saving energy and money," said Reid McCartney, vice president of Corporate Facilities for The Capital Group.
IES was selected for the project as the result of a comprehensive process facilitated by EcoMotion, a renewable energy consulting firm based in Irvine. EcoMotion worked with The Capital Group to develop a suitable RFP, distribute it to qualified solar contractors, schedule walk-throughs of the property, and then evaluate responses. "We received a number of very strong proposals," said Ted Flanigan, president of EcoMotion, "and were pleased that the work was entrusted to IES." As solar agent for The Capital Group, EcoMotion provides ongoing advisory services and project support.
Construction began in mid-May 2010 with project completion expected mid- to late summer.
The Capital Group Companies is a global, investment management firm serving individuals, families, corporations, governments and non-profit organizations. Founded in 1931, The Capital Group is the home of American Funds, one of the three largest mutual fund families in the United States. The organization employs nearly 7,500 associates in 22 offices. For more information about The Capital Group, as well as employment opportunities, visit www.capgroup.com.
Founded in 1998, Independent Energy Solutions, Inc. (IES) is a leading developer of turnkey renewable energy systems including solar electric (photovoltaics). IES provides design/build and construction services to a broad spectrum of customers including commercial, military, utility and public agencies. For more information about IES, visit: www.indenergysolutions.com.
The Capital Group strives to provide an environmentally conscious work environment. This commitment, combined with the anticipated energy savings and available tax incentives, drove the organization to invest in solar energy. The Capital Group should benefit within five years from a full return on its investment, which is expected to save the organization more than $14 million in energy costs over the next 25 years.
IES will install approximately 5,472 Kyocera 210 W high-efficiency polycrystalline solar panels at the site, making it the largest solar energy array to date in Orange County. When completed, the system will produce 1.7 million kilowatt hours of power from the sun each year. Using solar power instead of conventional power reduces CO2 emissions by approximately 30,725 tons over the next 25 years, which is the environmental equivalent of 3.8 million miles not driven each year. "We're excited to take this step to make our Irvine Campus even greener, while saving energy and money," said Reid McCartney, vice president of Corporate Facilities for The Capital Group.
IES was selected for the project as the result of a comprehensive process facilitated by EcoMotion, a renewable energy consulting firm based in Irvine. EcoMotion worked with The Capital Group to develop a suitable RFP, distribute it to qualified solar contractors, schedule walk-throughs of the property, and then evaluate responses. "We received a number of very strong proposals," said Ted Flanigan, president of EcoMotion, "and were pleased that the work was entrusted to IES." As solar agent for The Capital Group, EcoMotion provides ongoing advisory services and project support.
Construction began in mid-May 2010 with project completion expected mid- to late summer.
The Capital Group Companies is a global, investment management firm serving individuals, families, corporations, governments and non-profit organizations. Founded in 1931, The Capital Group is the home of American Funds, one of the three largest mutual fund families in the United States. The organization employs nearly 7,500 associates in 22 offices. For more information about The Capital Group, as well as employment opportunities, visit www.capgroup.com.
Founded in 1998, Independent Energy Solutions, Inc. (IES) is a leading developer of turnkey renewable energy systems including solar electric (photovoltaics). IES provides design/build and construction services to a broad spectrum of customers including commercial, military, utility and public agencies. For more information about IES, visit: www.indenergysolutions.com.
SunPower and AUO to Form Joint Venture to Accelerate Fab 3 Ramp and Lower Manufacturing Costs
SAN JOSE, Calif., May 27 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- SunPower Corp. (Nasdaq: SPWRA, SPWRB), a Silicon Valley-based manufacturer of high-efficiency solar cells, solar panels and solar systems, today announced a definitive agreement to form a joint venture (JV) with AU Optronics Corp. (TAIEX: 2409; NYSE: AUO), a leading global manufacturer of thin-film transistor liquid-crystal displays (TFT-LCD) based in Taiwan. The JV will own and operate SunPower's 1.4 gigawatt third solar cell fabrication facility (Fab 3), now under construction in Malaysia. SunPower and AUO will equally own the JV and contribute equal capital funding.
"AUO's proven ability to rapidly scale advanced manufacturing technology while driving consistent, aggressive cost reduction makes them the ideal partner to help SunPower ramp Fab 3," said Tom Werner, SunPower's CEO. "We expect this JV will reduce our effective Fab 3 capital expense per watt by more than 35 percent while capitalizing on AUO's world-class manufacturing expertise to reduce solar cell manufacturing costs. As a result of SunPower's downstream channel investments, demand has been rapidly increasing for our differentiated high-efficiency solar panels and systems. We believe that this JV will enable us to produce more megawatts faster, at lower cost, with substantially less cash contribution from SunPower."
"It is our great pleasure to work with SunPower," said K.Y. Lee, Chairman of AUO. "This joint venture sets a remarkable milestone for AUO's solar business. SunPower leads the solar industry with the world's highest efficiency technology for solar cells. With the Fab 3 JV, we will join our strengths to maximize our competitiveness and long-term benefits. Customers worldwide will profit from the synergy of vertical integration and scale for their solar investments."
SunPower will host a conference call to discuss this announcement today, Thursday, May 27 at 8:15 a.m. Eastern Time. The call-in number is 517-623-4618, passcode SunPower. The event will also be webcast and can be accessed live or via archive from SunPower's website at: http://investors.sunpowercorp.com/events.cfm.
"AUO's proven ability to rapidly scale advanced manufacturing technology while driving consistent, aggressive cost reduction makes them the ideal partner to help SunPower ramp Fab 3," said Tom Werner, SunPower's CEO. "We expect this JV will reduce our effective Fab 3 capital expense per watt by more than 35 percent while capitalizing on AUO's world-class manufacturing expertise to reduce solar cell manufacturing costs. As a result of SunPower's downstream channel investments, demand has been rapidly increasing for our differentiated high-efficiency solar panels and systems. We believe that this JV will enable us to produce more megawatts faster, at lower cost, with substantially less cash contribution from SunPower."
"It is our great pleasure to work with SunPower," said K.Y. Lee, Chairman of AUO. "This joint venture sets a remarkable milestone for AUO's solar business. SunPower leads the solar industry with the world's highest efficiency technology for solar cells. With the Fab 3 JV, we will join our strengths to maximize our competitiveness and long-term benefits. Customers worldwide will profit from the synergy of vertical integration and scale for their solar investments."
SunPower will host a conference call to discuss this announcement today, Thursday, May 27 at 8:15 a.m. Eastern Time. The call-in number is 517-623-4618, passcode SunPower. The event will also be webcast and can be accessed live or via archive from SunPower's website at: http://investors.sunpowercorp.com/events.cfm.
Stellar Solar Forms Strategic Alliance with U Grow Sustainable Landscapes
SAN DIEGO, May 27 /PRNewswire/ -- Stellar Solar, a leading San Diego-based residential and commercial solar integrator, has announced a strategic alliance with U Grow Sustainable Landscapes, headquartered in Encinitas, California. The alliance will enable both companies to market to each other's environmentally focused and cost-conscious customer and prospect databases.
"This makes total sense for both Stellar and U Grow," said Michael Powers, Vice President of Sales and Marketing at Stellar Solar. "Any homeowner who takes the steps to conserve water by installing drought tolerant landscapes is a perfect candidate for solar to complement that effort. And the same goes for our solar customers; we are thrilled to be able to present them with this option to take their conservation efforts to the next level."
Jake Moss of U Grow added, "We were looking for an established, reputable, San Diego-based solar partner and Stellar was an obvious choice. They have over 500 residential solar installations in San Diego alone and dozens more on the commercial side. That, plus the fact that they have been in business for 10 years was a huge factor in our decision. I agree with Michael Powers about our customers being perfect candidates for both solar and drought tolerant landscapes."
"This makes total sense for both Stellar and U Grow," said Michael Powers, Vice President of Sales and Marketing at Stellar Solar. "Any homeowner who takes the steps to conserve water by installing drought tolerant landscapes is a perfect candidate for solar to complement that effort. And the same goes for our solar customers; we are thrilled to be able to present them with this option to take their conservation efforts to the next level."
Jake Moss of U Grow added, "We were looking for an established, reputable, San Diego-based solar partner and Stellar was an obvious choice. They have over 500 residential solar installations in San Diego alone and dozens more on the commercial side. That, plus the fact that they have been in business for 10 years was a huge factor in our decision. I agree with Michael Powers about our customers being perfect candidates for both solar and drought tolerant landscapes."
SunPower Completes Euro 44.5 Million Financing for Expanding Italy's Largest Solar Power Park
ROME, May 27 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- SunPower Corp. (Nasdaq: SPWRA, SPWRB) today announced that financing of euro 44.5 million, made up of a term loan of euro 40 million and a short-term VAT facility of euro 4.5 million, has been finalized for the second phase of the Montalto di Castro solar photovoltaic (PV) power park, the largest in Italy. With the first 24 megawatts (DC) of the park completed ahead of schedule at the end of 2009, this second phase includes an additional 8.8 megawatts (DC) that began construction in February and is expected to be complete in July. The entire 85-megawatt (DC) Montalto di Castro park, located approximately 100 kilometers north of Rome in the province of Viterbo (region of Lazio), is planned to be built and fully operational by the end of this year.
"The Montalto park is the first and largest solar project of its kind in Italy, and we are very pleased to have completed the financing on this second phase," said Dennis Arriola, SunPower CFO. "The demand for solar in Italy is strong today and growing because solar is a quickly installed, cost-competitive, reliable source of power. Financiers understand that these parks make good business sense while serving local communities with clean, renewable power."
The sole lending bank for the second phase of the project is Barclays Bank PLC, which is acting as mandated lead arranger, agent and account bank.
"Barclays's offered attractive debt terms early on in the bank selection process and they remained impressively professional and dedicated to the transaction even through the volatile market conditions of the past few weeks. This is testament to the creditworthiness of a well-executed utility scale PV power park from the SunPower team," said Tim Corfield, head of project finance for SunRay Group, a SunPower company.
Construction of the first phase of the Montalto park was completed in eight months and required more than 250 workers and the services of ten skilled local companies employed for civil, mechanical and electrical services. A dedicated 150-megawatt substation was designed and constructed by Terna SpA. A visitor center is also planned for the site to provide education on solar power and other renewable energy sources.
The Montalto di Castro park uses high-efficiency SunPower solar panels, the most efficient panels commercially available, installed on a SunPower® Tracker system. 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.
Worldwide, SunPower has more than 550 megawatts of solar power systems installed or under contract, including more than 200 megawatts of operational power plants in Europe.
"The Montalto park is the first and largest solar project of its kind in Italy, and we are very pleased to have completed the financing on this second phase," said Dennis Arriola, SunPower CFO. "The demand for solar in Italy is strong today and growing because solar is a quickly installed, cost-competitive, reliable source of power. Financiers understand that these parks make good business sense while serving local communities with clean, renewable power."
The sole lending bank for the second phase of the project is Barclays Bank PLC, which is acting as mandated lead arranger, agent and account bank.
"Barclays's offered attractive debt terms early on in the bank selection process and they remained impressively professional and dedicated to the transaction even through the volatile market conditions of the past few weeks. This is testament to the creditworthiness of a well-executed utility scale PV power park from the SunPower team," said Tim Corfield, head of project finance for SunRay Group, a SunPower company.
Construction of the first phase of the Montalto park was completed in eight months and required more than 250 workers and the services of ten skilled local companies employed for civil, mechanical and electrical services. A dedicated 150-megawatt substation was designed and constructed by Terna SpA. A visitor center is also planned for the site to provide education on solar power and other renewable energy sources.
The Montalto di Castro park uses high-efficiency SunPower solar panels, the most efficient panels commercially available, installed on a SunPower® Tracker system. 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.
Worldwide, SunPower has more than 550 megawatts of solar power systems installed or under contract, including more than 200 megawatts of operational power plants in Europe.
TEP Signs Agreements for Nearly 160 Megawatts of Renewable Power Projects
TUCSON, Ariz.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Tucson Electric Power (TEP) has agreed to purchase the output of 10 new solar power systems, a landfill gas generation project and a new wind farm that together would generate nearly 160 megawatts (MW), enough renewable energy to power more than 30,000 Tucson homes.
TEP has submitted the agreements to the Arizona Corporation Commission (ACC) for review. The commission’s endorsement would allow developers of the systems to proceed with efforts to finalize financing, secure land rights and clear other necessary hurdles in hopes of completing their projects in time to begin providing power in 2011 or 2012.
“These agreements are the next step in our development of local utility-scale renewable power projects that will help us achieve our renewable energy goals,” said Paul Bonavia, Chairman, President and CEO of TEP and its parent company, UniSource Energy Corporation (NYSE: UNS). “We’re looking forward to including these resources in TEP’s growing green power portfolio.”
Solar projects with a combined capacity of 107 MW would be developed in the Tucson area under the contracts, including:
* Three solar photovoltaic (PV) arrays built with fixed, stationary panels, including systems capable of generating 35 MW, 25 MW and 5 MW;
* Four PV arrays that track the sun’s arc across the sky along a single axis, including one rated at 12 MW, another at 4 MW and two sized at 5 MW apiece; and
* Three concentrating solar power systems that focus sunlight on PV material to improve energy output. One of these systems would be capable of generating 12 MW, while two others would produce up to 2 MW each.
TEP also has agreed to purchase energy from a new biogas generator that would be built at Pima County’s Tangerine Landfill. The project would produce up to 2.2 MW from methane gas, a renewable fuel generated naturally through the decomposition process.
Finally, TEP has agreed to purchase the output of a 50-MW wind farm that would be developed near TEP’s existing high-efficiency natural gas Luna Energy Generating Station in Deming, N.M. The power would be delivered to Tucson through an existing transmission line already used by TEP.
“These projects would provide our customers with clean, reasonably-priced power from a wide variety of zero-water renewable energy technologies,” said David Hutchens, Vice President of Energy Efficiency and Resource Planning for TEP and UniSource Energy.
The proposed systems would complement two new solar power systems already planned to be built in the Tucson area by January 2012. Fotowatio Renewable Ventures is building a 25-MW single-axis tracking PV array near Marana, while Bell Independent Power Corp. (BIPC) is building a 5-MW concentrating solar power plant at the University of Arizona’s Science and Technology Park. The ACC has expressed its support for TEP’s agreements to purchase the output of both systems, which will provide enough energy to power more than 6,000 Tucson homes.
Before those systems come online, TEP will add 1.8 MW of capacity this year to its 4.6-MW Springerville Generating Station Solar System, which already is one of the largest grid-tied PV arrays in the United States. The expanded array will generate enough energy to power more than 1,000 Tucson homes.
TEP also will build a 1.6-MW single axis tracking array in the Tucson area later this year that could be used to support the company’s proposed Bright Tucson Community Solar program. The program, which is awaiting regulatory review, would allow customers to buy 150 kilowatt-hour (kWh) “blocks” of solar energy produced by Tucson-area solar arrays.
All of the projects announced today are in the planning stages, and some of them may not be built if the developers are unable to arrange financing or clear other necessary hurdles. But the capacity ultimately developed will represent a significant addition to TEP’s growing renewable energy resources. With funding provided by customers, TEP has developed nearly 10 MW of company-owned renewable energy generating capacity along with more than 6 MW of customer-sited systems subsidized by the company’s popular SunShare rebates.
The output of these systems helps TEP pursue renewable energy goals established by the ACC through the state’s Renewable Energy Standard (RES). The rules call on TEP and other Arizona utilities to increase their use of renewable power each year until it represents 15 percent of their retail energy in 2025.
Tucson Electric Power provides safe, reliable power to more than 400,000 customers in southern Arizona. For more information, visit tep.com. For more information about UniSource Energy, TEP’s parent company, visit uns.com.
TEP has submitted the agreements to the Arizona Corporation Commission (ACC) for review. The commission’s endorsement would allow developers of the systems to proceed with efforts to finalize financing, secure land rights and clear other necessary hurdles in hopes of completing their projects in time to begin providing power in 2011 or 2012.
“These agreements are the next step in our development of local utility-scale renewable power projects that will help us achieve our renewable energy goals,” said Paul Bonavia, Chairman, President and CEO of TEP and its parent company, UniSource Energy Corporation (NYSE: UNS). “We’re looking forward to including these resources in TEP’s growing green power portfolio.”
Solar projects with a combined capacity of 107 MW would be developed in the Tucson area under the contracts, including:
* Three solar photovoltaic (PV) arrays built with fixed, stationary panels, including systems capable of generating 35 MW, 25 MW and 5 MW;
* Four PV arrays that track the sun’s arc across the sky along a single axis, including one rated at 12 MW, another at 4 MW and two sized at 5 MW apiece; and
* Three concentrating solar power systems that focus sunlight on PV material to improve energy output. One of these systems would be capable of generating 12 MW, while two others would produce up to 2 MW each.
TEP also has agreed to purchase energy from a new biogas generator that would be built at Pima County’s Tangerine Landfill. The project would produce up to 2.2 MW from methane gas, a renewable fuel generated naturally through the decomposition process.
Finally, TEP has agreed to purchase the output of a 50-MW wind farm that would be developed near TEP’s existing high-efficiency natural gas Luna Energy Generating Station in Deming, N.M. The power would be delivered to Tucson through an existing transmission line already used by TEP.
“These projects would provide our customers with clean, reasonably-priced power from a wide variety of zero-water renewable energy technologies,” said David Hutchens, Vice President of Energy Efficiency and Resource Planning for TEP and UniSource Energy.
The proposed systems would complement two new solar power systems already planned to be built in the Tucson area by January 2012. Fotowatio Renewable Ventures is building a 25-MW single-axis tracking PV array near Marana, while Bell Independent Power Corp. (BIPC) is building a 5-MW concentrating solar power plant at the University of Arizona’s Science and Technology Park. The ACC has expressed its support for TEP’s agreements to purchase the output of both systems, which will provide enough energy to power more than 6,000 Tucson homes.
Before those systems come online, TEP will add 1.8 MW of capacity this year to its 4.6-MW Springerville Generating Station Solar System, which already is one of the largest grid-tied PV arrays in the United States. The expanded array will generate enough energy to power more than 1,000 Tucson homes.
TEP also will build a 1.6-MW single axis tracking array in the Tucson area later this year that could be used to support the company’s proposed Bright Tucson Community Solar program. The program, which is awaiting regulatory review, would allow customers to buy 150 kilowatt-hour (kWh) “blocks” of solar energy produced by Tucson-area solar arrays.
All of the projects announced today are in the planning stages, and some of them may not be built if the developers are unable to arrange financing or clear other necessary hurdles. But the capacity ultimately developed will represent a significant addition to TEP’s growing renewable energy resources. With funding provided by customers, TEP has developed nearly 10 MW of company-owned renewable energy generating capacity along with more than 6 MW of customer-sited systems subsidized by the company’s popular SunShare rebates.
The output of these systems helps TEP pursue renewable energy goals established by the ACC through the state’s Renewable Energy Standard (RES). The rules call on TEP and other Arizona utilities to increase their use of renewable power each year until it represents 15 percent of their retail energy in 2025.
Tucson Electric Power provides safe, reliable power to more than 400,000 customers in southern Arizona. For more information, visit tep.com. For more information about UniSource Energy, TEP’s parent company, visit uns.com.
Air Force Selects Schafer to Research Effectiveness of Concentrated Photovoltaics
MAUI, Hawaii--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Schafer Corporation, a scientific analysis and engineering company, announced today it has been selected to lead an industry consortium in a research and development effort to investigate and demonstrate the viability of Concentrated Photovoltaic technology for terrestrial power generation. As part of the solar generation project, Schafer will build, deploy and test a small array of CPV modules to evaluate performance in a low-latitude island environment while measuring their potential for offsetting the power consumption of the Maui High Performance Computing Center.
The Air Force Research Laboratory (“AFRL”) contract, funded by the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act, is focused on the expansion of CPV technology for terrestrial power generation developed in Air Force Space Research and Development programs. The 100kW-class demonstration site is planned to be located in or near the Maui Research and Technology Park. In conjunction with the project, Rising Sun LLC will install the CPV-arrays, built by EMCORE Corporation of Albuquerque, New Mexico. The Dowling Company and Munekiyo & Hiraga Inc. will provide guidance on land-use, site definition and development and permitting.
“This initiative provides a basis for a grounded, research-based expansion of solar energy alternatives in Hawaii and other high solar-insolation island areas,” said Thomas Glesne, program manager of Schafer’s Pacific Operation. “The project will also increase understanding of the processes involved in the integration of innovative solar and alternative power generation capabilities into the grid.”
“Working in conjunction with AFRL, the University of Hawaii and the Maui High Performance Computing Center, there is potential for further applied research projects that utilize and cultivate multiple alternative energy sources to benefit Maui and the State of Hawaii,” said Rich Glover, division general manager for Space and Directed Energy. “We look forward to working with our partners and other local, experienced talent in establishing solar facilities and exploring other opportunities for future Hawaii and Pacific-based users.”
The Air Force Research Laboratory (“AFRL”) contract, funded by the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act, is focused on the expansion of CPV technology for terrestrial power generation developed in Air Force Space Research and Development programs. The 100kW-class demonstration site is planned to be located in or near the Maui Research and Technology Park. In conjunction with the project, Rising Sun LLC will install the CPV-arrays, built by EMCORE Corporation of Albuquerque, New Mexico. The Dowling Company and Munekiyo & Hiraga Inc. will provide guidance on land-use, site definition and development and permitting.
“This initiative provides a basis for a grounded, research-based expansion of solar energy alternatives in Hawaii and other high solar-insolation island areas,” said Thomas Glesne, program manager of Schafer’s Pacific Operation. “The project will also increase understanding of the processes involved in the integration of innovative solar and alternative power generation capabilities into the grid.”
“Working in conjunction with AFRL, the University of Hawaii and the Maui High Performance Computing Center, there is potential for further applied research projects that utilize and cultivate multiple alternative energy sources to benefit Maui and the State of Hawaii,” said Rich Glover, division general manager for Space and Directed Energy. “We look forward to working with our partners and other local, experienced talent in establishing solar facilities and exploring other opportunities for future Hawaii and Pacific-based users.”
Wednesday, May 26, 2010
PetersenDean Announces Fund to Address Mid-Size Solar Energy Projects
NEWARK, Calif.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--PetersenDean, the nation’s largest privately held roofing and solar energy company announced today that is has created a new fund to address small to mid-sized solar energy projects.
The fund will primarily serve customers that tend to be overlooked by the larger solar PPA providers, such projects in the range of 50 to 500KW. “I am delighted to announce today that an entire community that has been overlooked and underserved in the past will now have a source they can rely on for low cost and high performing solar energy systems,” said Jim Petersen, Founder of PetersenDean.
PetersenDean’s “Best in Class” reputation is based on building high performing and long lasting smarter roofs and solar energy systems.
PetersenDean, founded in 1984, has built over one-million new roofs and solar energy systems and operates in over seven states. PetersenDean and was named Contractor of the Year by Roofing Contractor Magazine in 2009. PetersenDean can be found at www.smarterroof.com.
The fund will primarily serve customers that tend to be overlooked by the larger solar PPA providers, such projects in the range of 50 to 500KW. “I am delighted to announce today that an entire community that has been overlooked and underserved in the past will now have a source they can rely on for low cost and high performing solar energy systems,” said Jim Petersen, Founder of PetersenDean.
PetersenDean’s “Best in Class” reputation is based on building high performing and long lasting smarter roofs and solar energy systems.
PetersenDean, founded in 1984, has built over one-million new roofs and solar energy systems and operates in over seven states. PetersenDean and was named Contractor of the Year by Roofing Contractor Magazine in 2009. PetersenDean can be found at www.smarterroof.com.
SolarEdge PV Inverters Set Record CEC Efficiency Rating
PALO ALTO, Calif.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--SolarEdge Technologies, a provider of distributed solar power harvesting and PV monitoring solutions, announced that the California Energy Commission (CEC) today published the updated List of Eligible Inverters, placing SolarEdge’s range of single-phase 3300W-6000W PV inverters at the highest efficiency rank with up to 97.5% weighted efficiency rating.
The SolarEdge Monitoring solution is also eligible by the California Solar Initiative (CSI) and appears on the List of Performance Monitoring and Reporting Service Providers (PMRS). The SolarEdge system is available in the US through the distributors AEE Solar, DC Power Systems, and others.
“We are proud to be confirmed as America’s most efficient single-phase solar inverter,” said John Berdner, SolarEdge General Manager for North America. “It is part of our commitment to our customers worldwide, to supply the most efficient, safe, reliable and cost effective PV systems,” he added.
The high efficiency of the SolarEdge solar inverters means not only more power to all users, but also higher incentive payments for system owners in the US, as some incentive calculation methods (such as CSI’s EPBB) are directly related to the CEC inverter efficiency rating.
The SolarEdge inverters, intended for residential and commercial installations, were specifically designed to work with the company’s PowerBoxes – module-integrated power optimizers – that provide module-level performance-monitoring and safety mechanisms, and maximize energy throughput by individually tracking Maximum Power Point (MPP) for each and every PV module. Due to the distributed architecture, the inverters always operate at their optimal input voltage, which remains fixed regardless of temperature or string length. DC and AC disconnects and a built-in communication gateway are included, further increasing the cost-effectiveness. The inverters are rated for indoor or outdoor use (NEMA3R) and are provided with a standard 12 year warranty.
The distributed architecture of the SolarEdge system enables cost-efficient production of up to 25% more energy from any PV installation, eliminates design constraints, provides complete panel-level and whole-system visibility for monitoring and maintenance alerts through built-in communication hardware, provides complete safety and anti-theft mechanisms, all while reducing the cost of energy. SolarEdge is currently working with industry-leading partners to embed its active electronics directly into PV panels. SolarEdge is online at www.solaredge.com.
The SolarEdge Monitoring solution is also eligible by the California Solar Initiative (CSI) and appears on the List of Performance Monitoring and Reporting Service Providers (PMRS). The SolarEdge system is available in the US through the distributors AEE Solar, DC Power Systems, and others.
“We are proud to be confirmed as America’s most efficient single-phase solar inverter,” said John Berdner, SolarEdge General Manager for North America. “It is part of our commitment to our customers worldwide, to supply the most efficient, safe, reliable and cost effective PV systems,” he added.
The high efficiency of the SolarEdge solar inverters means not only more power to all users, but also higher incentive payments for system owners in the US, as some incentive calculation methods (such as CSI’s EPBB) are directly related to the CEC inverter efficiency rating.
The SolarEdge inverters, intended for residential and commercial installations, were specifically designed to work with the company’s PowerBoxes – module-integrated power optimizers – that provide module-level performance-monitoring and safety mechanisms, and maximize energy throughput by individually tracking Maximum Power Point (MPP) for each and every PV module. Due to the distributed architecture, the inverters always operate at their optimal input voltage, which remains fixed regardless of temperature or string length. DC and AC disconnects and a built-in communication gateway are included, further increasing the cost-effectiveness. The inverters are rated for indoor or outdoor use (NEMA3R) and are provided with a standard 12 year warranty.
The distributed architecture of the SolarEdge system enables cost-efficient production of up to 25% more energy from any PV installation, eliminates design constraints, provides complete panel-level and whole-system visibility for monitoring and maintenance alerts through built-in communication hardware, provides complete safety and anti-theft mechanisms, all while reducing the cost of energy. SolarEdge is currently working with industry-leading partners to embed its active electronics directly into PV panels. SolarEdge is online at www.solaredge.com.
KYOCERA Supplies 9,000 Solar Modules for 1.2 MW Power Plant in Czech Republic
KYOTO, Japan--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Kyocera Corporation (NYSE:KYO)(TOKYO:6971) today announced that it has supplied roughly 9,000 solar modules for a large-scale solar power plant in the Czech Republic. Covering an area of more than 28,000 m², the plant delivers an output of 1.2 megawatts (MW).
In the South Moravian farming village of Moravský Žižkov, 8,960 Kyocera KD135GH-2PU solar modules are currently producing solar energy. When selecting products for solar installations, the Czech company Nelumbo focuses on quality and has therefore put its trust in Kyocera. Due to the many hours of sunshine in this region, a high annual electricity yield of 1.3 million kilowatt hours is expected from the plant, which was completed in December 2009.
Durable and efficient high-yield solar modules are of great importance, especially for large-scale plants. Kyocera offers more than 35 years of experience in the solar industry and with its fully-integrated manufacturing process — controlling every stage of production — it is able to guarantee the high quality and performance of its modules.
Nelumbo is one of the most experienced companies in photovoltaics and solar thermal power within the Czech Republic and Slovakia. Every year it constructs 200 to 300 solar installation in the Czech Republic and offers its customers complete network support, from installation through to maintenance.
The interplay of powerful modules, expert installation and an optimum location mean that this solar plant is able to supply 280 households per year with electricity from sunlight, thus offsetting 1,150 tons of CO2 emissions.
For more information about Kyocera solar energy: http://global.kyocera.com/prdct/solar/
In the South Moravian farming village of Moravský Žižkov, 8,960 Kyocera KD135GH-2PU solar modules are currently producing solar energy. When selecting products for solar installations, the Czech company Nelumbo focuses on quality and has therefore put its trust in Kyocera. Due to the many hours of sunshine in this region, a high annual electricity yield of 1.3 million kilowatt hours is expected from the plant, which was completed in December 2009.
Durable and efficient high-yield solar modules are of great importance, especially for large-scale plants. Kyocera offers more than 35 years of experience in the solar industry and with its fully-integrated manufacturing process — controlling every stage of production — it is able to guarantee the high quality and performance of its modules.
Nelumbo is one of the most experienced companies in photovoltaics and solar thermal power within the Czech Republic and Slovakia. Every year it constructs 200 to 300 solar installation in the Czech Republic and offers its customers complete network support, from installation through to maintenance.
The interplay of powerful modules, expert installation and an optimum location mean that this solar plant is able to supply 280 households per year with electricity from sunlight, thus offsetting 1,150 tons of CO2 emissions.
For more information about Kyocera solar energy: http://global.kyocera.com/prdct/solar/
ONTILITY teams with Midnite Solar, PV Powered and Industry Leaders to Teach Advanced Solar PV Course
HOUSTON--(BUSINESS WIRE)--ONTILITY will offer an Advanced Solar Design and Installation course on June 7 - 11, at its newly completed training facility in Houston, Texas. The course is designed to meet the needs of experienced solar installers, electricians or other solar energy professionals who have a solid understanding of solar fundamentals. Its objective is to significantly advance the knowledge and careers for those already involved in solar electric system installation.
The class includes in-depth electrical and mechanical design calculations, system performance testing and troubleshooting and project document preparation. Students registering for the class should have good electrical and mechanical skills and be familiar with the National Electrical Code.
The course will be taught by ONTILITY Lead Instructor and master electrician Eddie Haynes and Solar Community Principal Brandon Mathis, both NABCEP Certified Solar PV Installers.
Solar industry pioneer Robin Gudgel of Midnite Solar will lead the class on Friday, June 11. As founder of Outback Power Systems, Robin ushered in a whole new line of products that have quickly become the industry standard. Now Midnite Solar continues that trend of innovation and excellence. Robin will share his deep knowledge and experience; a rare opportunity to interact with an industry leader in a small seminar setting.
PV Powered’s Marc Johnson will lead the class on Wednesday for an in-depth look at inverters and the latest developments in grid-tie technology. Mr. Johnson has been in the solar power industry since 2001 and has extensive experience in solar system design and optimization. Marc holds an engineering degree from New Mexico State University where he was a student of John Wiles in 1989.
For more information or to register for the course:
Please visit the website at www.ONTILITY.com.
The class includes in-depth electrical and mechanical design calculations, system performance testing and troubleshooting and project document preparation. Students registering for the class should have good electrical and mechanical skills and be familiar with the National Electrical Code.
The course will be taught by ONTILITY Lead Instructor and master electrician Eddie Haynes and Solar Community Principal Brandon Mathis, both NABCEP Certified Solar PV Installers.
Solar industry pioneer Robin Gudgel of Midnite Solar will lead the class on Friday, June 11. As founder of Outback Power Systems, Robin ushered in a whole new line of products that have quickly become the industry standard. Now Midnite Solar continues that trend of innovation and excellence. Robin will share his deep knowledge and experience; a rare opportunity to interact with an industry leader in a small seminar setting.
PV Powered’s Marc Johnson will lead the class on Wednesday for an in-depth look at inverters and the latest developments in grid-tie technology. Mr. Johnson has been in the solar power industry since 2001 and has extensive experience in solar system design and optimization. Marc holds an engineering degree from New Mexico State University where he was a student of John Wiles in 1989.
For more information or to register for the course:
Please visit the website at www.ONTILITY.com.
EVSO Inks Letter of Intent with City of Brookshire, Texas for Solar Project
THE WOODLANDS, Texas--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Evolution Solar (PinkSheets:EVSO) announced today that the Company has just executed a Letter of Intent (LOI) with the City of Brookshire, Texas. The LOI memorializes the intent of the City of Brookshire to enter into an agreement with EVSO for a solar power lighting demonstration project. Both parties have agreed to use their best efforts to complete a definitive agreement for the project in the next 60 days.
The solar power lighting demonstration project is a step for Brookshire in the direction toward green initiatives. According to the LOI, Brookshire will be responsible for supplying the location for the project and will allow EVSO access to the project to use as a demonstration for potential EVSO customers.
Joey Vaughn, the Mayor of Brookshire stated he is "excited to be taking this first step with Evolution Solar and is looking forward to working with EVSO on additional initiatives."
Evolution Solar is also constructing a solar demonstration site in partnership with Texas Southern University, located at the University’s Houston Campus. Multiple demonstration projects should help Evolution Solar acquire new business in a sector that is growing to compete in the energy industry, which includes Trina Solar (NYSE: TSL), Massey Energy (NYSE: MEE), Hess Corporation (NYSE: HES) and Enterprise GP (NYSE: EPE).
The solar power lighting demonstration project is a step for Brookshire in the direction toward green initiatives. According to the LOI, Brookshire will be responsible for supplying the location for the project and will allow EVSO access to the project to use as a demonstration for potential EVSO customers.
Joey Vaughn, the Mayor of Brookshire stated he is "excited to be taking this first step with Evolution Solar and is looking forward to working with EVSO on additional initiatives."
Evolution Solar is also constructing a solar demonstration site in partnership with Texas Southern University, located at the University’s Houston Campus. Multiple demonstration projects should help Evolution Solar acquire new business in a sector that is growing to compete in the energy industry, which includes Trina Solar (NYSE: TSL), Massey Energy (NYSE: MEE), Hess Corporation (NYSE: HES) and Enterprise GP (NYSE: EPE).
Tuesday, May 25, 2010
Magnolia Solar Corporation Announces the Appointment of Professor Fred Schubert to Technical Advisory Board
WOBURN, MA--(Marketwire - May 25, 2010) - Magnolia Solar Corporation (OTCBB: MGLT) ("Magnolia Solar"), a developer of low-cost, thin-film photovoltaic modules used in defense and commercial applications, announced today that Professor Fred Schubert, Wellfleet Senior Constellation Professor of Physics at the Rensselear Polytechnic Institute (RPI) in Troy, NY, has joined its Technical Advisory Board. Professor Schubert is a world-renowned expert in optoelectronic devices and nanostructure-based antireflection coating technology.
Professor Schubert is named as the inventor or co-inventor on twenty eight U.S. patents and has authored or co-authored more than 250 publications. His books include Doping in III-V Semiconductors (1993), Delta Doping in Semiconductors (1996), and the first and second editions of Light-Emitting Diodes (2003 and 2006). He is a Fellow of the American Physical Society, IEEE, Optical Society of America, and SPIE. He received the Alexander von Humboldt Senior Research Award, Discover Award, R&D 100 Award, Boston University Provost Innovation Fund Award, VDE Literature Award for his book Doping in III-V Semiconductors, and the joint R&D Magazine and Micro/Nano Newsletter Award of Most Innovative Products of 2007.
Dr. Ashok K. Sood, President and CEO of Magnolia Solar Corporation, stated, "We are delighted to have Professor Schubert join our Technical Advisory Board to continue our close collaboration on several Government-funded programs. Professor Shubert's expertise will support development of very high efficiency solar cells by incorporating nanostructure based antireflective coatings and light-trapping techniques. Magnolia is developing these next generation, high-efficiency solar cells for both defense and terrestrial markets."
Professor Schubert is named as the inventor or co-inventor on twenty eight U.S. patents and has authored or co-authored more than 250 publications. His books include Doping in III-V Semiconductors (1993), Delta Doping in Semiconductors (1996), and the first and second editions of Light-Emitting Diodes (2003 and 2006). He is a Fellow of the American Physical Society, IEEE, Optical Society of America, and SPIE. He received the Alexander von Humboldt Senior Research Award, Discover Award, R&D 100 Award, Boston University Provost Innovation Fund Award, VDE Literature Award for his book Doping in III-V Semiconductors, and the joint R&D Magazine and Micro/Nano Newsletter Award of Most Innovative Products of 2007.
Dr. Ashok K. Sood, President and CEO of Magnolia Solar Corporation, stated, "We are delighted to have Professor Schubert join our Technical Advisory Board to continue our close collaboration on several Government-funded programs. Professor Shubert's expertise will support development of very high efficiency solar cells by incorporating nanostructure based antireflective coatings and light-trapping techniques. Magnolia is developing these next generation, high-efficiency solar cells for both defense and terrestrial markets."
California Tops States Hiring for Green Jobs
TRUMBULL, Conn., May 25 /PRNewswire/ -- When it comes to green job hiring, not all states are created equal. That's the premise of a new study conducted by the green job search engine GreenJobSpider.com.
They found that employers in five states, primarily centered in the West, showed the most current green job openings online as of May 2010. Those states (in order) are:
Researchers checked over 20 green-specific job boards and major job search aggregators to decide the top five. They did so by querying each site according to number of openings in each state against various green job titles such as Solar Installers, Engineers, Environmental, Biofuels and Smart Grid. Each state was ranked according to the total number of jobs across each source. Individual company sites were not part of the project.
California had over 7,500 green jobs currently posted online with a variety of different employers. The two most sought-after job types were in sales and engineering. If you can sell green products and services, ample opportunity exists for good sales people in the green economy. Engineering candidates of all disciplines - mechanical, solar, chemical, etc. - are also in huge demand. Making all this new green machinery work together takes lots of engineering brainpower.
What's a Green Job?
While there are definitely shades of green jobs, the basic definition is this: any job that creates, supports, maintains or regulates recycling, energy efficiency or renewable energy products and services. This could be a wind turbine technician or an accountant who works at the wind farm. Both jobs are considered green.
About Green Job Spider
Green Job Spider is not a job board. We are a job search engine that crawls only the best green job sources to make it easy to locate the green jobs near you. Think of us as the "Google for green jobs." All sources are indexed nightly and hand-picked to ensure quality.
Currently in BETA, the site is located at http://www.greenjobspider.com/
They found that employers in five states, primarily centered in the West, showed the most current green job openings online as of May 2010. Those states (in order) are:
- California
- Washington, DC
- New York
- Texas
- Colorado
Researchers checked over 20 green-specific job boards and major job search aggregators to decide the top five. They did so by querying each site according to number of openings in each state against various green job titles such as Solar Installers, Engineers, Environmental, Biofuels and Smart Grid. Each state was ranked according to the total number of jobs across each source. Individual company sites were not part of the project.
California had over 7,500 green jobs currently posted online with a variety of different employers. The two most sought-after job types were in sales and engineering. If you can sell green products and services, ample opportunity exists for good sales people in the green economy. Engineering candidates of all disciplines - mechanical, solar, chemical, etc. - are also in huge demand. Making all this new green machinery work together takes lots of engineering brainpower.
What's a Green Job?
While there are definitely shades of green jobs, the basic definition is this: any job that creates, supports, maintains or regulates recycling, energy efficiency or renewable energy products and services. This could be a wind turbine technician or an accountant who works at the wind farm. Both jobs are considered green.
About Green Job Spider
Green Job Spider is not a job board. We are a job search engine that crawls only the best green job sources to make it easy to locate the green jobs near you. Think of us as the "Google for green jobs." All sources are indexed nightly and hand-picked to ensure quality.
Currently in BETA, the site is located at http://www.greenjobspider.com/
SunPower CEO to Speak at Key Investor Events in June 2010
SAN JOSE, Calif., May 25 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- SunPower Corp. (Nasdaq: SPWRA, SPWRB), a Silicon Valley-based manufacturer of high-efficiency solar cells, solar panels and solar systems, today announced that Tom Werner, SunPower CEO, will speak at three key investor conferences in June.
On Wednesday, June 2 at 10:40 a.m. EDT, Werner will present at the Merrill Lynch U.S. Technology Conference being held at the Westin New York at Times Square, in New York City.
Werner will then speak at the Credit Suisse Future of Energy Conference on Thursday, June 3 at 8:00 a.m. EDT at the Mandarin Oriental Hotel in Washington, D.C.
On Tuesday, June 8 at 9:30 a.m. EDT, Werner will address the UBS Global Technology and Services Conference being held at the Crowne Plaza Hotel, Times Square Manhattan.
All three events will be broadcast live at http://investors.sunpowercorp.com/events.cfm and will be archived for two weeks on the SunPower website.
About SunPower
Founded in 1985, SunPower Corp. (Nasdaq: SPWRA, SPWRB) designs, manufactures and delivers the planet's most powerful solar technology broadly available today. Residential, business, government and utility customers rely on the company's experience and proven results to maximize return on investment. With headquarters in San Jose, Calif., SunPower has offices in North America, Europe, Australia and Asia. For more information, visit www.sunpowercorp.com.
On Wednesday, June 2 at 10:40 a.m. EDT, Werner will present at the Merrill Lynch U.S. Technology Conference being held at the Westin New York at Times Square, in New York City.
Werner will then speak at the Credit Suisse Future of Energy Conference on Thursday, June 3 at 8:00 a.m. EDT at the Mandarin Oriental Hotel in Washington, D.C.
On Tuesday, June 8 at 9:30 a.m. EDT, Werner will address the UBS Global Technology and Services Conference being held at the Crowne Plaza Hotel, Times Square Manhattan.
All three events will be broadcast live at http://investors.sunpowercorp.com/events.cfm and will be archived for two weeks on the SunPower website.
About SunPower
Founded in 1985, SunPower Corp. (Nasdaq: SPWRA, SPWRB) designs, manufactures and delivers the planet's most powerful solar technology broadly available today. Residential, business, government and utility customers rely on the company's experience and proven results to maximize return on investment. With headquarters in San Jose, Calif., SunPower has offices in North America, Europe, Australia and Asia. For more information, visit www.sunpowercorp.com.
S&C Awarded Contract to Provide Engineering Services for the Largest U.S. Solar Energy Plant
CHICAGO, May 25 /PRNewswire/ -- S&C Electric Company, a leader in integrating renewable energy sources to the grid, today announces that it was awarded a contract to perform engineering services for one of the largest solar plants in the world, Calico Solar. The plant, located near Barstow, California, is being developed by Tessera Solar and EPC firm Mortenson Construction and will utilize the Stirling Energy Systems (SES) SunCatcher™ solar dish Stirling systems to provide 850 MW of clean electricity to consumers.
S&C offers extensive experience in designing the electrical systems needed to integrate renewable energy plants. Calico Solar is the second Tessera Solar plant for which S&C's Power Systems Services Division is providing engineering services through Mortenson Construction. S&C is also providing engineering services for the 27 MW Western Ranch Solar plant that is planned near Marfa, Texas. S&C also supplied electrical switching and metering equipment for the 1.5 MW Maricopa Solar plant, which is operational in Peoria, Arizona.
"As communities around the world look to increase usage of renewable energy, one of the major challenges we face is finding ways to make these new technologies more cost-effective," said Wanda Reder, Vice President—Power Systems Services, S&C. "S&C is applying our expertise in integrating renewable plants to identify more efficient ways to install and maintain the electrical connection systems for these plants, and is thus helping to make this cutting-edge technology viable."
For the Calico Solar plant, S&C's engineers will ensure the plant can be connected successfully to the grid without impacting stability or reliability of the utility's transmission system. Services will include power flow modeling of the SunCatcher system; stability, short circuit coordination, and dynamic simulation studies; and design of the collector system. S&C has also revised dynamic modeling of the SunCatcher, integrating control system improvements by SES, the manufacturer of the SunCatcher, into the electrical system model.
"Tessera Solar is fully behind the decision of Mortenson Construction, our EPC contractor for Calico Solar, in selecting S&C Electric Company as engineering service provider for the project given the proven track record of S&C in the renewable energy space," said Marcelo Figueira, Tessera Solar COO.
Additional information on Tessera Solar projects and the SES SunCatcher can be found at www.tesserasolar.com and www.stirlingenergy.com.
S&C offers extensive experience in designing the electrical systems needed to integrate renewable energy plants. Calico Solar is the second Tessera Solar plant for which S&C's Power Systems Services Division is providing engineering services through Mortenson Construction. S&C is also providing engineering services for the 27 MW Western Ranch Solar plant that is planned near Marfa, Texas. S&C also supplied electrical switching and metering equipment for the 1.5 MW Maricopa Solar plant, which is operational in Peoria, Arizona.
"As communities around the world look to increase usage of renewable energy, one of the major challenges we face is finding ways to make these new technologies more cost-effective," said Wanda Reder, Vice President—Power Systems Services, S&C. "S&C is applying our expertise in integrating renewable plants to identify more efficient ways to install and maintain the electrical connection systems for these plants, and is thus helping to make this cutting-edge technology viable."
For the Calico Solar plant, S&C's engineers will ensure the plant can be connected successfully to the grid without impacting stability or reliability of the utility's transmission system. Services will include power flow modeling of the SunCatcher system; stability, short circuit coordination, and dynamic simulation studies; and design of the collector system. S&C has also revised dynamic modeling of the SunCatcher, integrating control system improvements by SES, the manufacturer of the SunCatcher, into the electrical system model.
"Tessera Solar is fully behind the decision of Mortenson Construction, our EPC contractor for Calico Solar, in selecting S&C Electric Company as engineering service provider for the project given the proven track record of S&C in the renewable energy space," said Marcelo Figueira, Tessera Solar COO.
Additional information on Tessera Solar projects and the SES SunCatcher can be found at www.tesserasolar.com and www.stirlingenergy.com.
SunEdison, an MEMC Company, and First Reserve Announce Joint Venture to Fund Up to $1.5 Billion of Solar Energy Projects
BELTSVILLE, Md., May 25 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- SunEdison, the solar energy development division of MEMC Electronic Materials, Inc. (NYSE: WFR), today announced an agreement with First Reserve Corporation to establish a joint venture which could provide for the acquisition of up to $1.5 billion in current and future SunEdison solar photovoltaic energy projects.
SunEdison is one of the world's leading solar project developers, with more than 350 solar electric power plants constructed and under management. First Reserve is one of the world's largest private equity and energy infrastructure investors, with $20 billion under management.
The initial equity commitment for the joint venture of $167 million will be contributed by First Reserve and SunEdison over time. When combined with contemplated additional debt financing, these equity commitments are expected to fund the acquisition of solar assets developed by SunEdison with an enterprise value of $825 million. The agreement contemplates that depending on market conditions, development opportunities and existing capital of the joint venture, First Reserve may raise an additional $150 million of equity which, when coupled with a corresponding increase in project debt financing, could scale the joint venture up to an aggregate of $1.5 billion of solar projects developed by SunEdison. SunEdison and First Reserve believe this joint venture will be one of the largest world-wide energy infrastructure enterprises focused on the long-term ownership of solar photovoltaic generation assets.
"We are excited to partner with First Reserve, a proven leader in energy infrastructure financing," said Carlos Domenech, President of SunEdison. "The industry needs efficient and scalable financing models to meet demand. We expect the joint venture to help facilitate the development of our existing backlog of project opportunities and prospective projects that meet our development criteria."
"SunEdison is a best-in-class partner due to its proven track record of developing, building, financing and operating solar photovoltaic electric power plants around the world," said Mark Florian, Managing Director of First Reserve Energy Infrastructure. "This investment enables us to build a portfolio of high quality solar photovoltaic assets, utilizing mature technologies, in one of the fastest growing segments of energy infrastructure. We believe the portfolio will generate a predictable long-term cash flow suitable to our focus on long-term infrastructure markets. "
SunEdison and First Reserve will make capital contributions to the joint venture as qualifying projects are constructed in the targeted markets of the United States, Italy, Spain and Canada. SunEdison will lead the project identification and development process and First Reserve will lead the project financing efforts. Once constructed, the projects will be purchased by the joint venture and then operated and managed by SunEdison. Power generated by the projects will be sold pursuant to long-term power purchase agreements or feed-in tariff arrangements.
SunEdison is one of the world's leading solar project developers, with more than 350 solar electric power plants constructed and under management. First Reserve is one of the world's largest private equity and energy infrastructure investors, with $20 billion under management.
The initial equity commitment for the joint venture of $167 million will be contributed by First Reserve and SunEdison over time. When combined with contemplated additional debt financing, these equity commitments are expected to fund the acquisition of solar assets developed by SunEdison with an enterprise value of $825 million. The agreement contemplates that depending on market conditions, development opportunities and existing capital of the joint venture, First Reserve may raise an additional $150 million of equity which, when coupled with a corresponding increase in project debt financing, could scale the joint venture up to an aggregate of $1.5 billion of solar projects developed by SunEdison. SunEdison and First Reserve believe this joint venture will be one of the largest world-wide energy infrastructure enterprises focused on the long-term ownership of solar photovoltaic generation assets.
"We are excited to partner with First Reserve, a proven leader in energy infrastructure financing," said Carlos Domenech, President of SunEdison. "The industry needs efficient and scalable financing models to meet demand. We expect the joint venture to help facilitate the development of our existing backlog of project opportunities and prospective projects that meet our development criteria."
"SunEdison is a best-in-class partner due to its proven track record of developing, building, financing and operating solar photovoltaic electric power plants around the world," said Mark Florian, Managing Director of First Reserve Energy Infrastructure. "This investment enables us to build a portfolio of high quality solar photovoltaic assets, utilizing mature technologies, in one of the fastest growing segments of energy infrastructure. We believe the portfolio will generate a predictable long-term cash flow suitable to our focus on long-term infrastructure markets. "
SunEdison and First Reserve will make capital contributions to the joint venture as qualifying projects are constructed in the targeted markets of the United States, Italy, Spain and Canada. SunEdison will lead the project identification and development process and First Reserve will lead the project financing efforts. Once constructed, the projects will be purchased by the joint venture and then operated and managed by SunEdison. Power generated by the projects will be sold pursuant to long-term power purchase agreements or feed-in tariff arrangements.
Tycon Power Systems Introduces New UPSPro™ Series Outdoor Backup Power Solutions
DRAPER, Utah--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Tycon Power Systems is proud to announce the release of a new line of Uninterruptible Power Supply Systems. The UPSPro™ series outdoor backup systems are designed for applications that require a backup power source in order to maintain uninterrupted service to customers or a primary low power source in a remote location. The enclosure is powered over a CAT5 network cable via Power Over Ethernet (POE) using a POE Supply/Inserter (included) and/or using Solar Panels. The models with SolarAssist™ have an integrated solar panel mounted directly to the enclosure cover for compactness and ease of maintenance. The angle of the solar panel is adjustable with a novel tilt bracket system.
“The introduction of our UPSPro™ Series offers creative solutions for such applications as surveillance cameras, wireless base stations, emergency lighting and many more,” said Scott Parsons, CEO. “The systems are available with or without the SolarAssist™ feature, and most systems ship SolarReady™ so solar panels can be added later if desired.”
Enclosures have multiple ports for CAT5 cable, antenna cables/connectors or other cabling. They are vented to prevent residual buildup of hydrogen gas.
There is a generous amount of space reserved inside the enclosures for customer electronics such as controllers, wireless AP or CPE cards, sensors, inverters, etc. Equipment runs on battery power, which isolates it from power line surges, which are a main cause of outdoor equipment failure.
Multiple configurations are available for 12V or 24V systems with various battery storage capacities.
*MSRP Starting at $119.95
About Tycon Power Systems
Headquartered in Draper, Utah, Tycon Power Systems manufactures remote power systems for outdoor equipment and specializes in Power Over Ethernet power solutions. It has offices and warehouse facilities in the USA as well as distributors and representatives worldwide.
For more information on Tycon Power Systems, please contact Tycon Power Systems at 801-432-0003 or visit the Web site at http://tyconpower.com.
“The introduction of our UPSPro™ Series offers creative solutions for such applications as surveillance cameras, wireless base stations, emergency lighting and many more,” said Scott Parsons, CEO. “The systems are available with or without the SolarAssist™ feature, and most systems ship SolarReady™ so solar panels can be added later if desired.”
Enclosures have multiple ports for CAT5 cable, antenna cables/connectors or other cabling. They are vented to prevent residual buildup of hydrogen gas.
There is a generous amount of space reserved inside the enclosures for customer electronics such as controllers, wireless AP or CPE cards, sensors, inverters, etc. Equipment runs on battery power, which isolates it from power line surges, which are a main cause of outdoor equipment failure.
Multiple configurations are available for 12V or 24V systems with various battery storage capacities.
*MSRP Starting at $119.95
About Tycon Power Systems
Headquartered in Draper, Utah, Tycon Power Systems manufactures remote power systems for outdoor equipment and specializes in Power Over Ethernet power solutions. It has offices and warehouse facilities in the USA as well as distributors and representatives worldwide.
For more information on Tycon Power Systems, please contact Tycon Power Systems at 801-432-0003 or visit the Web site at http://tyconpower.com.
HARC, PISD to Install Largest Solar Rooftop Project in Texas Public Schools
PASADENA, Texas--(BUSINESS WIRE)--The Houston Advanced Research Center (HARC), in partnership with the Pasadena Independent School District (PISD), today announced that construction is set to begin in June to install approximately 145 kilowatts (kW) of solar energy technologies at Sam Rayburn and South Houston High Schools. The installed systems are expected to save the district approximately $15,000 annually in energy usage.
The East Harris County Solar Energy Pilot Program, a two-year project managed by HARC, will demonstrate the viability and efficiency of solar electric systems used to produce electricity in the Houston area. In addition, students at the two high schools will gain real-world laboratory experience working alongside engineers and scientists, gaining first-hand knowledge about the function and benefits of alternative energy systems.
To launch the project, HARC and PISD are hosting a brief presentation and press conference at 10 a.m. today at Sam Rayburn High School located at 2121 Cherrybook Lane in Pasadena.
"This community outreach program is designed to determine whether the use of solar technology is a clean, efficient and sustainable energy source for the Houston area,” said Lizabeth Price, HARC research associate and program manager. “There are significant benefits to students participating in solar research laboratories at their campuses. The East Harris County Solar Pilot Program is perfectly aligned with HARC’s mission to move knowledge to action to improve human well-being and the environment.”
HARC has contracted with Ignite Solar, LLC, a Houston-based company that specializes in the design of commercial and large-scale solar photovoltaic projects, to provide a comprehensive turnkey solar system and Broaddus & Associates to provide construction-site management services.
Ignite Solar plans to use Houston-based American Electric Technologies, Inc. (NASDAQ: AETI) for power distribution, converter systems and coordination and implementation of the Web-based interaction for students, and Solar Community for the solar installation.
“We have designed a comprehensive solar project that incorporates three innovative technologies into a dynamic, hands-on learning environment,” said Peter Mathey, president and CEO of Ignite Solar.
The Moser Baer multi-crystalline, Sharp thin-film, and Solyndra® cylindrical tube technologies that comprise the system expose students and the local community to technologies installed for the first time in this region. Kiosks and portable demonstration units at each campus will further strengthen the systems’ educational value. In addition to providing solar expertise, Ignite Solar and the project team have donated approximately $30,000 in materials and services to PISD.
PISD administration and staff have incorporated solar technology education into their curriculum. According to Dr. Kirk Lewis, PISD Superintendent: “The knowledge and skills students will gain through these experiences will lead to more career pathways and provide more advanced learning opportunities. These lessons will help them to succeed in today’s global society.”
Grace Blasingame, Sam Rayburn science department Chair who leads PISD in partnering with HARC, said, “I am very proud of our district for its pioneering spirit. This program will lead the way to generation and consumption of renewable energy in our area, and PISD students have the unique privilege of participating in a real-life application of how solar energy can lower our carbon footprint.”
Funding for the East Harris County Solar Pilot Program was made pursuant to the settlement of a Clean Air Act enforcement suit brought by Environment Texas and the Sierra Club.
The East Harris County Solar Energy Pilot Program, a two-year project managed by HARC, will demonstrate the viability and efficiency of solar electric systems used to produce electricity in the Houston area. In addition, students at the two high schools will gain real-world laboratory experience working alongside engineers and scientists, gaining first-hand knowledge about the function and benefits of alternative energy systems.
To launch the project, HARC and PISD are hosting a brief presentation and press conference at 10 a.m. today at Sam Rayburn High School located at 2121 Cherrybook Lane in Pasadena.
"This community outreach program is designed to determine whether the use of solar technology is a clean, efficient and sustainable energy source for the Houston area,” said Lizabeth Price, HARC research associate and program manager. “There are significant benefits to students participating in solar research laboratories at their campuses. The East Harris County Solar Pilot Program is perfectly aligned with HARC’s mission to move knowledge to action to improve human well-being and the environment.”
HARC has contracted with Ignite Solar, LLC, a Houston-based company that specializes in the design of commercial and large-scale solar photovoltaic projects, to provide a comprehensive turnkey solar system and Broaddus & Associates to provide construction-site management services.
Ignite Solar plans to use Houston-based American Electric Technologies, Inc. (NASDAQ: AETI) for power distribution, converter systems and coordination and implementation of the Web-based interaction for students, and Solar Community for the solar installation.
“We have designed a comprehensive solar project that incorporates three innovative technologies into a dynamic, hands-on learning environment,” said Peter Mathey, president and CEO of Ignite Solar.
The Moser Baer multi-crystalline, Sharp thin-film, and Solyndra® cylindrical tube technologies that comprise the system expose students and the local community to technologies installed for the first time in this region. Kiosks and portable demonstration units at each campus will further strengthen the systems’ educational value. In addition to providing solar expertise, Ignite Solar and the project team have donated approximately $30,000 in materials and services to PISD.
PISD administration and staff have incorporated solar technology education into their curriculum. According to Dr. Kirk Lewis, PISD Superintendent: “The knowledge and skills students will gain through these experiences will lead to more career pathways and provide more advanced learning opportunities. These lessons will help them to succeed in today’s global society.”
Grace Blasingame, Sam Rayburn science department Chair who leads PISD in partnering with HARC, said, “I am very proud of our district for its pioneering spirit. This program will lead the way to generation and consumption of renewable energy in our area, and PISD students have the unique privilege of participating in a real-life application of how solar energy can lower our carbon footprint.”
Funding for the East Harris County Solar Pilot Program was made pursuant to the settlement of a Clean Air Act enforcement suit brought by Environment Texas and the Sierra Club.
Monday, May 24, 2010
Kender Energy Signs New California Distribution Agreement
GENEVA--(Marketwire - May 24, 2010) - Kender Energy Inc. (PINKSHEETS: KNDR) today announced that it has signed a Distribution Agreement with North-Bay Heat Transfer Equipment Company for distributing the Kender Solar Engine in the North Bay area.
Kender Energy, with its distributor North-Bay Heat Transfer, is looking to take advantage of the Million Solar Roofs Bill (SB1) signed into law in 2007. The SB 1 complements the well publicized California Solar Initiative established by the Public Utilities Commission and puts California on track toward building a million solar roofs in the next ten years. Among the details of the SB law, one is about increasing the cap on net metering, a program that allows solar customers to get a credit on their electric bill for excess power generated by their solar system. SB 1 increases the cap from 0.5% of a utility's total load to 2.5% enabling close to 1,000,000 new solar system owners into the net metering program. A total of 2,350 hours of sunlight per year in the North Bay area and a rebate on the infrastructure cost of US$ 1.10 per installed Watt are additional incentives to be captured to reach those goals.
North-Bay Heat Transfer is an established solar and green energy products distributor, located in Santa Rosa, California. "With an abundance of sunlight and proven clean energy laws, we are introducing the Kender Energy technology into the Californian market, where the need for clean energy and the political will to achieve it are the strongest," expressed Sean Kelly President and CEO of Kender Energy Inc.
Kender Energy, with its distributor North-Bay Heat Transfer, is looking to take advantage of the Million Solar Roofs Bill (SB1) signed into law in 2007. The SB 1 complements the well publicized California Solar Initiative established by the Public Utilities Commission and puts California on track toward building a million solar roofs in the next ten years. Among the details of the SB law, one is about increasing the cap on net metering, a program that allows solar customers to get a credit on their electric bill for excess power generated by their solar system. SB 1 increases the cap from 0.5% of a utility's total load to 2.5% enabling close to 1,000,000 new solar system owners into the net metering program. A total of 2,350 hours of sunlight per year in the North Bay area and a rebate on the infrastructure cost of US$ 1.10 per installed Watt are additional incentives to be captured to reach those goals.
North-Bay Heat Transfer is an established solar and green energy products distributor, located in Santa Rosa, California. "With an abundance of sunlight and proven clean energy laws, we are introducing the Kender Energy technology into the Californian market, where the need for clean energy and the political will to achieve it are the strongest," expressed Sean Kelly President and CEO of Kender Energy Inc.
One World Ventures' Inter Solar Tech Signs Exclusive Distribution Agreement With Caldoris Europe Ltd
LAS VEGAS, NV--(Marketwire - May 24, 2010) - One World Ventures, Inc. (PINKSHEETS: OWVI) announced its subsidiary Inter Solar Tech has been selected as the exclusive supplier of solar products to Caldoris Europe Ltd. (Caldoris) and expects revenues of $2 million during the first year of the agreement.
Caldoris is a European renewable energy products expert with an aggressive distribution, marketing, venture capital, and now, a global sourcing plan focusing on serving local wholesalers, retail chains and installation companies as well as large scale business clients. Caldoris conducts business in high growth countries of Eastern Europe (Poland, Czech Republic, Slovakia, Hungary, Romania, Bulgaria) where significant growth in renewables is expected due to E.U. regulatory standards. In Western Europe, Caldoris seeks to leverage the trend towards replacement of local production with Asia based imports and will focus its development in Western Europe on four priority markets: Spain, Italy, France and Germany.
"There's a great deal of emphasis on green products in the E. U.," Steve Prior, CEO of One World Ventures explained. "This agreement with Caldoris has been six months in the making and will open up new markets for our products and increase our distribution chain in this growing and vital market."
Caldoris is a European renewable energy products expert with an aggressive distribution, marketing, venture capital, and now, a global sourcing plan focusing on serving local wholesalers, retail chains and installation companies as well as large scale business clients. Caldoris conducts business in high growth countries of Eastern Europe (Poland, Czech Republic, Slovakia, Hungary, Romania, Bulgaria) where significant growth in renewables is expected due to E.U. regulatory standards. In Western Europe, Caldoris seeks to leverage the trend towards replacement of local production with Asia based imports and will focus its development in Western Europe on four priority markets: Spain, Italy, France and Germany.
"There's a great deal of emphasis on green products in the E. U.," Steve Prior, CEO of One World Ventures explained. "This agreement with Caldoris has been six months in the making and will open up new markets for our products and increase our distribution chain in this growing and vital market."
SolarVision Expands to Meet Growing Demand for Renewable Energy Services and Expertise
SAN JOSE, CA--(Marketwire - May 24, 2010) - To meet rising demand for its services and expertise, SolarVision Co. (SVC), a Silicon Valley-based renewable energy consultancy, has expanded its practice to address emerging niche areas and added several new energy professionals to its global team. Since 2007, the company has provided corporations and Governments with comprehensive research, technology guidance and strategic business development services in solar, wind and other renewable energy sectors. Now, SVC plans to add photovoltaic (PV) manufacturing support to its offerings, along with solar technology roadmap services, micro-grid guidance for developing countries, and general alternative energy guidance. To mark its growing influence in the renewable energy sector, company executives will present eight papers at two prestigious international solar conferences this year.
SolarVision Co. is comprised of professionals with a blend of expertise in semiconductors, solar materials, solar manufacturing, and market analysis. Client projects are varied and have included due-diligence on a PV c-Silicon cell manufacturing line expansion, go-to-market strategies for a PV equipment supplier, and a micro-grid feasibility assessment, along with installation guidance for a 6MW solar/wind grid project.
Commenting on his company's expansion and strong presence at the upcoming technical conferences, SVC's CEO and Founder, Andy Skumanich, Ph.D., noted, "We are excited to bring our expertise to emerging areas. As the renewable energy sector continues to grow, the need for technology experts and business guidance is rising. Our track record in both areas is strong and we're glad to be delivering tangible results to ambitious companies and visionary Governments. We're honored that so many of our papers were deemed important to the PV community by the review boards of the international committees."
SVC executives will present three papers at the IEEE 35th PVSC and five papers at the International 25th PVSEC in Valencia, Spain. In addition, an SVC executive will moderate a panel on market directions at the upcoming CSP conference SF (June 24-25, 2010) and deliver a paper at the CPV & CSP conferences in Spain (Nov 15-19, 2010), as well as chair a conference session.
SolarVision's Presence at Upcoming International Conferences
Papers to be presented at the IEEE 35th PVSC Honolulu, HI (June 20-25, 2010)
Papers to be presented at the 25th PVSEC Valencia, Spain (Sept 6-10, 2010)
SolarVision Co. is comprised of professionals with a blend of expertise in semiconductors, solar materials, solar manufacturing, and market analysis. Client projects are varied and have included due-diligence on a PV c-Silicon cell manufacturing line expansion, go-to-market strategies for a PV equipment supplier, and a micro-grid feasibility assessment, along with installation guidance for a 6MW solar/wind grid project.
Commenting on his company's expansion and strong presence at the upcoming technical conferences, SVC's CEO and Founder, Andy Skumanich, Ph.D., noted, "We are excited to bring our expertise to emerging areas. As the renewable energy sector continues to grow, the need for technology experts and business guidance is rising. Our track record in both areas is strong and we're glad to be delivering tangible results to ambitious companies and visionary Governments. We're honored that so many of our papers were deemed important to the PV community by the review boards of the international committees."
SVC executives will present three papers at the IEEE 35th PVSC and five papers at the International 25th PVSEC in Valencia, Spain. In addition, an SVC executive will moderate a panel on market directions at the upcoming CSP conference SF (June 24-25, 2010) and deliver a paper at the CPV & CSP conferences in Spain (Nov 15-19, 2010), as well as chair a conference session.
SolarVision's Presence at Upcoming International Conferences
Papers to be presented at the IEEE 35th PVSC Honolulu, HI (June 20-25, 2010)
- "Technology Roadmap for PV manufacturing: combining a technical and market perspective" (A. Skumanich, E. Ryabova, I. Malik)
- "Novel BSF Structure Formation by Modified Sol-Gel Method For Low Cost New Cell Concept Implementation" (E. Ryabova, A. Skumanich, I. Malik)
- "Materials Considerations for PV Markets: Guideposts for Technology Directions" (I. Malik, A. Skumanich, E. Ryabova)
Papers to be presented at the 25th PVSEC Valencia, Spain (Sept 6-10, 2010)
- "PV vs CPV and CSP: A Comparative Analysis of Technologies and Cost Roadmaps" (I. Malik, A. Skumanich, E. Ryabova)
- "In-line metrology for PV processing: benefit and cost considerations" (A. Skumanich, E. Ryabova, I. Malik)
- "PV in the Micro-grid context: Concepts and specific international case studies as models of implementation" (A. Skumanich, S. Reddy, L. Sabnani, I. Malik, E.Ryabova)
- "Solar module manufacturing: best practice learning from other volume manufacturing arenas" (S. Reddy, L. Sabnani, A. Skumanich)
- "Novel TCO layers based on Sol-Gel for improved cell performance at lower cost" (E. Ryabova, A. Skumanich, I. Malik)
National Bank of Arizona Installs $2 Million Solar System at Tucson Headquarters
TUCSON, AZ, May 24 /PRNewswire/ - National Bank of Arizona announced plans today to install a $2 million solar system on its Tucson headquarters this summer constructed by Natural Power and Energy.
At 402.6 kilowatts, the project is the second largest corporate install in Tucson. The 24,000-square-foot installation of 1,320 panels will be placed on three structures located on the rooftop of its parking garage at the NBAZ Wilmot Road and Carondelet offices.
The system will reduce electricity costs of the two buildings by about 25 percent and will produce at least 580,000 kilowatt hours annually within the buildings that total 128,824 square-feet. The reduction in electricity equates to the average annual consumption of 55 homes in Tucson.
"This is both an economically and environmentally sound decision," said David Lyons, executive vice president of National Bank of Arizona. "We feel it's important to continue to expand our solar initiatives throughout the state and with Tucson being our founding city, we are excited to lead the way with one of the largest commercial solar systems."
"At Natural Power and Energy we are extremely proud to have been chosen to work on this special project for National Bank of Arizona," said Rob Dallal, CEO of Natural Power and Energy. "As a financier of solar installations in both the commercial and residential sectors, and now the prospective owner of a second of its own solar systems, in our opinion the bank has become the leading proponent of solar energy in the state."
National Bank of Arizona has made significant ongoing solar investments in the last few years including installing one of the state's largest commercial solar systems on its Phoenix headquarters back in May 2009 and spearheading Solar Phoenix, the nation's largest residential solar leasing program, by making the program possible with $25 million in financing. In October 2009, National Bank of Arizona also partnered with various organizations to create one of the nation's largest distributed, community-wide solar power systems at Soaring Heights Communities at Davis-Monthan Air Force Base in Tucson. Upon completion, the community is expected to be the largest solar-powered community in the continental U.S.
At 402.6 kilowatts, the project is the second largest corporate install in Tucson. The 24,000-square-foot installation of 1,320 panels will be placed on three structures located on the rooftop of its parking garage at the NBAZ Wilmot Road and Carondelet offices.
The system will reduce electricity costs of the two buildings by about 25 percent and will produce at least 580,000 kilowatt hours annually within the buildings that total 128,824 square-feet. The reduction in electricity equates to the average annual consumption of 55 homes in Tucson.
"This is both an economically and environmentally sound decision," said David Lyons, executive vice president of National Bank of Arizona. "We feel it's important to continue to expand our solar initiatives throughout the state and with Tucson being our founding city, we are excited to lead the way with one of the largest commercial solar systems."
"At Natural Power and Energy we are extremely proud to have been chosen to work on this special project for National Bank of Arizona," said Rob Dallal, CEO of Natural Power and Energy. "As a financier of solar installations in both the commercial and residential sectors, and now the prospective owner of a second of its own solar systems, in our opinion the bank has become the leading proponent of solar energy in the state."
National Bank of Arizona has made significant ongoing solar investments in the last few years including installing one of the state's largest commercial solar systems on its Phoenix headquarters back in May 2009 and spearheading Solar Phoenix, the nation's largest residential solar leasing program, by making the program possible with $25 million in financing. In October 2009, National Bank of Arizona also partnered with various organizations to create one of the nation's largest distributed, community-wide solar power systems at Soaring Heights Communities at Davis-Monthan Air Force Base in Tucson. Upon completion, the community is expected to be the largest solar-powered community in the continental U.S.
MEMC Announces Agreement to Acquire Solaicx
ST. PETERS, Mo., May 24 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- MEMC Electronic Materials, Inc. (NYSE: WFR) today announced it has reached a definitive agreement to acquire privately held Solaicx, headquartered in Santa Clara, California.
Solaicx has developed proprietary continuous crystal growth manufacturing technology which yields low-cost, high-efficiency monocrystalline silicon wafers for the photovoltaic solar industry. The Solaicx technology allows for very high-volume crystal growth compared to the silicon ingots produced in the traditional precision semiconductor manufacturing process. The enhanced electrical performance of wafers from Solaicx ingots allows solar cell manufacturers to create higher efficiency cells with very competitive silicon costs. In addition to these customer benefits, the combined company will have low-cost polysilicon and crystal operations in North America and sales and support offices around the world, allowing the company to provide customers with industry leading customer service.
Solaicx has approximately 80 employees and a large-scale production facility in Portland, Oregon.
"Solaicx, along with its people and technical expertise, is a great addition to MEMC," said Ken Hannah, President of MEMC Solar Materials. "Solaicx's innovative and advanced manufacturing technology should enable us to reduce costs and improve efficiency, while enhancing our ability to drive the solar industry toward grid parity."
"Bringing MEMC and Solaicx together now is the right thing to do at the right time," continued Hannah. "The monocrystalline silicon market is forecast to grow at a compound annual growth rate of about 50 percent during the next three years. This transaction positions MEMC to significantly reduce the cost of monocrystalline silicon."
"We are pleased to be joining forces with MEMC," said David Ranhoff, President and CEO of Solaicx. "Our technology combined with MEMC's footprint and scale will enable our customers to further reduce the cost of solar electricity."
MEMC will pay to the existing securityholders of Solaicx at closing cash in the amount of $66 million, plus an additional amount in cash equal to amounts which have been recently invested in, or which may be invested prior to closing in Solaicx by its existing securityholders. The aggregate additional investment amount is estimated to be approximately $10 million. Solaicx's indebtedness for borrowed money will be extinguished at closing and is included in these amounts. The merger consideration is also subject to adjustment based on the net working capital of Solaicx at closing. The agreement also includes an earnout, should Solaicx meet certain performance targets in 2010 and 2011, of up to an additional $27.6 million payable to Solaicx securityholders, consisting of cash and MEMC common stock at the election of the securityholder. The stock portion of the earnout consideration, if any, will be issued to Solaicx securityholders as a private placement.
The acquisition is expected to close by the end of June 2010, subject to customary closing conditions, including Solaicx shareholder approval, and the receipt of regulatory approvals. MEMC expects the acquisition to be accretive to earnings in 2011, subject to purchase accounting adjustments.
GCA Savvian Advisors, LLC acted as exclusive financial advisor to MEMC in connection with this transaction.
This press release shall not constitute an offer to sell or the solicitation of an offer to buy, nor shall there be any sale of MEMC common stock in any jurisdiction in which such offer, solicitation or sale would be unlawful prior to registration or qualification under the securities laws of any such jurisdiction.
Solaicx has developed proprietary continuous crystal growth manufacturing technology which yields low-cost, high-efficiency monocrystalline silicon wafers for the photovoltaic solar industry. The Solaicx technology allows for very high-volume crystal growth compared to the silicon ingots produced in the traditional precision semiconductor manufacturing process. The enhanced electrical performance of wafers from Solaicx ingots allows solar cell manufacturers to create higher efficiency cells with very competitive silicon costs. In addition to these customer benefits, the combined company will have low-cost polysilicon and crystal operations in North America and sales and support offices around the world, allowing the company to provide customers with industry leading customer service.
Solaicx has approximately 80 employees and a large-scale production facility in Portland, Oregon.
"Solaicx, along with its people and technical expertise, is a great addition to MEMC," said Ken Hannah, President of MEMC Solar Materials. "Solaicx's innovative and advanced manufacturing technology should enable us to reduce costs and improve efficiency, while enhancing our ability to drive the solar industry toward grid parity."
"Bringing MEMC and Solaicx together now is the right thing to do at the right time," continued Hannah. "The monocrystalline silicon market is forecast to grow at a compound annual growth rate of about 50 percent during the next three years. This transaction positions MEMC to significantly reduce the cost of monocrystalline silicon."
"We are pleased to be joining forces with MEMC," said David Ranhoff, President and CEO of Solaicx. "Our technology combined with MEMC's footprint and scale will enable our customers to further reduce the cost of solar electricity."
MEMC will pay to the existing securityholders of Solaicx at closing cash in the amount of $66 million, plus an additional amount in cash equal to amounts which have been recently invested in, or which may be invested prior to closing in Solaicx by its existing securityholders. The aggregate additional investment amount is estimated to be approximately $10 million. Solaicx's indebtedness for borrowed money will be extinguished at closing and is included in these amounts. The merger consideration is also subject to adjustment based on the net working capital of Solaicx at closing. The agreement also includes an earnout, should Solaicx meet certain performance targets in 2010 and 2011, of up to an additional $27.6 million payable to Solaicx securityholders, consisting of cash and MEMC common stock at the election of the securityholder. The stock portion of the earnout consideration, if any, will be issued to Solaicx securityholders as a private placement.
The acquisition is expected to close by the end of June 2010, subject to customary closing conditions, including Solaicx shareholder approval, and the receipt of regulatory approvals. MEMC expects the acquisition to be accretive to earnings in 2011, subject to purchase accounting adjustments.
GCA Savvian Advisors, LLC acted as exclusive financial advisor to MEMC in connection with this transaction.
This press release shall not constitute an offer to sell or the solicitation of an offer to buy, nor shall there be any sale of MEMC common stock in any jurisdiction in which such offer, solicitation or sale would be unlawful prior to registration or qualification under the securities laws of any such jurisdiction.
Developers Diversified Rooftop Solar Program Named Best-of-the-Best by International Council of Shopping Centers
LAS VEGAS, Nev., May 24 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- Developers Diversified Realty Corporation (NYSE: DDR) today announced that the International Council of Shopping Centers (ICSC) presented the company with the "Best-of-the-Best" award during the industry's largest annual gathering in Las Vegas for the company's innovative rooftop solar panel program.
"Best-of-the-Best" Awards honor and recognize the most outstanding examples of shopping center design and development, sustainability, marketing, and community service worldwide. Developers Diversified was awarded top honors in the marketing category.
Developers Diversified entered into a partnership last year with solar energy services provider, SunEdison, for the rights to deploy solar energy systems at over 200 shopping centers throughout the United States. Between December 2009 and February 2010, solar panel arrays were activated at Developers Diversified shopping centers in New Jersey.
"We are deeply honored by this award," said Marc Feldman, senior vice president of new business development for Developers Diversified. "Leasing our roof space for solar panel hosting provides an opportunity for creative revenue generation while supporting our corporate sustainable energy initiative."
John Kokinchak, senior executive vice president of property management for Developers Diversified said, "With this innovative program we are able to reduce energy expenditures for the common areas of the shopping center, and realize environmental benefits by reducing noise, pollution and greenhouse gases."
The active projects in New Jersey are located at Nassau Park Pavilion in Princeton, Hamilton Marketplace in Hamilton, and Route 22 Retail Center in Union. These projects total over 143,000 square feet of available roof space for solar panels and will generate approximately 1.4 million kilowatts (kWh) of solar energy in the first full year of operation. Over 20 years, the sites will generate approximately 26 million kilowatt-hours, enough energy to power over 2,400 homes for one year.
"Best-of-the-Best" Awards honor and recognize the most outstanding examples of shopping center design and development, sustainability, marketing, and community service worldwide. Developers Diversified was awarded top honors in the marketing category.
Developers Diversified entered into a partnership last year with solar energy services provider, SunEdison, for the rights to deploy solar energy systems at over 200 shopping centers throughout the United States. Between December 2009 and February 2010, solar panel arrays were activated at Developers Diversified shopping centers in New Jersey.
"We are deeply honored by this award," said Marc Feldman, senior vice president of new business development for Developers Diversified. "Leasing our roof space for solar panel hosting provides an opportunity for creative revenue generation while supporting our corporate sustainable energy initiative."
John Kokinchak, senior executive vice president of property management for Developers Diversified said, "With this innovative program we are able to reduce energy expenditures for the common areas of the shopping center, and realize environmental benefits by reducing noise, pollution and greenhouse gases."
The active projects in New Jersey are located at Nassau Park Pavilion in Princeton, Hamilton Marketplace in Hamilton, and Route 22 Retail Center in Union. These projects total over 143,000 square feet of available roof space for solar panels and will generate approximately 1.4 million kilowatts (kWh) of solar energy in the first full year of operation. Over 20 years, the sites will generate approximately 26 million kilowatt-hours, enough energy to power over 2,400 homes for one year.
Detroit Edison SolarCurrents Customers Sing Here Comes the Sun to the Tune of $1 Million in Photovoltaic Installation Incentives
DETROIT, May 24 /PRNewswire/ -- Detroit Edison has provided more than $1 million to customers in Southeastern Michigan to help power their homes and businesses with solar energy.
But there's plenty of money still available to help customers reduce their monthly electricity costs, as well as their carbon footprint, for the next 20 years.
"The response to the SolarCurrents program has been good," said Trevor Lauer, DTE Energy vice president, Retail Marketing. "But we still have another $24 million left to help our customers lessen their dependence on fossil fuels."
The 55 completed installations represent about 250 kilowatts of renewable electric capacity. Another 200 applications under review would add another 1,300 kilowatts.
Detroit Edison started the pilot program last year for customers who want to install their own solar energy systems. Customers receive 50 percent of the value of the Renewable Energy Credits (RECs) upon installation and 50 percent of the value of the remaining RECs as a credit on their bills for the next 20 years.
The SolarCurrents program, combined with net metering, federal tax credits and other incentives could save customers more than half of the cost of a new photovoltaic system.
For more information, visit dteenergy.com/solar.
But there's plenty of money still available to help customers reduce their monthly electricity costs, as well as their carbon footprint, for the next 20 years.
"The response to the SolarCurrents program has been good," said Trevor Lauer, DTE Energy vice president, Retail Marketing. "But we still have another $24 million left to help our customers lessen their dependence on fossil fuels."
The 55 completed installations represent about 250 kilowatts of renewable electric capacity. Another 200 applications under review would add another 1,300 kilowatts.
Detroit Edison started the pilot program last year for customers who want to install their own solar energy systems. Customers receive 50 percent of the value of the Renewable Energy Credits (RECs) upon installation and 50 percent of the value of the remaining RECs as a credit on their bills for the next 20 years.
The SolarCurrents program, combined with net metering, federal tax credits and other incentives could save customers more than half of the cost of a new photovoltaic system.
For more information, visit dteenergy.com/solar.
Frbiz Analyzes That the Production of Solar Water Heaters is a Great Business Opportunity
BEIJING, May 24 /PRNewswire-Asia/ -- Frbiz.com, one of China's leading B2B search platforms, analyzes that the production of solar water heaters presents a great business opportunity in China.
In recent years, rapid development of China's solar energy industry, including heavy investment in small and medium enterprises, has created a rapid rise in competition in the market place.
Frbiz reports that China's solar energy industry has developed in recent years from an emerging field, compared with other new energy industries, to a relatively mature industry with efficient thermal conversion, a high standard of product accessories, and relatively simply production equipment. Instead of spending thousands yuan to buy a set of equipment and purchase raw materials, through simple training, at home users can produce solar water heaters.
China's solar water heater production sector does not implement a "production license system," and so does not need China Compulsory Certification. The state has, however, introduced a relevant national standard for solar water heater product quality, but solar water heaters do not require a separate test. As long as an enterprise is in accordance with national standards, they can be sold on the market.
Compared to other home appliances, solar water heaters have a profit margin of up to 50% as opposed to the average of 10. On account of this high profit margin, in recent years a number of household electrical appliance enterprises have been turning to solar water heater R & D and production.
In recent years, rapid development of China's solar energy industry, including heavy investment in small and medium enterprises, has created a rapid rise in competition in the market place.
Frbiz reports that China's solar energy industry has developed in recent years from an emerging field, compared with other new energy industries, to a relatively mature industry with efficient thermal conversion, a high standard of product accessories, and relatively simply production equipment. Instead of spending thousands yuan to buy a set of equipment and purchase raw materials, through simple training, at home users can produce solar water heaters.
China's solar water heater production sector does not implement a "production license system," and so does not need China Compulsory Certification. The state has, however, introduced a relevant national standard for solar water heater product quality, but solar water heaters do not require a separate test. As long as an enterprise is in accordance with national standards, they can be sold on the market.
Compared to other home appliances, solar water heaters have a profit margin of up to 50% as opposed to the average of 10. On account of this high profit margin, in recent years a number of household electrical appliance enterprises have been turning to solar water heater R & D and production.
Walmart Foundation Launches Solar School Program With $1.2 Million Grant
CHICAGO, May 24 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- The Walmart Foundation today announced a $1.2 million dollar donation to the National Energy Education Development Project (NEED) to install solar panels on 20 schools in five cities across the country. The five cities taking part in the program are Chicago, Washington D.C., Los Angeles, Minneapolis and Seattle.
"The Walmart Solar School program will help educate the next generation on the opportunities and benefits of using more renewable energy," said Margaret McKenna, president of the Walmart Foundation. "This program aligns perfectly with Walmart's sustainability commitment to involve our communities and customers in our environmental and social efforts."
"NEED is honored to partner with the Walmart Foundation to bring teaching and learning opportunities to schools. The solar installations, hands-on energy kits, and inquiry based curriculum help teachers and students understand the energy we use today and will use in the future while meeting state and local education standards," said Mary Spruill, Executive Director of NEED. "This program is designed to educate and inspire students to learn about energy and to explore the promise and the possibilities in greater use of renewable energy."
NEED will work with the school districts in each city to identify the participating schools. The 20 solar installations are expected to annually:
In addition to aligning with Walmart's renewable energy goal and commitment to education and teachers, this grant will help create and sustain green jobs. All of the panels used in the Solar Schools program are manufactured in the United States. According to NEED, this program will help support green jobs, including engineering, design and installer technician jobs.
"The Walmart Solar School program will help educate the next generation on the opportunities and benefits of using more renewable energy," said Margaret McKenna, president of the Walmart Foundation. "This program aligns perfectly with Walmart's sustainability commitment to involve our communities and customers in our environmental and social efforts."
"NEED is honored to partner with the Walmart Foundation to bring teaching and learning opportunities to schools. The solar installations, hands-on energy kits, and inquiry based curriculum help teachers and students understand the energy we use today and will use in the future while meeting state and local education standards," said Mary Spruill, Executive Director of NEED. "This program is designed to educate and inspire students to learn about energy and to explore the promise and the possibilities in greater use of renewable energy."
NEED will work with the school districts in each city to identify the participating schools. The 20 solar installations are expected to annually:
- generate approximately 150,000 kilowatt hours (kWh) of electricity,
- save the schools more than $15,000 in energy costs and
- prevent more than 100 tons of greenhouse gases from entering the atmosphere.
In addition to aligning with Walmart's renewable energy goal and commitment to education and teachers, this grant will help create and sustain green jobs. All of the panels used in the Solar Schools program are manufactured in the United States. According to NEED, this program will help support green jobs, including engineering, design and installer technician jobs.
Solar Power, Inc. to Discuss Fiscal 2009 and First Quarter 2010 Financial Results
ROSEVILLE, Calif.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Solar Power, Inc. (“SPI”) (OTCBB:SOPW) will host a business update call on Monday, May 24 at 9:00 a.m. EDT. The focus of the call will be to discuss the Company’s fourth quarter and fiscal 2009 results filed on Form 10K and the Company’s 2010 first quarter results on Form 10Q, both of which were filed with the SEC last week. In addition, the Company will discuss its revenue guidance for the 2010 fiscal year and give a general business update on its recent announcements and strategies.
2010 Outlook:
Based on and anticipated commercial installations, and anticipated product sales to international and domestic markets, the Company is projecting revenues between $80 and $90 million for 2010.
Conference Call Information:
The conference call will take place at 9:00 a.m. EDT on Monday, May 24, 2010. Interested participants should call 1-877-941-2322 when calling within the United States or 1-480-629-9715 when calling internationally.
A playback will be available through May 31, 2010. To listen, please call 1-800-406-7325 within the United States or 1-303-590-3030 when calling internationally. Utilize the PIN number 4304424 for the replay.
This call is being webcast by ViaVid Broadcasting and can be accessed by clicking on this link http://viavid.net/dce.aspx?sid=000075E3, or visiting www.solarpowerinc.net, or at ViaVid's website at www.viavid.net, where the webcast can be accessed through May 31, 2010.
About Solar Power, Inc.:
Founded in 2005, Solar Power, Inc. is a vertically integrated solar developer; the Company manages its value chain from material sourcing, to manufacturing, through post-installation asset management of its systems, and manufactures its own line of world-class solar modules and balance-of-system products. The Company designs, manufactures and delivers world-class photovoltaic solar systems to its residential, business, government and utility customers. For additional information, including a copy of our most recent investor presentation, please visit us at: www.solarpowerinc.net.
2010 Outlook:
Based on and anticipated commercial installations, and anticipated product sales to international and domestic markets, the Company is projecting revenues between $80 and $90 million for 2010.
Conference Call Information:
The conference call will take place at 9:00 a.m. EDT on Monday, May 24, 2010. Interested participants should call 1-877-941-2322 when calling within the United States or 1-480-629-9715 when calling internationally.
A playback will be available through May 31, 2010. To listen, please call 1-800-406-7325 within the United States or 1-303-590-3030 when calling internationally. Utilize the PIN number 4304424 for the replay.
This call is being webcast by ViaVid Broadcasting and can be accessed by clicking on this link http://viavid.net/dce.aspx?sid=000075E3, or visiting www.solarpowerinc.net, or at ViaVid's website at www.viavid.net, where the webcast can be accessed through May 31, 2010.
About Solar Power, Inc.:
Founded in 2005, Solar Power, Inc. is a vertically integrated solar developer; the Company manages its value chain from material sourcing, to manufacturing, through post-installation asset management of its systems, and manufactures its own line of world-class solar modules and balance-of-system products. The Company designs, manufactures and delivers world-class photovoltaic solar systems to its residential, business, government and utility customers. For additional information, including a copy of our most recent investor presentation, please visit us at: www.solarpowerinc.net.
Abound Solar Forges Partnership with Balance-of-System Vendors
LOVELAND, Colo.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Abound Solar, a leading manufacturer of cadmium telluride thin-film photovoltaic (PV) solar modules today announced the Abound Alliance, a unique ecosystem of balance-of-system partners that are collaborating with Abound Solar to drive down the levelized cost of PV electricity. The marketing partnership will allow each company to better coordinate their product development, marketing and sales efforts, while optimizing their products to improve performance, reduce costs, and/or increase system reliability. The Abound Alliance membership includes:
With the Abound Alliance, engineering, procurement and construction companies, utilities and project developers have a straightforward path for vendor selection as they design their large-scale systems. Customers can choose the appropriate best-in-class solution for their specific needs.
"Abound Solar understands the complexities facing solar project developers and engineering firms,” said Julian Hawkins, Abound Solar Senior Vice President of Sales and Marketing. "We have assembled the Abound Alliance to assist our mutual customers in simplifying the design, qualification, and procurement process."
- KACO: A powerful partner for PV system solutions, KACO new energy has built a tradition of excellence in the photovoltaic inverter and power electronics industries. KACO engineers have developed, designed and manufactured current inverters and power electronics for more than 60 years. With over 2 GW of PV inverters in operation worldwide KACO is a strong and reliable photovoltaic inverter partner.
- Northern States Metals (maker of Solar Flex Rack): Solar FlexRack is substantially reducing installation costs of commercial solar array projects all over the U.S. and Canada with its patent-pending ground-mount and roof-mount systems.
- PV Powered: PV Powered is the innovation leader for grid-tied PV inverters in the residential, commercial and utility markets, setting the industry standard for innovation in reliability and efficiency. Founded in Bend, Oregon in 2003 and recently acquired by Advanced Energy Industries (AEIS), the company’s vision is to tackle three significant issues affecting the growth of solar world-wide: (1) dramatically improving the reliability of inverters, (2) lowering the cost of levelized cost of ownership for PV power generation and (3) making distributed PV a scalable and controllable resource on the utility grid.
- REFU Solar Electronics: Since 1965 the German-based REFU Elektronik has been a specialist in custom power engineering applications and inverters. REFU Solar Electronics offers solar inverters from 4 kW to 1.3 MW with industry-leading conversion efficiency of up to 98.2 % and proven reliability. REFU’s North American office is in San Jose, Calif.
- Schletter: With over 40-years manufacturing experience, Schletter, Inc., has risen to be the technology driver of the solar mounting systems industry. Schletter, Inc. offers the solar industry’s most extensive, highly engineered and custom designed solar module mounting solutions for roof and ground mounted systems, supporting modules from nearly every photovoltaic manufacturer. Ground mounted systems are up to 70% pre-assembled in the factory, which reduces cost and decreases the installation time in the field.
- Sunlink: SunLink Corporation provides scalable solar module mounting solutions that reduce costs and installation times and improve system performance. Leading integrators have chosen SunLink’s commercial rooftop and ground-mounted systems on more than 90 MW of projects at 500 sites across North America. Most recently, SunLink was chosen for a 50 MW supply agreement with Southern California Edison. SunLink's experienced engineering team provides comprehensive support for each installation.
With the Abound Alliance, engineering, procurement and construction companies, utilities and project developers have a straightforward path for vendor selection as they design their large-scale systems. Customers can choose the appropriate best-in-class solution for their specific needs.
"Abound Solar understands the complexities facing solar project developers and engineering firms,” said Julian Hawkins, Abound Solar Senior Vice President of Sales and Marketing. "We have assembled the Abound Alliance to assist our mutual customers in simplifying the design, qualification, and procurement process."
PAE Subsidiary, Shurjo Energy, Earns IEC Certification for New Module Line with Global Solar Energy CIGS Technology
TUCSON, Ariz.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Global Solar Energy, a leading manufacturer of high-efficiency Copper Indium Gallium diSelenide (CIGS) solar material, announced today that Shurjo Energy Private Limited, a subsidiary of PAE Limited, was awarded the International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) certification for its complete line of solar modules that use Global Solar CIGS technology. Of the two, a 158 watt module is one of the most powerful CIGS panels on the market.
Issued by EuroTest Laboratori S.r.l (TUV Intercert), IEC certifications are an industry standard when it comes to validating PV products and technology. Shurjo Energy earned the IEC 61646 and IEC 61730 certification, which confirm that all of its modules built with Global Solar technology adhere to the commission's stringent requirements for functional, mechanical and safety capabilities for long-term operation and open air environments. This certification is also a requirement for solar modules used in solar power plants in most markets worldwide.
“Shurjo Energy has been solely focused on developing and producing a range of CIGS modules for the past three years, and this focus has allowed us to develop an expertise on the technology,” said Spencer Jansen, CTO of Shurjo Energy. “We have carried out numerous in-house and external tests, so that we fully understood the interaction between the materials that make up our modules, before subjecting them to the certification process. The knowledge we gained from our testing proved to us that Global Solar was the clear technology leader in CIGS and allowed us to pass the IEC test requirements on the first attempt.”
Shurjo’s CIGS-based solar modules have been subjected to the full range of IEC testing, including extra testing for the modules without a frame. This means that the Shurjo CIGS modules can be integrated into existing roofing systems and structures, and maintain the same level of performance and efficiency. Both Shurjo and Global Solar Energy are dedicated to developing and providing products and services for the emerging building integrated photovoltaic (BIPV) market.
“This recent IEC certification is a huge win not only for Shurjo Energy but also for the CIGS industry, as Global Solar continues to advance the technology’s contributions to the solar market,” said Dr. Jeff Britt, CEO of Global Solar Energy. “We consider this certification a testament to the high caliber of our CIGS material—which we are producing with an average efficiency of 11 percent on our production lines in Tucson and Berlin, Germany. As with all our partners, we look forward to working with Shurjo, providing our technology on a continuous basis and adding to their success.”
The IEC sets international standards for all electrical, electronic and related technologies. IEC 61646 "Thin-film terrestrial photovoltaic (PV) modules - Design qualification and type approval" and “IEC 61730 – safety test” are testing standards used worldwide by the solar industry in order to verify that new solar modules, encapsulation materials and manufacturers of solar modules to meet a minimum set of functional and mechanical requirements to prove confidence for long-term (25+ years) module performance and integrity.
In order to meet local government supported programs, Shurjo Energy modules have also been certified by the Electronics Regional Test Laboratory (East), India and the KS 1674 (East African standard) from Intertek.
Issued by EuroTest Laboratori S.r.l (TUV Intercert), IEC certifications are an industry standard when it comes to validating PV products and technology. Shurjo Energy earned the IEC 61646 and IEC 61730 certification, which confirm that all of its modules built with Global Solar technology adhere to the commission's stringent requirements for functional, mechanical and safety capabilities for long-term operation and open air environments. This certification is also a requirement for solar modules used in solar power plants in most markets worldwide.
“Shurjo Energy has been solely focused on developing and producing a range of CIGS modules for the past three years, and this focus has allowed us to develop an expertise on the technology,” said Spencer Jansen, CTO of Shurjo Energy. “We have carried out numerous in-house and external tests, so that we fully understood the interaction between the materials that make up our modules, before subjecting them to the certification process. The knowledge we gained from our testing proved to us that Global Solar was the clear technology leader in CIGS and allowed us to pass the IEC test requirements on the first attempt.”
Shurjo’s CIGS-based solar modules have been subjected to the full range of IEC testing, including extra testing for the modules without a frame. This means that the Shurjo CIGS modules can be integrated into existing roofing systems and structures, and maintain the same level of performance and efficiency. Both Shurjo and Global Solar Energy are dedicated to developing and providing products and services for the emerging building integrated photovoltaic (BIPV) market.
“This recent IEC certification is a huge win not only for Shurjo Energy but also for the CIGS industry, as Global Solar continues to advance the technology’s contributions to the solar market,” said Dr. Jeff Britt, CEO of Global Solar Energy. “We consider this certification a testament to the high caliber of our CIGS material—which we are producing with an average efficiency of 11 percent on our production lines in Tucson and Berlin, Germany. As with all our partners, we look forward to working with Shurjo, providing our technology on a continuous basis and adding to their success.”
The IEC sets international standards for all electrical, electronic and related technologies. IEC 61646 "Thin-film terrestrial photovoltaic (PV) modules - Design qualification and type approval" and “IEC 61730 – safety test” are testing standards used worldwide by the solar industry in order to verify that new solar modules, encapsulation materials and manufacturers of solar modules to meet a minimum set of functional and mechanical requirements to prove confidence for long-term (25+ years) module performance and integrity.
In order to meet local government supported programs, Shurjo Energy modules have also been certified by the Electronics Regional Test Laboratory (East), India and the KS 1674 (East African standard) from Intertek.
Friday, May 21, 2010
enXco Starts Construction on 3 MW Solar Project at Pocono Raceway
ESCONDIDO, Calif.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--enXco – an EDF Energies Nouvelles Company (PARIS:EEN) - has confirmed the start of construction on the 3 MW photovoltaic array at Pocono Raceway Solar Project.
enXco will design and construct the project and then turn it over to Pocono Raceway upon completion.
The Pocono Raceway Solar Project will be constructed along Long Pond Road on approximately 25 acres of land. The solar system, expected to generate clean electricity for the raceway later this summer, will consist of nearly 40,000 photovoltaic modules and reduce carbon emissions by an estimated 2,370 tons annually.
“The Pocono Raceway Solar Project marks the first project for enXco in Pennsylvania and also our first turnkey solar project,” said Peter Solomon, Director, Solar Origination at enXco. “We are proud to partner with Pocono, along with our development partner Evolution Energies and general contractor Belectric, to develop the largest renewable energy stadium project in the world by more than two times. We recognize the dedicated efforts of NASCAR to become more sustainable and we look forward to helping other tracks to follow Pocono’s leadership to reduce their carbon footprint through the generation of solar energy.”
The new solar energy system will become the primary electric energy source for the race track and will also benefit the local power grid. With the deregulation of Pennsylvania’s electric utility laws allowing more flexibility on power purchases, the track found there is no better time to upgrade their facility.
Brandon Igdalsky, Track President, said, “Pocono Raceway shares in the NASCAR commitment to operate in a more environmentally responsible way. This new system, along with other initiatives we are implementing demonstrates that it is not that “tricky” to go green. This new system will satisfy the Raceway’s energy needs, and will allow us to help power close to one thousand homes.”
enXco will design and construct the project and then turn it over to Pocono Raceway upon completion.
The Pocono Raceway Solar Project will be constructed along Long Pond Road on approximately 25 acres of land. The solar system, expected to generate clean electricity for the raceway later this summer, will consist of nearly 40,000 photovoltaic modules and reduce carbon emissions by an estimated 2,370 tons annually.
“The Pocono Raceway Solar Project marks the first project for enXco in Pennsylvania and also our first turnkey solar project,” said Peter Solomon, Director, Solar Origination at enXco. “We are proud to partner with Pocono, along with our development partner Evolution Energies and general contractor Belectric, to develop the largest renewable energy stadium project in the world by more than two times. We recognize the dedicated efforts of NASCAR to become more sustainable and we look forward to helping other tracks to follow Pocono’s leadership to reduce their carbon footprint through the generation of solar energy.”
The new solar energy system will become the primary electric energy source for the race track and will also benefit the local power grid. With the deregulation of Pennsylvania’s electric utility laws allowing more flexibility on power purchases, the track found there is no better time to upgrade their facility.
Brandon Igdalsky, Track President, said, “Pocono Raceway shares in the NASCAR commitment to operate in a more environmentally responsible way. This new system, along with other initiatives we are implementing demonstrates that it is not that “tricky” to go green. This new system will satisfy the Raceway’s energy needs, and will allow us to help power close to one thousand homes.”
Florida Residents Offer Solar Alternative to Oil Spill
FORT LAUDERDALE, Fla.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--As a result of the BP oil spill, a group of Florida businessmen have created a new website – www.Solarspill.com; to facilitate the education of energy consumers about the potential of solar energy. The sun “spills” large amounts of light every day; enough energy is “spilled” onto earth every four minutes to provide the electricity for all of the earth’s needs.
“Practically speaking, nobody in the solar energy industry believes that 100% of the electricity should be from solar energy,” said Yann Brandt of Advanced Green Technologies in Fort Lauderdale. “However, the premise that solar energy cannot play a large role is a falsehood. We could use today’s technology and cover 9,500 square miles of land with solar panels and produce the earth’s electric needs, this area represents about 8% of the New Mexico land and the size of the BP oil spill slick as of May 21st.”
For practical purposes, the sun “spills” enough solar energy on U.S. commercial rooftops that if they were covered with solar panels, today’s technology would generate 36% of the energy in the U.S., according to industry studies. Diversification of the energy portfolio could easily integrate 30% renewable energy with solar energy playing a large portion of this. The legislative action required to provide this path is known as a Renewable Portfolio Standard, enacted by many U.S. States.
“Think how much better off the Earth would be if the power of the sun drove business, the economy, our cars, our future,” said Mitch Roff of Roffer’s Ocean Fishing Forecasting Service. “Instead of soaking up oil spills with billions of dollars, we could bask in the glow of cleaner air, a green economy and reduce the fear of shortages, outages and safeguard our health and livelihoods.”
The goal of www.solarspill.com is about opportunity, potential and the power of solar energy to play positive role in a future that thrives with energy diversification. The website will feature frequent updates of solar energy in comparisons to the amount of oil that has spilled according to the most recent Government estimates. Then readers are encouraged to “Take a solar survey” and give opinions on solar energy. In addition, solarspill.com will feature informative links provided by various sources including the Federal and State governments and educational centers for solar energy.
The information from the survey will be used to advocate for legislative policies increasing the diversity of our energy sources. For more information, visit www.solarspill.com or www.agt.com.
“Practically speaking, nobody in the solar energy industry believes that 100% of the electricity should be from solar energy,” said Yann Brandt of Advanced Green Technologies in Fort Lauderdale. “However, the premise that solar energy cannot play a large role is a falsehood. We could use today’s technology and cover 9,500 square miles of land with solar panels and produce the earth’s electric needs, this area represents about 8% of the New Mexico land and the size of the BP oil spill slick as of May 21st.”
For practical purposes, the sun “spills” enough solar energy on U.S. commercial rooftops that if they were covered with solar panels, today’s technology would generate 36% of the energy in the U.S., according to industry studies. Diversification of the energy portfolio could easily integrate 30% renewable energy with solar energy playing a large portion of this. The legislative action required to provide this path is known as a Renewable Portfolio Standard, enacted by many U.S. States.
“Think how much better off the Earth would be if the power of the sun drove business, the economy, our cars, our future,” said Mitch Roff of Roffer’s Ocean Fishing Forecasting Service. “Instead of soaking up oil spills with billions of dollars, we could bask in the glow of cleaner air, a green economy and reduce the fear of shortages, outages and safeguard our health and livelihoods.”
The goal of www.solarspill.com is about opportunity, potential and the power of solar energy to play positive role in a future that thrives with energy diversification. The website will feature frequent updates of solar energy in comparisons to the amount of oil that has spilled according to the most recent Government estimates. Then readers are encouraged to “Take a solar survey” and give opinions on solar energy. In addition, solarspill.com will feature informative links provided by various sources including the Federal and State governments and educational centers for solar energy.
The information from the survey will be used to advocate for legislative policies increasing the diversity of our energy sources. For more information, visit www.solarspill.com or www.agt.com.
Spire Produces World’s Most Efficient Large Area Concentrator Solar Cell
BEDFORD, Mass.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Spire Corporation (Nasdaq: SPIR), an American global solar company providing capital equipment and turnkey production lines to manufacture photovoltaic (PV) modules and cells, today announced its wholly owned subsidiary, Spire Semiconductor, LLC, has matched the current efficiency record for a concentrator solar cell. The record efficiency is available on a production ready cell with a photo area of 1.0 cm2.
The U.S. Department of Energy’s National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL) measured the efficiency of 41.0% at 500x suns concentrated sunlight. Spire Semiconductor began working with NREL under an 18-month, $3.7 million cost share subcontract in early-2009. The goal is to develop a triple junction, gallium arsenide (GaAs), 42.5% conversion efficient “Triathlon” concentrator cell for concentrator photovoltaic systems.
“This is truly an achievement,” said Roger G. Little, Chairman and CEO of Spire Corporation. “We have experienced continuous improvement in our proprietary cell processing design technology throughout the NREL contract. We are excited to have matched the current world record efficiency, and we have nearly four months remaining under the subcontract to surpass this level and achieve the target 42.5% efficiency. A more efficient concentrator solar cell will provide a lower cost and more reliable source of solar generated electricity,” concluded Mr. Little.
The U.S. Department of Energy’s National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL) measured the efficiency of 41.0% at 500x suns concentrated sunlight. Spire Semiconductor began working with NREL under an 18-month, $3.7 million cost share subcontract in early-2009. The goal is to develop a triple junction, gallium arsenide (GaAs), 42.5% conversion efficient “Triathlon” concentrator cell for concentrator photovoltaic systems.
“This is truly an achievement,” said Roger G. Little, Chairman and CEO of Spire Corporation. “We have experienced continuous improvement in our proprietary cell processing design technology throughout the NREL contract. We are excited to have matched the current world record efficiency, and we have nearly four months remaining under the subcontract to surpass this level and achieve the target 42.5% efficiency. A more efficient concentrator solar cell will provide a lower cost and more reliable source of solar generated electricity,” concluded Mr. Little.
Wednesday, May 19, 2010
SRS Energy Appoints JD Albert as Chief Executive Officer
PHILADELPHIA, May 18 /PRNewswire/ -- SRS Energy, a leading developer of building integrated photovoltaic (BIPV) products, is pleased to announce that JD Albert has been appointed Chief Executive Officer. Mr. Albert has led the company's product development efforts as Director of Engineering since 2007. He was instrumental in the design and engineering of SRS Energy's Sole Power Tile™, the nation's first curved solar roofing tile, designed to blend seamlessly with US Tile's mission-style clay roofing products.
"I am excited to lead SRS Energy in the commercialization of the Sole Power Tile and subsequent products," says JD Albert. "The market is ready for solar roofing products that combine performance with elegance. Driven by design innovation, SRS Energy is propelling solar energy generation from unsightly glass panels into architecturally integrated premium roofing products. We will continue to leverage our roofing partnerships to ensure the product's distribution and installation are as seamless as its aesthetics."
Albert joined SRS Energy with over ten years of product development and commercialization expertise. Prior to joining SRS Energy, Albert was Principal Engineer and co-founder of E Ink Corporation, whose technology is used in electronic books such as the Amazon Kindle and the Sony Reader. Albert worked with global partners to develop products and manufacturing technology for the novel display material. During his time at E Ink, the company grew from four people to over one hundred, and in 2009, E Ink was acquired for approximately $400M by a Taiwanese company. Albert has been published and featured in publications such as the Wall Street Journal, Fortune Magazine, and USA Today, and holds forty-seven U.S. patents. He earned his undergraduate degree from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology.
SRS Energy's Sole Power Tile system provides the financial and environmental benefits of solar power without unsightly and cumbersome panels. The Sole Power Tile has received a host of national honors, including the gold prize in the 2010 Edison Best New Product Awards. In 2009, the product received a 2009 "Best of What's New" award from Popular Science in the Home Tech category, as well as 2009 "Best Product" in the Thermal & Moisture Protection Category by Architectural Record. SRS Energy and US Tile are currently launching the Sole Power Tile system in select California markets with a nationwide rollout of the product to follow.
"I am excited to lead SRS Energy in the commercialization of the Sole Power Tile and subsequent products," says JD Albert. "The market is ready for solar roofing products that combine performance with elegance. Driven by design innovation, SRS Energy is propelling solar energy generation from unsightly glass panels into architecturally integrated premium roofing products. We will continue to leverage our roofing partnerships to ensure the product's distribution and installation are as seamless as its aesthetics."
Albert joined SRS Energy with over ten years of product development and commercialization expertise. Prior to joining SRS Energy, Albert was Principal Engineer and co-founder of E Ink Corporation, whose technology is used in electronic books such as the Amazon Kindle and the Sony Reader. Albert worked with global partners to develop products and manufacturing technology for the novel display material. During his time at E Ink, the company grew from four people to over one hundred, and in 2009, E Ink was acquired for approximately $400M by a Taiwanese company. Albert has been published and featured in publications such as the Wall Street Journal, Fortune Magazine, and USA Today, and holds forty-seven U.S. patents. He earned his undergraduate degree from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology.
SRS Energy's Sole Power Tile system provides the financial and environmental benefits of solar power without unsightly and cumbersome panels. The Sole Power Tile has received a host of national honors, including the gold prize in the 2010 Edison Best New Product Awards. In 2009, the product received a 2009 "Best of What's New" award from Popular Science in the Home Tech category, as well as 2009 "Best Product" in the Thermal & Moisture Protection Category by Architectural Record. SRS Energy and US Tile are currently launching the Sole Power Tile system in select California markets with a nationwide rollout of the product to follow.
Sungevity Expands SoCal Programs - Launches LA Solar Lease and Reaches for the Stars!
OAKLAND, Calif., May 18 /PRNewswire/ -- Sungevity, the leading online residential solar provider, today announced the Sungevity LA Solar Lease Program, which was designed by Sungevity specifically for residents of Los Angeles City and County who wish to save money on their electricity bills by going solar.
To help Angelinos see the benefits of going solar, Sungevity has estimated the savings for a number of celebrities from the Maps to the Hollywood Stars provided by People Magazine and other sources. Estimating the consumption of these stars and their families shows what a great deal it could be for them to go solar, based on calculations of their roof's exposure to the sun and the electricity rates they are charged.*
In Los Angeles Department of Water and Power utility service area, where rates are different than surrounding counties served by other utilities, others who are less famous are still likely to experience savings from the sun. "The good news is you do not have to be a movie star to benefit from going solar," said Danny Kennedy, President and co-founder of Sungevity. "Most Californians make money day one, when they sign for the Solar Lease. Nonetheless I am looking forward to getting a phone call from Justin or Jessica and seeing how we can help them get clean electricity straight from the sun! In the era of awful oil spills and rising energy bills it is good to have a solar option."
"We are excited to be able to offer the residents of LA the opportunity to go solar with the best service in the business," said Kennedy. "We have already sold more than 200 leases around California and have a long list of happy customers from the years before we offered the lease. Our mission is to make solar accessible and affordable for everyone, everywhere and the LA program marks an important step for us in making that happen."
The financing for the lease will be provided by a U.S. Bancorp as part of a $24 million arrangement with Sungevity announced in March. The Solar Lease requires no money down with a 20 year term to maximize returns from the special rebate program within LA Department of Water and Power service area. Sungevity will guarantee any savings and provide free monitoring, free maintenance and cleaning, plus free insurance for the solar system for the term of the Sungevity Solar Lease.
Sungevity has an easy online "iQuote" process, which enables Sungevity to use satellite images and aerial photography to assess customers' roofs remotely and accurately determine the homes' solar potential. This allows the company to furnish thousands of customers with a firm proposal to use solar power with no capital cost within 24 hours. Demand has been huge with over 1,000 iQuotes requested through www.sungevity.com in the last month alone.
The Solar Lease offer gives most customers savings from the start of their Sungevity Solar Lease. For many customers the electricity bill savings from the solar lease start immediately and increase significantly over time.
For more information about Sungevity please or to get a quote please visit: www.Sungevity.com or call 866.SUN4ALL (866.786.4255)
To help Angelinos see the benefits of going solar, Sungevity has estimated the savings for a number of celebrities from the Maps to the Hollywood Stars provided by People Magazine and other sources. Estimating the consumption of these stars and their families shows what a great deal it could be for them to go solar, based on calculations of their roof's exposure to the sun and the electricity rates they are charged.*
In Los Angeles Department of Water and Power utility service area, where rates are different than surrounding counties served by other utilities, others who are less famous are still likely to experience savings from the sun. "The good news is you do not have to be a movie star to benefit from going solar," said Danny Kennedy, President and co-founder of Sungevity. "Most Californians make money day one, when they sign for the Solar Lease. Nonetheless I am looking forward to getting a phone call from Justin or Jessica and seeing how we can help them get clean electricity straight from the sun! In the era of awful oil spills and rising energy bills it is good to have a solar option."
"We are excited to be able to offer the residents of LA the opportunity to go solar with the best service in the business," said Kennedy. "We have already sold more than 200 leases around California and have a long list of happy customers from the years before we offered the lease. Our mission is to make solar accessible and affordable for everyone, everywhere and the LA program marks an important step for us in making that happen."
The financing for the lease will be provided by a U.S. Bancorp as part of a $24 million arrangement with Sungevity announced in March. The Solar Lease requires no money down with a 20 year term to maximize returns from the special rebate program within LA Department of Water and Power service area. Sungevity will guarantee any savings and provide free monitoring, free maintenance and cleaning, plus free insurance for the solar system for the term of the Sungevity Solar Lease.
Sungevity has an easy online "iQuote" process, which enables Sungevity to use satellite images and aerial photography to assess customers' roofs remotely and accurately determine the homes' solar potential. This allows the company to furnish thousands of customers with a firm proposal to use solar power with no capital cost within 24 hours. Demand has been huge with over 1,000 iQuotes requested through www.sungevity.com in the last month alone.
The Solar Lease offer gives most customers savings from the start of their Sungevity Solar Lease. For many customers the electricity bill savings from the solar lease start immediately and increase significantly over time.
For more information about Sungevity please or to get a quote please visit: www.Sungevity.com or call 866.SUN4ALL (866.786.4255)
Apollo Solar Energy Signs an Agreement to Build a 2MW Demo Solar Power Station in Ningguo City, Anhui Province, China
CHENGDU, China, May 19 /PRNewswire-Asia-FirstCall/ -- Apollo Solar Energy, Inc. (OTC Bulletin Board: ASOE) ("Apollo Solar" or "the Company"), a refiner and producer of high purity tellurium (Te) and tellurium-based metals for the solar photovoltaic (PV) industry and specific segments of the electronic materials market worldwide, in the People's Republic of China, today announced that the Company has signed an agreement with the Ningguo Municipal Government to build a 2MW demo solar power station in Ningguo City, Anhui Province, China.
According to the agreement, Apollo Solar will invest 60 MM RMB (US $8.75 MM) to build the 2 MW demo solar power station and will be responsible for the construction of the entire project, including planning, design, construction and installation of the solar power station.
The 2MW demo solar power station is expected to become operational in September 2010. The agreement provides for the payment of subsidies to Apollo Solar from central, provincial and local government entities in the PRC for electricity generated by the power station, as follows:
-- 2.15 Yuan RMB (US $0.31) per kilowatt hour (kwh) during the first year
of operation of the power station;
-- 1.70 Yuan RMB (US $0.25) per kwh during the second year of operation
of the power station; and
-- 1.50 Yuan RMB (US $0.21) per kwh during the third and following years
of operation of the power station, in accordance with the rules and
regulations of the central government of China.
Apollo Solar believes that the availability of these types of subsidies could make solar power stations profitable and could attract potential investors to invest in commercial solar power stations.
"We are very pleased to sign the agreement with Ningguo Municipal Government to build the 2 MW demo solar power station, the first project of those contemplated by the non-binding letter of intent signed in April between Apollo Solar and the Ningguo Municipal Government" stated Mr. Renyi Hou, the CEO of the Company. "Apollo Solar has purchased 2 MW of thin film solar panels in the US and we expect the shipment to arrive at Ningguo City in mid- June of 2010. We then anticipate completing the installation of the 2 MW of thin film solar panels, and beginning testing of the operation, by the end of September, 2010."
"We believe that governmental support for the solar PV industry, including Cadmium-Telluride (CdTe) thin-film solar cells, could lead to the commercialization of solar power stations. At the Mediterranean Solar Plan Conference on May 11, in Valencia, Spain, the International Energy Agency, IEA, predicted that 20-25% of total electricity supply will come from solar power stations before 2050 if governments continue current subsidy policies for the solar PV industry, though current solar power is far below 1%." Mr. Hou commented. "Apollo Solar plans to procure high quality thin film solar panels with competitive pricing through OEM agreements which we believe will allow us to enter the downstream solar PV industry to build and operate solar power stations."
According to the agreement, Apollo Solar will invest 60 MM RMB (US $8.75 MM) to build the 2 MW demo solar power station and will be responsible for the construction of the entire project, including planning, design, construction and installation of the solar power station.
The 2MW demo solar power station is expected to become operational in September 2010. The agreement provides for the payment of subsidies to Apollo Solar from central, provincial and local government entities in the PRC for electricity generated by the power station, as follows:
-- 2.15 Yuan RMB (US $0.31) per kilowatt hour (kwh) during the first year
of operation of the power station;
-- 1.70 Yuan RMB (US $0.25) per kwh during the second year of operation
of the power station; and
-- 1.50 Yuan RMB (US $0.21) per kwh during the third and following years
of operation of the power station, in accordance with the rules and
regulations of the central government of China.
Apollo Solar believes that the availability of these types of subsidies could make solar power stations profitable and could attract potential investors to invest in commercial solar power stations.
"We are very pleased to sign the agreement with Ningguo Municipal Government to build the 2 MW demo solar power station, the first project of those contemplated by the non-binding letter of intent signed in April between Apollo Solar and the Ningguo Municipal Government" stated Mr. Renyi Hou, the CEO of the Company. "Apollo Solar has purchased 2 MW of thin film solar panels in the US and we expect the shipment to arrive at Ningguo City in mid- June of 2010. We then anticipate completing the installation of the 2 MW of thin film solar panels, and beginning testing of the operation, by the end of September, 2010."
"We believe that governmental support for the solar PV industry, including Cadmium-Telluride (CdTe) thin-film solar cells, could lead to the commercialization of solar power stations. At the Mediterranean Solar Plan Conference on May 11, in Valencia, Spain, the International Energy Agency, IEA, predicted that 20-25% of total electricity supply will come from solar power stations before 2050 if governments continue current subsidy policies for the solar PV industry, though current solar power is far below 1%." Mr. Hou commented. "Apollo Solar plans to procure high quality thin film solar panels with competitive pricing through OEM agreements which we believe will allow us to enter the downstream solar PV industry to build and operate solar power stations."
Trina Solar Enters Strategic Partnership with TUV Rheinland, UL and CGC
CHANGZHOU, China, May 19 /PRNewswire-Asia-FirstCall/ -- Trina Solar Limited (TSL) ("Trina Solar" or the "Company"), a leading integrated manufacturer of solar photovoltaic (PV) products from ingots to modules, today announced through its subsidiary, Changzhou Trina Solar Energy Co. Ltd., has signed a strategic partnership agreement with TUV Rheinland Group ("TUV Rheinland"), Underwriters Laboratories Inc. ("UL") and China General Certification Centre ("CGC") at its recent 2010 global customer conference, attended by more than 100 customers, business partners, Changzhou government officials and selected media.
Trina Solar entered into a 'Testing at Manufacturers Premises Scheme' with TUV Rheinland and a 'Witness Test Data Program' with UL to perform product certification tests within the Company's Changzhou PV Testing Centre whereby in accordance with IEC 17025, processes performed are witnessed by respective certification body engineers. The arrangement will allow the Company to introduce its newest certified product lines in the shortest time to its customers. In addition, CGC will partner with Trina Solar to provide in-house photovoltaic testing and certification services for end users in China and abroad.
"We are proud to announce that Trina Solar is the first PV solar company to simultaneously cooperate with these three leading certification bodies to ensure world class product quality standards," said Mr. Jifan Gao, Chairman and CEO of Trina Solar. "The partnership is a remarkable milestone for Trina Solar as well as recognition of the Company's strong commitment to implement world-class quality and testing methodology to ensure solar module performance."
Mr. Anthony Chia, Vice-President of Quality said, "It is a privilege for Trina Solar to work with the three parties in several key fields including laboratory cooperation, product certification and exchange of technology information."
About Trina Solar Limited
Trina Solar Limited (NYSE: TSL), through its wholly-owned subsidiary Changzhou Trina Solar Energy Co. Ltd., is a well recognized manufacturer of high quality modules and has a long history as a solar PV pioneer since its foundation in 1997 as a system installation company. Trina Solar is one of the few PV manufacturers that have developed a vertically integrated business model from the production of monocrystalline and multicrystalline silicon ingots, wafers and cells to the assembly of high quality modules. Trina Solar's products provide reliable and environmentally-friendly electric power for a growing variety of end-user applications worldwide. For further information, please visit Trina Solar's website at http://www.trinasolar.com .
About TUV Rheinland
TUV Rheinland is a leading group for the provision of technical services worldwide. It has over 490 locations in 61 countries on all five continents. TUV Rheinland is over 130 years old and its headquarters are in Cologne, Germany. As the leading global service provider in the testing of Photovoltaic modules and components, TUV Rheinland Group tests and provides certification of about 70% of PV products worldwide. We have more than 100 PV-experts worldwide with up to 25 years of expertise in the PV field. For further information, please visit website at http://www.tuv.com .
Trina Solar entered into a 'Testing at Manufacturers Premises Scheme' with TUV Rheinland and a 'Witness Test Data Program' with UL to perform product certification tests within the Company's Changzhou PV Testing Centre whereby in accordance with IEC 17025, processes performed are witnessed by respective certification body engineers. The arrangement will allow the Company to introduce its newest certified product lines in the shortest time to its customers. In addition, CGC will partner with Trina Solar to provide in-house photovoltaic testing and certification services for end users in China and abroad.
"We are proud to announce that Trina Solar is the first PV solar company to simultaneously cooperate with these three leading certification bodies to ensure world class product quality standards," said Mr. Jifan Gao, Chairman and CEO of Trina Solar. "The partnership is a remarkable milestone for Trina Solar as well as recognition of the Company's strong commitment to implement world-class quality and testing methodology to ensure solar module performance."
Mr. Anthony Chia, Vice-President of Quality said, "It is a privilege for Trina Solar to work with the three parties in several key fields including laboratory cooperation, product certification and exchange of technology information."
About Trina Solar Limited
Trina Solar Limited (NYSE: TSL), through its wholly-owned subsidiary Changzhou Trina Solar Energy Co. Ltd., is a well recognized manufacturer of high quality modules and has a long history as a solar PV pioneer since its foundation in 1997 as a system installation company. Trina Solar is one of the few PV manufacturers that have developed a vertically integrated business model from the production of monocrystalline and multicrystalline silicon ingots, wafers and cells to the assembly of high quality modules. Trina Solar's products provide reliable and environmentally-friendly electric power for a growing variety of end-user applications worldwide. For further information, please visit Trina Solar's website at http://www.trinasolar.com .
About TUV Rheinland
TUV Rheinland is a leading group for the provision of technical services worldwide. It has over 490 locations in 61 countries on all five continents. TUV Rheinland is over 130 years old and its headquarters are in Cologne, Germany. As the leading global service provider in the testing of Photovoltaic modules and components, TUV Rheinland Group tests and provides certification of about 70% of PV products worldwide. We have more than 100 PV-experts worldwide with up to 25 years of expertise in the PV field. For further information, please visit website at http://www.tuv.com .
Evergreen Solar Introduces String Ribbon™ Solar Panels Certified for Coastal Installations at Genera Solar Show in Madrid, Spain
MARLBORO, Mass.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Evergreen Solar, Inc. (Nasdaq: ESLR), a manufacturer of String Ribbon™ solar power products with its proprietary silicon wafer technology, will feature its ES-A series solar panels, now one of the few products in the industry certified for installation in coastal climates, at the Genera Solar Show in Madrid, Spain, May 19-21, 2010.
The ES-A series is a range of high quality String Ribbon™ solar panels offering exceptional performance, industry-leading environmental credentials and the ability to be installed in virtually any climate. The ES-A series recently passed rigorous IEC 61701 salt mist corrosion testing for PV panels which exposes the panels to a concentrated salt solution for at least 96 hours. No mechanical deterioration or corrosion of the panel components was identified. This certification confirms that the ES-A series panels are now ideal for installations susceptible to sea mist in coastal areas or on islands. The ES-A series panels will be available for viewing throughout Genera at the company’s booth located in Hall 9, Booth 9G20.
“This recent certification extends the ability of Evergreen Solar panels to be installed virtually anywhere that solar power is viable, and makes our powerful, environmentally-friendly solar panels available to more people,” said Scott Gish, Evergreen Solar’s Vice President, Sales and Marketing. “These panels are already certified for use in climates which have heavy snow or high winds. We are now proud to have one of the few solar panels available in the industry with IEC 61701 certification. This feature is extremely beneficial for customers in regions where sea mist can be an issue like Spain, Italy, France and the coastal regions of the United States.”
All Evergreen Solar String Ribbon solar panels are constructed using its proprietary wafer manufacturing technology which is the most environmentally-friendly process in the industry with virtually no wasted silicon. The carbon footprint of these panels is up to 30% smaller than that of its competitors. These solar panels also have the quickest energy payback, now as fast as 12 months for installed panels.
The ES-A series is a range of high quality String Ribbon™ solar panels offering exceptional performance, industry-leading environmental credentials and the ability to be installed in virtually any climate. The ES-A series recently passed rigorous IEC 61701 salt mist corrosion testing for PV panels which exposes the panels to a concentrated salt solution for at least 96 hours. No mechanical deterioration or corrosion of the panel components was identified. This certification confirms that the ES-A series panels are now ideal for installations susceptible to sea mist in coastal areas or on islands. The ES-A series panels will be available for viewing throughout Genera at the company’s booth located in Hall 9, Booth 9G20.
“This recent certification extends the ability of Evergreen Solar panels to be installed virtually anywhere that solar power is viable, and makes our powerful, environmentally-friendly solar panels available to more people,” said Scott Gish, Evergreen Solar’s Vice President, Sales and Marketing. “These panels are already certified for use in climates which have heavy snow or high winds. We are now proud to have one of the few solar panels available in the industry with IEC 61701 certification. This feature is extremely beneficial for customers in regions where sea mist can be an issue like Spain, Italy, France and the coastal regions of the United States.”
All Evergreen Solar String Ribbon solar panels are constructed using its proprietary wafer manufacturing technology which is the most environmentally-friendly process in the industry with virtually no wasted silicon. The carbon footprint of these panels is up to 30% smaller than that of its competitors. These solar panels also have the quickest energy payback, now as fast as 12 months for installed panels.
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