TUCSON, Ariz.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Global Solar Energy, Inc., a leading manufacturer of high-efficiency Copper Indium Gallium diSelenide (CIGS) solar material, today unveiled its flexible building integrated photovoltaic (BIPV) module: the PowerFLEX™ BIPV. Specially designed for commercial and industrial rooftops, PowerFLEX BIPV modules can deliver more power per rooftop than any other solar solution. With the PowerFLEX BIPV module, rooftops can quickly and cost effectively start generating clean energy.
Global Solar will showcase its PowerFLEX BIPV at the 25th European Photovoltaic Solar Energy Conference and Exhibition (25th EU PVSEC) / 5th World Conference on Photovoltaic Energy Conversion (WCPEC-5), September 6-9 in Valencia, Spain.
With 12.6 percent aperture efficiency, Global Solar PowerFLEX BIPV delivers the highest efficiency in the flexible module industry. The module has a large format (5.75m x 0.5m) and a high power density (300W) enabling it to outperform other flexible solar roofing solutions currently on the market, including 50 percent more energy and power than the current amorphous silicon standard.
Global Solar’s PowerFLEX BIPV module directly addresses the biggest concerns posed by the roofing industry regarding solar integration. It is lightweight and can be applied directly to a roofing surface, requiring no mounting hardware, no roof penetrations, and creates no additional wind load. Designed especially for roofs, Global Solar’s PowerFLEX BIPV maintains the integrity and aesthetics of a building structure. Because of its large format and high power density, Global Solar’s PowerFLEX BIPV will also lower installation and balance of system (BOS) costs.
Although traditional glass solar modules are too heavy for many commercial applications, they have been one of the few options available to the building industry for solar energy generation. Unlike conventional glass modules, which are heavy, rigid and typically installed at an angle on racks, PowerFLEX BIPV modules are lightweight and flexible, and installed flat directly on the roofing surface. This allows the modules to cover a greater amount of rooftop space that, depending on the location of the building, can equate to 50-100 percent more power and energy per rooftop than a tilted solar array. This advantage is particularly acute at higher latitudes.
“At Global Solar, we recognized that the building industry has not been able to fully optimize the real estate on the rooftop with solar solutions currently available,” said Dr. Jeff Britt, CEO of Global Solar Energy. “We worked closely with roofing professionals when we designed the PowerFLEX BIPV, and their experience mattered to us. Leveraging their input, we now offer a high-powered module that will create the most powerful rooftops in the world.”
Industry research is showing that the BIPV market is heating up. Lux Research reported that by 2013 the BIPV market will reach $5.7 billion. Solutions that will succeed are ones that meet the power, design and cost requirements set by the building and roofing industries.
Tuesday, August 31, 2010
Odersun AG Appoints Doede Vierstra as Chief Financial Officer
BERLIN--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Odersun AG, manufacturer of customized thin-film solar modules, announces today the appointment of Mr. Doede Vierstra as its Chief Financial Officer and member of the board of management.
Doede Vierstra has worked in various executive finance positions, bringing vast experience in finance and international management. He joins Odersun from the Dutch energy provider Nuon, now part of the Vattenfall Group, where he was CFO and member of the Board of Management. Prior to that, Vierstra served as CFO and member of the Executive Board of Royal Wessanen, a stock listed organic food company, and Royal Friesland Foods.
“I strongly believe in renewable energy and solar power in particular, as a main driver in the global transition from fossil to sustainable energy supply. That transition has to start now and Odersun is a very promising company, whose products make an important contribution in that process,” says Doede Vierstra.
“Mr. Vierstra is a great addition to our management team as the company enters the market and continues its growth,” adds Dr. Hein van der Zeeuw, Chief Executive Officer at Odersun AG. “We are glad to have found in Doede Vierstra a very experienced and dedicated professional.”
Vierstra succeeds Peter van Bommel, who held responsibility for the company’s finances since early 2009. Van Bommel decided to return to his home country, The Netherlands, and has accepted another position in the meantime. The appointment of Doede Vierstra as CFO and member of the board of management of Odersun AG takes effect as from September 1st, 2010.
Doede Vierstra has worked in various executive finance positions, bringing vast experience in finance and international management. He joins Odersun from the Dutch energy provider Nuon, now part of the Vattenfall Group, where he was CFO and member of the Board of Management. Prior to that, Vierstra served as CFO and member of the Executive Board of Royal Wessanen, a stock listed organic food company, and Royal Friesland Foods.
“I strongly believe in renewable energy and solar power in particular, as a main driver in the global transition from fossil to sustainable energy supply. That transition has to start now and Odersun is a very promising company, whose products make an important contribution in that process,” says Doede Vierstra.
“Mr. Vierstra is a great addition to our management team as the company enters the market and continues its growth,” adds Dr. Hein van der Zeeuw, Chief Executive Officer at Odersun AG. “We are glad to have found in Doede Vierstra a very experienced and dedicated professional.”
Vierstra succeeds Peter van Bommel, who held responsibility for the company’s finances since early 2009. Van Bommel decided to return to his home country, The Netherlands, and has accepted another position in the meantime. The appointment of Doede Vierstra as CFO and member of the board of management of Odersun AG takes effect as from September 1st, 2010.
Monday, August 30, 2010
Canadian Solar Schedules 2Q10 Results Conference Call
ONTARIO, Canada, Aug. 30 /PRNewswire-Asia-FirstCall/ -- Canadian Solar Inc. ("the Company", "Canadian Solar" or "we") (Nasdaq: CSIQ), one of the world's largest solar power companies, today announced that it will hold a conference call to discuss the Company's financial results for the second quarter ended June 30, 2010 and business outlook.
The dial-in number for the live audio call, which will begin on Thursday, September 2, 2010 at 8:00 a.m. U.S. Eastern Time (8:00 p.m. September 2, 2010 in Hong Kong), is +1-617-597-5363. The conference call passcode is 10260478. A live webcast of the conference call will also be available on Canadian Solar's website at http://www.canadiansolar.com .
A replay of the call will be available approximately two hours after the conclusion of the live call through 11:00 a.m. on September 9, 2010, U.S. Eastern Time (11:00 p.m., September 9, 2010 in Hong Kong) by telephone at +1-617-801-6888. To access the replay, use passcode 92103221. A webcast replay will also be available at http://www.canadiansolar.com .
The dial-in number for the live audio call, which will begin on Thursday, September 2, 2010 at 8:00 a.m. U.S. Eastern Time (8:00 p.m. September 2, 2010 in Hong Kong), is +1-617-597-5363. The conference call passcode is 10260478. A live webcast of the conference call will also be available on Canadian Solar's website at http://www.canadiansolar.com .
A replay of the call will be available approximately two hours after the conclusion of the live call through 11:00 a.m. on September 9, 2010, U.S. Eastern Time (11:00 p.m., September 9, 2010 in Hong Kong) by telephone at +1-617-801-6888. To access the replay, use passcode 92103221. A webcast replay will also be available at http://www.canadiansolar.com .
SunPower Solar Technology Selected for Multiple U.S. Federal Government Facilities
SAN JOSE, Calif., Aug. 30 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- SunPower Corp. (Nasdaq: SPWRA, SPWRB) today announced that SunPower world-leading solar technology has been selected for installation at several U.S. government properties, including for the Department of Energy's National Renewable Energy Lab (NREL), the General Services Administration (GSA), the Navy and the Air Force. SunPower expects to create more than 1000 local jobs during the construction of these projects. These contracts represent a minimum of 20 megawatts (MW) of new solar projects for SunPower.
"SunPower has worked with federal agencies since 1999, resulting in the installation of more than 20 MW of solar power systems at government facilities," said Karen Butterfield, SunPower's director of federal accounts. "As a result, SunPower has the experience and credibility to successfully navigate the federal procurement process and deliver reliable, high performance solar systems that meet agency requirements. With the addition of a U.S.-based panel manufacturing facility this year, we have also bolstered our ability to serve this growing demand."
Recent government contracts won by SunPower include the following:
"SunPower has worked with federal agencies since 1999, resulting in the installation of more than 20 MW of solar power systems at government facilities," said Karen Butterfield, SunPower's director of federal accounts. "As a result, SunPower has the experience and credibility to successfully navigate the federal procurement process and deliver reliable, high performance solar systems that meet agency requirements. With the addition of a U.S.-based panel manufacturing facility this year, we have also bolstered our ability to serve this growing demand."
Recent government contracts won by SunPower include the following:
- SunPower was selected by NREL to design and construct a 2-megawatt solar power system at the Department of Energy's new Research Support Facility on the NREL campus in Golden, Colo. The project will be installed at three sites, including a new ultra-low energy office complex, an outdoor parking area, and a parking garage. Colorado-based SunPower Premier Dealer Namaste Solar is partnering with SunPower to install the systems. This project is being financed through the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (ARRA) of 2009, and is expected to be complete by the end of 2011.
- The General Services Administration (GSA) and general contractor Shiel Sexton selected SunPower solar technology for the 1.8-MW solar system that is under construction at the General Emmett Bean Federal Building in Indianapolis, Ind. The project uses the SunPower T5 Solar Roof Tile system, which integrates a high-efficiency solar panel, frame and roof-mounting system into a single pre-engineered unit. The T5 Solar Roof Tiles position the solar panels at a 5-degree tilt, for greatest energy production. Scheduled for completion in January 2011, the system will be the largest rooftop solar power system on a GSA facility. This project is being financed through ARRA.
- SunPower was one of five solar providers awarded an indefinite delivery-indefinite quantity contract by Naval Facilities Command to deliver solar power systems to Navy and Marine Corps installations throughout the southwestern United States. Under the contract, SunPower will design, build, operate and maintain the systems, and sell the power to the Navy and Marine Corps under power purchase agreements. Projects may range in size from one to 15 MW. The Navy will have up to five years to award up to 40 MW of solar projects under this $200 million contract.
- Earlier this month, SunPower announced an agreement with Arizona Public Service (APS) to design and construct a 15-MWac solar photovoltaic power system at Luke Air Force Base in Glendale, Arizona. The system will use SunPower solar panels with the SunPower Tracker® system, which follows the sun's movement during the day, increasing sunlight capture by up to 25 percent over conventional fixed-tilt systems, while significantly reducing land use requirements. Scheduled for completion in the summer of 2011, it is expected to be the largest solar power installation at a U.S. government facility and generate the equivalent of 50 percent of the annual energy requirements for Luke Air Force Base.
Art Buckland Hired as New Chief Executive Officer of Sunovia
SARASOTA, Fla., Aug. 30 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- Sunovia™ Energy Technologies, Inc. (OTC Bulletin Board: SUNV) ("Sunovia"), a clean-tech company specializing in LED lighting and solar technologies, announced today that Art Buckland has joined Sunovia's management team as the company's Chief Executive Officer effective September 7, 2010.
Buckland's leadership has resulted in corporate turnarounds, hundreds of millions of dollars of revenue growth, billion-dollar increases in book value, IPOs and LBOs. He has raised $175 million in private and public capital while starting nine companies, completed 36 M&A transactions worth over $1.45 billion, and turned around seven companies. He has 24 years of experience serving on public company boards. Buckland has led profitable growth and innovation in energy and clean tech for many years. He guided some of the first developments of Smart Meters in the 1980s, using his semiconductor background working with a diverse array of utility companies and municipalities. He received the "Entrepreneur of the Year" award (from NASDAQ, Ernst & Young, Sprint, USA Today, and others) for his work with CP Clare, where he grew a small $5 million failing semiconductor company to $147 million of annual revenue in three years. The IPO at CP Clare resulted in a 122% IRR for investors. Recently, in his two years at Soliant Energy http://www.soliantenergy.com, Buckland pioneered the development of a strategic vision for the next generation of solar panels that could generate distributed electricity at utility costs without government subsidies.
Buckland brings broad experience in operations and governance to Sunovia. His industry experience spans renewable/solar and traditional energy companies (Schlumberger, Enertec, Solartron and Soliant), advanced semiconductors (CP Clare, Texas Instruments, Engim, and Fairchild), supply chain and value-added distribution (Lex, Indivers, and Richardson Electronics), and capital equipment (Teradyne, Fairchild Test, Applicon, and FourPi). Buckland has held CEO, CFO and Board Chairman roles in startups as well as NASDAQ, NYSE and LSE companies. He speaks five languages; is an avid sportsman, and has been married for 32 years.
Buckland stated, "I am excited to be joining the Sunovia team as Chief Executive Officer. I have spent my career developing and growing companies within the semiconductor and related systems markets, and the incredible potential of Sunovia's proprietary technologies and products is very clear. The opportunity to lead a company with this much potential while uniquely operating in this large and dynamic clean-tech energy space and poised for rapid growth, is an ideal fit for my talents and experience. I expect to grow Sunovia efficiently and effectively to realize the tremendous value that has already been created in EvoLucia, and look forward to the challenge of realizing the value in our solar initiative soon after that. I am truly excited to be joining such a talented team, and look forward to collaborating with our great group of investors as we work to grow and achieve our mutual goals."
Carl Smith, continuing Chairman of the Board and outgoing CEO of Sunovia, stated, "We retained the services of C-T Partners, a world renowned executive search firm, and interviewed a number of qualified and highly talented candidates. I am pleased to announce that Art was our top candidate, and that he was equally enthusiastic to accept the opportunity to lead Sunovia."
Smith continued, "Art brings the executive pedigree and Wall Street credibility that I feel have been missing from the company. His experience and reputation with both institutional investors and large banks will be critical to the company as we enter a phase of rapid growth. I look forward to the opportunity to learn from Art as we work together to push Sunovia toward profitability. I will continue to work as Chairman of the Board of Sunovia, and remain as committed as ever to the success of our exciting company."
Buckland's leadership has resulted in corporate turnarounds, hundreds of millions of dollars of revenue growth, billion-dollar increases in book value, IPOs and LBOs. He has raised $175 million in private and public capital while starting nine companies, completed 36 M&A transactions worth over $1.45 billion, and turned around seven companies. He has 24 years of experience serving on public company boards. Buckland has led profitable growth and innovation in energy and clean tech for many years. He guided some of the first developments of Smart Meters in the 1980s, using his semiconductor background working with a diverse array of utility companies and municipalities. He received the "Entrepreneur of the Year" award (from NASDAQ, Ernst & Young, Sprint, USA Today, and others) for his work with CP Clare, where he grew a small $5 million failing semiconductor company to $147 million of annual revenue in three years. The IPO at CP Clare resulted in a 122% IRR for investors. Recently, in his two years at Soliant Energy http://www.soliantenergy.com, Buckland pioneered the development of a strategic vision for the next generation of solar panels that could generate distributed electricity at utility costs without government subsidies.
Buckland brings broad experience in operations and governance to Sunovia. His industry experience spans renewable/solar and traditional energy companies (Schlumberger, Enertec, Solartron and Soliant), advanced semiconductors (CP Clare, Texas Instruments, Engim, and Fairchild), supply chain and value-added distribution (Lex, Indivers, and Richardson Electronics), and capital equipment (Teradyne, Fairchild Test, Applicon, and FourPi). Buckland has held CEO, CFO and Board Chairman roles in startups as well as NASDAQ, NYSE and LSE companies. He speaks five languages; is an avid sportsman, and has been married for 32 years.
Buckland stated, "I am excited to be joining the Sunovia team as Chief Executive Officer. I have spent my career developing and growing companies within the semiconductor and related systems markets, and the incredible potential of Sunovia's proprietary technologies and products is very clear. The opportunity to lead a company with this much potential while uniquely operating in this large and dynamic clean-tech energy space and poised for rapid growth, is an ideal fit for my talents and experience. I expect to grow Sunovia efficiently and effectively to realize the tremendous value that has already been created in EvoLucia, and look forward to the challenge of realizing the value in our solar initiative soon after that. I am truly excited to be joining such a talented team, and look forward to collaborating with our great group of investors as we work to grow and achieve our mutual goals."
Carl Smith, continuing Chairman of the Board and outgoing CEO of Sunovia, stated, "We retained the services of C-T Partners, a world renowned executive search firm, and interviewed a number of qualified and highly talented candidates. I am pleased to announce that Art was our top candidate, and that he was equally enthusiastic to accept the opportunity to lead Sunovia."
Smith continued, "Art brings the executive pedigree and Wall Street credibility that I feel have been missing from the company. His experience and reputation with both institutional investors and large banks will be critical to the company as we enter a phase of rapid growth. I look forward to the opportunity to learn from Art as we work together to push Sunovia toward profitability. I will continue to work as Chairman of the Board of Sunovia, and remain as committed as ever to the success of our exciting company."
Industry First - GreenRay, Inc. AC Module Awarded Certification Backed by a 20 Year Warranty
WESTFORD, Mass.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--GreenRay Inc., developers of the first safety certified AC Module, announced today that the company’s SunSine™200 AC Module has completed its safety certification and is now listed by Intertek to the UL 1741 standard.
The SunSine™200 has been certified by Intertek, making it the first ever certification for an AC module. Intertek performed the comprehensive safety and grid connectivity testing according to the UL 1741 standard; following the testing, the product received the ETL mark for the U.S. markets.
“Having this important certification allows GreenRay to shift its focus and now aggressively build our sales and partner channels and begin production of the SunSine™200 AC Module,” said Miles C. Russell, founder and CEO of GreenRay, Inc. “We expect to have product available for delivery starting in October. This has been a long development path, and we owe thanks to many partners who helped us get this far, including the Department of Energy, the MA Clean Energy Center, and our investors, 21Ventures and The Quercus Trust.”
The SunSine™200 AC Module is the world's first solar appliance. It is a fully-integrated Plug- and-Play PV system, and provides the market with a modular, scalable AC system solution for home and commercial solar installations.
In another industry first, the SunSine™200 AC Module comes with a 20-year warranty, including the integrated micro-inverter. GreenRay’s proprietary inverter is designed to match the useful life expectancy of PV modules by eliminating the weak components found in other inverters, such as electrolytic capacitors and opto-couplers.
GreenRay’s SunSine™200 AC Module Highlights:
Simpler
More Reliable
More Powerful
About GreenRay
GreenRay Inc. was founded in 2006 by photovoltaic industry veterans, and has developed the SunSine™200, the ultimate all-in-one AC module for residential homes. Today’s photovoltaic (PV) systems require specialized expertise to design and install. GreenRay has reduced design and installation time, making solar simpler to install, more reliable and less expensive. GreenRay’s patent-pending technology sets the new standard for safe, installation-friendly residential solar electric systems. Experience the world’s first solar appliance at www.greenraysolar.com.
The SunSine™200 has been certified by Intertek, making it the first ever certification for an AC module. Intertek performed the comprehensive safety and grid connectivity testing according to the UL 1741 standard; following the testing, the product received the ETL mark for the U.S. markets.
“Having this important certification allows GreenRay to shift its focus and now aggressively build our sales and partner channels and begin production of the SunSine™200 AC Module,” said Miles C. Russell, founder and CEO of GreenRay, Inc. “We expect to have product available for delivery starting in October. This has been a long development path, and we owe thanks to many partners who helped us get this far, including the Department of Energy, the MA Clean Energy Center, and our investors, 21Ventures and The Quercus Trust.”
The SunSine™200 AC Module is the world's first solar appliance. It is a fully-integrated Plug- and-Play PV system, and provides the market with a modular, scalable AC system solution for home and commercial solar installations.
In another industry first, the SunSine™200 AC Module comes with a 20-year warranty, including the integrated micro-inverter. GreenRay’s proprietary inverter is designed to match the useful life expectancy of PV modules by eliminating the weak components found in other inverters, such as electrolytic capacitors and opto-couplers.
GreenRay’s SunSine™200 AC Module Highlights:
Simpler
- Plug-and-play solar appliance
- ½ the time to design and install
- Safer for installers and firefighters
More Reliable
- 3x longer inverter life
- Breakthrough 20-year warranty!
- Robust, auto-grounding system design
More Powerful
- Produces 5-25% more energy
- Minimizes impact of shading
- Convenient performance reporting
About GreenRay
GreenRay Inc. was founded in 2006 by photovoltaic industry veterans, and has developed the SunSine™200, the ultimate all-in-one AC module for residential homes. Today’s photovoltaic (PV) systems require specialized expertise to design and install. GreenRay has reduced design and installation time, making solar simpler to install, more reliable and less expensive. GreenRay’s patent-pending technology sets the new standard for safe, installation-friendly residential solar electric systems. Experience the world’s first solar appliance at www.greenraysolar.com.
NACF: China National Solar Subsidiary Launches Development of New Solar iPhone App
HOUSTON--(BUSINESS WIRE)--National Clean Fuels (PinkSheets:NACF) announced today that its newly acquired subsidiary, China National Solar, has launched the development of a revolutionary new iPhone application named “SolarGenie”. The SolarGenie app will enable consumers interested in solar energy to determine what electric utilities in their area purchase user generated power and what the net metering rates are for their local area.
The SolarGenie is a door opener for solar consumers because it delivers the critical data they need to make an investment decision as to whether solar is right for them or not. The SolarGenie will also provide geographical efficiency data on what areas of the country are best for solar power. Finally, it will also include a database of solar suppliers, installers and professionals available to help consumers install solar power efficiently.
China National Solar aims to deliver solar solutions worldwide from its base in China. The SolarGenie is an example of a practical, useable solar application that could facilitate growth within the solar industry worldwide.
The iPhone is a portable data device produced by Apple, Inc. (NASDAQ: AAPL). It allows users to download and operate ‘applications’ that empower the portable device to deliver a wide variety of additional services. The iPhone competes with Google, Inc’s (NASDAQ: GOOG) Android system and with Research-in-Motion’s (NASDAQ: RIMM) BlackBerry phones. China National Solar acquires and develops cutting edge solar energy related technology to compete in and industry sector that contains stalwarts such as Trina Solar Ltd. (NYSE: TSL).
China National Solar’s website can be seen at www.chinanationalsolar.com
The SolarGenie is a door opener for solar consumers because it delivers the critical data they need to make an investment decision as to whether solar is right for them or not. The SolarGenie will also provide geographical efficiency data on what areas of the country are best for solar power. Finally, it will also include a database of solar suppliers, installers and professionals available to help consumers install solar power efficiently.
China National Solar aims to deliver solar solutions worldwide from its base in China. The SolarGenie is an example of a practical, useable solar application that could facilitate growth within the solar industry worldwide.
The iPhone is a portable data device produced by Apple, Inc. (NASDAQ: AAPL). It allows users to download and operate ‘applications’ that empower the portable device to deliver a wide variety of additional services. The iPhone competes with Google, Inc’s (NASDAQ: GOOG) Android system and with Research-in-Motion’s (NASDAQ: RIMM) BlackBerry phones. China National Solar acquires and develops cutting edge solar energy related technology to compete in and industry sector that contains stalwarts such as Trina Solar Ltd. (NYSE: TSL).
China National Solar’s website can be seen at www.chinanationalsolar.com
KYOCERA to Install Solar Power Generating Systems at All Domestic Manufacturing Sites
KYOTO, Japan--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Kyocera Corporation (NYSE:KYO)(TOKYO:6971) today announced that it will install solar power generating systems using the company's own solar modules at six domestic plants by March 2011, generating a total of 593kW, as part of its activities to promote environmental protection. This move will increase the number of Kyocera domestic manufacturing sites equipped with solar power generating systems to 10 — all of the company's manufacturing sites in Japan — and the number of global group company sites to 20. Kyocera already has a number of solar power generating systems installed at its group companies inside and outside Japan, which combined with the new systems, will boost the company's total output to 1,815kW (1.8MW).
Among the six plants to be equipped with new systems are the Yasu Plant (Shiga), which is the company's new solar cell manufacturing plant; the Kitami Plant (Hokkaido), which mainly manufactures mobile phone handsets; and the Sendai Plant (Kyushu), which mainly manufactures ceramic components and ceramic knives. The six new systems are expected to generate 591,000kWh in total per year — equivalent to the annual power consumption of approximately 125 standard households.*
At present, Kyocera has solar power generating systems installed at 14 of its group company locations around the world — which is contributing to the preservation of the environment by helping to reduce CO2 emissions.
In Japan, Kyocera's solar energy field-testing facility — the Sakura Solar Energy Center located just outside of Tokyo near Narita airport — is equipped with a 43kW solar power generating system that was installed in 1984. The system has continued to perform efficiently for over 25 years, and has provided unprecedented, long-term field-test data. In 1998, the company's new global headquarters was constructed in Kyoto with a 214kW solar power generating system installed on the southern-facing wall and roof.
In 2005, KYOCERA MITA Espana S.A. installed a solar power generating system on its facilities in Madrid. In the same year, the Kyocera Group's North American headquarters, KYOCERA International Inc. in San Diego, installed a solar power generating system built in the unique design of a grove of solar trees in the staff parking lot. The system generates electricity under the Southern California sun, while also acting as a shade to keep the sun off of cars.
Kyocera will continue to make contributions to the promotion of solar power as a solar module manufacturer and strive to reduce environmental burden in the course of its business activities by installing solar generating systems at more of the company's sites.
* Calculated assuming that the annual power consumption per household is 4,734kWh. (Source: Standby Energy Consumption Research Report 2008; issued by The Energy Conservation Center, Japan)
Among the six plants to be equipped with new systems are the Yasu Plant (Shiga), which is the company's new solar cell manufacturing plant; the Kitami Plant (Hokkaido), which mainly manufactures mobile phone handsets; and the Sendai Plant (Kyushu), which mainly manufactures ceramic components and ceramic knives. The six new systems are expected to generate 591,000kWh in total per year — equivalent to the annual power consumption of approximately 125 standard households.*
At present, Kyocera has solar power generating systems installed at 14 of its group company locations around the world — which is contributing to the preservation of the environment by helping to reduce CO2 emissions.
In Japan, Kyocera's solar energy field-testing facility — the Sakura Solar Energy Center located just outside of Tokyo near Narita airport — is equipped with a 43kW solar power generating system that was installed in 1984. The system has continued to perform efficiently for over 25 years, and has provided unprecedented, long-term field-test data. In 1998, the company's new global headquarters was constructed in Kyoto with a 214kW solar power generating system installed on the southern-facing wall and roof.
In 2005, KYOCERA MITA Espana S.A. installed a solar power generating system on its facilities in Madrid. In the same year, the Kyocera Group's North American headquarters, KYOCERA International Inc. in San Diego, installed a solar power generating system built in the unique design of a grove of solar trees in the staff parking lot. The system generates electricity under the Southern California sun, while also acting as a shade to keep the sun off of cars.
Kyocera will continue to make contributions to the promotion of solar power as a solar module manufacturer and strive to reduce environmental burden in the course of its business activities by installing solar generating systems at more of the company's sites.
* Calculated assuming that the annual power consumption per household is 4,734kWh. (Source: Standby Energy Consumption Research Report 2008; issued by The Energy Conservation Center, Japan)
Skyline Solar’s First Elevated HGS 1000 System to Power the Kona, Hawai’i Headquarters of Metcalf West
MOUNTAIN VIEW, Calif.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Skyline Solar, a manufacturer of High Gain Solar (HGS) arrays for commercial, industrial, government and utility markets, today announced the first elevated installation of its High Gain Solar (HGS) 1000 system at the Kona, Hawai’i headquarters of Metcalf West, a leading residential and commercial construction firm. The 22 kilowatt project will be commissioned at the Metcalf West headquarters by Hawai’i Governor Linda Lingle and Hawai’i County Mayor Billy Kenoi after their visit today to a new affordable housing development constructed by Metcalf West.
“As we continue advancing our comprehensive clean energy initiative (HCEI) with the goal of generating 70 percent of all energy from renewable sources and efficiencies, it is critical to have the private sector partner with our state energy office in its effort to attain energy security and independence,” said Governor Linda Lingle. “By adopting the very latest in sustainable solar technology from Skyline Solar, Metcalf West has established itself as a shining example of Hawai’i’s energy future.”
“Energy and land are both very expensive resources in Hawai’i making an elevated Skyline Solar HGS system the perfect solar solution for Metcalf West,” said Terry Metcalf, founder of Metcalf West, LLC. “Skyline Solar HGS combined everything we were looking for in a renewable energy system—proven technologies, fewer parts, outstanding performance and upgradeable components—in a design that could be elevated and provide shading for our parking facility. We see a lot of potential in Skyline Solar for future projects.”
The HGS 1000 system offers its customers a number of breakthrough innovations not found in traditional solar systems, including:
“The best innovations are often driven by creative customers and Metcalf West was certainly a driving force in our delivering the first elevated Skyline Solar HGS system,” said Tim Keating, vice president of marketing and field operations for Skyline Solar. “The uniqueness of the HGS design—including reflective racks that double as structural system support—increases the system’s flexibility allowing it to be deployed in a number of configurations. We are thrilled to be a cornerstone of Metcalf West’s sustainability initiatives and a part of Governor Lingle’s benchmark-setting renewable energy efforts.”
The first elevated HGS system is just the latest in a number of significant 2010 milestones for Skyline Solar. In June 2010, Skyline Solar unveiled its first commercial project in Nipton, Calif., establishing Nipton as the most solar town in America. Just prior to completion of the Nipton plant Skyline Solar was awarded one of the first patents under the US Patent & Trademark Office’s Green Technology Pilot Program, covering key elements of Skyline Solar’s HGS architecture. The Kona plant is another step in Skyline Solar’s development of upgradeable, pre-engineered solar energy systems that address global demand for scalable, cost-effective solar energy.
“As we continue advancing our comprehensive clean energy initiative (HCEI) with the goal of generating 70 percent of all energy from renewable sources and efficiencies, it is critical to have the private sector partner with our state energy office in its effort to attain energy security and independence,” said Governor Linda Lingle. “By adopting the very latest in sustainable solar technology from Skyline Solar, Metcalf West has established itself as a shining example of Hawai’i’s energy future.”
“Energy and land are both very expensive resources in Hawai’i making an elevated Skyline Solar HGS system the perfect solar solution for Metcalf West,” said Terry Metcalf, founder of Metcalf West, LLC. “Skyline Solar HGS combined everything we were looking for in a renewable energy system—proven technologies, fewer parts, outstanding performance and upgradeable components—in a design that could be elevated and provide shading for our parking facility. We see a lot of potential in Skyline Solar for future projects.”
The HGS 1000 system offers its customers a number of breakthrough innovations not found in traditional solar systems, including:
- Cost: Skyline Solar’s HGS architecture delivers ten times more energy per gram of silicon versus traditional flat-panel systems in sunny locations. The system utilizes tracking, passive cooling and concentration components, reducing the amount of silicon required by 90 percent.
- Upgradability: The power-producing components of the system are field upgradeable, allowing system-owners to “future-proof” their investment and upgrade with new solar panel technologies.
- Reliability: Skyline Solar HGS 1000 arrays combine industry-proven silicon cells, durable reflector materials and single-axis tracking into a complete, easy-to-deploy system.
- Scalability: Built primarily out of commodity materials with globally available manufacturing processes from the PV and automotive industries, Skyline Solar HGS 1000 simultaneously improves financial payback and scalability.
“The best innovations are often driven by creative customers and Metcalf West was certainly a driving force in our delivering the first elevated Skyline Solar HGS system,” said Tim Keating, vice president of marketing and field operations for Skyline Solar. “The uniqueness of the HGS design—including reflective racks that double as structural system support—increases the system’s flexibility allowing it to be deployed in a number of configurations. We are thrilled to be a cornerstone of Metcalf West’s sustainability initiatives and a part of Governor Lingle’s benchmark-setting renewable energy efforts.”
The first elevated HGS system is just the latest in a number of significant 2010 milestones for Skyline Solar. In June 2010, Skyline Solar unveiled its first commercial project in Nipton, Calif., establishing Nipton as the most solar town in America. Just prior to completion of the Nipton plant Skyline Solar was awarded one of the first patents under the US Patent & Trademark Office’s Green Technology Pilot Program, covering key elements of Skyline Solar’s HGS architecture. The Kona plant is another step in Skyline Solar’s development of upgradeable, pre-engineered solar energy systems that address global demand for scalable, cost-effective solar energy.
Friday, August 27, 2010
SDG&E Bolsters Its Renewable Portfolio With More Solar and Wind Energy From California
SAN DIEGO, CA--(Marketwire - August 27, 2010) - San Diego Gas & Electric (SDG&E) today announced that it has signed and submitted for approval a second 20-year power-purchase agreement with an LS Power subsidiary to procure up to 45 megawatts (MW) of solar energy from the proposed Centinela Solar Energy facility, to be located 90 miles east of San Diego in California's Imperial Valley.
The new contract, combined with a 20-year agreement SDG&E signed in May for up to 130 MW of power from the Centinela project, will provide for a combined total of up to 175 MW of clean, renewable energy, or enough electricity for more than 60,000 homes.
"This contract reaffirms SDG&E's ongoing commitment to securing renewable resources for our customers in the San Diego region," said Matt Burkhart, vice president of electric and fuel procurement for SDG&E. "This will also help bring us a step closer to our goal of bringing in 33 percent of renewable energy by 2020."
Upon completion in 2014, the Centinela Solar Energy facility will send solar power to SDG&E's service territory across the Sunrise Powerlink, a 120-mile, 500-kilovolt electric transmission line which was designed to increase power reliability in the region and tap into the vast renewable resources of the Imperial Valley. When completed in 2012, the new power line is expected to carry up to 1,000 MW of electricity.
"This is an exciting time in the renewable energy market, and we are looking forward to continuing our work with SDG&E on this project," said John King, executive vice president of LS Power. "This expansion will not only create jobs during these tough economic times, but it also provides clean energy to SDG&E customers."
Under the new contract, which runs through 2034, the Centinela Solar Energy facility will employ photovoltaic technology on a 1,350-acre site near Calexico, Calif. At peak, the entire project will generate as much as 175 MW of electricity.
Last month, SDG&E signed an additional renewable contract securing 7.5 MW of wind energy from Coram Energy, LLC of Tehachapi, Calif. An application was filed with the California Public Utilities Commission (CPUC) on July 30, 2010. The Coram Energy facility is located in the Tehachapi Pass in Kern County, Calif. and began generating wind energy in June 2005.
These two new contracts combined add another 52.5 MW of renewable energy generated in California to SDG&E's portfolio. Both contracts require CPUC approval.
The new contract, combined with a 20-year agreement SDG&E signed in May for up to 130 MW of power from the Centinela project, will provide for a combined total of up to 175 MW of clean, renewable energy, or enough electricity for more than 60,000 homes.
"This contract reaffirms SDG&E's ongoing commitment to securing renewable resources for our customers in the San Diego region," said Matt Burkhart, vice president of electric and fuel procurement for SDG&E. "This will also help bring us a step closer to our goal of bringing in 33 percent of renewable energy by 2020."
Upon completion in 2014, the Centinela Solar Energy facility will send solar power to SDG&E's service territory across the Sunrise Powerlink, a 120-mile, 500-kilovolt electric transmission line which was designed to increase power reliability in the region and tap into the vast renewable resources of the Imperial Valley. When completed in 2012, the new power line is expected to carry up to 1,000 MW of electricity.
"This is an exciting time in the renewable energy market, and we are looking forward to continuing our work with SDG&E on this project," said John King, executive vice president of LS Power. "This expansion will not only create jobs during these tough economic times, but it also provides clean energy to SDG&E customers."
Under the new contract, which runs through 2034, the Centinela Solar Energy facility will employ photovoltaic technology on a 1,350-acre site near Calexico, Calif. At peak, the entire project will generate as much as 175 MW of electricity.
Last month, SDG&E signed an additional renewable contract securing 7.5 MW of wind energy from Coram Energy, LLC of Tehachapi, Calif. An application was filed with the California Public Utilities Commission (CPUC) on July 30, 2010. The Coram Energy facility is located in the Tehachapi Pass in Kern County, Calif. and began generating wind energy in June 2005.
These two new contracts combined add another 52.5 MW of renewable energy generated in California to SDG&E's portfolio. Both contracts require CPUC approval.
Distributed Sun Delivers Solar Power to Hilton Hotel BWI Airport
WASHINGTON, Aug. 26 /PRNewswire/ -- Distributed Sun LLC (D-SUN), a DC-based solar project developer and services provider, begins serving solar power to the Hilton Hotel BWI Airport – a PMHS property – in Maryland this month. The system, owned by Distributed Sun's Solar Energy Investment Company (SEIC), sunONE, combines clean, on-site power with green power savings, generating nearly 60 megawatt hours of electric power per year, and over 2 gigawatt hours over its lifetime.
"We are honored to partner with the Buccini/Pollin Group and Pollin/Miller Hospitality Strategies for installations at the Hilton and throughout the Mid-Atlantic," says Chase Weir, CEO of D-SUN. "In this challenging economic climate, it's really exciting to provide a service that creates jobs, delivers substantial savings to our partners, and is beneficial for the environment."
D-SUN's solar services to PMHS are widely considered to be much better for the environment than conventional energy – offsetting an estimated 3.5 million pounds of CO₂, or the equivalent of removing 316 cars from the road. Solar power from D-SUN also costs the Hilton less per kilowatt hour generated than the electricity it buys from the grid, and under contract terms that guarantee savings for PMHS will grow each year, compounding for 20 years.
"At PMHS and BPG, we are committed to doing all we can to have the most energy efficient, and most efficiently run, properties in our industry," says Dave Pollin. "Our partnership with Distributed Sun at the Hilton and elsewhere demonstrates our dedication to greening our portfolio with best-practice solutions that improve our bottom-line."
Leading the next-generation of solar business models and practices, D-SUN installs significantly more solar capacity per dollar invested than the national average, while offering one of the most competitive solar power discounts available. D-SUN investors benefit too, achieving better returns than the industry norm. Its first SEIC, sunONE, is fully committed and commissioning power on rooftops in Maryland, Delaware, Pennsylvania and New Jersey now. Its second SEIC, sunTWO, will deploy 50 megawatts of solar to commercial and industrial buildings of all types with rooftop, carport and groundmount installations beginning this Fall, 2010. sunTWO will serve 25-100% of its partners' building power needs, and save them millions of dollars in electricity rate payments. sunTWO anticipates the creation of several hundred new jobs over the next 18-24 months.
"We are honored to partner with the Buccini/Pollin Group and Pollin/Miller Hospitality Strategies for installations at the Hilton and throughout the Mid-Atlantic," says Chase Weir, CEO of D-SUN. "In this challenging economic climate, it's really exciting to provide a service that creates jobs, delivers substantial savings to our partners, and is beneficial for the environment."
D-SUN's solar services to PMHS are widely considered to be much better for the environment than conventional energy – offsetting an estimated 3.5 million pounds of CO₂, or the equivalent of removing 316 cars from the road. Solar power from D-SUN also costs the Hilton less per kilowatt hour generated than the electricity it buys from the grid, and under contract terms that guarantee savings for PMHS will grow each year, compounding for 20 years.
"At PMHS and BPG, we are committed to doing all we can to have the most energy efficient, and most efficiently run, properties in our industry," says Dave Pollin. "Our partnership with Distributed Sun at the Hilton and elsewhere demonstrates our dedication to greening our portfolio with best-practice solutions that improve our bottom-line."
Leading the next-generation of solar business models and practices, D-SUN installs significantly more solar capacity per dollar invested than the national average, while offering one of the most competitive solar power discounts available. D-SUN investors benefit too, achieving better returns than the industry norm. Its first SEIC, sunONE, is fully committed and commissioning power on rooftops in Maryland, Delaware, Pennsylvania and New Jersey now. Its second SEIC, sunTWO, will deploy 50 megawatts of solar to commercial and industrial buildings of all types with rooftop, carport and groundmount installations beginning this Fall, 2010. sunTWO will serve 25-100% of its partners' building power needs, and save them millions of dollars in electricity rate payments. sunTWO anticipates the creation of several hundred new jobs over the next 18-24 months.
Canadian Solar to Sponsor of EHC Munchen Hockey Club
MUNICH, Germany, Aug. 27 /PRNewswire-Asia-FirstCall/ -- Canadian Solar (Nasdaq: CSIQ), one of the world's largest solar companies, announced it will sponsor the Munich hockey team, EHC Munchen, in the upcoming DEL season. This sponsorship underscores the Ontario-based solar company's commitment to the German market and to one of the world's most popular sports.
Next season, the EHC Munchen players, with ten Canadians among them, will enter the rink with Canadian Solar's logo on their jerseys. The Company's logo with the sun will also prominently appear on the two top goalies' shin guards and gloves.
"Hockey is a high-energy, highly competitive, team sport. The game requires utmost precision, efficiency, dynamics and the highest performance level. Both the EHC Munchen hockey team and Canadian Solar share these characteristics, making coach Pat Cortina's team the perfect match for us," said Dr. Shawn Qu, Chairman and CEO of Canadian Solar. "This sponsorship is also a commitment to our Canadian identity, and to our subsidiary in Munich."
Commitment to Support High-performance Sports
Canadian Solar has historically been one of the largest solar companies in Europe with Germany being one of its largest markets. The Company moved its European headquarters from Babenhausen (Allgau region) to Munich earlier in 2010, reflecting its commitment to the important German market. As part of its brand identity program, Canadian Solar is an active supporter of local high-performance sports in a variety of the markets it operates in. There is a strong connection between Canadian Solar and hockey: last season, the Canadian solar company has sponsored the Italian national hockey goalie, Thomas "Tschomby" Tragust. Besides sponsoring hockey in Germany, the company also supports the Italian top league basketball club, Canadian Solar Virtus Bologna, and the US baseball team San Francisco Giants.
Next season, the EHC Munchen players, with ten Canadians among them, will enter the rink with Canadian Solar's logo on their jerseys. The Company's logo with the sun will also prominently appear on the two top goalies' shin guards and gloves.
"Hockey is a high-energy, highly competitive, team sport. The game requires utmost precision, efficiency, dynamics and the highest performance level. Both the EHC Munchen hockey team and Canadian Solar share these characteristics, making coach Pat Cortina's team the perfect match for us," said Dr. Shawn Qu, Chairman and CEO of Canadian Solar. "This sponsorship is also a commitment to our Canadian identity, and to our subsidiary in Munich."
Commitment to Support High-performance Sports
Canadian Solar has historically been one of the largest solar companies in Europe with Germany being one of its largest markets. The Company moved its European headquarters from Babenhausen (Allgau region) to Munich earlier in 2010, reflecting its commitment to the important German market. As part of its brand identity program, Canadian Solar is an active supporter of local high-performance sports in a variety of the markets it operates in. There is a strong connection between Canadian Solar and hockey: last season, the Canadian solar company has sponsored the Italian national hockey goalie, Thomas "Tschomby" Tragust. Besides sponsoring hockey in Germany, the company also supports the Italian top league basketball club, Canadian Solar Virtus Bologna, and the US baseball team San Francisco Giants.
SunHydro to Receive Toyota Fuel Cell Vehicles
WALLINGFORD, Conn.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--SunHydro today announced an agreement with Toyota Motor Sales, USA, Inc. (TMS) to place ten (10) Toyota Advanced Fuel Cell Hybrid Vehicles (FCHV-adv) in the Connecticut area this fall. The vehicles will support the new SunHydro solar-powered hydrogen fueling station, located at Proton Energy Systems’ headquarters in Wallingford, Conn. Proton Energy Systems is the world leader in on-site hydrogen generation, and its equipment will be used at the SunHydro station.
SunHydro is the vision of successful entrepreneur Tom Sullivan, founder of Lumber Liquidators, who is expanding his business focus from hardwood floors to hydrogen fuel.
“This is a big step for Connecticut, our country, and the overall evolution of alternative fuels in the U.S.,” said Tom Sullivan, SunHydro founder and Proton Energy Systems owner. “We are very excited to partner with Toyota on this initiative, which will help connect people with hydrogen fuel cell technology,” said Sullivan.
SunHydro is leading the development of an East Coast Hydrogen Highway, which will make it possible to drive a fuel cell vehicle from Maine to Florida. The Wallingford, Conn. station will be the first station on this Highway. When completed, the Highway series of SunHydro stations will be the world’s first privately funded network of hydrogen fueling stations.
“We are looking forward to helping to lead the charge for solar-powered hydrogen fuel by building infrastructure that makes this alternative fuel more accessible to the general consumer,” said Michael Grey, President of SunHydro.
The FCHV-adv vehicles in Connecticut are part of a Toyota nationwide fuel cell demonstration program that will place more than 100 vehicles over the next three years. The ten fuel cell vehicles will be kept in Connecticut and will be used by SunHydro/Proton Energy Systems staff, in addition to other community members.
“The FCHV-adv demonstration program is a key step in preparing the market for advanced technologies,” said Craig Scott, TMS advanced technology vehicle manager. “The placement of the fuel cell vehicles in the Connecticut market will increase awareness of fuel technology and spur development of much-needed infrastructure prior to our planned market introduction in 2015.”
SunHydro is the vision of successful entrepreneur Tom Sullivan, founder of Lumber Liquidators, who is expanding his business focus from hardwood floors to hydrogen fuel.
“This is a big step for Connecticut, our country, and the overall evolution of alternative fuels in the U.S.,” said Tom Sullivan, SunHydro founder and Proton Energy Systems owner. “We are very excited to partner with Toyota on this initiative, which will help connect people with hydrogen fuel cell technology,” said Sullivan.
SunHydro is leading the development of an East Coast Hydrogen Highway, which will make it possible to drive a fuel cell vehicle from Maine to Florida. The Wallingford, Conn. station will be the first station on this Highway. When completed, the Highway series of SunHydro stations will be the world’s first privately funded network of hydrogen fueling stations.
“We are looking forward to helping to lead the charge for solar-powered hydrogen fuel by building infrastructure that makes this alternative fuel more accessible to the general consumer,” said Michael Grey, President of SunHydro.
The FCHV-adv vehicles in Connecticut are part of a Toyota nationwide fuel cell demonstration program that will place more than 100 vehicles over the next three years. The ten fuel cell vehicles will be kept in Connecticut and will be used by SunHydro/Proton Energy Systems staff, in addition to other community members.
“The FCHV-adv demonstration program is a key step in preparing the market for advanced technologies,” said Craig Scott, TMS advanced technology vehicle manager. “The placement of the fuel cell vehicles in the Connecticut market will increase awareness of fuel technology and spur development of much-needed infrastructure prior to our planned market introduction in 2015.”
GoSolarUSA Funds the Development of PREEcharge for iPAD and Kindle
NEW ORLEANS--(BUSINESS WIRE)--GoSolarUSA (Pink Sheets: GSLO) announced today that management has inked another groundbreaking deal with PREE Corp to configure its proprietary PREEcharge technology for use with the iPAD and Kindle. On Monday, GSLO President Tyson Rohde met with the PREE team to discuss the patent application, development and future capital needs for the commercialization of PREEcharge technology. By Friday they had reached another deal.
“I was blown away by the potential of this new technology,” stated Tyson Rohde, President of GoSolarUSA. “The engineers and business development team at PREE are doing something profound, and I think people will understand its value fast.”
The PREEcharge technology captures electrons from LAN and Bluetooth waves and converts it into power to recharge batteries for wireless devices. The technology also incorporates a small solar panel to augment the charge with solar energy. To date, the entire product development has been focused on configuration for use with smaller wireless devices such as Apple’s (NASDAQ: AAPL) iPhone, Google’s (NASDAQ: GOOG) Android, and Research in Motion’s (NASDAQ: RIMM) BlackBerry. Now with the funding from GoSolarUSA, PREE will be able to accelerate the development of the PREEcharge for use with wireless PC tablets.
“Why are the iPAD, Kindle and other PC tablets ideal for the PREEcharge?” asked Mr. Rohde. “The answer is simple,” he continued. “The surface area of an iPhone is 10.39 square inches, and the surface area of an iPAD is 71.41 square inches. More surface area means bigger circuit boards, more antennas for receiving wireless signals, and ultimately a lot more power. In fact, if this proportion holds, the PREEcharge could have the potential to generate seven times more power for the iPAD than it makes for the iPhone,” he concluded.
According to Apple, users can run the iPAD for up to 10 hours while surfing the web on Wi-Fi, watching videos, or listening to music. With the PREEcharge technology, it is expected that battery life can be substantially increased to meet the high power needs of today’s tablet PC users.
The wireless tablet PC market is expected to grow at alarming rates in the coming years. While 305.8 million units shipped worldwide in 2009, Gartner forecasts 2010 shipments to reach 366.1 million units, with spending reaching $245 billion — an increase of 12.1 percent over 2009 spending.
Further, the tablet PC space, rejuvenated by the Jan. 27 introduction of the Apple iPad, is being reconsidered by many, according to Gartner, and 2010 could see shipments of up to 10.5 million “tablets and next-generation tablet devices” worldwide. Technology researcher, Gartner, delivers technology research to global technology business leaders to make informed decisions on key initiatives.
For more information, please visit www.GoSolarUSA.com
“I was blown away by the potential of this new technology,” stated Tyson Rohde, President of GoSolarUSA. “The engineers and business development team at PREE are doing something profound, and I think people will understand its value fast.”
The PREEcharge technology captures electrons from LAN and Bluetooth waves and converts it into power to recharge batteries for wireless devices. The technology also incorporates a small solar panel to augment the charge with solar energy. To date, the entire product development has been focused on configuration for use with smaller wireless devices such as Apple’s (NASDAQ: AAPL) iPhone, Google’s (NASDAQ: GOOG) Android, and Research in Motion’s (NASDAQ: RIMM) BlackBerry. Now with the funding from GoSolarUSA, PREE will be able to accelerate the development of the PREEcharge for use with wireless PC tablets.
“Why are the iPAD, Kindle and other PC tablets ideal for the PREEcharge?” asked Mr. Rohde. “The answer is simple,” he continued. “The surface area of an iPhone is 10.39 square inches, and the surface area of an iPAD is 71.41 square inches. More surface area means bigger circuit boards, more antennas for receiving wireless signals, and ultimately a lot more power. In fact, if this proportion holds, the PREEcharge could have the potential to generate seven times more power for the iPAD than it makes for the iPhone,” he concluded.
According to Apple, users can run the iPAD for up to 10 hours while surfing the web on Wi-Fi, watching videos, or listening to music. With the PREEcharge technology, it is expected that battery life can be substantially increased to meet the high power needs of today’s tablet PC users.
The wireless tablet PC market is expected to grow at alarming rates in the coming years. While 305.8 million units shipped worldwide in 2009, Gartner forecasts 2010 shipments to reach 366.1 million units, with spending reaching $245 billion — an increase of 12.1 percent over 2009 spending.
Further, the tablet PC space, rejuvenated by the Jan. 27 introduction of the Apple iPad, is being reconsidered by many, according to Gartner, and 2010 could see shipments of up to 10.5 million “tablets and next-generation tablet devices” worldwide. Technology researcher, Gartner, delivers technology research to global technology business leaders to make informed decisions on key initiatives.
For more information, please visit www.GoSolarUSA.com
Solar Monkey and Rainbow Sandals Announce Ribbon-Cutting Ceremony to Celebrate Rainbow Sandals Transition to Solar Energy
SAN CLEMENTE, Calif.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Solar Monkey and Rainbow Sandals are pleased to announce a ribbon-cutting ceremony for the recently completed installation of a 245.7 kW roof mounted solar energy system at Rainbow Sandals Corporate Headquarters. The ceremony will take place onsite at 900 Calle Negocio, San Clemente, California at 10:30 a.m. on August 31, 2010.
Jay “Sparky” Longley, President of Rainbow Sandals, understood that to truly make a difference starts with how a business operates. Therefore, he chose to take his business solar last year. Aside from the fact that this was truly an environmental decision, Rainbow Sandals quickly found that the solar energy project was also an economical investment. As a business, Rainbow Sandals qualified for a 30% Federal Tax Grant for the project and also qualified for SDG&E’s production based incentive to help subsidize the $1.2M they had to pay out of pocket in order to construct the solar energy system.
The completed system is poised to offset nearly 90% of the annual electricity usage at the Rainbow Sandals corporate headquarters. All that power is coming from 1,170 solar panels installed by Solar Monkey on the roof of the Rainbow Sandals building. After saving nearly $50k a year in reduced operating expenses, they will receive their initial investment back in roughly 5 years.
According to Jay “Sparky” Longley, “Solar Monkey provided us with outstanding service from our first meeting, throughout the entire construction of the project. They were extremely flexible during installation of the project and understood that we needed to continue operations as normal with minimal interruption to our business. We are thrilled with how the project worked out and are proud to be able to invest in something that is great for our business and the environment.”
Matthew McCullough, CEO of Solar Monkey, said, “Rainbow provides a great example for businesses that want to make a change in how they impact the environment. Not only was this smart for reducing their carbon footprint it was also smart for their pocket book!”
The public is invited on Tuesday August 31st to help us inaugurate Rainbow Sandals transition to Solar Energy. Jim Dahl, Mayor of San Clemente, is scheduled to be on hand to offer a few remarks regarding Rainbow Sandals and to assist in the ribbon-cutting. Other notable attendees include staff from both Senator Wyland’s and Congressman Ken Calvert’s offices, SDG&E, Kyocera Solar, California Center for Sustainable Energy, and PV Powered. All local residents and businesses are welcome to attend. Ceremonies will commence at 10:30 a.m.
Jay “Sparky” Longley, President of Rainbow Sandals, understood that to truly make a difference starts with how a business operates. Therefore, he chose to take his business solar last year. Aside from the fact that this was truly an environmental decision, Rainbow Sandals quickly found that the solar energy project was also an economical investment. As a business, Rainbow Sandals qualified for a 30% Federal Tax Grant for the project and also qualified for SDG&E’s production based incentive to help subsidize the $1.2M they had to pay out of pocket in order to construct the solar energy system.
The completed system is poised to offset nearly 90% of the annual electricity usage at the Rainbow Sandals corporate headquarters. All that power is coming from 1,170 solar panels installed by Solar Monkey on the roof of the Rainbow Sandals building. After saving nearly $50k a year in reduced operating expenses, they will receive their initial investment back in roughly 5 years.
According to Jay “Sparky” Longley, “Solar Monkey provided us with outstanding service from our first meeting, throughout the entire construction of the project. They were extremely flexible during installation of the project and understood that we needed to continue operations as normal with minimal interruption to our business. We are thrilled with how the project worked out and are proud to be able to invest in something that is great for our business and the environment.”
Matthew McCullough, CEO of Solar Monkey, said, “Rainbow provides a great example for businesses that want to make a change in how they impact the environment. Not only was this smart for reducing their carbon footprint it was also smart for their pocket book!”
The public is invited on Tuesday August 31st to help us inaugurate Rainbow Sandals transition to Solar Energy. Jim Dahl, Mayor of San Clemente, is scheduled to be on hand to offer a few remarks regarding Rainbow Sandals and to assist in the ribbon-cutting. Other notable attendees include staff from both Senator Wyland’s and Congressman Ken Calvert’s offices, SDG&E, Kyocera Solar, California Center for Sustainable Energy, and PV Powered. All local residents and businesses are welcome to attend. Ceremonies will commence at 10:30 a.m.
Thursday, August 26, 2010
Solar Guide: "Quiet Green Revolution" Needs to be Shouted About
LONDON, UNITED KINGDOM--(Marketwire - Aug. 26, 2010) - Solar Guide, the free online resource for homeowners and engineers regarding all solar-related issues, says the new Coalition Government needs to be more vocal about the Green Deal to make the public more aware and boost the renewable industry.
Deputy Prime Minister Nick Clegg spoke of a "quiet green revolution" in a recent speech at an event hosted by business advisory firm TEDCO last week.
The deal, revealed earlier in the year by the new government, will mean consumers will be allocated funds to have renewable, energy efficient and green technology like solar panels installed into their homes and pay back the loan through the savings made on energy bills. With energy efficient homes being able to save around £550 a year on bills according to research, the incentive has received positive feedback despite restricted information being released about how it will actually work.
Speaking at the event, Clegg wanted to reassure members of the industry that the Green Deal would be going ahead, but in a controlled manner. He said: "All politicians have warm words on the environment, and all governments talk about leading the shift to a new green economy.
"This government is going to do things differently. We won't try and dazzle you with green gimmicks. We want to impress you by quietly getting on with the job."
And he later went on to say: "This Government's aim is to lead a quiet green revolution, not release more green hot air".
Despite being encouraged by Clegg's willingness to talk about the Green Deal, Solar Guide's founder David Holmes said the government needs to shout more about incentives that would influence the public to go greener and switch to renewables.
"It's encouraging to know that the new government plans to follow through on their green policies, however too much already slipped under the radar in the past," Holmes said.
"The Feed-in Tariff may have been introduced under Labour power, but since the launch in April there has been very little coverage of it. A scheme with benefits for all parties – the consumer, the government, the environment, the economy and the industry – should be promoted as much as possible and not be implemented under silence."
With the Green Deal not expected to be introduced until 2011, there remains to be very few incentives that encourage greener living in the UK.
Holmes added: "The Renewable Heat Incentive isn't due to be introduced until April next year, but will this be implemented with such muted coverage from the government too? Instead of remaining quiet about green issues, the government needs to speak more openly and freely about them – the government should be the first step in the education process about these incentives.
"We've found that a lot of people are searching online for information about the Feed-in Tariff and the Renewable Heat Incentive, but this shouldn't be the case. If the government spoke more often about these great schemes, potential consumers wouldn't have to research so much themselves.
"And in such difficult financial times, more exposure for the renewable industry would give green-focussed companies a welcome boost."
To find out more about the benefits of switching to solar PV electricity or solar water heating technology, or just to find out more about the Feed-in Tariff and the Renewable Heat Incentive, please visit www.solarguide.co.uk.
Deputy Prime Minister Nick Clegg spoke of a "quiet green revolution" in a recent speech at an event hosted by business advisory firm TEDCO last week.
The deal, revealed earlier in the year by the new government, will mean consumers will be allocated funds to have renewable, energy efficient and green technology like solar panels installed into their homes and pay back the loan through the savings made on energy bills. With energy efficient homes being able to save around £550 a year on bills according to research, the incentive has received positive feedback despite restricted information being released about how it will actually work.
Speaking at the event, Clegg wanted to reassure members of the industry that the Green Deal would be going ahead, but in a controlled manner. He said: "All politicians have warm words on the environment, and all governments talk about leading the shift to a new green economy.
"This government is going to do things differently. We won't try and dazzle you with green gimmicks. We want to impress you by quietly getting on with the job."
And he later went on to say: "This Government's aim is to lead a quiet green revolution, not release more green hot air".
Despite being encouraged by Clegg's willingness to talk about the Green Deal, Solar Guide's founder David Holmes said the government needs to shout more about incentives that would influence the public to go greener and switch to renewables.
"It's encouraging to know that the new government plans to follow through on their green policies, however too much already slipped under the radar in the past," Holmes said.
"The Feed-in Tariff may have been introduced under Labour power, but since the launch in April there has been very little coverage of it. A scheme with benefits for all parties – the consumer, the government, the environment, the economy and the industry – should be promoted as much as possible and not be implemented under silence."
With the Green Deal not expected to be introduced until 2011, there remains to be very few incentives that encourage greener living in the UK.
Holmes added: "The Renewable Heat Incentive isn't due to be introduced until April next year, but will this be implemented with such muted coverage from the government too? Instead of remaining quiet about green issues, the government needs to speak more openly and freely about them – the government should be the first step in the education process about these incentives.
"We've found that a lot of people are searching online for information about the Feed-in Tariff and the Renewable Heat Incentive, but this shouldn't be the case. If the government spoke more often about these great schemes, potential consumers wouldn't have to research so much themselves.
"And in such difficult financial times, more exposure for the renewable industry would give green-focussed companies a welcome boost."
To find out more about the benefits of switching to solar PV electricity or solar water heating technology, or just to find out more about the Feed-in Tariff and the Renewable Heat Incentive, please visit www.solarguide.co.uk.
Nevada Solar Works LLC to Build 1.3 MW Solar PV Project for the City of Reno
RENO, Nev.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Nevada Solar Works LLC, a partnership between Q&D Construction, CleanPath Renewables and Alternative Energy Solutions, has won a contract to build 1.3 megawatts (MW) of solar photovoltaic (PV) projects for the City of Reno. The Reno City Council announced the contract today, approving a 1 MW fixed tilt ground mount system at the Reno-Stead Water Treatment Plant and 295 kW in fixed tilt roof and ground mount installations at five other locations throughout the city.
“Nevada Solar Works LLC applauds the City of Reno for investing in new jobs and clean, affordable sources of energy,” said Tim Kretzschmar, Senior Vice President of Q&D Construction. “The Nevada Solar Works team has vast experience building PV projects both in Nevada and throughout the United States, and we are confident we will deliver this project on schedule for the citizens of Reno.”
These projects are being built at no additional costs to the City of Reno. Funding is being provided by a combination of rebates from NV Energy, federal tax incentives and payments for the energy produced by the array. It is estimated that these arrays will save the city $2.5 million over the next 20 years, while generating more than 60 jobs in design, engineering, materials fabrication and construction.
“Nevada has a tremendous opportunity to create a sustainable green collar economy, and these projects are a great example of the potential for solar in Nevada,” said Scott Gerz, Director of Business Development at CleanPath Renewables.
The City of Reno solar project is the first statewide request for proposal (RFP) to build renewable energy that takes advantage of AB 186, a Nevada state law passed in October 2009 which allows for third-party ownership of renewable energy generation systems. The new law effectively allows businesses, institutions and governments to purchase solar arrays without up-front capital costs. They can save money by paying long-term fixed rates on the energy generated. In concert with NV Energy’s RenewableGenerations Program, AB 186 has paved the way for clean renewable energy projects to be realized across Nevada.
Construction on the first of the seven projects is scheduled to begin in October 2010. City properties that will be utilized for hosting the solar power projects include:
“Nevada Solar Works LLC applauds the City of Reno for investing in new jobs and clean, affordable sources of energy,” said Tim Kretzschmar, Senior Vice President of Q&D Construction. “The Nevada Solar Works team has vast experience building PV projects both in Nevada and throughout the United States, and we are confident we will deliver this project on schedule for the citizens of Reno.”
These projects are being built at no additional costs to the City of Reno. Funding is being provided by a combination of rebates from NV Energy, federal tax incentives and payments for the energy produced by the array. It is estimated that these arrays will save the city $2.5 million over the next 20 years, while generating more than 60 jobs in design, engineering, materials fabrication and construction.
“Nevada has a tremendous opportunity to create a sustainable green collar economy, and these projects are a great example of the potential for solar in Nevada,” said Scott Gerz, Director of Business Development at CleanPath Renewables.
The City of Reno solar project is the first statewide request for proposal (RFP) to build renewable energy that takes advantage of AB 186, a Nevada state law passed in October 2009 which allows for third-party ownership of renewable energy generation systems. The new law effectively allows businesses, institutions and governments to purchase solar arrays without up-front capital costs. They can save money by paying long-term fixed rates on the energy generated. In concert with NV Energy’s RenewableGenerations Program, AB 186 has paved the way for clean renewable energy projects to be realized across Nevada.
Construction on the first of the seven projects is scheduled to begin in October 2010. City properties that will be utilized for hosting the solar power projects include:
- Reno-Stead Wastewater Treatment Plant
- Corporation Yard at 1640 E. Commercial Rd.
- Neil Rd. Recreation Center
- Boys & Girls Club of Truckee Meadows
- Nell J. Redfield Health Center
- Fire Stations 3, 11 and 18
MiaSolé Signs 600MW Long-Term Framework Agreement with juwi Solar
SANTA CLARA, Calif.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--MiaSolé, the leading manufacturer of Copper Indium Gallium Selenide (CIGS) thin-film photovoltaic solar panels, today announced the completion of a multiple year purchase agreement to supply CIGS modules to juwi Solar GmbH.
The agreement outlines 50 MW of shipments in 2011 and a total of 600 MW to be shipped over the period of the agreement. The framework agreement represents the next step in what has been a long term relationship between the two parties.
“juwi has an excellent history of developing and executing projects on a number of continents,” said Joe Laia, CEO of MiaSolé. “We are happy to align our corporate strategy with their history and experience.”
“The long-term nature and volumes outlined in the current supply agreement with MiaSolé enable juwi to continue its plan of rapid growth,” said Lars Falck. “In the prevailing unpredictable environment, MiaSolé is proving to be an outstanding partner. We are very fond of their product. Quality and professionalism will enable MiaSolé to quickly gain market share.”
The agreement outlines 50 MW of shipments in 2011 and a total of 600 MW to be shipped over the period of the agreement. The framework agreement represents the next step in what has been a long term relationship between the two parties.
“juwi has an excellent history of developing and executing projects on a number of continents,” said Joe Laia, CEO of MiaSolé. “We are happy to align our corporate strategy with their history and experience.”
“The long-term nature and volumes outlined in the current supply agreement with MiaSolé enable juwi to continue its plan of rapid growth,” said Lars Falck. “In the prevailing unpredictable environment, MiaSolé is proving to be an outstanding partner. We are very fond of their product. Quality and professionalism will enable MiaSolé to quickly gain market share.”
Construction Begins Today on EVSO’s Solar Demonstration Project at TSU
THE WOODLANDS, Texas--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Construction is set to begin this week on Evolution Solar’s (Pink Sheets: EVSO) photovoltaic demonstration project at Texas Southern University's campus in Houston.
Partnering with the university, Evolution Solar will install eight AmpleSun thin-film photovoltaic panels on the campus that are intended to serve as a cornerstone of the new Texas Southern University Green Technology Center. The project will be Evolution Solar’s first array featuring the AmpleSun panels in the U.S.
“This installation is not only a great opportunity for Evolution Solar to showcase AmpleSun’s leading-edge thin film panels, but a chance to introduce generations of students to solar technology, as well,” said Robert Hines, President of EVSO. “We’re tremendously excited to include students in the installation process and it’s our hope that this project will help jumpstart a solar initiative at TSU.”
Armstead Development Group Construction, LLC (ADG; adgconstruction.net) will serve as the general contractor in charge of construction. ADG will begin by relocating fencing surrounding TSU’s existing campus array of solar panels, as well as constructing several cement posts for the new array. TSU students will then assist in assembling the array’s rack-mount system and installing the eight solar panels.
Hines said EVSO anticipates that solar demonstrations such as the TSU project will help the company acquire new projects in a sector that is growing to compete in the energy industry, which contains American Electric Power Co., Inc. (NYSE: AEP), Constellation Energy Group, Inc. (NYSE: CEG), Progress Energy Inc. (NYSE: PGN) and BP (NYSE: BP).
Partnering with the university, Evolution Solar will install eight AmpleSun thin-film photovoltaic panels on the campus that are intended to serve as a cornerstone of the new Texas Southern University Green Technology Center. The project will be Evolution Solar’s first array featuring the AmpleSun panels in the U.S.
“This installation is not only a great opportunity for Evolution Solar to showcase AmpleSun’s leading-edge thin film panels, but a chance to introduce generations of students to solar technology, as well,” said Robert Hines, President of EVSO. “We’re tremendously excited to include students in the installation process and it’s our hope that this project will help jumpstart a solar initiative at TSU.”
Armstead Development Group Construction, LLC (ADG; adgconstruction.net) will serve as the general contractor in charge of construction. ADG will begin by relocating fencing surrounding TSU’s existing campus array of solar panels, as well as constructing several cement posts for the new array. TSU students will then assist in assembling the array’s rack-mount system and installing the eight solar panels.
Hines said EVSO anticipates that solar demonstrations such as the TSU project will help the company acquire new projects in a sector that is growing to compete in the energy industry, which contains American Electric Power Co., Inc. (NYSE: AEP), Constellation Energy Group, Inc. (NYSE: CEG), Progress Energy Inc. (NYSE: PGN) and BP (NYSE: BP).
Wednesday, August 25, 2010
NXP IC Enables Up to 98 Percent-Efficient Power Extraction in Solar PV Applications
EINDHOVEN, NETHERLANDS--(Marketwire - August 25, 2010) - NXP Semiconductors N.V. (NASDAQ: NXPI) today announced the availability of the MPT612 -- a unique low-power IC dedicated to performing the Maximum Power Point Tracking (MPPT) function for applications using solar photovoltaic (PV) cells or fuel cells. Supported by a patent-pending MPPT algorithm, the MPT612 IC can deliver up to 98-percent efficient power extraction in applications such as solar battery charge controllers, distributed MPPT and micro-inverters.
The MPT612 from NXP can also be easily configured for a variety of DC solar charge controller applications using MPPT, such as battery chargers for portable devices and home appliances; railway and traffic signals; and street, garden and driveway lighting. The MPT612 is also ideal for non-storage-based electric motors for water pumps and fans.
"Compared to traditional PWM controllers, MPPT controllers can extract up to 30-percent more power from a solar PV panel," said Jan Willem Vogel, senior director, industrial applications marketing, NXP Semiconductors. "Our expertise in High Performance Mixed Signal technologies has enabled us to develop a unique MPPT IC and algorithm that enables PV integrators to further improve efficiency across a wide range of solar cell and fuel cell applications, as validated through extensive testing over an extended period of time."
The highly flexible MPT612 solution from NXP is based on a low-power, 32-bit ARM7TDMI-S™ processor, which supports multiple serial interfaces including I2C, UART, SPI and SSP. The MPT612 features hardware functions needed in PV applications, including voltage and current measurement, as well as panel parameter configuration, and is able to send an output signal to control external switching. To further simplify development and maximize system efficiency, the MPT612 is available with object files including NXP's patent-pending MPPT algorithm, an application-specific software library, and easy-to-use application programming interfaces (APIs). The API for system configuration can set the topology for buck or buck-boost, enabling optimal battery charging even in tropical regions during the summer when PV MPP voltage can be lower than battery voltage. The MPT612 offers up to 15 KB of flash memory for application software, as well as three levels of flash Code Read Protection (CRP) to safeguard user-developed code.
The MPT612 is supported by development tools from Flashmagic, IAR, Keil and others. NXP will also offer an easy-to-use, comprehensive development tool kit.
The MPT612 from NXP can also be easily configured for a variety of DC solar charge controller applications using MPPT, such as battery chargers for portable devices and home appliances; railway and traffic signals; and street, garden and driveway lighting. The MPT612 is also ideal for non-storage-based electric motors for water pumps and fans.
"Compared to traditional PWM controllers, MPPT controllers can extract up to 30-percent more power from a solar PV panel," said Jan Willem Vogel, senior director, industrial applications marketing, NXP Semiconductors. "Our expertise in High Performance Mixed Signal technologies has enabled us to develop a unique MPPT IC and algorithm that enables PV integrators to further improve efficiency across a wide range of solar cell and fuel cell applications, as validated through extensive testing over an extended period of time."
The highly flexible MPT612 solution from NXP is based on a low-power, 32-bit ARM7TDMI-S™ processor, which supports multiple serial interfaces including I2C, UART, SPI and SSP. The MPT612 features hardware functions needed in PV applications, including voltage and current measurement, as well as panel parameter configuration, and is able to send an output signal to control external switching. To further simplify development and maximize system efficiency, the MPT612 is available with object files including NXP's patent-pending MPPT algorithm, an application-specific software library, and easy-to-use application programming interfaces (APIs). The API for system configuration can set the topology for buck or buck-boost, enabling optimal battery charging even in tropical regions during the summer when PV MPP voltage can be lower than battery voltage. The MPT612 offers up to 15 KB of flash memory for application software, as well as three levels of flash Code Read Protection (CRP) to safeguard user-developed code.
The MPT612 is supported by development tools from Flashmagic, IAR, Keil and others. NXP will also offer an easy-to-use, comprehensive development tool kit.
Grasshopper Solar Breaks Ground in Sudbury, ON
TORONTO, ONTARIO--(Marketwire - Aug. 25, 2010) - Grasshopper Solar, the first and largest Canadian Company to deliver turnkey solar power solutions for the OPA microFIT program, announces today that they have established new operations in Sudbury for Northern Ontario. "After evaluating multiple cities, Sudbury became the logical choice based on its central location, highly skilled work force, and its legacy and commitment to be more environmentally conscious" said Mike Gow, VP of Business Development at Grasshopper Solar. In addition, Grasshopper Solar will be breaking ground in Copper Cliff this week to install the first ground-mounted solar power system in the area. "Sudbury is going to play a big part in the future of solar installations where families and businesses have the excess land to deploy such systems".
Grasshopper Solar recognizes the strong market demand for Solar Power Systems to make Ontario a world leader in the renewable energy sector and is working with local business and land owners to educate and help them strategically integrate available technology and resources. Grasshopper Solar's Solar Power Systems boasts the highest ROI. Where other systems promote an average of 10% ROI, Grasshopper Solar provides 15% ROI. "This is the reason I chose Grasshopper Solar, they know what they are doing, and I know I can get the best rate of return in the industry. I am excited about this project and feel good about reducing our carbon footprint" said Jesse Peters, project owner.
Grasshopper Solar's strategic operation comes after its recent announcement where Grasshopper Solar created over 50 jobs across Ontario and now will look to add 10 additional team members from the Sudbury area immediately to accelerate their regional expansion. Grasshopper Solar continues to build its turnkey energy portfolio across all market sectors (residential, commercial, institutional, industrial and rural) in Ontario to help their clients take advantage of the OPA's FIT and microFIT program. More information on Grasshopper Solar can be found at www.grasshoppersolar.com.
Grasshopper Solar recognizes the strong market demand for Solar Power Systems to make Ontario a world leader in the renewable energy sector and is working with local business and land owners to educate and help them strategically integrate available technology and resources. Grasshopper Solar's Solar Power Systems boasts the highest ROI. Where other systems promote an average of 10% ROI, Grasshopper Solar provides 15% ROI. "This is the reason I chose Grasshopper Solar, they know what they are doing, and I know I can get the best rate of return in the industry. I am excited about this project and feel good about reducing our carbon footprint" said Jesse Peters, project owner.
Grasshopper Solar's strategic operation comes after its recent announcement where Grasshopper Solar created over 50 jobs across Ontario and now will look to add 10 additional team members from the Sudbury area immediately to accelerate their regional expansion. Grasshopper Solar continues to build its turnkey energy portfolio across all market sectors (residential, commercial, institutional, industrial and rural) in Ontario to help their clients take advantage of the OPA's FIT and microFIT program. More information on Grasshopper Solar can be found at www.grasshoppersolar.com.
Sustainable Energy Announces Megawatt Purchase Order for SUNERGY II
TORONTO, ONTARIO--(Marketwire - Aug. 25, 2010) - Sustainable Energy Technologies Ltd (TSX VENTURE:STG) ("Sustainable Energy" or the "Company") a manufacturer of next generation solar inverters announced today that it will deliver 190 SUNERGY II inverters for a one MW (dc) power project to Changetec GmbH under a previously announced supply contract and collaboration with Changetec GmbH (News Release: March 15, 2010).
Deliveries are scheduled for October 2010.
"We continue to see strong demand for the SUNERGY II inverter in Europe and in Canada," stated Michael Carten, Chief Executive Officer of Sustainable Energy. "We are now gaining better visibility on critical component supplies and are increasingly optimistic about our ability to increase production.
Based in Freiberg, Germany, Changetec GmbH (www.changetec.de) is a part of the SolarConsult AG (www.solarconsult.de) group of companies and is the leading German solution provider of low voltage systems with more than 2,400 systems installed across Germany and a diversified sales network throughout Europe.
Deliveries are scheduled for October 2010.
"We continue to see strong demand for the SUNERGY II inverter in Europe and in Canada," stated Michael Carten, Chief Executive Officer of Sustainable Energy. "We are now gaining better visibility on critical component supplies and are increasingly optimistic about our ability to increase production.
Based in Freiberg, Germany, Changetec GmbH (www.changetec.de) is a part of the SolarConsult AG (www.solarconsult.de) group of companies and is the leading German solution provider of low voltage systems with more than 2,400 systems installed across Germany and a diversified sales network throughout Europe.
MP2 Capital Completes Initial Phase of 1.8 MW Solar PV Project to Power 16 Denver Public Schools
DENVER, CO--(Marketwire - August 25, 2010) - MP2 Capital, a leading developer, financier, and operator of solar projects throughout North America, announced today the completion of phase one of a 1.8 MW solar photovoltaic (PV) project to power the Denver Public School District. The rooftop solar arrays for the first five of 16 schools have been completed and the remaining projects are expected to be constructed by the end of the year. MP2 Capital has partnered with local players Namasté Solar, a Colorado-based designer and installer, and Oak Leaf Energy Partners, a Denver-based developer, to help complete the projects.
"MP2 Capital is pleased to partner with the Denver Public Schools in this endeavor to reduce the school system's overall carbon footprint and provide an important educational tool to their students. Students will benefit from witnessing first-hand the positive effects of renewable energy on their schools," said Mark Lerdal, chief executive officer of MP2 Capital.
The solar arrays will help the Denver Public Schools (DPS) to offset environmental and monetary costs of energy for 16 schools, generating approximately 2,521,890 kilowatt hours of clean electricity for the first year of operation and approximately 45 million kilowatt hours over the life of the project. The energy produced by the array is equivalent to planting 198,647 trees or the reduction of driving 5,649,375 miles per year.
"We are excited to be on the forefront of providing clean, renewable energy projects, predictable energy rates and energy education through real solar projects installed on school roofs. Our educators are provided a major opportunity to expand on the existing science curriculum by providing students real examples of solar renewable energy projects right here in Denver," said Jim Faes, Director of Sustainability for Denver Public Schools. The district estimates that it will save approximately $1.1 million during the lifetime of the systems.
In addition to the construction of the solar arrays, Namasté Solar has also created an educational program for DPS teachers on the science and economics of solar power production, using the solar projects as a real-world example. Each of the 16 schools will have its own monitoring system so students and teacher can track the energy production from the solar arrays.
As part of the innovative public-private financing structure, MP2 Capital assumed the project's financial and operational risks while DPS was able to secure renewable energy at an attractive long-term rate while providing renewable energy credits to Xcel Energy. Through a power purchase agreement, Denver Public Schools will procure the electricity generated from the system from MP2 Capital for a period of 20 years. The projects at Denver Public Schools will be funded in part by grants made available under Section 1603 of the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009. Signed by President Obama in February 2009, the Act provides grants which reimburse the renewable energy system owner for a portion of the expense of the installation within 60 days of the project being placed in service.
"MP2 Capital is pleased to partner with the Denver Public Schools in this endeavor to reduce the school system's overall carbon footprint and provide an important educational tool to their students. Students will benefit from witnessing first-hand the positive effects of renewable energy on their schools," said Mark Lerdal, chief executive officer of MP2 Capital.
The solar arrays will help the Denver Public Schools (DPS) to offset environmental and monetary costs of energy for 16 schools, generating approximately 2,521,890 kilowatt hours of clean electricity for the first year of operation and approximately 45 million kilowatt hours over the life of the project. The energy produced by the array is equivalent to planting 198,647 trees or the reduction of driving 5,649,375 miles per year.
"We are excited to be on the forefront of providing clean, renewable energy projects, predictable energy rates and energy education through real solar projects installed on school roofs. Our educators are provided a major opportunity to expand on the existing science curriculum by providing students real examples of solar renewable energy projects right here in Denver," said Jim Faes, Director of Sustainability for Denver Public Schools. The district estimates that it will save approximately $1.1 million during the lifetime of the systems.
In addition to the construction of the solar arrays, Namasté Solar has also created an educational program for DPS teachers on the science and economics of solar power production, using the solar projects as a real-world example. Each of the 16 schools will have its own monitoring system so students and teacher can track the energy production from the solar arrays.
As part of the innovative public-private financing structure, MP2 Capital assumed the project's financial and operational risks while DPS was able to secure renewable energy at an attractive long-term rate while providing renewable energy credits to Xcel Energy. Through a power purchase agreement, Denver Public Schools will procure the electricity generated from the system from MP2 Capital for a period of 20 years. The projects at Denver Public Schools will be funded in part by grants made available under Section 1603 of the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009. Signed by President Obama in February 2009, the Act provides grants which reimburse the renewable energy system owner for a portion of the expense of the installation within 60 days of the project being placed in service.
LDK Solar to Hold Annual General Meeting on October 18, 2010
XINYU CITY, China and SUNNYVALE, Calif., Aug. 25 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- LDK Solar Co., Ltd. (NYSE: LDK), a leading manufacturer of multicrystalline solar wafers and PV products, announced today that it will hold its annual general meeting of shareholders at 10:00 a.m. Hong Kong time on October 18, 2010 at its Hong Kong office located at Unit 15, 35th Floor, West Tower, Shun Tak Centre, 200 Connaught Road Central, Hong Kong.
Only holders of record of LDK Solar's ordinary shares at the close of business on Monday, September 20, 2010, New York time, are entitled to notice of, and to vote at, the annual general meeting to be held on Monday, October 18, 2010, or any adjournment or postponement thereof.
LDK Solar's 2009 Annual Report, including the notice of annual general meeting and the proposed resolutions to be considered and, if thought fit, adopted at the annual general meeting, is available on LDK Solar's website at http://investor.ldksolar.com. LDK Solar also submitted a report on Form 6-K to the SEC that contains such annual report and notice of annual general meeting, which is available on the SEC's website at http://www.sec.gov.
If you are a holder of ordinary shares of LDK Solar and require a hard copy of LDK Solar's 2009 Annual Report and notice of annual general meeting, LDK Solar will mail a copy to you free of charge. Please send your request by mail, email or telephone to either of the following:
LDK Solar Co., Ltd.
Unit 15, 35th Floor, West Tower
Shun Tak Centre
200 Connaught Road Central
Hong Kong
Attn: CFO and Secretary
Email: ir@ldksolar.com
Tel: (852) 2291-6059
LDK Solar USA, Inc.
1290 Oakmead Parkway
Suite 306
Sunnyvale, CA 94085
Attn: CFO and Secretary
Email: judy@ldksolar.com
Tel: (408) 245-0858
Because the annual general meeting will be held on October 18, 2010 in Hong Kong, LDK Solar recommends that you submit such request for hard copies by September 20, 2010 to ensure timely delivery and to allow yourself sufficient time to review the 2009 Annual Report and proposed resolutions for the annual general meeting.
NOTICE TO HOLDERS OF AMERICAN DEPOSITARY SHARES. If you are a holder of LDK Solar's American depositary shares, or ADSs, the depositary, JPMorgan Chase Bank, N.A., will set a record date to establish the holders of ADSs entitled to provide it with voting instructions with respect to the annual general meeting. If you are a registered holder of ADSs on such record date, the depositary will forward to you information regarding such meeting and ask you to provide it with your voting instructions with respect to the shares represented by your ADSs. Holders of LDK Solar's ADSs who wish to exercise their voting rights for the underlying shares must act through the depository. For your voting instructions to be valid, you must comply with the instructions provided by or on behalf of the depositary, and the depositary must receive your voting instructions in the manner and on or before the date specified. The depositary will try, as far as practical, subject to the provisions of or governing the underlying shares, to vote or to have its agents vote the shares as you instruct. The depositary will only vote or attempt to vote as you instruct. The depositary will not itself exercise any voting discretion. Furthermore, neither the depositary nor its agents are responsible for any failure to carry out any voting instructions, for the manner in which any vote is cast or for the effect of any vote.
Only holders of record of LDK Solar's ordinary shares at the close of business on Monday, September 20, 2010, New York time, are entitled to notice of, and to vote at, the annual general meeting to be held on Monday, October 18, 2010, or any adjournment or postponement thereof.
LDK Solar's 2009 Annual Report, including the notice of annual general meeting and the proposed resolutions to be considered and, if thought fit, adopted at the annual general meeting, is available on LDK Solar's website at http://investor.ldksolar.com. LDK Solar also submitted a report on Form 6-K to the SEC that contains such annual report and notice of annual general meeting, which is available on the SEC's website at http://www.sec.gov.
If you are a holder of ordinary shares of LDK Solar and require a hard copy of LDK Solar's 2009 Annual Report and notice of annual general meeting, LDK Solar will mail a copy to you free of charge. Please send your request by mail, email or telephone to either of the following:
LDK Solar Co., Ltd.
Unit 15, 35th Floor, West Tower
Shun Tak Centre
200 Connaught Road Central
Hong Kong
Attn: CFO and Secretary
Email: ir@ldksolar.com
Tel: (852) 2291-6059
LDK Solar USA, Inc.
1290 Oakmead Parkway
Suite 306
Sunnyvale, CA 94085
Attn: CFO and Secretary
Email: judy@ldksolar.com
Tel: (408) 245-0858
Because the annual general meeting will be held on October 18, 2010 in Hong Kong, LDK Solar recommends that you submit such request for hard copies by September 20, 2010 to ensure timely delivery and to allow yourself sufficient time to review the 2009 Annual Report and proposed resolutions for the annual general meeting.
NOTICE TO HOLDERS OF AMERICAN DEPOSITARY SHARES. If you are a holder of LDK Solar's American depositary shares, or ADSs, the depositary, JPMorgan Chase Bank, N.A., will set a record date to establish the holders of ADSs entitled to provide it with voting instructions with respect to the annual general meeting. If you are a registered holder of ADSs on such record date, the depositary will forward to you information regarding such meeting and ask you to provide it with your voting instructions with respect to the shares represented by your ADSs. Holders of LDK Solar's ADSs who wish to exercise their voting rights for the underlying shares must act through the depository. For your voting instructions to be valid, you must comply with the instructions provided by or on behalf of the depositary, and the depositary must receive your voting instructions in the manner and on or before the date specified. The depositary will try, as far as practical, subject to the provisions of or governing the underlying shares, to vote or to have its agents vote the shares as you instruct. The depositary will only vote or attempt to vote as you instruct. The depositary will not itself exercise any voting discretion. Furthermore, neither the depositary nor its agents are responsible for any failure to carry out any voting instructions, for the manner in which any vote is cast or for the effect of any vote.
Veeco Authorizes Share Repurchases
PLAINVIEW, N.Y.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Veeco Instruments Inc. (Nasdaq: VECO) announced today that its Board of Directors has authorized the repurchase of up to $200 million of the Company’s common stock over the next year.
“This authorization reflects our continued confidence in and positive outlook for our business,” said John R. Peeler, Veeco’s Chief Executive Officer. “Our strong cash position and cash flow from operations will allow us to execute share repurchases while retaining the flexibility to continue to invest in other opportunities to grow our business. Our Board of Directors strongly believes that Veeco’s stock currently presents an attractive investment for the Company and its stockholders.”
Repurchases are expected to be made from time to time on the open market or in privately negotiated transactions in accordance with applicable federal securities laws. The timing of repurchases and the exact number of shares of common stock to be purchased will depend upon market conditions, SEC regulations, and other factors. The repurchases will be funded using the Company’s available cash balances and cash generated from operations. The program does not obligate the Company to acquire any particular amount of common stock and may be modified or suspended at any time at the Company’s discretion.
“This authorization reflects our continued confidence in and positive outlook for our business,” said John R. Peeler, Veeco’s Chief Executive Officer. “Our strong cash position and cash flow from operations will allow us to execute share repurchases while retaining the flexibility to continue to invest in other opportunities to grow our business. Our Board of Directors strongly believes that Veeco’s stock currently presents an attractive investment for the Company and its stockholders.”
Repurchases are expected to be made from time to time on the open market or in privately negotiated transactions in accordance with applicable federal securities laws. The timing of repurchases and the exact number of shares of common stock to be purchased will depend upon market conditions, SEC regulations, and other factors. The repurchases will be funded using the Company’s available cash balances and cash generated from operations. The program does not obligate the Company to acquire any particular amount of common stock and may be modified or suspended at any time at the Company’s discretion.
Solar By Weller Helping Customers Get Energy Rebates and Save Thousands with Solar Panel Installation
BOYERTOWN, Pa.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Solar By Weller – solar panel installer in Southeastern, PA – continues to help customers capitalize on the available rebates through the Pennsylvania Sunshine Solar Program, providing $100 million in rebates to help fund solar electric (solar photovoltaic) and solar hot water (solar thermal) projects for homeowners and small businesses in Pennsylvania.
According to the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection which oversees the program, rebates are being awarded on a first-come, first-served basis to approved applicants while funds remain. Households may receive one solar photovoltaic (PV) rebate for up to 10 kilowatts (kW) of installed PV generating capacity plus one solar thermal rebate not to exceed $2,000. A small business may submit one PV and one solar thermal application at a time and must complete the project and rebate process prior to submitting another application.
Solar By Weller processes all documents necessary for each customer to receive their rebates in addition to processing interconnection applications and Township applications so that the customer does not have to.
Solar By Weller recently completed a solar install for a customer consisting of a 24-panel, 5.04 kilowatt-hour (kWh) ground-mount solar photovoltaic system. This system is estimated to produce 6168 kWh of electricity annually and provide the customer with approximately 50% of their electrical needs. In addition, Solar By Weller installed a solar attic fan to reduce heat buildup in the attic, thereby reducing air-conditioning requirements inside of the home.
A customer for whom Solar By Weller installed a solar pool heating system in 2009, contacted the company to have a solar photovoltaic system installed this year.
Solar By Weller is part of the largest and fastest-growing solar dealer network in the United States and Bermuda enabling them to have purchasing power resulting in their ability to pass on lower costs to the consumer for the high-quality products they install. Solar By Weller is a certified dealer for Solar Energy Initiatives, UMA and multiple solar manufacturers, and is a licensed and approved PA Sunshine Rebate and Keystone HELP contractor.
For more information on Solar By Weller, visit the all-new www.solarbyweller.com or call 610.845.0412.
According to the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection which oversees the program, rebates are being awarded on a first-come, first-served basis to approved applicants while funds remain. Households may receive one solar photovoltaic (PV) rebate for up to 10 kilowatts (kW) of installed PV generating capacity plus one solar thermal rebate not to exceed $2,000. A small business may submit one PV and one solar thermal application at a time and must complete the project and rebate process prior to submitting another application.
Solar By Weller processes all documents necessary for each customer to receive their rebates in addition to processing interconnection applications and Township applications so that the customer does not have to.
Solar By Weller recently completed a solar install for a customer consisting of a 24-panel, 5.04 kilowatt-hour (kWh) ground-mount solar photovoltaic system. This system is estimated to produce 6168 kWh of electricity annually and provide the customer with approximately 50% of their electrical needs. In addition, Solar By Weller installed a solar attic fan to reduce heat buildup in the attic, thereby reducing air-conditioning requirements inside of the home.
A customer for whom Solar By Weller installed a solar pool heating system in 2009, contacted the company to have a solar photovoltaic system installed this year.
Solar By Weller is part of the largest and fastest-growing solar dealer network in the United States and Bermuda enabling them to have purchasing power resulting in their ability to pass on lower costs to the consumer for the high-quality products they install. Solar By Weller is a certified dealer for Solar Energy Initiatives, UMA and multiple solar manufacturers, and is a licensed and approved PA Sunshine Rebate and Keystone HELP contractor.
For more information on Solar By Weller, visit the all-new www.solarbyweller.com or call 610.845.0412.
K&Company and Matinee Energy Sign a Pre-Master Agreement to Build Alternative Energy Plant
SOUTHERN HIGHLANDS, Nev.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Matinee Energy, Inc. announced signing a Pre-Master Agreement with K&Company Co., Ltd. (K&C) of Korea to construct a 40MW solar energy plant in California for up to $200 million dollars. These projects are part of Matinee Energy’s initial phase of solar projects and K&C will participate in subsequent phases for expanded capacities of energy plants.
K&C is a prominent KOSDAQ company that will join with a group of partners, namely, LS Industrial Systems Co., Ltd. of Korea, CHINT Group Corporation of China and Ilyang Engineering & Construction Co., Ltd. of Korea. Parties agreed that different specialty components will be supplied by different companies and the strategic alliance among constituents will help collaboration on cross-country and cross-company delivery of EPC components and equipment toward maximizing supply chain efficiency and construction of the energy plants on time and budget.
The Parties intend to sign a definitive agreement on September 3rd and implement terms of prior Agreements.
Chin Kim, vice chairman of Matinee Energy, said, "K&C brings the expertise and experience of small to medium business to the table and its alliances with LSI, and CHINT, will help expedite the delivery of promising new technologies and products fit for the energy markets. Certainly, K&C’s alliance will help access leading technology skill sets and competitiveness. The alliance will build resource strength and business capabilities to compete successfully in the green energy marketplace and next-generation products of the future."
Technology solutions will be shared and localized for efficient integration among the constituents. It is the intention of the parties to establish an engineering and product development center to pursue rapid expansion of the product lines and features palatable and localized to wider range of customer bases.
Michael Pannos, chairman of Matinee Energy, said, "With this K&C alliance all of us will benefit from direct knowledge and cultures by virtue of the partnership with Matinee Energy. We can benefit from valuable skills and energy competencies that are concentrated in the Far East. We also see substantial local job creation and benefit here."
About Matinee Energy, Inc.
Matinee is positioning itself in the marketplace to implement and deliver infrastructure-based services through local utilities and facility-based services in transport, energy, and utilities. Matinee’s plans are to develop utility scale alternative energy projects that will make a material contribution to the alternative energy sector, and harnesses diverse participants from the U.S. and around the world to better the alternative energy markets.
About K&Company Co., Ltd.
K&C has applied entrepreneurship to its development of vertical integration that is integral to solar energy business. Its mining business helped deliver the raw materials that are essential to production of energy chips for more efficient collection of solar energy. In addition, its successful delivery to the competitive market of solar tracking systems has enriched K&C's commitment to solar energy industry. Experience in design, engineering, and installation of energy plants in Asia and elsewhere has prepared K&C for the energy industry. The Company has expanded in China and Eastern Bloc countries where it has accumulated experience and valuable know-how on installation and operation of energy plants. K&C expanded its study of the natural environment by seeking to encourage environmentally responsible economic activity. K&C has financed numerous land developments.
About CHINT Group Corporation
CHINT is the first in Asia and the third in the world to manufacture and supply low voltage electric apparatus. CHINT is the largest manufacturer and supplier of power transmission, distribution and control equipment in China as well as measuring and monitoring equipment. CHINT manufactures and markets solar cells, modules, and system integration, and is a global provider of solar PV solutions and the next-generation thin film technologies. CHINT has participated in the Three Gorges Dam and the Shenzhou spacecraft projects.
About LS Industrial Systems Co., Ltd. (LSIS)
LSIS provides, designs, manufactures, and markets products in four fields: (i) electric vehicle components, (ii) green electric power IT, (iii) new and renewable energy, and (iv) eco-friendly equipment, toward realization of "Low Carbon, Green Growth." LSIS delivers power control unit, electric-vehicle relays that turn the power on and off between batteries and inverters, and on-board chargers that come with plug-in hybrid cars. LSIS has maintained sustainable technology leadership for EV-Relays and explores strategic alliances with automobile makers globally. LSIS has supported public-private green electric power projects and delivered successfully the smart grid, a next-generation electric grid, which optimizes electrical efficiency by combining the existing electric grid with IT. Since 1986 LSIS has delivered solar power solutions, inclusive of monitoring systems.
K&C is a prominent KOSDAQ company that will join with a group of partners, namely, LS Industrial Systems Co., Ltd. of Korea, CHINT Group Corporation of China and Ilyang Engineering & Construction Co., Ltd. of Korea. Parties agreed that different specialty components will be supplied by different companies and the strategic alliance among constituents will help collaboration on cross-country and cross-company delivery of EPC components and equipment toward maximizing supply chain efficiency and construction of the energy plants on time and budget.
The Parties intend to sign a definitive agreement on September 3rd and implement terms of prior Agreements.
Chin Kim, vice chairman of Matinee Energy, said, "K&C brings the expertise and experience of small to medium business to the table and its alliances with LSI, and CHINT, will help expedite the delivery of promising new technologies and products fit for the energy markets. Certainly, K&C’s alliance will help access leading technology skill sets and competitiveness. The alliance will build resource strength and business capabilities to compete successfully in the green energy marketplace and next-generation products of the future."
Technology solutions will be shared and localized for efficient integration among the constituents. It is the intention of the parties to establish an engineering and product development center to pursue rapid expansion of the product lines and features palatable and localized to wider range of customer bases.
Michael Pannos, chairman of Matinee Energy, said, "With this K&C alliance all of us will benefit from direct knowledge and cultures by virtue of the partnership with Matinee Energy. We can benefit from valuable skills and energy competencies that are concentrated in the Far East. We also see substantial local job creation and benefit here."
About Matinee Energy, Inc.
Matinee is positioning itself in the marketplace to implement and deliver infrastructure-based services through local utilities and facility-based services in transport, energy, and utilities. Matinee’s plans are to develop utility scale alternative energy projects that will make a material contribution to the alternative energy sector, and harnesses diverse participants from the U.S. and around the world to better the alternative energy markets.
About K&Company Co., Ltd.
K&C has applied entrepreneurship to its development of vertical integration that is integral to solar energy business. Its mining business helped deliver the raw materials that are essential to production of energy chips for more efficient collection of solar energy. In addition, its successful delivery to the competitive market of solar tracking systems has enriched K&C's commitment to solar energy industry. Experience in design, engineering, and installation of energy plants in Asia and elsewhere has prepared K&C for the energy industry. The Company has expanded in China and Eastern Bloc countries where it has accumulated experience and valuable know-how on installation and operation of energy plants. K&C expanded its study of the natural environment by seeking to encourage environmentally responsible economic activity. K&C has financed numerous land developments.
About CHINT Group Corporation
CHINT is the first in Asia and the third in the world to manufacture and supply low voltage electric apparatus. CHINT is the largest manufacturer and supplier of power transmission, distribution and control equipment in China as well as measuring and monitoring equipment. CHINT manufactures and markets solar cells, modules, and system integration, and is a global provider of solar PV solutions and the next-generation thin film technologies. CHINT has participated in the Three Gorges Dam and the Shenzhou spacecraft projects.
About LS Industrial Systems Co., Ltd. (LSIS)
LSIS provides, designs, manufactures, and markets products in four fields: (i) electric vehicle components, (ii) green electric power IT, (iii) new and renewable energy, and (iv) eco-friendly equipment, toward realization of "Low Carbon, Green Growth." LSIS delivers power control unit, electric-vehicle relays that turn the power on and off between batteries and inverters, and on-board chargers that come with plug-in hybrid cars. LSIS has maintained sustainable technology leadership for EV-Relays and explores strategic alliances with automobile makers globally. LSIS has supported public-private green electric power projects and delivered successfully the smart grid, a next-generation electric grid, which optimizes electrical efficiency by combining the existing electric grid with IT. Since 1986 LSIS has delivered solar power solutions, inclusive of monitoring systems.
$1.1 Million Cypress and SunPower Donation Provides 322-Kilowatt Solar Power System at Second Harvest Food Bank
SAN JOSE, Calif.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Cypress Semiconductor Corp. (NASDAQ:CY) and SunPower Corporation (NASDAQ: SPWRA, SPWRB) today announced a joint donation to the Second Harvest Food Bank of Santa Clara and San Mateo Counties valued at $1.1 million for the purchase of a SunPower rooftop solar system. The 322-kilowatt (kW) system will be installed at the non-profit organization’s headquarters, located on Curtner Ave. in San Jose, Calif. It is expected to save the food bank nearly $3 million over the 25-year life of the system—translating into approximately six million meals for the local community.
“We are distributing more than 20 percent more food than last year at this time,” said Second Harvest Food Bank CEO Kathy Jackson, whose organization serves an average of 231,000 individuals each month in Santa Clara and San Mateo Counties. “The rooftop solar system so generously donated by Cypress and SunPower will help us to continue meeting the needs of our community, even if this trend should continue.”
“Second Harvest Food Bank is one of the most efficient non-profit organizations in the country, giving $0.95 out of every dollar it receives back to the community,” said T.J. Rodgers, president and CEO of Cypress. “Cypress is pleased to help reduce the organization’s operating expenses so that it can focus on what it does best—feeding the community.”
“SunPower is pleased to support the Second Harvest Food Bank with its efforts to help end hunger in our community,” said Tom Werner, CEO of SunPower Corp. “We hope this unique solar gift will shine a light on hunger, and encourage other businesses to support this worthy cause.”
The 322-kW system on the 1.4 acre roof at Second Harvest Food Bank is comprised of the SunPower T10 Solar Roof Tile and the SunPower T5 Solar Roof Tile. Both solar roof tile products use SunPower’s high-efficiency solar panels that are tilted at 10-degrees and 5-degrees respectively to increase energy capture. The T5 Solar Roof Tile integrates a solar panel, frame and roof mounting system into a single unit, reducing installation time and costs. The system will generate enough electricity to meet more than half of the organization’s electrical needs. System installation is expected to be completed in September.
Money earmarked for this project includes more than $700,000 that was raised by Cypress and its employees through fundraisers and corporate giving initiatives during the holiday food drive this past Fall. Since 1989, Cypress has donated nearly $5 million in cash and more than one half-million pounds of food to Second Harvest Food Bank, driving 19 consecutive victories for Cypress in the Food Bank’s Corporate Food Bowl Challenge.
“We are distributing more than 20 percent more food than last year at this time,” said Second Harvest Food Bank CEO Kathy Jackson, whose organization serves an average of 231,000 individuals each month in Santa Clara and San Mateo Counties. “The rooftop solar system so generously donated by Cypress and SunPower will help us to continue meeting the needs of our community, even if this trend should continue.”
“Second Harvest Food Bank is one of the most efficient non-profit organizations in the country, giving $0.95 out of every dollar it receives back to the community,” said T.J. Rodgers, president and CEO of Cypress. “Cypress is pleased to help reduce the organization’s operating expenses so that it can focus on what it does best—feeding the community.”
“SunPower is pleased to support the Second Harvest Food Bank with its efforts to help end hunger in our community,” said Tom Werner, CEO of SunPower Corp. “We hope this unique solar gift will shine a light on hunger, and encourage other businesses to support this worthy cause.”
The 322-kW system on the 1.4 acre roof at Second Harvest Food Bank is comprised of the SunPower T10 Solar Roof Tile and the SunPower T5 Solar Roof Tile. Both solar roof tile products use SunPower’s high-efficiency solar panels that are tilted at 10-degrees and 5-degrees respectively to increase energy capture. The T5 Solar Roof Tile integrates a solar panel, frame and roof mounting system into a single unit, reducing installation time and costs. The system will generate enough electricity to meet more than half of the organization’s electrical needs. System installation is expected to be completed in September.
Money earmarked for this project includes more than $700,000 that was raised by Cypress and its employees through fundraisers and corporate giving initiatives during the holiday food drive this past Fall. Since 1989, Cypress has donated nearly $5 million in cash and more than one half-million pounds of food to Second Harvest Food Bank, driving 19 consecutive victories for Cypress in the Food Bank’s Corporate Food Bowl Challenge.
New Energy Researchers Target Lower Costs & Higher Output for SolarWindow Capable of Generating Electricity on See-Thru Glass
BURTONSVILLE, Md.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--New Energy Technologies, Inc. (OTCBB:NENE) announced today that researchers developing the Company’s first-of-its-kind SolarWindow™, capable of generating electricity on see-thru glass, are targeting new methods of applying its electricity-generating coatings in order to cut future production costs. Researchers are also working to bolster the electrical power output of SolarWindow™, generated from both natural sunlight and artificial sources such as fluorescent lighting typically installed inside commercial offices and incandescent bulbs inside residential homes.
“With more than 80 million detached homes and 5 million commercial buildings in America, we’ve worked hard to surpass several important technical milestones in the development of our SolarWindow™ technology for eventual commercial deployment to these markets,” explained Mr. John A. Conklin, President and CEO of New Energy Technologies, Inc. “Our researchers are now focusing on increasing power output, lowering future production costs, and scaling up our working prototype which we expect to unveil in the weeks ahead.”
New Energy’s working prototype serves as a model for future advancements to various surface coating techniques and methodologies for applying SolarWindow™ coatings to see-thru glass. Once achieved, researchers surmise such advances could provide significant opportunities to increase the conversion efficiency necessary for high power production and improve the absorbance of natural and artificial light. Unlike conventional solar technologies, New Energy’s SolarWindow™ generates electricity from both natural and artificial light sources, outperforming today’s commercial solar and thin-film technologies by as much as 10-fold under low intensity irradiance.
Among specific initiatives underway, researchers are working to improve the absorbance of light and achieve wider absorption range of solar light. Light wavelength and light intensity are directly related to electrical current and voltage, respectively. Importantly, higher current and voltage provides higher electrical power.
Electrical power is generated on see-thru glass when New Energy’s SolarWindow™ coatings are sprayed onto surfaces using commercially available technologies. This patent-pending process enables researchers to spray SolarWindow™ coatings onto glass at room temperature, eliminating expensive and often cumbersome high-temperature or high-vacuum production methods commonly used by current solar manufacturers.
“With more than 80 million detached homes and 5 million commercial buildings in America, we’ve worked hard to surpass several important technical milestones in the development of our SolarWindow™ technology for eventual commercial deployment to these markets,” explained Mr. John A. Conklin, President and CEO of New Energy Technologies, Inc. “Our researchers are now focusing on increasing power output, lowering future production costs, and scaling up our working prototype which we expect to unveil in the weeks ahead.”
New Energy’s working prototype serves as a model for future advancements to various surface coating techniques and methodologies for applying SolarWindow™ coatings to see-thru glass. Once achieved, researchers surmise such advances could provide significant opportunities to increase the conversion efficiency necessary for high power production and improve the absorbance of natural and artificial light. Unlike conventional solar technologies, New Energy’s SolarWindow™ generates electricity from both natural and artificial light sources, outperforming today’s commercial solar and thin-film technologies by as much as 10-fold under low intensity irradiance.
Among specific initiatives underway, researchers are working to improve the absorbance of light and achieve wider absorption range of solar light. Light wavelength and light intensity are directly related to electrical current and voltage, respectively. Importantly, higher current and voltage provides higher electrical power.
Electrical power is generated on see-thru glass when New Energy’s SolarWindow™ coatings are sprayed onto surfaces using commercially available technologies. This patent-pending process enables researchers to spray SolarWindow™ coatings onto glass at room temperature, eliminating expensive and often cumbersome high-temperature or high-vacuum production methods commonly used by current solar manufacturers.
Tuesday, August 24, 2010
W2 Energy and the Arizona Research Institute for Solar Energy Collaborate on the Development and Testing of Cutting Edge Renewable Energy Products
TORONTO--(Marketwire - August 24, 2010) - W2 Energy, Inc. (PINKSHEETS: WTWO) is pleased to announce that it has become a research affiliate of the Arizona Research Institute for Solar Energy (AzRISE).
AzRISE (www.azrise.org) is a global institute at the University of Arizona in Tucson whose mission is to transform science into large and small-scale solar energy solutions that are demonstrable and can transform individual lives.
W2 Energy will be shipping one of the Solar Bug solar-electric vehicles to AzRISE. AzRISE will test the Solar Bug and provide 3rd party certification of its operation and efficiency.
In addition to testing the Solar Bug, AzRISE, in collaboration with musicians and composers at the University of Arizona, will be performing musical pieces that promote solar energy. Several of the musicians will drive the Solar Bug to schools and community centers and will perform their music using power from the Solar Bug's on-board batteries. The musicians will plug in their instruments, amplifiers and microphones into the Solar Bug's 110 volt outlet.
"What a great real world example of the beauty and efficacy of solar power," says Joe Simmons, the Director of AzRISE. "We will play our songs about solar energy using solar energy."
W2 Energy, in collaboration with AzRISE, will be developing new solar energy technologies using concentrating solar power to generate steam and then using that solar-generated steam to drive W2 Energy's SteamRay Steam Engine.
"We are thrilled to be partnering with AzRISE on a variety of renewable energy projects," says Michael McLaren, CEO of W2 Energy. "They have an abundance of sun there in Tucson and we are going to convert it into energy in lots of interesting ways."
AzRISE (www.azrise.org) is a global institute at the University of Arizona in Tucson whose mission is to transform science into large and small-scale solar energy solutions that are demonstrable and can transform individual lives.
W2 Energy will be shipping one of the Solar Bug solar-electric vehicles to AzRISE. AzRISE will test the Solar Bug and provide 3rd party certification of its operation and efficiency.
In addition to testing the Solar Bug, AzRISE, in collaboration with musicians and composers at the University of Arizona, will be performing musical pieces that promote solar energy. Several of the musicians will drive the Solar Bug to schools and community centers and will perform their music using power from the Solar Bug's on-board batteries. The musicians will plug in their instruments, amplifiers and microphones into the Solar Bug's 110 volt outlet.
"What a great real world example of the beauty and efficacy of solar power," says Joe Simmons, the Director of AzRISE. "We will play our songs about solar energy using solar energy."
W2 Energy, in collaboration with AzRISE, will be developing new solar energy technologies using concentrating solar power to generate steam and then using that solar-generated steam to drive W2 Energy's SteamRay Steam Engine.
"We are thrilled to be partnering with AzRISE on a variety of renewable energy projects," says Michael McLaren, CEO of W2 Energy. "They have an abundance of sun there in Tucson and we are going to convert it into energy in lots of interesting ways."
Solar Energy Initiatives to Open Second Training School in South Carolina
PONTE VEDRA BEACH, FL--(Marketwire - August 24, 2010) - Solar Energy Initiatives, Inc. (OTCBB: SNRY), with businesses in solar project development, distribution and workforce training, today announced that the company's SNRY Solar Inc. division has been approved to open its solar technical training school in South Carolina.
The Solar Installation School, developed and facilitated by Solar EOS -- a wholly owned subsidiary of Solar Energy Initiatives, Inc. -- will be added to the South Carolina Workforce Investment's Eligible Training Provider list and the School will be a new training option to which area Career One-Stop locations will begin referring eligible training applications. The Solar Installer School was designed to train prospective solar installers both in classroom theory and design as well as extensive hands-on experiential learning.
To ensure students enter the workforce with the greatest competitive advantage, Solar EOS takes a comprehensive approach to solar which includes green building strategies, sustainability, and technical knowledge of energy efficiencies utilizing the LEED Green Building Rating System as its core curriculum. The 8-week course provides 200 hours of actual classroom and field education, with over 30 hours of hands-on training utilizing the most current solar thermal and photovoltaic equipment taught by a team of experts in the field of solar and energy efficiency.
"Through our partnership with Waccamaw's Workforce Division, we expect to train nearly 200 students over the course of the next year to become top-quality solar installers and energy efficiency champions. Our students have the advantage of eight weeks of intense learning on both theory and application of solar strategies which allows them to be an effective member of an organization on Day One of employment," says Ellen Leroy-Reed, President of Solar EOS. "It is our mission to Renew South Carolina by introducing highly trained and well qualified solar technicians to the state's workforce. Then, South Carolina will be prepared for the new solar economy."
"Waccamaw is pleased to have Solar EOS on board as an Eligible Training Provider. Giving our clients' access to solar training is a significant benefit which will allow them to successfully compete for higher-paying technical jobs," says Denise Day, Waccamaw's Workforce Development Administrator. "South Carolina will benefit, and our people will benefit, by training our workforce in green jobs and the solar industry."
The Solar Installation School, developed and facilitated by Solar EOS -- a wholly owned subsidiary of Solar Energy Initiatives, Inc. -- will be added to the South Carolina Workforce Investment's Eligible Training Provider list and the School will be a new training option to which area Career One-Stop locations will begin referring eligible training applications. The Solar Installer School was designed to train prospective solar installers both in classroom theory and design as well as extensive hands-on experiential learning.
To ensure students enter the workforce with the greatest competitive advantage, Solar EOS takes a comprehensive approach to solar which includes green building strategies, sustainability, and technical knowledge of energy efficiencies utilizing the LEED Green Building Rating System as its core curriculum. The 8-week course provides 200 hours of actual classroom and field education, with over 30 hours of hands-on training utilizing the most current solar thermal and photovoltaic equipment taught by a team of experts in the field of solar and energy efficiency.
"Through our partnership with Waccamaw's Workforce Division, we expect to train nearly 200 students over the course of the next year to become top-quality solar installers and energy efficiency champions. Our students have the advantage of eight weeks of intense learning on both theory and application of solar strategies which allows them to be an effective member of an organization on Day One of employment," says Ellen Leroy-Reed, President of Solar EOS. "It is our mission to Renew South Carolina by introducing highly trained and well qualified solar technicians to the state's workforce. Then, South Carolina will be prepared for the new solar economy."
"Waccamaw is pleased to have Solar EOS on board as an Eligible Training Provider. Giving our clients' access to solar training is a significant benefit which will allow them to successfully compete for higher-paying technical jobs," says Denise Day, Waccamaw's Workforce Development Administrator. "South Carolina will benefit, and our people will benefit, by training our workforce in green jobs and the solar industry."
One Block Off the Grid Kicks Off Pittsburgh's First Solar Group Purchase
SAN FRANCISCO, Aug. 24 /PRNewswire/ -- One Block Off the Grid (1BOG), the nation's largest solar group discount company, today launched a new program to support Pittsburgh homeowners through the solar buying process. To minimize the cost and confusion typically associated with buying solar, 1BOG offers a 15-percent group discount rate for installation and free, impartial advice about solar for the duration of the three-month program.
Following a month-long process of vetting local installers, 1BOG selected Astrum Solar for their local experience, commitment to superior customer service, most up-to-date technology, industry leading warranties and flexible financing options.
"Homeowners might not know that Pittsburgh's incentives make it one of the best places in the country for home solar power," said Dave Llorens, CEO of 1BOG. "Homeowners now have a way to save thousands of dollars on a solar installation, plus a resource to help them navigate the process."
"We are excited to be partnering with 1BOG as we strive to meet Pittsburgh's growing demand for clean and affordable energy solutions," said Astrum Solar President Vadim Polikov, PhD. "This partnership will allow for greater adoption of solar power among area residents by providing them additional incentives to transition from energy consumers to energy producers."
The 1BOG Pittsburgh solar group purchase program is available now to local homeowners throughout the entire Pittsburgh area through November 24, 2010. For more information, details about pricing and products or to sign up, visit the 1BOG Solar Pittsburgh homepage at www.SolarPittsburgh.1BOG.org.
Following a month-long process of vetting local installers, 1BOG selected Astrum Solar for their local experience, commitment to superior customer service, most up-to-date technology, industry leading warranties and flexible financing options.
"Homeowners might not know that Pittsburgh's incentives make it one of the best places in the country for home solar power," said Dave Llorens, CEO of 1BOG. "Homeowners now have a way to save thousands of dollars on a solar installation, plus a resource to help them navigate the process."
"We are excited to be partnering with 1BOG as we strive to meet Pittsburgh's growing demand for clean and affordable energy solutions," said Astrum Solar President Vadim Polikov, PhD. "This partnership will allow for greater adoption of solar power among area residents by providing them additional incentives to transition from energy consumers to energy producers."
The 1BOG Pittsburgh solar group purchase program is available now to local homeowners throughout the entire Pittsburgh area through November 24, 2010. For more information, details about pricing and products or to sign up, visit the 1BOG Solar Pittsburgh homepage at www.SolarPittsburgh.1BOG.org.
MiaSole Signs Agreements With juwi Solar for Additional 8.5 MW of Photovoltaic Solar Power Modules
SANTA CLARA, Calif., Aug. 24 /PRNewswire/ -- MiaSole, the leading manufacturer of Copper Indium Gallium Selenide (CIGS) thin-film photovoltaic solar panels, today announced purchase agreements to supply juwi Solar GmbH with CIGS photovoltaic modules.
The larger agreement is for 7.5 MW of MiaSole's CIGS thin-film modules and will be used in Q3 and Q4 of 2010 for ground mounted and rooftop projects throughout Germany.
This follows 1MW of CIGS modules delivered to juwi in Q2 2010 for projects in Germany and San Antonio, Texas.
"We are very encouraged that MiaSole is supplying its proven and bank financeable modules for a number of projects developed by juwi solar," said Lars Falck, Managing Director of juwi Solar GmbH. "We expect that our relationship with MiaSole will grow to help us meet the increasing needs for solar power together."
The MiaSole module incorporates a glass-glass design, suitable for the most rigorous snow load requirement and design features such as a low open circuit voltage and interconnecting cables that reduce owner's balance of systems cost versus comparable thin film modules.
"MiaSole is proud to be supplying panels to one of Germany's leading renewable energy companies, juwi solar," said MiaSole CEO Joseph Laia. "MiaSole modules are the cost effective solution for utility scale installations, both roof top and ground mount, and this is the beginning of what we hope to be a long term partnership focused on large scale solar deployments."
The larger agreement is for 7.5 MW of MiaSole's CIGS thin-film modules and will be used in Q3 and Q4 of 2010 for ground mounted and rooftop projects throughout Germany.
This follows 1MW of CIGS modules delivered to juwi in Q2 2010 for projects in Germany and San Antonio, Texas.
"We are very encouraged that MiaSole is supplying its proven and bank financeable modules for a number of projects developed by juwi solar," said Lars Falck, Managing Director of juwi Solar GmbH. "We expect that our relationship with MiaSole will grow to help us meet the increasing needs for solar power together."
The MiaSole module incorporates a glass-glass design, suitable for the most rigorous snow load requirement and design features such as a low open circuit voltage and interconnecting cables that reduce owner's balance of systems cost versus comparable thin film modules.
"MiaSole is proud to be supplying panels to one of Germany's leading renewable energy companies, juwi solar," said MiaSole CEO Joseph Laia. "MiaSole modules are the cost effective solution for utility scale installations, both roof top and ground mount, and this is the beginning of what we hope to be a long term partnership focused on large scale solar deployments."
DayStar Technologies Announces 2010 Second Quarter Financial Results
NEWARK, Calif., Aug. 23 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- DayStar Technologies, Inc. (Nasdaq: DSTI), a developer of solar photovoltaic products based on CIGS thin-film deposition technology, today announced financial results for its second quarter ended June 30, 2010.
Net loss for the second quarter of 2010 was $12.2 million or $2.97 per share, compared with a net loss of $6.7 million or $1.79 per share in the second quarter of 2009. The net loss for the second quarter of 2010 reflects non-cash restructuring charges of $7.8 million, including $3.5 million in impairment charges on leasehold improvements at the Company's Newark, California facility upon termination of the lease, as well as $4.3 million in impairment charges recorded on certain equipment during the quarter. The loss for the second quarter of 2010 also includes share-based compensation of $1.5 million. Overall, cash expenses were reduced significantly during the second quarter of 2010 as compared with 2009 with the implementation of cost savings measures including a reduction in workforce in order to preserve cash while focusing our resources on the development of our core CIGS technology and fundraising efforts to secure strategic partners and commercialize our product.
The per share losses were calculated on the weighted average common shares outstanding of 4.1 and 3.7 million for the second quarter ended June 30, 2010 and 2009, respectively. The average shares outstanding and loss per share for the quarter ended June 30, 2010 and 2009 reflect the 1-for-9 reverse stock split implemented on May 11, 2010. DayStar's common stock began trading on the NASDAQ Capital Market on a split adjusted basis on May 12, 2010.
The balance sheet as of June 30, 2010, and the statement of operations for the three months and six months ended June 30, 2010, is attached as exhibits to this press release.
Net loss for the second quarter of 2010 was $12.2 million or $2.97 per share, compared with a net loss of $6.7 million or $1.79 per share in the second quarter of 2009. The net loss for the second quarter of 2010 reflects non-cash restructuring charges of $7.8 million, including $3.5 million in impairment charges on leasehold improvements at the Company's Newark, California facility upon termination of the lease, as well as $4.3 million in impairment charges recorded on certain equipment during the quarter. The loss for the second quarter of 2010 also includes share-based compensation of $1.5 million. Overall, cash expenses were reduced significantly during the second quarter of 2010 as compared with 2009 with the implementation of cost savings measures including a reduction in workforce in order to preserve cash while focusing our resources on the development of our core CIGS technology and fundraising efforts to secure strategic partners and commercialize our product.
The per share losses were calculated on the weighted average common shares outstanding of 4.1 and 3.7 million for the second quarter ended June 30, 2010 and 2009, respectively. The average shares outstanding and loss per share for the quarter ended June 30, 2010 and 2009 reflect the 1-for-9 reverse stock split implemented on May 11, 2010. DayStar's common stock began trading on the NASDAQ Capital Market on a split adjusted basis on May 12, 2010.
The balance sheet as of June 30, 2010, and the statement of operations for the three months and six months ended June 30, 2010, is attached as exhibits to this press release.
SCHOTT Solar, VE Group and Affordable Solar Unveil New Mexico's Largest Solar Array at The Bell Group Headquarters
ALBUQUERQUE, N.M., Aug. 23 /PRNewswire/ -- SCHOTT Solar PV, Inc., VE Group LLC and Affordable Solar Group LLC today unveiled New Mexico's largest solar array (1.1MW) on The Bell Group's headquarters' parking structure in Albuquerque, NM. The project uses over 5,000 locally-made solar modules by SCHOTT Solar PV, Inc, a global leader in photovoltaic (PV) module manufacturing, with US headquarters in Albuquerque, New Mexico. The installation covers 5 acres of parking area and will generate over 1,600,000 kWh of clean electricity annually -- enough to meet 80 percent of The Bell Group's electricity needs. This locally generated clean energy will avoid approximately 1,125 tons of CO(2) emissions annually, while the solar structures provide shaded parking for employee and visitor vehicles under the hot New Mexico sun. The project involved a significant number of jobs in the Albuquerque region by utilizing local manufacturers, contractors and subcontractors from various trades.
The project implementation team consisted of Affordable Solar Group, Albuquerque-based solar equipment distributor and project developer; VE Group (Valley Electric), the prime contractor with offices in New Mexico and Colorado; and VE Group's local and regional subcontractors including Coupland-Moran Engineers, US Prefab, National Roofing and others who together carried the project from conception to completion. The Bell Group's facility management team provided support throughout all phases of the project.
SCHOTT Solar employs 340 people at its Albuquerque facility, Affordable Solar Group 35 employees in Albuquerque, and VE Group over 50 employees in New Mexico and Colorado, many of whom were employed by The Bell Group's solar project.
"As a business, we're always looking for ways to reduce our costs, and our new solar installation is lowering our electricity bills with clean, reliable energy generated by a local, high quality product," said Alan Bell, Managing Director of The Bell Group, an Albuquerque-based industrial distributor. "It also helps us to meet our responsibilities as a business committed to environmentally friendly practices and the local economy."
"SCHOTT Solar is committed to being part of a strong solar industry in Albuquerque and the United States and this project is a great example of creating jobs along the solar value chain – from the manufacture of solar panels to their installation on the Bell Group's parking lot," said Gerry Fine, President and CEO of SCHOTT Solar PV, Inc. "Thanks to New Mexico's commitment to renewable energy, SCHOTT is creating good local jobs and a clean energy product that feeds back into Albuquerque to support the city's economy and environment."
"Solar projects like The Bell Group installation create great jobs drawing skilled tradespeople from a variety of construction disciplines. These jobs build up Albuquerque's clean energy economy and grow New Mexico's solar industry during this time when traditional construction projects are at a low point," said Mark Hensley, President of VE Group (Valley Electric).
"PNM (local utility) and New Mexico state incentives for solar make local solar projects like The Bell Group project economically feasible. Using Albuquerque-made SCHOTT Solar PV panels helped us keep the transportation-related environmental impact as low as possible while providing our client with a high quality product," said David Hughes, President of Affordable Solar Group.
The project implementation team consisted of Affordable Solar Group, Albuquerque-based solar equipment distributor and project developer; VE Group (Valley Electric), the prime contractor with offices in New Mexico and Colorado; and VE Group's local and regional subcontractors including Coupland-Moran Engineers, US Prefab, National Roofing and others who together carried the project from conception to completion. The Bell Group's facility management team provided support throughout all phases of the project.
SCHOTT Solar employs 340 people at its Albuquerque facility, Affordable Solar Group 35 employees in Albuquerque, and VE Group over 50 employees in New Mexico and Colorado, many of whom were employed by The Bell Group's solar project.
"As a business, we're always looking for ways to reduce our costs, and our new solar installation is lowering our electricity bills with clean, reliable energy generated by a local, high quality product," said Alan Bell, Managing Director of The Bell Group, an Albuquerque-based industrial distributor. "It also helps us to meet our responsibilities as a business committed to environmentally friendly practices and the local economy."
"SCHOTT Solar is committed to being part of a strong solar industry in Albuquerque and the United States and this project is a great example of creating jobs along the solar value chain – from the manufacture of solar panels to their installation on the Bell Group's parking lot," said Gerry Fine, President and CEO of SCHOTT Solar PV, Inc. "Thanks to New Mexico's commitment to renewable energy, SCHOTT is creating good local jobs and a clean energy product that feeds back into Albuquerque to support the city's economy and environment."
"Solar projects like The Bell Group installation create great jobs drawing skilled tradespeople from a variety of construction disciplines. These jobs build up Albuquerque's clean energy economy and grow New Mexico's solar industry during this time when traditional construction projects are at a low point," said Mark Hensley, President of VE Group (Valley Electric).
"PNM (local utility) and New Mexico state incentives for solar make local solar projects like The Bell Group project economically feasible. Using Albuquerque-made SCHOTT Solar PV panels helped us keep the transportation-related environmental impact as low as possible while providing our client with a high quality product," said David Hughes, President of Affordable Solar Group.
AT&T Enlists SunEdison to Add 2MW of Solar Power in California by 2011
SAN DIEGO, Aug. 23 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- AT&T* and SunEdison today announced that SunEdison, a leading worldwide solar energy services provider and subsidiary of MEMC Electronic Materials (NYSE: WFR), will expand AT&T's national solar initiative by activating a new roof top solar power installation in San Diego. San Diego Mayor Jerry Sanders as well as executives from AT&T and SunEdison were on hand to officially flip the switch on the solar power system. In addition to this installation in San Diego, AT&T has contracts with SunEdison to deploy five other solar power installations in California by the second quarter of 2011, equating to approximately 2 megawatts (MW) of total solar capacity for all six sites. The additional California solar deployments will be located in Dunnigan, Commerce, Mojave, Santa Ana and West Sacramento.
The solar power installation in San Diego is a 296 kW rooftop mounted photovoltaic system that will generate an estimated 420,000 kWh of energy in its first year of operation alone. Over 20 years, the power installation will generate more than 7.7 million kWh of energy – enough energy to power more than 720 US homes for one year. The environmental attributes associated with the solar power installation will avoid more than 8 million pounds of carbon dioxide during the initial 20 years of operation – the equivalent of taking more than 800 cars off the road according to SunEdison projections.
"Partnerships such as this one between AT&T and SunEdison show why San Diego continues to be the national leader in solar energy," said San Diego Mayor Jerry Sanders. "Our residents and businesses have embraced clean energy, which not only benefits our environment, but also our region's economy."
The program is made possible through a strategic power purchase agreement (PPA) between SunEdison and AT&T under which SunEdison will construct, monitor and maintain an additional five solar power installations in California. In return, AT&T will buy the energy produced from the solar systems to offset their grid demand. Once activated, the six systems will total an estimated 2 megawatts of solar capacity and will generate over 3.2 million kWh of energy within the first year of operation. According to SunEdison projections, the environmental attributes associated with the six systems will avoid an estimated 62 million pounds of CO2 over 20 years of operation.
"We are continually seeking opportunities to add renewable energy resources to power our business operations, and this agreement provides more sustainable solutions for our energy needs in California," said John Schinter, director of energy, AT&T.
"SunEdison makes solar a reality for commercial clients throughout the world," said Brian Jacolick, general manager, Americas for SunEdison. "Through smart design, proven technologies and our strong financing capabilities, SunEdison helps clients like AT&T realize the benefits solar energy offers. "
AT&T recently released its 2009 Citizenship and Sustainability Report highlighting the company's progress toward up to $865 million in multi-year commitments for important education, environmental and volunteerism programs that help strengthen communities and stimulate economic growth. For more information about AT&T's sustainability efforts, please visit www.att.com/sustainability or www.att.com/csr.
*AT&T products and services are provided or offered by subsidiaries and affiliates of AT&T Inc. under the AT&T brand and not by AT&T Inc.
The solar power installation in San Diego is a 296 kW rooftop mounted photovoltaic system that will generate an estimated 420,000 kWh of energy in its first year of operation alone. Over 20 years, the power installation will generate more than 7.7 million kWh of energy – enough energy to power more than 720 US homes for one year. The environmental attributes associated with the solar power installation will avoid more than 8 million pounds of carbon dioxide during the initial 20 years of operation – the equivalent of taking more than 800 cars off the road according to SunEdison projections.
"Partnerships such as this one between AT&T and SunEdison show why San Diego continues to be the national leader in solar energy," said San Diego Mayor Jerry Sanders. "Our residents and businesses have embraced clean energy, which not only benefits our environment, but also our region's economy."
The program is made possible through a strategic power purchase agreement (PPA) between SunEdison and AT&T under which SunEdison will construct, monitor and maintain an additional five solar power installations in California. In return, AT&T will buy the energy produced from the solar systems to offset their grid demand. Once activated, the six systems will total an estimated 2 megawatts of solar capacity and will generate over 3.2 million kWh of energy within the first year of operation. According to SunEdison projections, the environmental attributes associated with the six systems will avoid an estimated 62 million pounds of CO2 over 20 years of operation.
"We are continually seeking opportunities to add renewable energy resources to power our business operations, and this agreement provides more sustainable solutions for our energy needs in California," said John Schinter, director of energy, AT&T.
"SunEdison makes solar a reality for commercial clients throughout the world," said Brian Jacolick, general manager, Americas for SunEdison. "Through smart design, proven technologies and our strong financing capabilities, SunEdison helps clients like AT&T realize the benefits solar energy offers. "
AT&T recently released its 2009 Citizenship and Sustainability Report highlighting the company's progress toward up to $865 million in multi-year commitments for important education, environmental and volunteerism programs that help strengthen communities and stimulate economic growth. For more information about AT&T's sustainability efforts, please visit www.att.com/sustainability or www.att.com/csr.
*AT&T products and services are provided or offered by subsidiaries and affiliates of AT&T Inc. under the AT&T brand and not by AT&T Inc.
Solar Manufacturing Receives Order For New Top Loading Vacuum Carburizing Furnace
SOUDERTON, Pa.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Solar Manufacturing, Inc. announces it has received an order for a specialized top loading vacuum furnace required by a major manufacturer of tube fittings, adapters, valves, filters and related coupling hardware. Primary application of the vacuum furnace will be for the development and expansion of production carburizing techniques as related to the end-user’s products.
“The furnace is a Solar Manufacturing Model VTL-714-VC, top loading design with a work zone that measures 7.5” diameter x 14” high with a load capacity up to 250 pounds,” said Peter Reh, vice president of sales. “The hot zone will incorporate a combination of Flexshield hot face backed by layers of graphite felt to allow for operation up to 2400oF with bake-out capability of 2500oF. The elements will be graphite rod placed in a vertical electrical wye configuration, and quenching will be accomplished via an external 10 HP cooling system," he said. “The various gas flow controls systems are provided to accomplish the processing results dictated by the proposed applications, and the vacuum system included allows for controlled operation in the 10-2 to 50 Torr range,” he concluded.
Solar Manufacturing is part of Solar Atmospheres, Inc., one of the largest and most progressive, independent commercial heat treaters in the USA. To learn more about Solar Manufacturing’s diverse product line of vacuum heat treating, brazing, and carburizing furnaces, contact Peter Reh, vice president of sales, at 267-384-5040 x 509 or pkr@solarmfg.com. More information can also be found on www.solarmfg.com.
“The furnace is a Solar Manufacturing Model VTL-714-VC, top loading design with a work zone that measures 7.5” diameter x 14” high with a load capacity up to 250 pounds,” said Peter Reh, vice president of sales. “The hot zone will incorporate a combination of Flexshield hot face backed by layers of graphite felt to allow for operation up to 2400oF with bake-out capability of 2500oF. The elements will be graphite rod placed in a vertical electrical wye configuration, and quenching will be accomplished via an external 10 HP cooling system," he said. “The various gas flow controls systems are provided to accomplish the processing results dictated by the proposed applications, and the vacuum system included allows for controlled operation in the 10-2 to 50 Torr range,” he concluded.
Solar Manufacturing is part of Solar Atmospheres, Inc., one of the largest and most progressive, independent commercial heat treaters in the USA. To learn more about Solar Manufacturing’s diverse product line of vacuum heat treating, brazing, and carburizing furnaces, contact Peter Reh, vice president of sales, at 267-384-5040 x 509 or pkr@solarmfg.com. More information can also be found on www.solarmfg.com.
Dow Showcases New Photovoltaic Solutions at European Photovoltaic Solar Energy Conference
PHILADELPHIA--(BUSINESS WIRE)--The Dow Chemical Company will showcase its new solutions designed for photovoltaic manufacturers at this year’s 25th European Photovoltaic Solar Energy Conference and Exhibition (PVSEC) in Valencia, Spain (stand L3/H4/B4, Hall 4, Feria Valencia). Dow’s photovoltaic solutions can help increase solar cell efficiency and solar module durability, improve device performance at lower cost, and enable widespread adoption of solar energy. Solutions being showcased include:
Solar cell efficiency is the primary measure of device performance. Higher cell efficiencies translate into lower costs, which enable widespread adoption of this renewable energy alternative. Dow Electronic Materials business’ ENLIGHT™ metallization, imaging, cleaning and texturizing materials enable improvements in solar cell efficiency, and lower the solar cell manufacturing cost. As the leader in front side metallization using plating chemistry, Dow’s products have successfully been used in commercial scale cell production.
Long-term durability is another key performance measure for photovoltaic module producers. An industrial user or consumer installing a solar panel on its roof expects it to keep running for the next 20 to 25 years. Thus durable materials are selected by module producers to build photovoltaic panels. Dow Adhesive and Functional Polymers business offers a range of durable adhesives for photovoltaic applications. ADCOTE™ adhesives exhibit excellent bonding strength properties, good UV stability, high thermal resistance and very good hydrolysis resistance. MOR-FREE™ solventless adhesives offer demonstrated laminating capabilities with an improved environmental profile. ENLIGHT™ Polyolefin Encapsulant Films are used in the protective layer of photovoltaic modules. The processing and performance benefits of these films can reduce cycle times and improve productivity when the module is produced, and help extend module reliability and service life when in use.
Dow's innovation for photovoltaic extends beyond the above products. As the global leader for heat transfer solutions, Dow offers SYLTHERM™ and DOWTHERM™ Fluids not only for Photovoltaic polysilicon purification process, but also for Concentrated Solar Power (CSP) industry. The fluids provide a wide choice of solutions for high and low temperature environments, with outstanding thermo-stability.
In addition to products being showcased, Dow Polyglycols, Surfactants and Fluids business is dedicating resources to the research of a new carrier fluid for the specialized slicing of silicone wafers. The carrier fluid disperses the abrasives, carries away heat, and provides more lubricity. The next generation fluid will enable a more stable and better quality cutting experience, promoting a reduction in slurry consumption.
- Dow’s ENLIGHT™ cleaning, texturizing, imaging and metallization solutions to enhance performance in solar cell manufacturing,
- Dow’s ADCOTE™ and MOR-FREE™ adhesives for module fabrication for long-term durability with improved environmental profile,
- Dow’s new innovative ENLIGHT™ Polyolefin Encapsulant Films used as protective encapsulants help lower total module system costs and provide for improved productivity and extended reliability,
- DOWTHERM™ and SYLTHERM™ heat transfer fluid solutions for solar grade silicon production,
- Dow’s Polyglycol CF fluid for a higher quality experience in slicing silicon wafers.
Solar cell efficiency is the primary measure of device performance. Higher cell efficiencies translate into lower costs, which enable widespread adoption of this renewable energy alternative. Dow Electronic Materials business’ ENLIGHT™ metallization, imaging, cleaning and texturizing materials enable improvements in solar cell efficiency, and lower the solar cell manufacturing cost. As the leader in front side metallization using plating chemistry, Dow’s products have successfully been used in commercial scale cell production.
Long-term durability is another key performance measure for photovoltaic module producers. An industrial user or consumer installing a solar panel on its roof expects it to keep running for the next 20 to 25 years. Thus durable materials are selected by module producers to build photovoltaic panels. Dow Adhesive and Functional Polymers business offers a range of durable adhesives for photovoltaic applications. ADCOTE™ adhesives exhibit excellent bonding strength properties, good UV stability, high thermal resistance and very good hydrolysis resistance. MOR-FREE™ solventless adhesives offer demonstrated laminating capabilities with an improved environmental profile. ENLIGHT™ Polyolefin Encapsulant Films are used in the protective layer of photovoltaic modules. The processing and performance benefits of these films can reduce cycle times and improve productivity when the module is produced, and help extend module reliability and service life when in use.
Dow's innovation for photovoltaic extends beyond the above products. As the global leader for heat transfer solutions, Dow offers SYLTHERM™ and DOWTHERM™ Fluids not only for Photovoltaic polysilicon purification process, but also for Concentrated Solar Power (CSP) industry. The fluids provide a wide choice of solutions for high and low temperature environments, with outstanding thermo-stability.
In addition to products being showcased, Dow Polyglycols, Surfactants and Fluids business is dedicating resources to the research of a new carrier fluid for the specialized slicing of silicone wafers. The carrier fluid disperses the abrasives, carries away heat, and provides more lubricity. The next generation fluid will enable a more stable and better quality cutting experience, promoting a reduction in slurry consumption.
Grape Solar Enters Arizona Residential Solar Market
EUGENE, Ore.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Grape Solar, www.grapesolar.com, one of America’s fastest growing solar companies, today announced that it has entered a mutually exclusive supplier agreement with Arizona Green Voltage Group, L.C. (GVG, www.azgvg.com). Under the agreement, Grape Solar will provide Arizona GVG with its complete line of solar kits with break-through price in the residential market that few can rival. GVG will use those kits in its efforts to help Arizona households receive solar power. Grape Solar will be GVG’s exclusive supplier of solar kits for the residential projects for the next two years in Arizona that GVG already serves.
Additional items in the agreements are highlighted below:
Grape Solar CEO Ocean Yuan commented on the announcement, saying, "This partnership with GVG allows Grape Solar to expand our distribution of Grape Solar branded panels and kits and reach Arizona residential markets we would not otherwise be able to address. Arizona GVG is a leader in its own class that Grape Solar can confidently hand over our products to and refer customers for installations.”
Arizona GVG’s General Manager Ray Baxter applauded the agreement, “We have witnessed Grape Solar’s incredible growth in North American market in the past year. It is critical for us to have a stable supplier of solar panels so that we can keep our commitment to customers who rely on top quality products delivered on time. It is ripe for both of our two companies to further the relationship.”
About Grape Solar: headquartered in Eugene, Ore., is a leading manufacturer of solar panels and kits that directly distributes to installers and consumers in North America. For more information, visit: www.GrapeSolar.com.
About Arizona Green Voltage Group: a leading solar system integration service company, dedicated to the mass market sale of energy saving products for residential homeowners in Arizona. For more information, visit: www.azGVG.com
Additional items in the agreements are highlighted below:
- Grape Solar designates GVG as its exclusive dealer in Arizona for its full line high quality solar panels ranging from 175 watt to 300 watt panels.
- Grape Solar offers $2.79 per watt to GVG for Grape Solar’s pre-engineered solar kit that includes panels, inverters, and mounting systems.
- Grape Solar will offer its residential customers in Arizona, through GVG’s decade old installation experience: solar system design support, project due diligence support and project field support as well as rebate and incentive processing which could be as high as $2.50 per watt.
- GVG agrees to a strategic purchasing agreement with guaranteed volume commitment and pricing structure.
- GVG will receive priority supply of Made-in-America solar panels from Grape Solar at competitive prices.
Grape Solar CEO Ocean Yuan commented on the announcement, saying, "This partnership with GVG allows Grape Solar to expand our distribution of Grape Solar branded panels and kits and reach Arizona residential markets we would not otherwise be able to address. Arizona GVG is a leader in its own class that Grape Solar can confidently hand over our products to and refer customers for installations.”
Arizona GVG’s General Manager Ray Baxter applauded the agreement, “We have witnessed Grape Solar’s incredible growth in North American market in the past year. It is critical for us to have a stable supplier of solar panels so that we can keep our commitment to customers who rely on top quality products delivered on time. It is ripe for both of our two companies to further the relationship.”
About Grape Solar: headquartered in Eugene, Ore., is a leading manufacturer of solar panels and kits that directly distributes to installers and consumers in North America. For more information, visit: www.GrapeSolar.com.
About Arizona Green Voltage Group: a leading solar system integration service company, dedicated to the mass market sale of energy saving products for residential homeowners in Arizona. For more information, visit: www.azGVG.com
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