Monday, February 28, 2011
LDK Solar Closes Offering of RMB 1.2 Billion US$-Settled Senior Notes due 2014
XINYU CITY, China and SUNNYVALE, Calif., Feb. 28, 2011 /PRNewswire/ -- LDK Solar Co., Ltd. (NYSE: LDK) ("LDK Solar"), a leading vertically integrated manufacturer of photovoltaic products and a leading manufacturer of solar wafers in terms of capacity, announced today the closing of US$-settled 10.00% senior notes due 2014 in the aggregate principal amount of RMB 1.2 billion (the "Notes") being offered and sold outside the United States pursuant to Regulation S under the United States Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the "Securities Act"). The Notes will bear interest at the rate of 10.00% per annum from February 28, 2011, payable semi-annually in arrears on February 28 and August 28 of each year, beginning on August 28, 2011. The Notes will mature on February 28, 2014 and will be guaranteed by certain of LDK Solar's offshore subsidiaries. LDK Solar intends to use the net proceeds of the offering to repay certain of its existing indebtedness with remaining maturities of up to one year.
GridPoint Renewable Energy Solution Saves HOLT CAT 40 Percent on Electricity Costs
SAN ANTONIO, Feb. 28, 2011 /PRNewswire/ -- GridPoint, Inc., an established leader for smart energy solutions and HOLT CAT®, the Caterpillar® Equipment and Engine dealer for South, Central, North and North East Texas, today announced the powering of a 59 kW photovoltaic solar array at HOLT CAT's new San Antonio training and support facility.
HOLT is aiming for Silver Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) certification on the new facility. Developed by the U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC), LEED is an internationally recognized green building certification system, providing third-party verification that a building was designed and built using strategies that improve performance across environmental metrics.
The training center currently boasts a 59 kW system comprised of 240 solar panels capable of producing 79,304 kWh of electricity annually. HOLT is planning to install additional panels to bring the system to a total of 103 kW in the coming months. Upon completion the system will produce 137,739 kWh of energy annually.
"Based on our estimated power usage, the solar panels will generate almost 40 percent of our electricity needs," said Allyn Archer, President and COO of HOLT CAT. "The offset will significantly reduce our operating costs and help us attain Silver LEED status."
The GridPoint solar energy solution was custom-designed for the HOLT facility using a state-of-the-art racking system. Utilizing clamps and solar wedge technology, the solar panels were installed without a single roof penetration. The innovative mounting system can withstand a 110 mph wind load and more than 30 pounds of pressure per square foot.
"We are proud GridPoint's solar energy solution helped HOLT CAT meet its LEED goal. They are a great example of corporate sustainability and environmental leadership," said Jeff Ross, senior vice president of GridPoint.
The solar energy solution integrates with GridPoint's advanced monitoring to record and display the current and historical energy production of HOLT's operation. The Web-based portal displays consumption data, current weather conditions; environmental contribution toward reduction of greenhouse gasses; and monetary savings achieved by its solar electric generation in day, week, month, year and lifetime increments.
GridPoint provides solar energy solutions for enterprises that include design and engineering, project management, monitoring, and procurement and installation of assets including solar panels, inverters and racking. The company's renewable energy customers include local, state and federal municipalities as well as major restaurants and retailers.
HOLT is aiming for Silver Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) certification on the new facility. Developed by the U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC), LEED is an internationally recognized green building certification system, providing third-party verification that a building was designed and built using strategies that improve performance across environmental metrics.
The training center currently boasts a 59 kW system comprised of 240 solar panels capable of producing 79,304 kWh of electricity annually. HOLT is planning to install additional panels to bring the system to a total of 103 kW in the coming months. Upon completion the system will produce 137,739 kWh of energy annually.
"Based on our estimated power usage, the solar panels will generate almost 40 percent of our electricity needs," said Allyn Archer, President and COO of HOLT CAT. "The offset will significantly reduce our operating costs and help us attain Silver LEED status."
The GridPoint solar energy solution was custom-designed for the HOLT facility using a state-of-the-art racking system. Utilizing clamps and solar wedge technology, the solar panels were installed without a single roof penetration. The innovative mounting system can withstand a 110 mph wind load and more than 30 pounds of pressure per square foot.
"We are proud GridPoint's solar energy solution helped HOLT CAT meet its LEED goal. They are a great example of corporate sustainability and environmental leadership," said Jeff Ross, senior vice president of GridPoint.
The solar energy solution integrates with GridPoint's advanced monitoring to record and display the current and historical energy production of HOLT's operation. The Web-based portal displays consumption data, current weather conditions; environmental contribution toward reduction of greenhouse gasses; and monetary savings achieved by its solar electric generation in day, week, month, year and lifetime increments.
GridPoint provides solar energy solutions for enterprises that include design and engineering, project management, monitoring, and procurement and installation of assets including solar panels, inverters and racking. The company's renewable energy customers include local, state and federal municipalities as well as major restaurants and retailers.
CNPV Signs Strategic Supply Agreement with JIT Solaire French Company
LUXEMBOURG and DONGYING, China, Feb. 28, 2011 /PRNewswire-Asia/ -- CNPV Solar Power SA, a public limited liability company organized under the laws of the Grand Duchy of Luxembourg and a leading integrated manufacturer of solar photovoltaic products, today announced that it has entered into a strategic partnership agreement with JIT Solaire, a leading project developer and installer of solar photovoltaic systems based in Western France.
Under the terms of this strategic agreement, CNPV will supply JIT Solaire with a total of 20MWp of high performance PV Modules during 2011 and 2012, with 6MW scheduled for delivery within 2011 and 14MW within 2012.
"We are thoroughly delighted to establish the close working relationship and subsequent strategic agreement with JIT Solaire. Their experience as a project developer and installer gives us additional insight into end user requirements that we highly value and incorporate," Mr. Zhang Shunfu, CNPV's CEO and Mr. B. Veerraju Chaudary, CNPV's COO and Member of the Board said jointly. "Our determination to fulfill all sections of the solar PV purchasing fraternity is further being realised with the signing of this agreement. We are particularly pleased to have satisfied JIT Solaire's stringent requirements to become their first long-term strategic Asian PV supplier. "
The President of JIT Solaire, Mr. Jerome Bailleul, was equally positive: "Our first foray into the Asian solar PV supply arena was a decision that we carefully undertook; we are however, delighted with the results we have found with CNPV. It was then an easy decision for us to undertake to commit to a long-term agreement, and are excited at the prospect of growing our business and experiences together."
"CNPV's products and support are exemplary. Their claim to provide a real difference to their customers has been demonstrated clearly to us. There is real value here," said Mr. Laurent Guilbard, JIT Solaire Technical Director. "They listened and really understood what we are doing in a highly competitive market. Their solutions clearly deliver for us, and we are thrilled to have the opportunity to secure long-term interests for both Companies as we grow together."
Under the terms of this strategic agreement, CNPV will supply JIT Solaire with a total of 20MWp of high performance PV Modules during 2011 and 2012, with 6MW scheduled for delivery within 2011 and 14MW within 2012.
"We are thoroughly delighted to establish the close working relationship and subsequent strategic agreement with JIT Solaire. Their experience as a project developer and installer gives us additional insight into end user requirements that we highly value and incorporate," Mr. Zhang Shunfu, CNPV's CEO and Mr. B. Veerraju Chaudary, CNPV's COO and Member of the Board said jointly. "Our determination to fulfill all sections of the solar PV purchasing fraternity is further being realised with the signing of this agreement. We are particularly pleased to have satisfied JIT Solaire's stringent requirements to become their first long-term strategic Asian PV supplier. "
The President of JIT Solaire, Mr. Jerome Bailleul, was equally positive: "Our first foray into the Asian solar PV supply arena was a decision that we carefully undertook; we are however, delighted with the results we have found with CNPV. It was then an easy decision for us to undertake to commit to a long-term agreement, and are excited at the prospect of growing our business and experiences together."
"CNPV's products and support are exemplary. Their claim to provide a real difference to their customers has been demonstrated clearly to us. There is real value here," said Mr. Laurent Guilbard, JIT Solaire Technical Director. "They listened and really understood what we are doing in a highly competitive market. Their solutions clearly deliver for us, and we are thrilled to have the opportunity to secure long-term interests for both Companies as we grow together."
DayStar Announces Management Change
MILPITAS, Calif., Feb. 28, 2011 /PRNewswire/ -- DayStar Technologies, Inc. (Nasdaq: DSTI), a developer of solar photovoltaic products based on CIGS thin-film deposition technology, today announced that Magnus Ryde has resigned from his roles as Chief Executive Officer and Director of DayStar effective February 28, 2011, in order to pursue other opportunities.
"I am grateful for the opportunity to have led DayStar throughout this past year and am confident that the progress we have made to restructure our balance sheet and in discussions with potential strategic partners have DayStar well positioned for near-term success," commented Magnus Ryde.
Peter Lacey, DayStar's Chairman of the Board, has been appointed to the additional position of Interim Chief Executive Officer, effective February 28, 2011. Mr. Lacey commented, "We appreciate the leadership that Magnus Ryde provided to DayStar during this very challenging time as well as the progress that has been made during Mr. Ryde's tenure as CEO to position the Company for a successful strategic partnership. I look forward to taking a more active role in the day-to-day operations of the business and working closely with the rest of the management team during this very exciting time for the Company. I am committed to doing everything necessary to continue to build upon the progress that has been made to position the Company for a strategic partnership and to lead DayStar through its next phase of growth."
Mr. Lacey has served as our Chairman of the Board since October 2009. Mr. Lacey has been the President, Chief Executive Officer and a Director of Cervus Equipment Corporation since May 2003. Cervus Equipment Corporation, which had over $450 million in revenue in 2010 is listed on the TSX – Toronto Stock Exchange (CVL) and operates 15 agricultural and turf John Deere stores in Alberta, Saskatchewan, and British Columbia, as well as 5 Bobcat and JCB construction equipment stores in Alberta and 10 material handling equipment branches in Alberta, Saskatchewan and Manitoba. Mr. Lacey is also the President, Chief Executive Officer and a trustee of Proventure Income Fund, a public real estate income trust (REIT) listed on the TSX Venture Exchange, which is in the commercial rental property business and provides commercial real estate leases to Cervus and other companies since November 2005. Mr. Lacey has also been the Chairman of the Board and Director of Eveready Energy Services, a public company listed on the Toronto Stock Exchange that provides industrial and oilfield maintenance and production services to the energy, resource, and industrial sectors, since September 2004. Eveready was sold to Clean Harbors Inc. in 2009. Mr. Lacey has been a member of the Red Deer College Board of Governors and Chairman.
"I am grateful for the opportunity to have led DayStar throughout this past year and am confident that the progress we have made to restructure our balance sheet and in discussions with potential strategic partners have DayStar well positioned for near-term success," commented Magnus Ryde.
Peter Lacey, DayStar's Chairman of the Board, has been appointed to the additional position of Interim Chief Executive Officer, effective February 28, 2011. Mr. Lacey commented, "We appreciate the leadership that Magnus Ryde provided to DayStar during this very challenging time as well as the progress that has been made during Mr. Ryde's tenure as CEO to position the Company for a successful strategic partnership. I look forward to taking a more active role in the day-to-day operations of the business and working closely with the rest of the management team during this very exciting time for the Company. I am committed to doing everything necessary to continue to build upon the progress that has been made to position the Company for a strategic partnership and to lead DayStar through its next phase of growth."
Mr. Lacey has served as our Chairman of the Board since October 2009. Mr. Lacey has been the President, Chief Executive Officer and a Director of Cervus Equipment Corporation since May 2003. Cervus Equipment Corporation, which had over $450 million in revenue in 2010 is listed on the TSX – Toronto Stock Exchange (CVL) and operates 15 agricultural and turf John Deere stores in Alberta, Saskatchewan, and British Columbia, as well as 5 Bobcat and JCB construction equipment stores in Alberta and 10 material handling equipment branches in Alberta, Saskatchewan and Manitoba. Mr. Lacey is also the President, Chief Executive Officer and a trustee of Proventure Income Fund, a public real estate income trust (REIT) listed on the TSX Venture Exchange, which is in the commercial rental property business and provides commercial real estate leases to Cervus and other companies since November 2005. Mr. Lacey has also been the Chairman of the Board and Director of Eveready Energy Services, a public company listed on the Toronto Stock Exchange that provides industrial and oilfield maintenance and production services to the energy, resource, and industrial sectors, since September 2004. Eveready was sold to Clean Harbors Inc. in 2009. Mr. Lacey has been a member of the Red Deer College Board of Governors and Chairman.
Hanwha SolarOne Extends Relationship With CNBM International With New 50MW Framework Supply Agreement
SHANGHAI, Feb. 28, 2011 /PRNewswire/ -- Hanwha SolarOne Co., Ltd. ("Hanwha SolarOne" or the "Company") (Nasdaq: HSOL), a vertically integrated manufacturer of silicon ingots, wafers and photovoltaic ("PV") cells and modules in China, today announced that it has extended its relationship with CNBM International Corporation ("CNBM International") by entering into a framework supply agreement for 50MW of PV modules, to be delivered to CNBM International in 2011.
This agreement extends an existing business relationship between the two companies. In September 2010, Hanwha SolarOne entered a contract to supply CNBM International with 10MW of PV modules during that year.
CNBM International is a leading steel manufacturer and exporter, specialized in hot dipped galvanized steel. The company supports the PRC government's initiative on Energy-Saving Building Material Subsidies for Rural Areas, and is engaged in various renewable energy building projects. CNBM International is a subsidiary of China National Building Materials Group Corporation ("CNBM"), one of China's largest industrial conglomerates for building materials.
Dr. Peter Xie, President and CEO of Hanwha SolarOne, commented, "We are pleased CNBM International has again chosen our high-quality PV modules for their projects. We are encouraged by the uptake of our brand of products by many prominent developers and businesses worldwide, and we believe this framework agreement marks a positive start to the 2011 fiscal year. We expect our current visibility in China to remain high, as the country's adoption of renewable energy technologies, especially solar, increases in the near term."
This agreement extends an existing business relationship between the two companies. In September 2010, Hanwha SolarOne entered a contract to supply CNBM International with 10MW of PV modules during that year.
CNBM International is a leading steel manufacturer and exporter, specialized in hot dipped galvanized steel. The company supports the PRC government's initiative on Energy-Saving Building Material Subsidies for Rural Areas, and is engaged in various renewable energy building projects. CNBM International is a subsidiary of China National Building Materials Group Corporation ("CNBM"), one of China's largest industrial conglomerates for building materials.
Dr. Peter Xie, President and CEO of Hanwha SolarOne, commented, "We are pleased CNBM International has again chosen our high-quality PV modules for their projects. We are encouraged by the uptake of our brand of products by many prominent developers and businesses worldwide, and we believe this framework agreement marks a positive start to the 2011 fiscal year. We expect our current visibility in China to remain high, as the country's adoption of renewable energy technologies, especially solar, increases in the near term."
Solyndra Closes $75 Million Credit Facility
FREMONT, Calif.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Solyndra, a manufacturer of cylindrical solar photovoltaic (PV) systems for large industrial and commercial rooftops, today announced the closing of a new $75 million secured credit facility underwritten by existing investors. The proceeds from the financing will be used to support Solyndra’s working capital requirements, accelerate the Company’s ongoing cost reduction activities and execute its expanded channel and segment sales and marketing strategy.
“Solyndra has excellent marketplace momentum, with record installations of our product in the fourth quarter and annual revenues exceeding $140 million last year,” said Brian Harrison, Solyndra’s president and CEO. “With strong acceptance of our 200 Series product, we are seeing growth in the U.S. and markets throughout Europe. We have recently reached a number of significant milestones, including the shipment of nearly 100 megawatts of panels, the completion of more than 1,000 installations in 20 countries and the announcement of our PV greenhouse solution.”
The company’s construction of its new, world-class manufacturing and customer demonstration facility is complete. The 300,000 square foot project was completed ahead of schedule, employing approximately 3000 construction workers. Installation of the remaining production tools occurs in 2011 and will bring Solyndra’s annual production run rate to approximately 200 MW per year by year’s end. When fully ramped, the new facility’s annual production capacity will reach 300MW per year. The new facility will also enable Solyndra to manufacture products with an installed system cost-of-goods sold (COGS) of approximately $2 per watt in the first quarter of 2013, which is expected to be highly competitive with all other technologies.
“We are confident that with this round of funding and the continued support of our existing investors we are on track to be cash flow positive at the end of this year,” continued Harrison. “Solyndra’s fast and easy to install panels are a proven and scalable solar solution, ideal for rooftop applications. Today we are demonstrating competitive ’all in’ pricing, strong ROI and economics for rooftop owners, and many enthusiastic new and repeat customers.”
The new financing also included the restructuring of the Company’s outstanding indebtedness. Solyndra’s existing convertible notes have been exchanged for new notes and the U.S. Department of Energy which provided a loan guarantee agreed to certain loan modifications including an extension of the amortization period. Together with the existing indebtedness, the new credit facility is secured by all assets of the Company.
“Solyndra has excellent marketplace momentum, with record installations of our product in the fourth quarter and annual revenues exceeding $140 million last year,” said Brian Harrison, Solyndra’s president and CEO. “With strong acceptance of our 200 Series product, we are seeing growth in the U.S. and markets throughout Europe. We have recently reached a number of significant milestones, including the shipment of nearly 100 megawatts of panels, the completion of more than 1,000 installations in 20 countries and the announcement of our PV greenhouse solution.”
The company’s construction of its new, world-class manufacturing and customer demonstration facility is complete. The 300,000 square foot project was completed ahead of schedule, employing approximately 3000 construction workers. Installation of the remaining production tools occurs in 2011 and will bring Solyndra’s annual production run rate to approximately 200 MW per year by year’s end. When fully ramped, the new facility’s annual production capacity will reach 300MW per year. The new facility will also enable Solyndra to manufacture products with an installed system cost-of-goods sold (COGS) of approximately $2 per watt in the first quarter of 2013, which is expected to be highly competitive with all other technologies.
“We are confident that with this round of funding and the continued support of our existing investors we are on track to be cash flow positive at the end of this year,” continued Harrison. “Solyndra’s fast and easy to install panels are a proven and scalable solar solution, ideal for rooftop applications. Today we are demonstrating competitive ’all in’ pricing, strong ROI and economics for rooftop owners, and many enthusiastic new and repeat customers.”
The new financing also included the restructuring of the Company’s outstanding indebtedness. Solyndra’s existing convertible notes have been exchanged for new notes and the U.S. Department of Energy which provided a loan guarantee agreed to certain loan modifications including an extension of the amortization period. Together with the existing indebtedness, the new credit facility is secured by all assets of the Company.
Cupertino Electric Completes Multi-Campus Solar System for Petaluma School District to Help Decrease Energy Costs
SAN JOSE, Calif.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Cupertino Electric, Inc.’s (CEI) Energy Alternatives Division today announced the completion of a 1 Megawatt (MW) solar photovoltaic system at multiple Petaluma Joint High School District (District) campuses. The 1 MW Cupertino Electric-designed solar system located in Petaluma, Calif. is comprised of two smaller systems mounted on parking lot canopies at Casa Grande High School and Petaluma High School.
“The completion of our new, two-campus solar system designed and built by Cupertino Electric will enable us to decrease our energy costs and increase our student-related spending,” said Steve Bolman, deputy superintendent for business services for Petaluma City Schools.
About the Petaluma School District Solar System
Construction of the 1 MW solar system began in the fall of 2010 and resulted in a 675 kilowatt (kW) PV system at Casa Grande High School and a 385 kW system at Petaluma High School. The solar project’s installation and financing contracts were overseen by TerraVerde Renewable Partners (TVRP), which is also providing a grant to the District to educate teachers on how to integrate solar concepts into the District’s math, science, construction and drafting curricula.
About the Petaluma Joint Union High School District
The Petaluma Joint Union High School District is committed to providing opportunities for all students to be challenged and motivated in school so that, upon graduation, they will be successful in their future educational endeavors, careers and community. For more information, visit: www.petalumacityschools.org.
About TerraVerde Renewable Partners
TerraVerde Renewable Partners (TVRP) develops renewable energy facilities for local, state, and federal governments, school districts, and non-profit building and property owners. Its solar energy systems provide clients a fairly priced, reliable, long-term, inflation-hedged source of “green” energy. To learn more, visit: www.tvrpllc.com.
About Cupertino Electric, Inc.
Cupertino Electric, Inc. (CEI) is headquartered in San Jose, Calif. and has provided expert engineering and construction services for a constantly evolving world for more than 56 years. Its Energy Alternatives Division designs, constructs and manages innovative solar and alternative energy solutions. For more information, visit www.cei.com.
“The completion of our new, two-campus solar system designed and built by Cupertino Electric will enable us to decrease our energy costs and increase our student-related spending,” said Steve Bolman, deputy superintendent for business services for Petaluma City Schools.
About the Petaluma School District Solar System
Construction of the 1 MW solar system began in the fall of 2010 and resulted in a 675 kilowatt (kW) PV system at Casa Grande High School and a 385 kW system at Petaluma High School. The solar project’s installation and financing contracts were overseen by TerraVerde Renewable Partners (TVRP), which is also providing a grant to the District to educate teachers on how to integrate solar concepts into the District’s math, science, construction and drafting curricula.
About the Petaluma Joint Union High School District
The Petaluma Joint Union High School District is committed to providing opportunities for all students to be challenged and motivated in school so that, upon graduation, they will be successful in their future educational endeavors, careers and community. For more information, visit: www.petalumacityschools.org.
About TerraVerde Renewable Partners
TerraVerde Renewable Partners (TVRP) develops renewable energy facilities for local, state, and federal governments, school districts, and non-profit building and property owners. Its solar energy systems provide clients a fairly priced, reliable, long-term, inflation-hedged source of “green” energy. To learn more, visit: www.tvrpllc.com.
About Cupertino Electric, Inc.
Cupertino Electric, Inc. (CEI) is headquartered in San Jose, Calif. and has provided expert engineering and construction services for a constantly evolving world for more than 56 years. Its Energy Alternatives Division designs, constructs and manages innovative solar and alternative energy solutions. For more information, visit www.cei.com.
U.S. Department of Energy and Masdar Collaborate in Testing Cutting-Edge Solar PV Coating Technologies
ABU DHABI, United Arab Emirates--(BUSINESS WIRE)--The U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) and Masdar, Abu Dhabi's multifaceted renewable energy initiative, announced that they will collaborate to test the performance of specially coated solar photovoltaic modules designed to avoid the moisture and cementation problems currently faced by PV module producers worldwide and prevent dry dust adhesion.
Developed by the U.S. National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL)–the U.S. federal laboratory dedicated to the research, development, commercialization and deployment of renewable energy and energy efficiency technologies–the coatings have been selected for testing following exchanges of scientific and technical information with Masdar, including soil sample collection and site visits to Abu Dhabi. The cooperation is a direct result of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) that was signed by the DOE and Masdar last April to promote collaboration on clean and sustainable energy technologies.
Daniel B. Poneman, U.S. Deputy Secretary of Energy, and Dr. Sultan Al Jaber, CEO of Masdar, made the joint announcement at the solar test field of the specially coated photovoltaic modules located within Masdar City, which serves a clean tech cluster and test-bed of renewable energy and sustainable technologies.
Deputy Secretary Poneman said: “This collaborative testing exemplifies the shared vision of the United States and the United Arab Emirates to advance innovation and clean energy solutions. Masdar’s innovative test-bed supports the development of the cutting-edge technologies that will help overcome our energy challenges and aid economic growth. Through bilateral relationships like this, we can help build a secure, prosperous and sustainable energy future for the citizens of our nations and the world.”
Dr. Al Jaber said: “This pilot project demonstrates the real, tangible benefits created by the ongoing cooperation between the United Arab Emirates and the United States of America. Our strong alignment in renewable energy research and development will not only benefit both of our nations, but also the global transition towards clean energy solutions.
“Collaboration and increased international partnerships can generate vital momentum in addressing the energy challenges of today– creating a pathway for thriving, diversified economies and clean energy innovation,” added Dr. Al Jaber.
Since signing the MoU in April 2010, bilateral working groups have been carrying out significant scientific and technical information exchange in areas including carbon capture and sequestration, buildings technology, clean energy sector national outreach, as well as investment-oriented analysis with the Advanced Research Projects Agency—Energy (ARPA-E).
“Acting as a test-bed for the United States to evaluate new technologies affirms Masdar’s global leadership as a hub for collaboration in renewable energy and clean technology development,” added Dr. Al Jaber. “It is a testament to Masdar’s commitment to work in parallel with global partners to advance the adoption of clean energy worldwide and foster human and scientific development.”
The United States and the United Arab Emirates will continue collaboration when the second Clean Energy Ministerial is held in Abu Dhabi on April 6-7, 2011. U.S. Secretary of Energy Dr. Steven Chu, alongside other member nations, will be in attendance. Established in 2009, the high-level global forum brings together governments to promote policies and programs that advance clean energy technology and facilitate the transition to a global clean energy economy.
Developed by the U.S. National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL)–the U.S. federal laboratory dedicated to the research, development, commercialization and deployment of renewable energy and energy efficiency technologies–the coatings have been selected for testing following exchanges of scientific and technical information with Masdar, including soil sample collection and site visits to Abu Dhabi. The cooperation is a direct result of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) that was signed by the DOE and Masdar last April to promote collaboration on clean and sustainable energy technologies.
Daniel B. Poneman, U.S. Deputy Secretary of Energy, and Dr. Sultan Al Jaber, CEO of Masdar, made the joint announcement at the solar test field of the specially coated photovoltaic modules located within Masdar City, which serves a clean tech cluster and test-bed of renewable energy and sustainable technologies.
Deputy Secretary Poneman said: “This collaborative testing exemplifies the shared vision of the United States and the United Arab Emirates to advance innovation and clean energy solutions. Masdar’s innovative test-bed supports the development of the cutting-edge technologies that will help overcome our energy challenges and aid economic growth. Through bilateral relationships like this, we can help build a secure, prosperous and sustainable energy future for the citizens of our nations and the world.”
Dr. Al Jaber said: “This pilot project demonstrates the real, tangible benefits created by the ongoing cooperation between the United Arab Emirates and the United States of America. Our strong alignment in renewable energy research and development will not only benefit both of our nations, but also the global transition towards clean energy solutions.
“Collaboration and increased international partnerships can generate vital momentum in addressing the energy challenges of today– creating a pathway for thriving, diversified economies and clean energy innovation,” added Dr. Al Jaber.
Since signing the MoU in April 2010, bilateral working groups have been carrying out significant scientific and technical information exchange in areas including carbon capture and sequestration, buildings technology, clean energy sector national outreach, as well as investment-oriented analysis with the Advanced Research Projects Agency—Energy (ARPA-E).
“Acting as a test-bed for the United States to evaluate new technologies affirms Masdar’s global leadership as a hub for collaboration in renewable energy and clean technology development,” added Dr. Al Jaber. “It is a testament to Masdar’s commitment to work in parallel with global partners to advance the adoption of clean energy worldwide and foster human and scientific development.”
The United States and the United Arab Emirates will continue collaboration when the second Clean Energy Ministerial is held in Abu Dhabi on April 6-7, 2011. U.S. Secretary of Energy Dr. Steven Chu, alongside other member nations, will be in attendance. Established in 2009, the high-level global forum brings together governments to promote policies and programs that advance clean energy technology and facilitate the transition to a global clean energy economy.
Upsolar Builds Position in Japanese Market with J-PEC Certification
TOKYO--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Upsolar, a leading international solar module supplier, today announced the Japan Photovoltaic Expansion Center (J-PEC) certified a system configuration featuring its solar photovoltaic (PV) modules. Known for its high performance requirements, the J-PEC certification obtained on February 3rd assures that Upsolar products can be installed on residences and commercial facilities in Japan and qualify for government solar subsidies.
Upsolar entered the Japanese market in 2010, establishing an office in Tokyo and working with a local partner to expand into the Japanese market. To receive J-PEC certification, the company compiled quality system components, including inverters, racking systems and the Upsolar modules, for review by the Center.
“J-PEC certification is a critical step for any solar technology provider committed to the Japanese market,” Zhe Jiang, CEO of Upsolar said. “Achieving recognition from J-PEC is a testament to Upsolar’s high quality standards. We look forward to serving the growing Japanese solar market by offering the best price-to-quality ratio available.”
Upsolar’s quality is a result of its “Excellence at Each Step” module manufacturing process. From the company’s flagship Test and Development Centre, Upsolar’s experienced technology team rigorously examines its modules to guarantee that products operate at maximum performance levels. The company also oversees stringent quality control measures at a variety of production centers around the world.
Upsolar’s modules are backed by the industry-leading PowerCLIP insurance program from PowerGuard Specialty Insurance Services, which provides installation owners with non-cancellable coverage from a network of trusted insurance partners. The company’s products are further protected by Upsolar’s Reinforced Warranty, which guarantees superior module output for 25 years.
Upsolar entered the Japanese market in 2010, establishing an office in Tokyo and working with a local partner to expand into the Japanese market. To receive J-PEC certification, the company compiled quality system components, including inverters, racking systems and the Upsolar modules, for review by the Center.
“J-PEC certification is a critical step for any solar technology provider committed to the Japanese market,” Zhe Jiang, CEO of Upsolar said. “Achieving recognition from J-PEC is a testament to Upsolar’s high quality standards. We look forward to serving the growing Japanese solar market by offering the best price-to-quality ratio available.”
Upsolar’s quality is a result of its “Excellence at Each Step” module manufacturing process. From the company’s flagship Test and Development Centre, Upsolar’s experienced technology team rigorously examines its modules to guarantee that products operate at maximum performance levels. The company also oversees stringent quality control measures at a variety of production centers around the world.
Upsolar’s modules are backed by the industry-leading PowerCLIP insurance program from PowerGuard Specialty Insurance Services, which provides installation owners with non-cancellable coverage from a network of trusted insurance partners. The company’s products are further protected by Upsolar’s Reinforced Warranty, which guarantees superior module output for 25 years.
GT Solar Receives $41.6 Million Order for Sapphire Crystallization Furnaces from New Asia-Based Customer
MERRIMACK, N.H.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--GT Solar International, Inc. (NASDAQ: SOLR), a global provider of polysilicon production technology, and sapphire and silicon crystalline growth systems and materials for the solar, LED and other specialty markets, today announced that it has received an order valued at over $41 million dollars for its advanced sapphire crystallization furnaces. This is GT Solar’s fourth order for its sapphire crystallization furnaces in recent months.
“We continue to see interest in our advanced sapphire furnace from new market entrants who are interested in producing sapphire material for high brightness (HB) LED applications,” said Tom Gutierrez, GT Solar’s president and CEO. “Our sapphire crystallization furnace provides a scalable and reliable architecture allowing companies to quickly ramp to volume production to produce low-cost, large area sapphire substrates.”
GT Solar’s crystallization process technology and global support resources provide a path to productive and profitable sapphire manufacturing operations. The furnaces ordered by the new manufacturer will initially produce 85 kilogram boules. During its recent Q3 FY11 quarterly earnings call, GT Solar announced an enhancement to the advanced sapphire furnace that will increase the output capacity to 100 kilograms per cycle. This scalability gives customers an upgrade path to higher levels of throughput and productivity and provides a higher return on their investment.
“We continue to see interest in our advanced sapphire furnace from new market entrants who are interested in producing sapphire material for high brightness (HB) LED applications,” said Tom Gutierrez, GT Solar’s president and CEO. “Our sapphire crystallization furnace provides a scalable and reliable architecture allowing companies to quickly ramp to volume production to produce low-cost, large area sapphire substrates.”
GT Solar’s crystallization process technology and global support resources provide a path to productive and profitable sapphire manufacturing operations. The furnaces ordered by the new manufacturer will initially produce 85 kilogram boules. During its recent Q3 FY11 quarterly earnings call, GT Solar announced an enhancement to the advanced sapphire furnace that will increase the output capacity to 100 kilograms per cycle. This scalability gives customers an upgrade path to higher levels of throughput and productivity and provides a higher return on their investment.
Saturday, February 26, 2011
Wisconsin's First Solar Module Manufacturer Opens Its Doors
MILWAUKEE, Feb. 25, 2011 /PRNewswire/ -- Helios USA, LLC, a solar manufacturer located in Milwaukee's Menomonee Valley, announces the opening of its new manufacturing facility at 1207 West Canal Street. To mark the occasion, the company will host a ribbon-cutting event on February 28 at 3:30 p.m. to showcase its focus on renewable energy and the creation of green jobs in Milwaukee.
Helios is already manufacturing panels and is fully operational with panels being shipped locally, regionally and nationally. The company expects to create more than 50 new, permanent clean energy jobs. Milwaukee Mayor Tom Barrett, Wisconsin Department of Workforce Development Secretary Perez and other state and local officials, as well as renewable energy industry leaders, are expected to attend the event.
"Milwaukee's commitment to renewable energy and its expertise in manufacturing makes this an ideal location for Helios. Together we can contribute to a renewed strength in manufacturing by delivering clean, safe, and economical energy," said Steve Ostrenga, CEO, Helios. "After months of planning, we're looking forward to celebrating and thanking those that helped achieve our shared vision of creating this energy efficient facility."
By locating its first manufacturing facility in Milwaukee's Menomonee Valley, Helios is Wisconsin's first manufacturer of high-performance solar modules for use in residential, commercial, industrial, and utility-based solar electric systems. The company's high-efficiency modules create new market opportunities by making solar electricity more attractive and economical
Helios is already manufacturing panels and is fully operational with panels being shipped locally, regionally and nationally. The company expects to create more than 50 new, permanent clean energy jobs. Milwaukee Mayor Tom Barrett, Wisconsin Department of Workforce Development Secretary Perez and other state and local officials, as well as renewable energy industry leaders, are expected to attend the event.
"Milwaukee's commitment to renewable energy and its expertise in manufacturing makes this an ideal location for Helios. Together we can contribute to a renewed strength in manufacturing by delivering clean, safe, and economical energy," said Steve Ostrenga, CEO, Helios. "After months of planning, we're looking forward to celebrating and thanking those that helped achieve our shared vision of creating this energy efficient facility."
By locating its first manufacturing facility in Milwaukee's Menomonee Valley, Helios is Wisconsin's first manufacturer of high-performance solar modules for use in residential, commercial, industrial, and utility-based solar electric systems. The company's high-efficiency modules create new market opportunities by making solar electricity more attractive and economical
Evergreen Solar to Host Fourth Quarter Conference Call on Thursday, March 10, 2011
MARLBORO, Mass.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Evergreen Solar, Inc. (NasdaqCM: ESLR), a manufacturer of STRING RIBBON® solar power products with its proprietary, low-cost silicon wafer manufacturing technology, announced today that it will release fully audited fourth quarter financial results for the period ended December 31, 2010 after the market closes on Wednesday, March 9, 2011.
Management will conduct a conference call at 8:30 a.m. (ET) the following day, Thursday, March 10, 2011. The call will be webcast live over the Internet and can be accessed by logging on to the "Investors" section of Evergreen Solar's website, www.evergreensolar.com prior to the event.
The call also can be accessed by dialing 800-930-1344 or 913-981-5556 (International) prior to the start of the call and refer to confirmation code 5786731.
For those unable to join the live conference call, a webcast replay will be available on the “Investors” page of the website until Friday, March 25, 2011 at 5:00 p.m. (ET).
Management will conduct a conference call at 8:30 a.m. (ET) the following day, Thursday, March 10, 2011. The call will be webcast live over the Internet and can be accessed by logging on to the "Investors" section of Evergreen Solar's website, www.evergreensolar.com prior to the event.
The call also can be accessed by dialing 800-930-1344 or 913-981-5556 (International) prior to the start of the call and refer to confirmation code 5786731.
For those unable to join the live conference call, a webcast replay will be available on the “Investors” page of the website until Friday, March 25, 2011 at 5:00 p.m. (ET).
Friday, February 25, 2011
Ascent Solar to Present at the 2011 Pacific Crest Emerging Technology Summit
THORNTON, Colo.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Ascent Solar Technologies, Inc. (NASDAQ:ASTI), a developer of state-of-the-art, flexible thin-film photovoltaic modules, announced that the company will present to the investment community at the 2011 Pacific Crest Emerging Technology Summit on March 1, 2011 in San Francisco, CA.
Investors interested in meeting with the company at the conference should contact their Pacific-Crest salesperson.
About Ascent Solar Technologies:
Ascent Solar Technologies, Inc. is a developer of thin-film photovoltaic modules with substrate materials that can be more flexible and affordable than most traditional solar panels. Ascent Solar modules can be directly integrated into standard building materials, commercial transportation, automotive solutions, space applications, consumer electronics for portable power or configured as stand-alone modules for large scale terrestrial deployment. Ascent Solar is headquartered in Thornton, Colo. Additional information can be found at www.ascentsolar.com.
Investors interested in meeting with the company at the conference should contact their Pacific-Crest salesperson.
About Ascent Solar Technologies:
Ascent Solar Technologies, Inc. is a developer of thin-film photovoltaic modules with substrate materials that can be more flexible and affordable than most traditional solar panels. Ascent Solar modules can be directly integrated into standard building materials, commercial transportation, automotive solutions, space applications, consumer electronics for portable power or configured as stand-alone modules for large scale terrestrial deployment. Ascent Solar is headquartered in Thornton, Colo. Additional information can be found at www.ascentsolar.com.
SunEdison Awarded Additional 31 MW (AC) of Solar Projects by the Ontario Power Authority
TORONTO, Feb. 25, 2011 /PRNewswire/ -- SunEdison, a leading worldwide solar energy services provider and a subsidiary of MEMC Electronic Materials, Inc. (NYSE: WFR), has been awarded 31 Megawatts (MW) AC of solar photovoltaic (PV) projects by The Ontario Power Authority (OPA) as part of the province's landmark Feed-in Tariff (FIT*) program. This recent announcement adds to the 28 MW of ground-mount and rooftop solar projects already deployed by SunEdison in Ontario.
With more than 390 solar deployments worldwide, SunEdison will leverage our global experience to finance, build, operate, monitor and maintain the additional five photovoltaic solar energy systems in Ontario. Located in communities across the province including Mississauga, Whitby, Drummond, Rideau Lakes and Ingleside, the projects will generate over 47 million kilowatt hours (kWh) of clean energy in the first year of operation and produce over 873 million kWh over 20 years. That is enough energy to power more than 76,000 average Canadian homes for one year.
"As a leading worldwide provider of solar energy services, SunEdison has the experience and capabilities required to play a pivotal role in building Canada's renewable energy industry," said Jason Gray, Canada Country Manager for SunEdison. "We believe that solar energy is a key component of the province's energy mix and that by working closely with government and business partners, we can create jobs, generate green power and ensure a sustainable renewable energy sector for Ontario."
SunEdison was awarded two (2) 10 MW projects in Rideau Lakes, one (1) 10MW project in South Stormont, one (1) 500kW project in Mississauga, and one (1) 500kW project in Whitby.
With more than 390 solar deployments worldwide, SunEdison will leverage our global experience to finance, build, operate, monitor and maintain the additional five photovoltaic solar energy systems in Ontario. Located in communities across the province including Mississauga, Whitby, Drummond, Rideau Lakes and Ingleside, the projects will generate over 47 million kilowatt hours (kWh) of clean energy in the first year of operation and produce over 873 million kWh over 20 years. That is enough energy to power more than 76,000 average Canadian homes for one year.
"As a leading worldwide provider of solar energy services, SunEdison has the experience and capabilities required to play a pivotal role in building Canada's renewable energy industry," said Jason Gray, Canada Country Manager for SunEdison. "We believe that solar energy is a key component of the province's energy mix and that by working closely with government and business partners, we can create jobs, generate green power and ensure a sustainable renewable energy sector for Ontario."
SunEdison was awarded two (2) 10 MW projects in Rideau Lakes, one (1) 10MW project in South Stormont, one (1) 500kW project in Mississauga, and one (1) 500kW project in Whitby.
Procter & Gamble Pledges to Pursue LEED Certification for All New Sites Globally
CINCINNATI, Feb. 25, 2011 /PRNewswire/ -- Procter & Gamble (NYSE: PG) today announces its commitment to pursue LEED certification for all new sites. P&G's Taicang plant in China – which is breaking ground today – is the first P&G manufacturing site to pursue LEED certification, with several additional new P&G sites currently working toward the same distinction globally.
"Pursuing LEED certification for all new sites including offices, innovation centers, and our manufacturing and distribution centers is the next evolution in our facility eco-design process that will ensure excellence in sustainable design," said Keith Harrison, P&G global product supply officer. "Having all of our new sites LEED certified will help us make progress toward our long-term sustainability vision which includes powering our plants with 100% renewable energy and zero manufacturing waste to landfill."
Established by the U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC), LEED is the nation's preeminent program for the design, construction and operation of high performance green buildings.
"LEED certified green buildings contribute to saving energy, water and money," said Doug Gatlin, Vice President, U.S. Green Building Council. "P&G pursuing LEED certification represents a firm commitment to improving our environment for future generations."
The Taicang plant, the first P&G site to register for LEED certification, features notable environmental aspects such as:
* Water: Maximizing beneficial water re-use while minimizing water consumption through efforts such as recovering steam condensate for domestic water needs and harvesting rainwater to replenish on-site landscaping water.
* Energy :Features an outdoor lighting system powered by a combination of solar energy and use of high efficiency mechanical equipment.
* Waste: Operational design to maximize waste recycling and ultimately achieve zero waste to landfill.
All new P&G sites, including those in the U.S., that are currently in design phase or early construction are working toward achieving LEED certification. In countries where equivalent programs are available, P&G is also committing to meet all local certification standards. This effort amplifies P&G's approach to ensure holistic end-to-end sustainability considerations, including P&G's environmental supplier scorecard.
"Pursuing LEED certification for all new sites including offices, innovation centers, and our manufacturing and distribution centers is the next evolution in our facility eco-design process that will ensure excellence in sustainable design," said Keith Harrison, P&G global product supply officer. "Having all of our new sites LEED certified will help us make progress toward our long-term sustainability vision which includes powering our plants with 100% renewable energy and zero manufacturing waste to landfill."
Established by the U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC), LEED is the nation's preeminent program for the design, construction and operation of high performance green buildings.
"LEED certified green buildings contribute to saving energy, water and money," said Doug Gatlin, Vice President, U.S. Green Building Council. "P&G pursuing LEED certification represents a firm commitment to improving our environment for future generations."
The Taicang plant, the first P&G site to register for LEED certification, features notable environmental aspects such as:
* Water: Maximizing beneficial water re-use while minimizing water consumption through efforts such as recovering steam condensate for domestic water needs and harvesting rainwater to replenish on-site landscaping water.
* Energy :Features an outdoor lighting system powered by a combination of solar energy and use of high efficiency mechanical equipment.
* Waste: Operational design to maximize waste recycling and ultimately achieve zero waste to landfill.
All new P&G sites, including those in the U.S., that are currently in design phase or early construction are working toward achieving LEED certification. In countries where equivalent programs are available, P&G is also committing to meet all local certification standards. This effort amplifies P&G's approach to ensure holistic end-to-end sustainability considerations, including P&G's environmental supplier scorecard.
ET Solar Announces Completion and Grid Connection of a 2.9MW Power Plant in Germany
NANJING, China, Feb. 25, 2011 /PRNewswire-Asia/ -- ET Solar Group Corp. ("ET Solar"), a China-based vertically integrated manufacturer of PV products and photovoltaic ("PV") system turnkey solution provider, announced completion and grid connection of a 2.9MW ground mounted PV power plant for Wattner AG ("Wattner") where ET Solar acted as the EPC contractor and module supplier.
Located in Frankenberg, the power plant covers a total area of 6.5 hectares. Construction started in September 2010 and grid connection was achieved in December. The plant was designed to generate approximately 2.6 million kWh electricity annually and reduce nearly 45,000 tons of carbon emission over a 30-year life.
The project is the third ground-mounted power plant that ET Solar engineered, procured equipment for and constructed for Wattner using ET Solar modules in Germany. The three projects totaled more than 6.2MW and are located in three different sites across the country.
Dr. Linhui Sui, head of ET Solar's European system operations, commented, "We are very excited with the completion of the third power plant for Wattner. The project further proved our strong design, internal module supply and project management capabilities and solidified our track record in the world's leading PV market. We look forward to continuing to provide system services to our customers in other markets."
Mr. Guido Ingwer, Managing Partner of Wattner, added, "We are very satisfied with ET Solar's project execution capabilities given the timely completion of the Frankenberg project amid extremely severe weather conditions. Furthermore, the higher-than-designed performance ratios of the 1.9MW Paehl project over the 1-year operating period clearly proved ET Solar's robust plant design capabilities and module quality, and added good investor value for us."
Located in Frankenberg, the power plant covers a total area of 6.5 hectares. Construction started in September 2010 and grid connection was achieved in December. The plant was designed to generate approximately 2.6 million kWh electricity annually and reduce nearly 45,000 tons of carbon emission over a 30-year life.
The project is the third ground-mounted power plant that ET Solar engineered, procured equipment for and constructed for Wattner using ET Solar modules in Germany. The three projects totaled more than 6.2MW and are located in three different sites across the country.
Dr. Linhui Sui, head of ET Solar's European system operations, commented, "We are very excited with the completion of the third power plant for Wattner. The project further proved our strong design, internal module supply and project management capabilities and solidified our track record in the world's leading PV market. We look forward to continuing to provide system services to our customers in other markets."
Mr. Guido Ingwer, Managing Partner of Wattner, added, "We are very satisfied with ET Solar's project execution capabilities given the timely completion of the Frankenberg project amid extremely severe weather conditions. Furthermore, the higher-than-designed performance ratios of the 1.9MW Paehl project over the 1-year operating period clearly proved ET Solar's robust plant design capabilities and module quality, and added good investor value for us."
Soltage's New V.P. of Finance, Kwon-Kyun Chung, Shines in Solar Energy Project Development and Funding
ERSEY CITY, N.J., Feb. 24, 2011/PRNewswire/ --Soltage, LLC, a renewable energy provider that develops, finances, builds, owns and operates solar energy systems under a power purchase agreement at client facilities across the U.S. — is delighted to announce the addition of Kwon-Kyun Chung to its staff as Vice President of Finance. Mr. Chung has more than 15 years experience in the energy/power sector, including developing, arranging, and financing the construction of large solar projects. Amongst other notable projects, he played a critical role in the financing of one of the first merchant power plants in the US, Sithe Boston Generating (1,500 MW), located in Boston, MA in 2001.
Soltage's CFO, George P. Schaefer says, "We are proud to announce that Kwon Chung has joined the firm. Kwon has worked in developing and funding renewable energy projects both in the US and abroad. His experience and expertise bring additional strength to solar energy project development and finance to Soltage that is very exciting." Kwon worked for three years at Alinda Capital Partners, where he was responsible for the origination of investments in energy and infrastructure projects in excess of $2 billion. He has been with Dresdner Kleinwort Wasserstein and WestLB where he completed various energy project financings in excess of $1 billion.
Jesse Grossman, CEO of Soltage adds, "Kwon's experience in diverse energy and infrastructure project development and financing is a tremendous asset to Soltage. We are pleased to have him join the team at this stage of our growth and look forward to his contributions in 2011 and beyond." Kwon holds the degrees of B.A. and Master of International Affairs from Columbia University with a major in international finance. He lives in Jersey City, NJ.
Soltage's CFO, George P. Schaefer says, "We are proud to announce that Kwon Chung has joined the firm. Kwon has worked in developing and funding renewable energy projects both in the US and abroad. His experience and expertise bring additional strength to solar energy project development and finance to Soltage that is very exciting." Kwon worked for three years at Alinda Capital Partners, where he was responsible for the origination of investments in energy and infrastructure projects in excess of $2 billion. He has been with Dresdner Kleinwort Wasserstein and WestLB where he completed various energy project financings in excess of $1 billion.
Jesse Grossman, CEO of Soltage adds, "Kwon's experience in diverse energy and infrastructure project development and financing is a tremendous asset to Soltage. We are pleased to have him join the team at this stage of our growth and look forward to his contributions in 2011 and beyond." Kwon holds the degrees of B.A. and Master of International Affairs from Columbia University with a major in international finance. He lives in Jersey City, NJ.
Randolph Indoor Sports Pavilion Goes Solar With Help of Vanguard Energy Partners and Capital One Bank
RANDOLPH, N.J., Feb. 24, 2011 /PRNewswire/ -- Vanguard Energy Partners today announced the completion of the Indoor Sports Pavilion's (ISP) 360 kW solar photovoltaic (PV) system that will help power the athletic facility with clean renewable energy. The grid-tied array will help transform the arena into a high-performance "net-zero electric" building that hosts tens of thousands of athletes and spectators from the community every year.
Vanguard, a leader in the northeast for design and installation of large-scale solar projects, installed 1,556 roof-mounted panels that will generate approximately 94 percent of the electricity needed to power the 78,000-square foot athletic center which houses multiple sports fields. ISP is expected to achieve net-zero electric status with additional energy efficiency initiatives like lighting retrofits and natural gas heating.
"We applaud the Indoor Sports Pavilion for taking the lead in the community to reduce their carbon footprint by utilizing solar and focusing on energy efficiency," said Vice President of Operations, Tom Buono. "Achieving net zero is a challenging feat and it takes a strong commitment that will benefit the environment and people in the community."
"Going solar has always been a long-term goal for us, and we're excited to be generating our own electricity," said Jeff Walder, owner of the Indoor Sports Pavilion. "On certain days, we will actually be pumping excess electricity back in to the grid to help provide power for our neighbors," said Mr. Walder.
This solar array is estimated to produce 373,282 kWh of energy in the first year, which will reduce CO2 emissions by 591,010 pounds per year. That is equivalent to saving 30,155 gallons of gasoline or recycling 90 tons of waste.
"ISP could not have made this solar project viable without the knowledge and commitment of Capital One Bank," said Mr. Walder. "The Bank financed this entire 'green' energy venture."
The Indoor Sports Pavilion will have the ability to evaluate its power consumption, solar production and system efficiency using SunFlow Monitor, a real-time, web based monitoring system provided by Noveda Technologies. SunFlow Monitor will help ensure the solar electric system is performing as designed for maximum output. The high-definition monitor will be on public display at the facility's main entrance.
Vanguard, a leader in the northeast for design and installation of large-scale solar projects, installed 1,556 roof-mounted panels that will generate approximately 94 percent of the electricity needed to power the 78,000-square foot athletic center which houses multiple sports fields. ISP is expected to achieve net-zero electric status with additional energy efficiency initiatives like lighting retrofits and natural gas heating.
"We applaud the Indoor Sports Pavilion for taking the lead in the community to reduce their carbon footprint by utilizing solar and focusing on energy efficiency," said Vice President of Operations, Tom Buono. "Achieving net zero is a challenging feat and it takes a strong commitment that will benefit the environment and people in the community."
"Going solar has always been a long-term goal for us, and we're excited to be generating our own electricity," said Jeff Walder, owner of the Indoor Sports Pavilion. "On certain days, we will actually be pumping excess electricity back in to the grid to help provide power for our neighbors," said Mr. Walder.
This solar array is estimated to produce 373,282 kWh of energy in the first year, which will reduce CO2 emissions by 591,010 pounds per year. That is equivalent to saving 30,155 gallons of gasoline or recycling 90 tons of waste.
"ISP could not have made this solar project viable without the knowledge and commitment of Capital One Bank," said Mr. Walder. "The Bank financed this entire 'green' energy venture."
The Indoor Sports Pavilion will have the ability to evaluate its power consumption, solar production and system efficiency using SunFlow Monitor, a real-time, web based monitoring system provided by Noveda Technologies. SunFlow Monitor will help ensure the solar electric system is performing as designed for maximum output. The high-definition monitor will be on public display at the facility's main entrance.
Here Enterprises Pursues Solar Power Generation to Meet Alternative Energy Demand
LAS VEGAS, Feb. 24, 2011 /PRNewswire/ -- Here Enterprises Inc. (Pink Sheets: HRTE), a growing developer of clean wind energy, is pleased to announce a new direction in the company's renewable energy strategy. Here Enterprises will pursue solar power generation in conjunction with its wind energy project in Floresville, Texas. The Company recently commenced construction of wind turbines at its Cycle Ranch project and now plans to erect solar arrays to maximize the project's potential for profitable clean energy generation.
According to the United States Department of Energy, net electricity generation in the U.S. rose 3% between year-end 2009 and 2010. Net generation of solar-powered electricity, over the same period, increased 44%, and nearly 130% since 2005. (U.S. Energy Information Administration, "Electric Power Monthly", February 2011)
Solar electric energy demand continues to grow due to rapidly declining costs and prices. Economies of manufacturing scale, manufacturing technology improvements, and the increasing efficiency of solar cells have driven cost declines, increasing the attractiveness and viability of solar power generation for Here Enterprises.
Mark Ryun, CEO of Here Enterprises, commented: "Solar power generation is the perfect complement to our wind energy operations, enabling Here Enterprises to maximize power generation and profitability for our Cycle Ranch project. Increasing energy demand, weighed against the high cost of fossil fuel power generation, is creating substantial growth in the alternative energy market. We are excited to enter the solar sector in pursuit of our clean energy objectives."
Here Enterprises acquired its first clean energy development project, Cycle Ranch, in September, 2010. The Company is engaged in building wind energy generation facilities on the Cycle Ranch site in conjunction with its operating, revenue-positive motocross speedway business. The addition of solar arrays is expected to add significantly to the production and profitability of clean energy generated at Cycle Ranch.
According to the United States Department of Energy, net electricity generation in the U.S. rose 3% between year-end 2009 and 2010. Net generation of solar-powered electricity, over the same period, increased 44%, and nearly 130% since 2005. (U.S. Energy Information Administration, "Electric Power Monthly", February 2011)
Solar electric energy demand continues to grow due to rapidly declining costs and prices. Economies of manufacturing scale, manufacturing technology improvements, and the increasing efficiency of solar cells have driven cost declines, increasing the attractiveness and viability of solar power generation for Here Enterprises.
Mark Ryun, CEO of Here Enterprises, commented: "Solar power generation is the perfect complement to our wind energy operations, enabling Here Enterprises to maximize power generation and profitability for our Cycle Ranch project. Increasing energy demand, weighed against the high cost of fossil fuel power generation, is creating substantial growth in the alternative energy market. We are excited to enter the solar sector in pursuit of our clean energy objectives."
Here Enterprises acquired its first clean energy development project, Cycle Ranch, in September, 2010. The Company is engaged in building wind energy generation facilities on the Cycle Ranch site in conjunction with its operating, revenue-positive motocross speedway business. The addition of solar arrays is expected to add significantly to the production and profitability of clean energy generated at Cycle Ranch.
Hanwha SolarOne Announces Preliminary Fourth Quarter 2010 Highlights of Unaudited Financial Results
SHANGHAI, Feb. 24, 2011 /PRNewswire/ -- Hanwha SolarOne Co., Ltd. ("Hanwha SolarOne" or the "Company") (Nasdaq: HSOL), a vertically integrated manufacturer of silicon ingots, wafers and photovoltaic ("PV") cells and modules in China, today announced certain preliminary highlights of the Company's fourth quarter ended December 31, 2010.
Fourth Quarter 2010 Highlights:
* Total net revenues are expected to be between USD325 to 330 million
* PV module shipments (including PV module processing) are expected to exceed 220 MW, surpassing the Company's previous guidance of 205 to 215 MW
* Average selling price ("ASP") excluding PV module processing is expected to be USD 1.77 per watt, slightly higher than the Company's guidance of USD1.75 per watt
* Gross margins are expected to be approximately 20%
First quarter 2011 Outlook:
* Total shipments (including PV module processing) are expected to be in the range of 235 MW to 245 MW
* ASP is expected to decline slightly from the fourth quarter 2010
Fiscal Year 2011 Outlook:
* PV module shipments are expected to reach between 1.0 to 1.2 GW
Dr. Peter Xie, President and CEO of the Company, commented, "We are pleased with our operating performance during the 2010 fiscal year and expect continued growth throughout 2011. We have good order visibility and expect to regain our momentum in shipment growth quarter-to-quarter. We also expect to benefit from relatively stable pricing as well as improved availability of purchased wafers and cells, which we believe will help to meet incremental demand."
"In the second half of 2011, we plan to increase our production capacity with heightened vertical integration, allowing us to improve our cost structure. We also plan to continue to make significant headway in our geographic diversification, growing beyond Germany to reach key overseas markets including China, Italy and the U.S."
Change in Management
On January 17, 2011, the Company appointed Mr. Sungsoo Lee to serve as Chief Strategy Officer and Board Secretary. Prior to joining Hanwha SolarOne, Mr. Lee was senior vice president of strategic planning and new business development at Hanwha Group, one of Korea's largest industrial conglomerates. At Hanwha Group, Mr. Lee led the development of new lines of business in the renewable energy field. Prior to joining Hanwha Group, Mr. Lee played a pivotal role founding Nemo Partners, a Korea-based management consulting firm. Prior to that, he was a consultant at Bain & Company, where he advised clients on corporate strategy, business portfolio management, M&A and marketing. Mr. Lee began his career at Samsung Group, where he led various corporate development activities and Samsung's entry into the incubator and venture capital industry in Silicon Valley.
Mr. Lee earned a bachelor's degree in Business Administration from Seoul National University, and an MBA degree from Harvard Business School.
"I am very pleased to announce the appointment of Mr. Sungsoo Lee as our Chief Strategy Officer and Board Secretary," said Dr. Xie. "Mr. Lee brings years of experience in new business development and corporate strategy to this important role. I believe his knowledge of trends in the global solar market and keen eye for growth opportunities will give us a unique advantage as we continue to grow our business."
The Company's Chief Operating Officer, Mr. Zhoumiao Gao, will resign to pursue other interests, effective February 25, 2011. Mr. Gao joined Hanwha SolarOne in 2007 and lead the Company's manufacturing operations. Dr. Xie will assist in the oversight of manufacturing operations in the interim until a new COO is found.
On the departure of Zhoumiao Gao, Dr. Xie commented, "On behalf of the entire organization of Hanwha SolarOne, I would like to express our gratitude to Mr. Gao for his leadership and many accomplishments. He has been a valued and respected colleague and we wish him the very best in his new endeavors. We have excellent manufacturing systems and people in place and look forward to building upon this solid foundation."
Fourth Quarter 2010 Highlights:
* Total net revenues are expected to be between USD325 to 330 million
* PV module shipments (including PV module processing) are expected to exceed 220 MW, surpassing the Company's previous guidance of 205 to 215 MW
* Average selling price ("ASP") excluding PV module processing is expected to be USD 1.77 per watt, slightly higher than the Company's guidance of USD1.75 per watt
* Gross margins are expected to be approximately 20%
First quarter 2011 Outlook:
* Total shipments (including PV module processing) are expected to be in the range of 235 MW to 245 MW
* ASP is expected to decline slightly from the fourth quarter 2010
Fiscal Year 2011 Outlook:
* PV module shipments are expected to reach between 1.0 to 1.2 GW
Dr. Peter Xie, President and CEO of the Company, commented, "We are pleased with our operating performance during the 2010 fiscal year and expect continued growth throughout 2011. We have good order visibility and expect to regain our momentum in shipment growth quarter-to-quarter. We also expect to benefit from relatively stable pricing as well as improved availability of purchased wafers and cells, which we believe will help to meet incremental demand."
"In the second half of 2011, we plan to increase our production capacity with heightened vertical integration, allowing us to improve our cost structure. We also plan to continue to make significant headway in our geographic diversification, growing beyond Germany to reach key overseas markets including China, Italy and the U.S."
Change in Management
On January 17, 2011, the Company appointed Mr. Sungsoo Lee to serve as Chief Strategy Officer and Board Secretary. Prior to joining Hanwha SolarOne, Mr. Lee was senior vice president of strategic planning and new business development at Hanwha Group, one of Korea's largest industrial conglomerates. At Hanwha Group, Mr. Lee led the development of new lines of business in the renewable energy field. Prior to joining Hanwha Group, Mr. Lee played a pivotal role founding Nemo Partners, a Korea-based management consulting firm. Prior to that, he was a consultant at Bain & Company, where he advised clients on corporate strategy, business portfolio management, M&A and marketing. Mr. Lee began his career at Samsung Group, where he led various corporate development activities and Samsung's entry into the incubator and venture capital industry in Silicon Valley.
Mr. Lee earned a bachelor's degree in Business Administration from Seoul National University, and an MBA degree from Harvard Business School.
"I am very pleased to announce the appointment of Mr. Sungsoo Lee as our Chief Strategy Officer and Board Secretary," said Dr. Xie. "Mr. Lee brings years of experience in new business development and corporate strategy to this important role. I believe his knowledge of trends in the global solar market and keen eye for growth opportunities will give us a unique advantage as we continue to grow our business."
The Company's Chief Operating Officer, Mr. Zhoumiao Gao, will resign to pursue other interests, effective February 25, 2011. Mr. Gao joined Hanwha SolarOne in 2007 and lead the Company's manufacturing operations. Dr. Xie will assist in the oversight of manufacturing operations in the interim until a new COO is found.
On the departure of Zhoumiao Gao, Dr. Xie commented, "On behalf of the entire organization of Hanwha SolarOne, I would like to express our gratitude to Mr. Gao for his leadership and many accomplishments. He has been a valued and respected colleague and we wish him the very best in his new endeavors. We have excellent manufacturing systems and people in place and look forward to building upon this solid foundation."
Oro Loma Sanitary District Turns Solar into Savings
SAN LORENZO, Calif.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Oro Loma Sanitary District, Solar Power Partners, and DRI Energy jointly announced today the completion of a single-tracker system, 468 kW-sized photovoltaic solar system. The system is designed to save the District over $2 million during the life of the contract with clean, renewable solar energy at zero out-of-pocket costs. This is made possible through a solar Power Purchase Agreement (PPA) with Mill-Valley based Solar Power Partners, who developed, financed, and will own and operate the solar facility.
Solar Power Partners and Oro Loma partnered with DRI Energy to design, build, and install the single-axis tracker project. DRI Energy used over 2,100 Trina Solar 220 watt modules on a Raytracker single-axis tracking system. The system is capable of generating over 822,000 kWh annually, saving the equivalent of 590 metric tons of CO2, equal to the one-year greenhouse gas emissions of 113 passenger vehicles, the CO2 emissions from the electricity use of 72 homes for one year.
“When the output from the solar array is combined with Oro Loma’s existing digester gas facility, the District will become 100% self sufficient in its electrical needs. The project makes sense from an environmental and economic perspective. We get electricity derived from the sun at a discount to existing utility rates,” said Jason Warner, Oro Loma Sanitary District General Manager.
In 2008, the District undertook the development of a solar project that would deliver power to its wastewater treatment facility, but initial parties involved were unable to complete the terms of the agreement. Solar Power Partners, who developed, owns, and operates several other solar systems for water and wastewater districts including the neighboring 1 MW dual-axis tracking system at West County Wastewater District in Richmond, CA, stepped in.
DRI Energy engineers were faced with two challenges: trying to accommodate a previous design that ultimately proved unworkable; and two on site power generation systems that could not be interfered with. The cogeneration systems feature sensitive controls and protective relays that the solar system could not interfere with in the event that PG&E power was to go down. DRI Energy design engineers custom designed a fiber optic based interlock to immediately shut off the inverters should PG&E power go down. The project was completed on time and on budget.
“We see a lot of projects in the industry fail to make it off the ground due to a variety of factors that include an inability to obtain project funding, design challenges, or the lack of team expertise,” said Bob Powell, President and CEO, Solar Power Partners. “Partnering with experienced firms helps negate future problems. From the start of our partnership, Oro Loma District management and the Board of Directors have been supportive and positive.”
“Putting jobs back into the community is one of DRI Energy’s key initiatives,” said Steve Kelley, Executive Vice President of DRI Energy. “With close to 75% of the workforce coming from the city and the surrounding area, we took this opportunity to further our commitment to hiring locally. DRI Energy has offices in the neighboring cities of San Leandro and Oakland. The project is huge win-win for us and our communities.”
The solar Power Purchase Agreement enables Oro Loma to buy the electricity at a contractually fixed rate at a discount to existing utility rates. This helps the District minimize expenses and rates which are now the lowest in California. The solar system is expected to save over $2 million for the District over the term of the PPA and will produce an estimated 16,066,934 kilowatt hours of electricity (kWh) over twenty years, which is equivalent to removing 11,539 metric tons of carbon dioxide from the air, or 1,297,975 gallons of consumed gasoline.
An opening ceremony is scheduled for Thursday, February 24, 2011, at 2:30PM.
Solar Power Partners and Oro Loma partnered with DRI Energy to design, build, and install the single-axis tracker project. DRI Energy used over 2,100 Trina Solar 220 watt modules on a Raytracker single-axis tracking system. The system is capable of generating over 822,000 kWh annually, saving the equivalent of 590 metric tons of CO2, equal to the one-year greenhouse gas emissions of 113 passenger vehicles, the CO2 emissions from the electricity use of 72 homes for one year.
“When the output from the solar array is combined with Oro Loma’s existing digester gas facility, the District will become 100% self sufficient in its electrical needs. The project makes sense from an environmental and economic perspective. We get electricity derived from the sun at a discount to existing utility rates,” said Jason Warner, Oro Loma Sanitary District General Manager.
In 2008, the District undertook the development of a solar project that would deliver power to its wastewater treatment facility, but initial parties involved were unable to complete the terms of the agreement. Solar Power Partners, who developed, owns, and operates several other solar systems for water and wastewater districts including the neighboring 1 MW dual-axis tracking system at West County Wastewater District in Richmond, CA, stepped in.
DRI Energy engineers were faced with two challenges: trying to accommodate a previous design that ultimately proved unworkable; and two on site power generation systems that could not be interfered with. The cogeneration systems feature sensitive controls and protective relays that the solar system could not interfere with in the event that PG&E power was to go down. DRI Energy design engineers custom designed a fiber optic based interlock to immediately shut off the inverters should PG&E power go down. The project was completed on time and on budget.
“We see a lot of projects in the industry fail to make it off the ground due to a variety of factors that include an inability to obtain project funding, design challenges, or the lack of team expertise,” said Bob Powell, President and CEO, Solar Power Partners. “Partnering with experienced firms helps negate future problems. From the start of our partnership, Oro Loma District management and the Board of Directors have been supportive and positive.”
“Putting jobs back into the community is one of DRI Energy’s key initiatives,” said Steve Kelley, Executive Vice President of DRI Energy. “With close to 75% of the workforce coming from the city and the surrounding area, we took this opportunity to further our commitment to hiring locally. DRI Energy has offices in the neighboring cities of San Leandro and Oakland. The project is huge win-win for us and our communities.”
The solar Power Purchase Agreement enables Oro Loma to buy the electricity at a contractually fixed rate at a discount to existing utility rates. This helps the District minimize expenses and rates which are now the lowest in California. The solar system is expected to save over $2 million for the District over the term of the PPA and will produce an estimated 16,066,934 kilowatt hours of electricity (kWh) over twenty years, which is equivalent to removing 11,539 metric tons of carbon dioxide from the air, or 1,297,975 gallons of consumed gasoline.
An opening ceremony is scheduled for Thursday, February 24, 2011, at 2:30PM.
First Solar, Inc. Announces Fourth Quarter and Year-end 2010 Financial Results
TEMPE, Ariz.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--First Solar, Inc. (Nasdaq: FSLR) today announced its financial results for the fourth quarter and fiscal year ended December 31, 2010. Fourth quarter 2010 net sales were $610 million, a decrease of $188 million from the third quarter of 2010, primarily due to the timing of system sales and the December implementation of 2011 pricing, partially offset by an increase in volume. Quarterly net sales decreased slightly from $641 million in the fourth quarter of 2009, due to decreased systems revenue and reduced module prices, partially offset by higher volume. Net sales for the fiscal year 2010 were $2,564 million, up 24% from $2,066 million in fiscal year 2009.
Fourth quarter net income per fully diluted share was $1.80, down from $2.04 in the third quarter of 2010 and up from $1.65 in the fourth quarter of 2009. Quarter over quarter, the net income decrease was primarily driven by lower net sales and increased expenses, partially offset by higher gross margins. Year over year, the net income increase was primarily driven by higher module production and lower module cost per watt, partially offset by reduced module average selling prices and increased expenses. Fiscal 2010 net income per fully diluted share was $7.68, up from $7.53 in fiscal 2009.
First Solar achieved several milestones in 2010:
“In the fourth quarter the operations team executed well, and we sold 400 MW of projects in North America, positioning us to achieve our 2011 growth goals,” said Rob Gillette, CEO of First Solar. “We have good demand visibility in 2011 and a broader geographic reach, which gives us confidence in our ability to sell the 2 GW that we plan to produce.”
For 2011, First Solar is updating guidance as follows:
First Solar will discuss these results and the outlook for 2011 in a conference call scheduled for today at 4:30 p.m. EST. Investors may access a live audio webcast of this conference call and the earnings call presentation, which includes guidance for fiscal 2011 and additional details regarding the key assumptions relating to this guidance, in the Investors section of the Company's website at www.firstsolar.com.
An audio replay of the conference call will also be available approximately two hours after the conclusion of the call. The audio replay will remain available until Tuesday, March 1, 2011 at 7:30 p.m. EST and can be accessed by dialing 888-203-1112 if you are calling from within the United States or 719-457-0820 if you are calling from outside the United States and entering the replay pass code 8382775. If you are a subscriber of FactSet or Thomson One, you can obtain a written transcript.
Fourth quarter net income per fully diluted share was $1.80, down from $2.04 in the third quarter of 2010 and up from $1.65 in the fourth quarter of 2009. Quarter over quarter, the net income decrease was primarily driven by lower net sales and increased expenses, partially offset by higher gross margins. Year over year, the net income increase was primarily driven by higher module production and lower module cost per watt, partially offset by reduced module average selling prices and increased expenses. Fiscal 2010 net income per fully diluted share was $7.68, up from $7.53 in fiscal 2009.
First Solar achieved several milestones in 2010:
- Module manufacturing cost for the fourth quarter was reduced to $0.75/watt, down 11% year over year
- Line throughput was up 17% year over year to 62.6 MW; increasing operating and announced capacity to 2.9 GW by 2012
- Module conversion efficiency rose 0.5% year over year to 11.6%
- Exceeded 3 GW of cumulative production, and produced 1.4 GW in 2010
- Built the largest operational solar PV plant in the world, Sarnia (Canada, 80 MW) and the largest in the U.S., Copper Mountain (Nevada, 48 MW)
- * Pending Agua Caliente (290 MW) sale to NRG; will be the largest PV facility in the world when completed in 2013
- Acquired NextLight and Edison Mission Group to expand our North American captive project pipeline to 2.4 GW
“In the fourth quarter the operations team executed well, and we sold 400 MW of projects in North America, positioning us to achieve our 2011 growth goals,” said Rob Gillette, CEO of First Solar. “We have good demand visibility in 2011 and a broader geographic reach, which gives us confidence in our ability to sell the 2 GW that we plan to produce.”
For 2011, First Solar is updating guidance as follows:
- Net sales of $3.7 to $3.8 billion
- Operating income of $910 to $980 million
- Earnings per fully diluted share of $9.25 to $9.75
- Includes $60 to $70 million of manufacturing start-up expenses and $15 to $20 million of factory ramp costs
- Total capital spending of $1.0 to $1.1 billion
- Operating cash flow of $1.0 to $1.1 billion
First Solar will discuss these results and the outlook for 2011 in a conference call scheduled for today at 4:30 p.m. EST. Investors may access a live audio webcast of this conference call and the earnings call presentation, which includes guidance for fiscal 2011 and additional details regarding the key assumptions relating to this guidance, in the Investors section of the Company's website at www.firstsolar.com.
An audio replay of the conference call will also be available approximately two hours after the conclusion of the call. The audio replay will remain available until Tuesday, March 1, 2011 at 7:30 p.m. EST and can be accessed by dialing 888-203-1112 if you are calling from within the United States or 719-457-0820 if you are calling from outside the United States and entering the replay pass code 8382775. If you are a subscriber of FactSet or Thomson One, you can obtain a written transcript.
Southern California Edison Connects 32-Acre, 5 Million Watt Solar Array to its Grid
ROSEMEAD, Calif.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Southern California Edison (SCE) today connected the state’s largest investor-owned utility photovoltaic plant to its Central Valley power grid. The new generating station, the utility’s first ground-mount PV installation, covers 32 acres of land SCE has leased from the city of Porterville, Calif. It adds 5 million watts of peak capacity – enough power to serve 3,250 average homes – to SCE’s network of 11 solar stations.
Construction and testing of the 29,426-panel solar array near the Porterville Municipal Airport took about six months and created 125 jobs. The new Central Valley solar station is connected directly to the utility’s neighborhood power circuits and benefits all SCE customers in the region.
“Our hope when we launched SCE’s Solar PV Program was that it would help California achieve its ambitious renewable energy goals, while increasing industry knowledge about solar PV efficiency and interaction with local distribution circuits,” said Mark Nelson, SCE’s director of Generation Planning and Strategy. “That hope has become a reality.”
In addition to building its own network of 40-50 solar stations, SCE is signing power purchase agreements with independent producers willing to construct a similar number of solar plants collectively. The combined installations are expected to create some 1,200 jobs in all.
“It is more than exciting for Porterville to take this first step with SCE. Hopefully, in years to come, a solar project like this will be commonplace,” said Mayor Ronald Irish.
Construction and testing of the 29,426-panel solar array near the Porterville Municipal Airport took about six months and created 125 jobs. The new Central Valley solar station is connected directly to the utility’s neighborhood power circuits and benefits all SCE customers in the region.
“Our hope when we launched SCE’s Solar PV Program was that it would help California achieve its ambitious renewable energy goals, while increasing industry knowledge about solar PV efficiency and interaction with local distribution circuits,” said Mark Nelson, SCE’s director of Generation Planning and Strategy. “That hope has become a reality.”
In addition to building its own network of 40-50 solar stations, SCE is signing power purchase agreements with independent producers willing to construct a similar number of solar plants collectively. The combined installations are expected to create some 1,200 jobs in all.
“It is more than exciting for Porterville to take this first step with SCE. Hopefully, in years to come, a solar project like this will be commonplace,” said Mayor Ronald Irish.
Cupertino Electric Completes Construction of One of the Nation’s Largest Ground-Mount Solar Systems for Southern California Edison
SAN JOSE, Calif.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Cupertino Electric, Inc.’s (CEI) Energy Alternatives Division today announced at a dedication ceremony in Porterville, Calif. the completion of a five million watt (AC) solar photovoltaic (PV) ground-mount system designed and built for Southern California Edison (SCE). The fast-track solar PV project ranks as California’s largest utility-owned solar PV-generating station.
“The large-scale project designed and built by Cupertino Electric will help SCE generate enough power at its peak to serve 3,250 average Central Valley homes using clean natural resources,” said John Curcio, chief commercial officer for CEI. “This large-scale project in a condensed time period required an immense amount of coordination, attention to detail and focus on safety to achieve a successful result.”
“Cupertino Electric used an innovative and flexible approach to constructing our Porterville solar facility,” said Rudy Perez, manager of SCE’s Solar PV Program.
“The large-scale project designed and built by Cupertino Electric will help SCE generate enough power at its peak to serve 3,250 average Central Valley homes using clean natural resources,” said John Curcio, chief commercial officer for CEI. “This large-scale project in a condensed time period required an immense amount of coordination, attention to detail and focus on safety to achieve a successful result.”
“Cupertino Electric used an innovative and flexible approach to constructing our Porterville solar facility,” said Rudy Perez, manager of SCE’s Solar PV Program.
Solar Tracking System Leader DEGERenergie Doubles Production Capacity in Ontario, Canada
PHOENIX & HORB AM NECKAR, Germany--(BUSINESS WIRE)--In a move that exhibits confidence of strong growth of the solar energy market in Ontario, DEGERenergie (www.DEGERenergie.com), a privately held world market leader of solar tracking systems, today announced that it has increased the production capacity in its Ontario, Canada operations by 50 percent as compared to 2010. The company also announced plans to increase the number of tracking systems it produces in Ontario by an additional 50 percent during the second quarter of 2011, thereby doubling the number of the previous year.
“With this step, we are clearly showing our commitment to the renewable energy market,” said Artur Deger, company founder and CEO of DEGERenergie. “By increasing our production in Ontario, we enable all solar energy investors and users in Canada to profit from the most efficient systems.”
For years, DEGERenergie has established a close and trusting collaboration with regional industry organizations such as the Ontario Power Authority (OPA), the Canadian Solar Industries Association (CanSIA) and the Renewable Energy Facilitation Office (REFO).
“The discussions we had with representatives of these organizations as well as with a multitude of investors and market observers confirm our estimation that the market will continue to grow strongly and steadily, irrespective of the current political concerns,” said Deger.
DEGERenergie is represented in Spain, Greece and North America with its own subsidiaries and cooperates with local distribution and service partners in many countries across the world.
“With this step, we are clearly showing our commitment to the renewable energy market,” said Artur Deger, company founder and CEO of DEGERenergie. “By increasing our production in Ontario, we enable all solar energy investors and users in Canada to profit from the most efficient systems.”
For years, DEGERenergie has established a close and trusting collaboration with regional industry organizations such as the Ontario Power Authority (OPA), the Canadian Solar Industries Association (CanSIA) and the Renewable Energy Facilitation Office (REFO).
“The discussions we had with representatives of these organizations as well as with a multitude of investors and market observers confirm our estimation that the market will continue to grow strongly and steadily, irrespective of the current political concerns,” said Deger.
DEGERenergie is represented in Spain, Greece and North America with its own subsidiaries and cooperates with local distribution and service partners in many countries across the world.
Thursday, February 24, 2011
SOLON to Construct 15 MW Solar Power Plant for California Energy Supplier PG&E
TUCSON, Ariz.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--SOLON Corporation, one of the largest providers of turnkey solar power plants and manufacturer of crystalline silicon solar modules in the U.S., has been awarded a contract for the design and construction of a 15 mega-watt (MW) solar power plant in California for Pacific Gas & Electric Company (PG&E), which supplies natural gas and electric service to approximately 15 million people in northern and central California.
Construction of the plant will start in April 2011 and is scheduled for completion by October 2011. The system will utilize SOLON’s Velocity MW cluster concept with fixed tilt mounting and SOLON’s SCADA system for remote control and monitoring. The power plant will be constructed in the vicinity of Fresno in central California.
The 15 MW project is part of PG&E’s 250 MW Utility Owned Generation (UOG) PV Program, a five-year plan for the construction of utility owned solar power plants. SOLON successfully constructed PG&E’s pilot project in late 2009, for which it received PG&E's "Generation Supplier of the Year" award last year. This additional order enables SOLON to further expand its position as a supplier of turnkey power plant solutions for major energy suppliers in the U.S.
“SOLON is honored to be selected by PG&E to participate in its noteworthy 250 MW UOG PV Program,” said Dan Alcombright, Regional Vice President and General Manager of North America for SOLON. “We take great pride in our record of successful collaborations with PG&E, in particular, the 2 MW pilot project in Vacaville, California. Our standardized Velocity system technology is designed to meet the specific needs of utilities and we have received positive partner feedback for our perfect safety record and focus on reducing total cost of system ownership. It also allows us to scale large systems very quickly, and we are thrilled to provide our project management expertise to this 15 MW project with PG&E.”
Construction of the plant will start in April 2011 and is scheduled for completion by October 2011. The system will utilize SOLON’s Velocity MW cluster concept with fixed tilt mounting and SOLON’s SCADA system for remote control and monitoring. The power plant will be constructed in the vicinity of Fresno in central California.
The 15 MW project is part of PG&E’s 250 MW Utility Owned Generation (UOG) PV Program, a five-year plan for the construction of utility owned solar power plants. SOLON successfully constructed PG&E’s pilot project in late 2009, for which it received PG&E's "Generation Supplier of the Year" award last year. This additional order enables SOLON to further expand its position as a supplier of turnkey power plant solutions for major energy suppliers in the U.S.
“SOLON is honored to be selected by PG&E to participate in its noteworthy 250 MW UOG PV Program,” said Dan Alcombright, Regional Vice President and General Manager of North America for SOLON. “We take great pride in our record of successful collaborations with PG&E, in particular, the 2 MW pilot project in Vacaville, California. Our standardized Velocity system technology is designed to meet the specific needs of utilities and we have received positive partner feedback for our perfect safety record and focus on reducing total cost of system ownership. It also allows us to scale large systems very quickly, and we are thrilled to provide our project management expertise to this 15 MW project with PG&E.”
GSLO Initiates Mass Production of Volt Solar Charger
NEW ORLEANS--(BUSINESS WIRE)--GoSolarUSA (PinkSheets: GSLO) announced today that the company initiated the mass production of the Volt Solar Charger in preparation for the device’s North American launch. The Volt attaches to the iPhone and extends its battery life using a 1500 mAh battery and a top-of-the-line, built-in solar panel.
The Volt Solar Charger is the only iPhone battery pack known to GSLO that is compatible with all versions of the Apple iPhone. Last month, GoSolarUSA signed a distribution agreement with Xiamen Solar Electronics (XSE), the Chinese developer of the Volt, providing GSLO with the exclusive right to sell and distribute the Volt in North America, the world’s largest market for iPhone accessories.
GSLO President and CEO Tyson Rohde said Wednesday that the Volt would go on sale soon bundled with a one-year warranty.
“Our initial retail run of the Volt Solar Charger will be available in black or white with more colors to follow,” Rohde said. “It’s very fulfilling for our company to send this device into mass production, and we can’t wait to begin filling orders.”
Rohde said that GSLO has already received numerous inquiries as to the Volt’s availability. Those interested in purchasing the Volt can currently make a reservation using GSLO’s Volt Waiting List at http://www.gosolarusa.com/technology/volt-reservation.html.
GoSolarUSA is dedicated to aggressively acquiring, developing and marketing promising and potentially profitable technology. The Volt Solar Charger is a product of Xiamen Solar Electronics based in Xiamen, China. The iPhone is a product of Apple Inc. (NASDAQ:AAPL - News), which competes in the global mobile electronics market against Motorola Mobility Holdings, Inc. (NYSE:MMI - News) and Research in Motion (NASDAQ:RIMM - News).
For more information, please visit www.GoSolarUSA.com/Investors.
The Volt Solar Charger is the only iPhone battery pack known to GSLO that is compatible with all versions of the Apple iPhone. Last month, GoSolarUSA signed a distribution agreement with Xiamen Solar Electronics (XSE), the Chinese developer of the Volt, providing GSLO with the exclusive right to sell and distribute the Volt in North America, the world’s largest market for iPhone accessories.
GSLO President and CEO Tyson Rohde said Wednesday that the Volt would go on sale soon bundled with a one-year warranty.
“Our initial retail run of the Volt Solar Charger will be available in black or white with more colors to follow,” Rohde said. “It’s very fulfilling for our company to send this device into mass production, and we can’t wait to begin filling orders.”
Rohde said that GSLO has already received numerous inquiries as to the Volt’s availability. Those interested in purchasing the Volt can currently make a reservation using GSLO’s Volt Waiting List at http://www.gosolarusa.com/technology/volt-reservation.html.
GoSolarUSA is dedicated to aggressively acquiring, developing and marketing promising and potentially profitable technology. The Volt Solar Charger is a product of Xiamen Solar Electronics based in Xiamen, China. The iPhone is a product of Apple Inc. (NASDAQ:AAPL - News), which competes in the global mobile electronics market against Motorola Mobility Holdings, Inc. (NYSE:MMI - News) and Research in Motion (NASDAQ:RIMM - News).
For more information, please visit www.GoSolarUSA.com/Investors.
SunWize Launches Second Corvallis Solar Challenge
KINGSTON, N.Y.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--SunWize Systems, the premier solar installation division of SunWize Technologies, Inc., has initiated its second city-wide Solar Challenge in Corvallis, Oregon.
SunWize Solar Challenges catalyze an entire city or town to achieve a significant renewable energy goal. The Corvallis Solar Challenge aims to add 60,000 watts of clean, solar energy to the city’s power production by Earth Day 2011.
The Challenge begins on February 26 and ends on April 22. As part of the Challenge, SunWize is offering a donation of up to $10,000 to the Corvallis High School Green Club to help it meet the goal of expanding the school’s rooftop solar system. This will add to the previous donation from the first and highly successful Corvallis Solar Challenge in which SunWize donated $6,000 to the Green Club for the school’s current solar installation.
“We encourage the residents of Corvallis to investigate the benefits of this Solar Challenge. Everybody wins,” said Julie Williams, teacher and CHS Green Club advisor at Corvallis High School. “The financial benefit for the homeowner and the potential social, environmental and educational impact for the students and community are undeniable. We are excited to partner with SunWize again on this Challenge.”
“We decided to launch a second Corvallis Solar Challenge based on enthusiasm in the community and participation in the first to meet an important renewable energy goal,” said David Kaltsas, Systems Group president at SunWize. “We look forward to replicating the success of our inaugural Solar Challenge to bring solar electric solutions to the residents of Corvallis and raise money for the local high school.”
To learn more about the Corvallis Solar Challenge, please attend our free solar seminar at Corvallis High School on Saturday, February 26 from 10:30am to noon, visit us online at http://www.sunwize.com/corvallis, or call (541) 230-5001.
SunWize Technologies, Inc., a subsidiary of Mitsui & Co. (U.S.A), Inc., offers superior solar energy solutions to homes and businesses in the U.S. and abroad. The SunWize advantage is complete commitment to the customer’s satisfaction. Founded in 1992, SunWize is a pioneering solar distributor delivering top-tier products to the North American marketplace. The company manufactures a full line of best-in-class engineered solutions. In addition, SunWize continues to build on its reputation for high-quality residential, commercial, public sector, and industrial installations. The company operates manufacturing and distribution facilities on the east and west coasts and sales offices throughout the U.S. and Canada. For more information, call Matt Ziskin 408-510-5178 or visit www.sunwize.com.
SunWize Solar Challenges catalyze an entire city or town to achieve a significant renewable energy goal. The Corvallis Solar Challenge aims to add 60,000 watts of clean, solar energy to the city’s power production by Earth Day 2011.
The Challenge begins on February 26 and ends on April 22. As part of the Challenge, SunWize is offering a donation of up to $10,000 to the Corvallis High School Green Club to help it meet the goal of expanding the school’s rooftop solar system. This will add to the previous donation from the first and highly successful Corvallis Solar Challenge in which SunWize donated $6,000 to the Green Club for the school’s current solar installation.
“We encourage the residents of Corvallis to investigate the benefits of this Solar Challenge. Everybody wins,” said Julie Williams, teacher and CHS Green Club advisor at Corvallis High School. “The financial benefit for the homeowner and the potential social, environmental and educational impact for the students and community are undeniable. We are excited to partner with SunWize again on this Challenge.”
“We decided to launch a second Corvallis Solar Challenge based on enthusiasm in the community and participation in the first to meet an important renewable energy goal,” said David Kaltsas, Systems Group president at SunWize. “We look forward to replicating the success of our inaugural Solar Challenge to bring solar electric solutions to the residents of Corvallis and raise money for the local high school.”
To learn more about the Corvallis Solar Challenge, please attend our free solar seminar at Corvallis High School on Saturday, February 26 from 10:30am to noon, visit us online at http://www.sunwize.com/corvallis, or call (541) 230-5001.
SunWize Technologies, Inc., a subsidiary of Mitsui & Co. (U.S.A), Inc., offers superior solar energy solutions to homes and businesses in the U.S. and abroad. The SunWize advantage is complete commitment to the customer’s satisfaction. Founded in 1992, SunWize is a pioneering solar distributor delivering top-tier products to the North American marketplace. The company manufactures a full line of best-in-class engineered solutions. In addition, SunWize continues to build on its reputation for high-quality residential, commercial, public sector, and industrial installations. The company operates manufacturing and distribution facilities on the east and west coasts and sales offices throughout the U.S. and Canada. For more information, call Matt Ziskin 408-510-5178 or visit www.sunwize.com.
Momentive Introduces Specialty Product for Solar Industry Applications
ALBANY, N.Y.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--As part of an extensive portfolio of specialty silicones for the rapidly growing solar industry, Momentive Performance Materials has introduced a one-component silicone, TSE3822. The new specialty product is an excellent candidate to consider for the frame sealing of polycrystalline modules.
Recently showcased at SNEC 2011 International Photovoltaic Power Generation Conference & Exhibition in China, TSE3822 can typically provide strong yet primer-less adhesion to a wide range of photovoltaic substrates, including aluminum, plastics and glass. Other specialty products in Momentive Performance Materials’ portfolio for solar applications are typically used for frame sealing, junction box potting and bonding and PV module encapsulation, as well as CPV technology.
“Momentive Performance Materials is a global supplier to the solar industry, with deep applications knowledge and strong working relationships with customers,” said Robert Benson, Global Marketing Director, Eco-Energy, Momentive Performance Materials. “We will continue to leverage our global capabilities to provide customers with creative solutions that can help increase module efficiency and extend the life of solar panels, while potentially lowering production costs.”
Other Momentive Performance Materials products featured at SNEC 2011 included:
* TSE3661 – a two-component, room temperature, fast cure potting compound developed to address adhesion to many of the new plastics used in junction box manufacture today
* TSE3852 – a one-component, neutral cure, tin-free adhesive that may be considered for junction box bonding and frame sealing where premium performance is required
* RTV230 – a two-component, room temperature, very fast curing adhesive sealant that may be considered for junction box attach and frame seal applications where very fast room temperature cure is desired
For more information about Momentive Performance Materials specialty silicones for the solar industry, please call 800-295-2392 in North America (+607-786-8131 everywhere else) or visit www.momentive.com.
Recently showcased at SNEC 2011 International Photovoltaic Power Generation Conference & Exhibition in China, TSE3822 can typically provide strong yet primer-less adhesion to a wide range of photovoltaic substrates, including aluminum, plastics and glass. Other specialty products in Momentive Performance Materials’ portfolio for solar applications are typically used for frame sealing, junction box potting and bonding and PV module encapsulation, as well as CPV technology.
“Momentive Performance Materials is a global supplier to the solar industry, with deep applications knowledge and strong working relationships with customers,” said Robert Benson, Global Marketing Director, Eco-Energy, Momentive Performance Materials. “We will continue to leverage our global capabilities to provide customers with creative solutions that can help increase module efficiency and extend the life of solar panels, while potentially lowering production costs.”
Other Momentive Performance Materials products featured at SNEC 2011 included:
* TSE3661 – a two-component, room temperature, fast cure potting compound developed to address adhesion to many of the new plastics used in junction box manufacture today
* TSE3852 – a one-component, neutral cure, tin-free adhesive that may be considered for junction box bonding and frame sealing where premium performance is required
* RTV230 – a two-component, room temperature, very fast curing adhesive sealant that may be considered for junction box attach and frame seal applications where very fast room temperature cure is desired
For more information about Momentive Performance Materials specialty silicones for the solar industry, please call 800-295-2392 in North America (+607-786-8131 everywhere else) or visit www.momentive.com.
Mainstream Energy Concludes 2010 with Record 60 Megawatts Sold
SAN LUIS OBISPO, Calif.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Mainstream Energy Corporation and its two subsidiaries, REC Solar and AEE Solar, each among the oldest, largest and most experienced solar energy companies in the country, reported record growth in 2010. Through its direct and indirect sales channels, 60 MW of commercial and residential photovoltaic systems were sold or installed nationwide, more than double over 2009. The company now employs more than 600 solar professionals in eleven states.
2010 was a remarkable year for Mainstream Energy”
The increase is due in part to the distribution arm of the company, AEE Solar, which boasts more than 2,000 customers – installers, resellers and project developers – in every state in the United States. The division saw a 250 percent year-over-year growth in East Coast markets alone and 78 percent increase in overall revenues.
Equally significant was the growth of REC Solar’s residential and commercial business. REC Solar maintained its momentum as one of the fastest growing installers in the United States and topped the California Solar Initiative (CSI) rankings as the state’s largest residential installer in 2010 for megawatts installed. REC Solar also signed agreements with a series of leading national retailers such as IKEA, Albertsons, Costco and Fresh & Easy Neighborhood Markets, and installed or was competitively awarded 10 MW of Federal government projects – including a 2.9 MW carport-mounted installation for the Southern Arizona VA Health Care System, one of the largest of its kind in the United States.
“2010 was a remarkable year for Mainstream Energy,” said Angiolo Laviziano, CEO of Mainstream Energy. “Projects with leading partners such as IKEA and Costco clearly demonstrate the commercial viability of solar, and the phenomenal growth achieved on the residential side shows that homeowners understand the value and necessity of adopting renewable energy. We take special pride in the fact that our deployed solar modules will over the first 25 years of their operational lifetime result in avoiding three billion lbs of CO2 emissions, equivalent to planting 7.1 million trees.”
Kam Mofid, President of Mainstream Energy, added, “In the past twelve months we made a number of significant changes to increase our capabilities, our market reach, and our ability to better serve our customers. I could not be more proud of our 600 employees and network of dealers across the country, and look forward to another record year in 2011.”
2010 was a remarkable year for Mainstream Energy”
The increase is due in part to the distribution arm of the company, AEE Solar, which boasts more than 2,000 customers – installers, resellers and project developers – in every state in the United States. The division saw a 250 percent year-over-year growth in East Coast markets alone and 78 percent increase in overall revenues.
Equally significant was the growth of REC Solar’s residential and commercial business. REC Solar maintained its momentum as one of the fastest growing installers in the United States and topped the California Solar Initiative (CSI) rankings as the state’s largest residential installer in 2010 for megawatts installed. REC Solar also signed agreements with a series of leading national retailers such as IKEA, Albertsons, Costco and Fresh & Easy Neighborhood Markets, and installed or was competitively awarded 10 MW of Federal government projects – including a 2.9 MW carport-mounted installation for the Southern Arizona VA Health Care System, one of the largest of its kind in the United States.
“2010 was a remarkable year for Mainstream Energy,” said Angiolo Laviziano, CEO of Mainstream Energy. “Projects with leading partners such as IKEA and Costco clearly demonstrate the commercial viability of solar, and the phenomenal growth achieved on the residential side shows that homeowners understand the value and necessity of adopting renewable energy. We take special pride in the fact that our deployed solar modules will over the first 25 years of their operational lifetime result in avoiding three billion lbs of CO2 emissions, equivalent to planting 7.1 million trees.”
Kam Mofid, President of Mainstream Energy, added, “In the past twelve months we made a number of significant changes to increase our capabilities, our market reach, and our ability to better serve our customers. I could not be more proud of our 600 employees and network of dealers across the country, and look forward to another record year in 2011.”
REC Solar Concludes 2010 as California’s Largest Residential Solar Installer
SAN LUIS OBISPO, Calif.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--On the heels of a significant year in terms of growth and expansion, leading solar electric system provider REC Solar maintained its momentum as one of the fastest growing installers in the United States, and topped the California Solar Initiative (CSI) rankings as the state’s largest residential installer in terms of megawatts installed in 2010. With more than 17 MW of residential solar deployed across the state of California, the company continues to hold its distinct market position as the largest installer of residential solar since the CSI program began, in addition to being the largest residential installer in 2010.
Outside of California, the company also experienced significant growth with Colorado, Arizona and New Jersey recording double-digit gains, topped by a 110 percent year-over-year rise in revenues in Arizona.
REC Solar’s residential leadership position is driven in part by its success in reducing the cost of solar for consumers. Since the start of the CSI program, the company has made significant reductions in the cost of designing and installing a home solar electric system. System automation of key supply chain components including inventory management, engineering, installation, and rebate and interconnection processes, combined with in-house development of components such as REC Solar’s proprietary racking system, have been instrumental in driving price declines.
In addition to continued growth in the residential sector, REC Solar rapidly expanded its commercial installation arm. The company secured commercial, federal and municipal installation agreements totaling more than 27.2 MW, including a 2.9 MW installation for the Southwest Arizona VA Health Care System and a 1.1 MW system installed at the City of Madera Wastewater Treatment Facility. Additionally, REC Solar completed the largest operating solar installation in Hawaii—a 1.2 MW installation on the island of Kauai that will supply the Kauai Island Utility Cooperative with solar power through a power purchase agreement.
“What’s driving growth is economics, and the solar industry is facing a bright future,” said Angiolo Laviziano, CEO of REC Solar. “Energy costs keep rising while the cost of solar keeps falling. There are places in the U.S. where solar can compete effectively against utility rates without the help of incentives. By 2020, solar will be competitive with utility rates in the vast majority of the U.S., and that’s very exciting for us. It bodes well for the solar industry and for the U.S.”
“We have pursued strategic improvement initiatives across the entire value chain to deliver superior products and services to all of our customers,” said Kam Mofid, President of REC Solar. “Our extensive sales, engineering and operational capabilities allowed us to successfully grow our presence in all segments, design and install our largest ever systems and enter the new year very well positioned for continued growth both in our current and in new markets. I look forward to another record year in 2011.”
Outside of California, the company also experienced significant growth with Colorado, Arizona and New Jersey recording double-digit gains, topped by a 110 percent year-over-year rise in revenues in Arizona.
REC Solar’s residential leadership position is driven in part by its success in reducing the cost of solar for consumers. Since the start of the CSI program, the company has made significant reductions in the cost of designing and installing a home solar electric system. System automation of key supply chain components including inventory management, engineering, installation, and rebate and interconnection processes, combined with in-house development of components such as REC Solar’s proprietary racking system, have been instrumental in driving price declines.
In addition to continued growth in the residential sector, REC Solar rapidly expanded its commercial installation arm. The company secured commercial, federal and municipal installation agreements totaling more than 27.2 MW, including a 2.9 MW installation for the Southwest Arizona VA Health Care System and a 1.1 MW system installed at the City of Madera Wastewater Treatment Facility. Additionally, REC Solar completed the largest operating solar installation in Hawaii—a 1.2 MW installation on the island of Kauai that will supply the Kauai Island Utility Cooperative with solar power through a power purchase agreement.
“What’s driving growth is economics, and the solar industry is facing a bright future,” said Angiolo Laviziano, CEO of REC Solar. “Energy costs keep rising while the cost of solar keeps falling. There are places in the U.S. where solar can compete effectively against utility rates without the help of incentives. By 2020, solar will be competitive with utility rates in the vast majority of the U.S., and that’s very exciting for us. It bodes well for the solar industry and for the U.S.”
“We have pursued strategic improvement initiatives across the entire value chain to deliver superior products and services to all of our customers,” said Kam Mofid, President of REC Solar. “Our extensive sales, engineering and operational capabilities allowed us to successfully grow our presence in all segments, design and install our largest ever systems and enter the new year very well positioned for continued growth both in our current and in new markets. I look forward to another record year in 2011.”
Solar3D Announces Mass Scale Manufacturing Design for 3-D Solar Cell
SANTA BARBARA, Calif.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Solar3D, Inc. (OTCBB: SLTD), the developer of a breakthrough 3-dimensional solar cell technology to maximize the conversion of sunlight into electricity, today announced that its design will take advantage of low cost semiconductor processes to enable mass production.
Inspired by light management techniques used in fiber optic devices, the company’s innovative solar cell technology utilizes a 3-dimensional design to trap sunlight inside micro-photovoltaic structures where photons bounce around until they are converted into electrons. The company’s management believes that this breakthrough solar cell design will dramatically change the economics of solar energy.
Jim Nelson, CEO of Solar3D, commented, “In the solar industry, it is not enough to have high efficiency, you must also be low cost. We started our company with the mantra of ‘Breakthrough Product, Common Manufacturing,’ and I am pleased to report that we are right on track.”
Nelson continued, “The key to the successful low cost fabrication of our 3D solar cell is that we can use existing semiconductor manufacturing facilities and machines. This is important for two reasons:
1. The semiconductor manufacturing technology we are designing for was perfected in the 1990s. So, there will be no significant operational bugs in the machines or the processes, and the technology has only gotten better over time.
2. Because of our ability to use existing machines and facilities, there will be little or no new need to ‘invent’ new machines or construct new facilities just to make our 3D solar cell.”
A photovoltaic solar cell is basically a diode, and a diode is the most basic building block of modern day microprocessors and electronics. The micro-photovoltaic structures that make up our Solar3D cell are essentially diodes. By designing these “diodes” in the correct shape and size, the company believes its 3D structures can easily be produced in widely available high speed semiconductor manufacturing facilities.
Mr. Nelson concluded, “In the end, we intend to achieve what every solar innovator hopes for: More Power, in a Smaller Space, for Less Money.”
Inspired by light management techniques used in fiber optic devices, the company’s innovative solar cell technology utilizes a 3-dimensional design to trap sunlight inside micro-photovoltaic structures where photons bounce around until they are converted into electrons. The company’s management believes that this breakthrough solar cell design will dramatically change the economics of solar energy.
Jim Nelson, CEO of Solar3D, commented, “In the solar industry, it is not enough to have high efficiency, you must also be low cost. We started our company with the mantra of ‘Breakthrough Product, Common Manufacturing,’ and I am pleased to report that we are right on track.”
Nelson continued, “The key to the successful low cost fabrication of our 3D solar cell is that we can use existing semiconductor manufacturing facilities and machines. This is important for two reasons:
1. The semiconductor manufacturing technology we are designing for was perfected in the 1990s. So, there will be no significant operational bugs in the machines or the processes, and the technology has only gotten better over time.
2. Because of our ability to use existing machines and facilities, there will be little or no new need to ‘invent’ new machines or construct new facilities just to make our 3D solar cell.”
A photovoltaic solar cell is basically a diode, and a diode is the most basic building block of modern day microprocessors and electronics. The micro-photovoltaic structures that make up our Solar3D cell are essentially diodes. By designing these “diodes” in the correct shape and size, the company believes its 3D structures can easily be produced in widely available high speed semiconductor manufacturing facilities.
Mr. Nelson concluded, “In the end, we intend to achieve what every solar innovator hopes for: More Power, in a Smaller Space, for Less Money.”
Spire Announces the Spi-EL™ Electroluminescence Solar Module Tester
BEDFORD, Mass.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Spire Corporation (Nasdaq: SPIR), a global solar company providing capital equipment and turn-key manufacturing lines to produce photovoltaic (PV) modules announced today the introduction of a new advanced metrology product, the Spi-EL™ Electroluminescence Solar Module Tester, at the SNEC 5th (2011) International Photovoltaic Power Generation and Exhibition in Shanghai, China.
The Spi-EL series of solar module testers use electroluminescence (EL) to identify microcracks and other invisible defects in modules. The testers utilize cooled near-infrared charge-coupled device camera technology to image each solar cell with resolutions less than 200 µm per pixel, the equivalent of a 60 megapixel image for an entire module.
The Expo, where Spire’s team members will discuss this new product, is currently taking place through February 24th at the Shanghai New International Expo Center at booth E3-003. Attending the conference is Peter DiSessa, Ed Hurley, Shih-Yuan (Andy) Lin, and Mark Little from Spire’s Sales and Marketing team.
The Spi-EL series of solar module testers use electroluminescence (EL) to identify microcracks and other invisible defects in modules. The testers utilize cooled near-infrared charge-coupled device camera technology to image each solar cell with resolutions less than 200 µm per pixel, the equivalent of a 60 megapixel image for an entire module.
The Expo, where Spire’s team members will discuss this new product, is currently taking place through February 24th at the Shanghai New International Expo Center at booth E3-003. Attending the conference is Peter DiSessa, Ed Hurley, Shih-Yuan (Andy) Lin, and Mark Little from Spire’s Sales and Marketing team.
Wednesday, February 23, 2011
Varian Launches Solion PV Ion Implant Technology Platform in China
SHANGHAI, CHINA--(Marketwire - February 23, 2011) - Varian Semiconductor Equipment Associates, Inc. ("Varian") (NASDAQ: VSEA) today formally launched its Solion™ photovoltaic ("PV") ion implant platform into the Chinese market at the SNEC PV Power Expo 2011.
Varian said it has partnered with several leading Chinese PV manufacturers to insert Solion patterned ion implantation into volume manufacturing by mid-year. Varian has established engagements with over seven Chinese PV manufacturers who see Solion's potential for accelerating their drive to grid parity by delivering the precision and control required for high efficiency cells while simplifying the manufacturing process to reduce the overall cost per watt.
Solion enables solar module manufacturers to achieve a combination of increased cell efficiency at lower production cost by replacing traditional diffusion doping processes with ion implant. In addition to greater precision and process control for improved junction quality, this approach eliminates multiple production steps, improves cell uniformity, and enables significantly tighter binning.
Early Solion users have already adopted the enabling patterned implant technology to produce crystalline solar cells in volume with conversion efficiencies over 19 percent. Patterned implantation provides a clear roadmap to efficiencies of 22 percent at reduced cost per watt.
"The strong market interest in Solion from so many Chinese PV manufacturers further validates the value of implant for manufacturing high efficiency, low cost solar cells," said Varian's Chief Executive Officer Gary Dickerson. "We are very excited to be partnered with some of the market leaders in the fastest growing region for production of solar cells. The combination of local manufacturing expertise with Varian's technology leadership and world class support will enable the PV industry to take a huge step forward towards achieving grid parity."
Solion draws on Varian's 35-year history of leadership in ion implant for the semiconductor industry, including the industry standard Varian VIISta® product line, which has over 1,200 units in the field. However, Solion is a completely new platform that reflects the needs and priorities of PV module producers, including the innovative ability to perform patterning and doping in a single step using proprietary Precision Patterned Implant (PPI™) technology.
Solion customers also benefit from Varian's highly regarded worldwide service organization, having won the coveted VLSI Research Award for 13 of the last 14 years.
Varian will be exhibiting at SNEC PV Power Expo in Shanghai from February 22 - 24, at booth number 215 in Hall number 5.
Varian said it has partnered with several leading Chinese PV manufacturers to insert Solion patterned ion implantation into volume manufacturing by mid-year. Varian has established engagements with over seven Chinese PV manufacturers who see Solion's potential for accelerating their drive to grid parity by delivering the precision and control required for high efficiency cells while simplifying the manufacturing process to reduce the overall cost per watt.
Solion enables solar module manufacturers to achieve a combination of increased cell efficiency at lower production cost by replacing traditional diffusion doping processes with ion implant. In addition to greater precision and process control for improved junction quality, this approach eliminates multiple production steps, improves cell uniformity, and enables significantly tighter binning.
Early Solion users have already adopted the enabling patterned implant technology to produce crystalline solar cells in volume with conversion efficiencies over 19 percent. Patterned implantation provides a clear roadmap to efficiencies of 22 percent at reduced cost per watt.
"The strong market interest in Solion from so many Chinese PV manufacturers further validates the value of implant for manufacturing high efficiency, low cost solar cells," said Varian's Chief Executive Officer Gary Dickerson. "We are very excited to be partnered with some of the market leaders in the fastest growing region for production of solar cells. The combination of local manufacturing expertise with Varian's technology leadership and world class support will enable the PV industry to take a huge step forward towards achieving grid parity."
Solion draws on Varian's 35-year history of leadership in ion implant for the semiconductor industry, including the industry standard Varian VIISta® product line, which has over 1,200 units in the field. However, Solion is a completely new platform that reflects the needs and priorities of PV module producers, including the innovative ability to perform patterning and doping in a single step using proprietary Precision Patterned Implant (PPI™) technology.
Solion customers also benefit from Varian's highly regarded worldwide service organization, having won the coveted VLSI Research Award for 13 of the last 14 years.
Varian will be exhibiting at SNEC PV Power Expo in Shanghai from February 22 - 24, at booth number 215 in Hall number 5.
Solar Energy Initiatives, Inc. Sells Its Solar EOS Division
PONTE VEDRA BEACH, FL--(Marketwire - February 23, 2011) - Solar Energy Initiatives, Inc. (OTCBB: SNRY), with business in solar project development, today announced that the Company has sold its Solar (EOS) Division for a note and assumption of defined debt. The EOS division is a technical training school for understanding the core concepts needed to install solar photovoltaic and thermal systems.
David Fann, CEO of Solar Energy Initiatives, Inc., stated, "With the sale of the EOS Division, the company will now streamline its business and focus on its growing pipeline of municipality projects through the SNRY Power Division."
David Fann, CEO of Solar Energy Initiatives, Inc., stated, "With the sale of the EOS Division, the company will now streamline its business and focus on its growing pipeline of municipality projects through the SNRY Power Division."
Ohio Top Spot in Midwest for Solar Production
COLUMBUS, Ohio, Feb. 23, 2011 /PRNewswire/ -- It takes 8,000 components to construct a typical utility-sized wind turbine. Sourcing components can be a logistical challenge often involving many suppliers spread around the world. Complexity in the supply chain can lead to unwanted delivery delays and quality concerns. Supply chain complexity can destroy profitability. It leads to hidden costs such as longer cycle times, excess safety stock for critical parts and decreased flexibility in enacting design changes. One proven practice to decreasing supply chain complexity and the resultant cost is to co-locate manufacturing operations with critical suppliers.
Ohio offers the opportunity for manufacturers in the renewable energy industry to co-locate with suppliers and minimize the complexity of managing extended supply chains. Ohio's manufacturing industry has embraced alternative technologies with more than 7,500 people employed by advanced energy manufacturers making the gears, bearings and windmill blades used to harness the renewable power of the wind, according to a recent report from the Environmental Law and Policy Center (ELPC). In addition, more than 1,500 people are employed in Ohio's solar industry.
The ELPC report notes, "renewable energy is one of the fastest-growing business sectors for job creation" in the state, and that increasing demand for wind turbines puts Ohio behind only California in terms of job growth.
With its commitment to leading the United States to energy independence and reinvented manufacturing base, Ohio is the perfect home for renewable energy manufacturers.
"Ohio offers a complete advanced energy supply chain infrastructure for businesses in renewable energy," said Richard Stuebi, Fellow for Energy and Environmental Advancement of the Cleveland Foundation. "The state's manufacturing strengths, skilled workforce and central location make Ohio a preferred location for advanced energy manufacturing businesses."
Ohio-based companies are involved in the manufacturing of all aspects of the advanced energy industry such as producing wind turbines and component parts, solar panels, biomass products, fuel cells, hydroelectric components, geothermal parts and storage facilities to promote better utilization of advanced energy resources.
The U.S. manufacturing industry is in the midst of a long and sometimes difficult transition from old-line manufacturing processes to emerging technologies. This process is rapidly accelerating in the advanced energy supply chain, lessening U.S. dependence on unstable foreign energy markets and creating a thriving domestic clean-energy industry.
The way Ohio-based manufacturers have successfully reinvented themselves as leading suppliers for the advanced energy industry, added Stuebi, serves as a model for other states with economies reliant upon manufacturing.
Ohio's long history of manufacturing excellence and continued transformation of its industrial base make the state the ideal location for advanced energy manufacturers. With thousands of companies in its advanced energy supply chain, including more than 675 established and emerging companies in the Ohio wind supply chain, Ohio has become a leading U.S. component supplier for wind turbine original equipment manufacturers.
Some of Ohio's best-known manufacturers – such as Avon Bearings, Lubrizol, Owens-Corning, Parker Hannifin Corp., Sherwin-Williams and Timken Co. – are now key suppliers to the nation's wind industry. Their traditional manufacturing processes easily supply bearings, performance coatings, composite windmill blades and components.
Advance Manufacturing Corp., located in Cleveland, Ohio, has its roots in traditional manufacturing but realizes the opportunities in renewable energy. It has invested $6 million to upgrade its facility and produce 22,000-pound components for gearboxes used in large electricity generating wind turbines.
"We believe the renewable energy industry holds great potential for Ohio manufacturing companies," said Herman Bredenbeck, president of Advance Manufacturing Corp. "We are proud of our commitment to help the state with wind energy development."
Advanced energy companies have a growing need for engineers, researchers and skilled manufacturing workers, which are readily available in Ohio. Ohio's universities and colleges are ready to meet the need for new technologies and skilled green collar workers through new research, degrees and training specific to the advanced energy industry through programs such as The University Clean Energy Alliance of Ohio (UCEAO).
Ohio's advanced energy companies also benefit from access to knowledge and an abundance of capital through programs such as Ohio Third Frontier, which has invested more than $177 million in wind and other advanced energy technology research since 2002.
In addition, components and finished goods quickly reach their destination anywhere in the U.S. or around the globe through Ohio's central location and extensive transportation and world-class logistics infrastructure. Ohio is within 600 miles of 60 percent of the U.S. and Canadian population and is within a one-day drive of 70 percent of North America's manufacturing capacity.
Ohio's comprehensive advanced energy supply chain is just one of the key benefits for advanced energy manufacturers that choose an Ohio location, according to Ed Burghard, executive director of the Ohio Business Development Coalition, the nonprofit organization the markets the state for capital investment.
"In Ohio, work-life balance is more than a buzzword; it's the way we do business," said Burghard. "Low-cost, low-stress communities and short commutes create the State of Perfect Balance, where you can achieve both professional and personal success without sacrificing one for the other."
Ohio offers the opportunity for manufacturers in the renewable energy industry to co-locate with suppliers and minimize the complexity of managing extended supply chains. Ohio's manufacturing industry has embraced alternative technologies with more than 7,500 people employed by advanced energy manufacturers making the gears, bearings and windmill blades used to harness the renewable power of the wind, according to a recent report from the Environmental Law and Policy Center (ELPC). In addition, more than 1,500 people are employed in Ohio's solar industry.
The ELPC report notes, "renewable energy is one of the fastest-growing business sectors for job creation" in the state, and that increasing demand for wind turbines puts Ohio behind only California in terms of job growth.
With its commitment to leading the United States to energy independence and reinvented manufacturing base, Ohio is the perfect home for renewable energy manufacturers.
"Ohio offers a complete advanced energy supply chain infrastructure for businesses in renewable energy," said Richard Stuebi, Fellow for Energy and Environmental Advancement of the Cleveland Foundation. "The state's manufacturing strengths, skilled workforce and central location make Ohio a preferred location for advanced energy manufacturing businesses."
Ohio-based companies are involved in the manufacturing of all aspects of the advanced energy industry such as producing wind turbines and component parts, solar panels, biomass products, fuel cells, hydroelectric components, geothermal parts and storage facilities to promote better utilization of advanced energy resources.
The U.S. manufacturing industry is in the midst of a long and sometimes difficult transition from old-line manufacturing processes to emerging technologies. This process is rapidly accelerating in the advanced energy supply chain, lessening U.S. dependence on unstable foreign energy markets and creating a thriving domestic clean-energy industry.
The way Ohio-based manufacturers have successfully reinvented themselves as leading suppliers for the advanced energy industry, added Stuebi, serves as a model for other states with economies reliant upon manufacturing.
Ohio's long history of manufacturing excellence and continued transformation of its industrial base make the state the ideal location for advanced energy manufacturers. With thousands of companies in its advanced energy supply chain, including more than 675 established and emerging companies in the Ohio wind supply chain, Ohio has become a leading U.S. component supplier for wind turbine original equipment manufacturers.
Some of Ohio's best-known manufacturers – such as Avon Bearings, Lubrizol, Owens-Corning, Parker Hannifin Corp., Sherwin-Williams and Timken Co. – are now key suppliers to the nation's wind industry. Their traditional manufacturing processes easily supply bearings, performance coatings, composite windmill blades and components.
Advance Manufacturing Corp., located in Cleveland, Ohio, has its roots in traditional manufacturing but realizes the opportunities in renewable energy. It has invested $6 million to upgrade its facility and produce 22,000-pound components for gearboxes used in large electricity generating wind turbines.
"We believe the renewable energy industry holds great potential for Ohio manufacturing companies," said Herman Bredenbeck, president of Advance Manufacturing Corp. "We are proud of our commitment to help the state with wind energy development."
Advanced energy companies have a growing need for engineers, researchers and skilled manufacturing workers, which are readily available in Ohio. Ohio's universities and colleges are ready to meet the need for new technologies and skilled green collar workers through new research, degrees and training specific to the advanced energy industry through programs such as The University Clean Energy Alliance of Ohio (UCEAO).
Ohio's advanced energy companies also benefit from access to knowledge and an abundance of capital through programs such as Ohio Third Frontier, which has invested more than $177 million in wind and other advanced energy technology research since 2002.
In addition, components and finished goods quickly reach their destination anywhere in the U.S. or around the globe through Ohio's central location and extensive transportation and world-class logistics infrastructure. Ohio is within 600 miles of 60 percent of the U.S. and Canadian population and is within a one-day drive of 70 percent of North America's manufacturing capacity.
Ohio's comprehensive advanced energy supply chain is just one of the key benefits for advanced energy manufacturers that choose an Ohio location, according to Ed Burghard, executive director of the Ohio Business Development Coalition, the nonprofit organization the markets the state for capital investment.
"In Ohio, work-life balance is more than a buzzword; it's the way we do business," said Burghard. "Low-cost, low-stress communities and short commutes create the State of Perfect Balance, where you can achieve both professional and personal success without sacrificing one for the other."
Sungevity Names Social Media Leader Patrick Crane as Chief Marketing Officer
OAKLAND, Calif., Feb. 23, 2011 /PRNewswire/ -- Sungevity, the nation's fastest growing provider of residential solar installations, announced today the hire of social media leader Patrick Crane as its new Chief Marketing Officer (CMO).
Crane, who most recently served as LinkedIn's Chief Marketing Officer, will look to develop ways to make the peer-to-peer connection between Sungevity and its customers more robust. This includes developing web and smart phone applications that will enhance the customer experience of going solar.
Crane's hire signals Sungevity's intention to spread its unique solar installation process through social networks and its broader "online sunshine" approach to delivering solar energy. The company sees this form of communication as an effective means to convince potential customers to make the switch from dirty fossil fuel energy to clean, cost-effective solar power.
Crane and Sungevity founder Danny Kennedy spoke about this shift in a video shot from Crane's roof and posted to the company website. You can take a look at the video here.
At LinkedIn, Crane helped the company emerge as one of top three social networking platforms in the world. He founded the marketing group and helped develop the company's go-to-market strategy and its brand to the position it enjoys today as the largest professional network in the world.
"We are excited to have someone with Patrick's track-record of success building social networks," said Kennedy. "He is the right person to help us spread Sungevity's easy, online process for going solar."
"Sungevity allows customers to create a social network around going solar," said Crane. "When you become a Sungevity customer, like I did, you also become an ambassador for solar energy, and an active advocate for Sungevity's service. As Sungevity continues to grow, its customers will become part of a passionate online community, sharing how much money they save and how much CO2 they continually suck out of the air. It's all about growing the network through word-of-mouth from current users."
Mr. Crane's hire comes on the heels of Sungevity's hiring announcement of SunPower's Mac Irvin to serve as the company's CFO. In December, the company announced it had secured $15 million in Series C funding to continue expansion to the East Coast. This expansion will occur in the spring. The company also recently rolled out Sungevity.org, a program that helps non-profit organizations and schools raise money while getting homeowners in their local communities to go solar.
Crane, who most recently served as LinkedIn's Chief Marketing Officer, will look to develop ways to make the peer-to-peer connection between Sungevity and its customers more robust. This includes developing web and smart phone applications that will enhance the customer experience of going solar.
Crane's hire signals Sungevity's intention to spread its unique solar installation process through social networks and its broader "online sunshine" approach to delivering solar energy. The company sees this form of communication as an effective means to convince potential customers to make the switch from dirty fossil fuel energy to clean, cost-effective solar power.
Crane and Sungevity founder Danny Kennedy spoke about this shift in a video shot from Crane's roof and posted to the company website. You can take a look at the video here.
At LinkedIn, Crane helped the company emerge as one of top three social networking platforms in the world. He founded the marketing group and helped develop the company's go-to-market strategy and its brand to the position it enjoys today as the largest professional network in the world.
"We are excited to have someone with Patrick's track-record of success building social networks," said Kennedy. "He is the right person to help us spread Sungevity's easy, online process for going solar."
"Sungevity allows customers to create a social network around going solar," said Crane. "When you become a Sungevity customer, like I did, you also become an ambassador for solar energy, and an active advocate for Sungevity's service. As Sungevity continues to grow, its customers will become part of a passionate online community, sharing how much money they save and how much CO2 they continually suck out of the air. It's all about growing the network through word-of-mouth from current users."
Mr. Crane's hire comes on the heels of Sungevity's hiring announcement of SunPower's Mac Irvin to serve as the company's CFO. In December, the company announced it had secured $15 million in Series C funding to continue expansion to the East Coast. This expansion will occur in the spring. The company also recently rolled out Sungevity.org, a program that helps non-profit organizations and schools raise money while getting homeowners in their local communities to go solar.
Ameresco to Start Third Phase of Energy Performance Contract with Akron Metropolitan Housing Authority
FRAMINGHAM, Mass.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Ameresco, Inc. (NYSE:AMRC), a leading energy efficiency and renewable energy company, announced today that it has initiated the third phase of its Energy Performance Contract (EPC) with the Akron Metropolitan Housing Authority (AMHA) in Akron, Ohio. With the addition of the $4.8 million third phase of the project, the $14.5 million portfolio-wide utility conservation program (including all three phases) is expected to deliver approximately $23 million in savings to AMHA over the term of the contract.
Ameresco’s phased project involves the majority of AMHA’s 4,379-unit portfolio, with 3,719 units in 34 large complexes and 660 scattered site units, which are primarily single-family homes. The third phase of the EPC, which was recently executed and financed, features an extension of the project term to perform additional boiler room and ventilation work and to install thermostatic controls, two solar photovoltaic rooftop systems and a rooftop wind generation system.
“We are pleased to continue this energy performance contract with Ameresco, which has empowered AMHA to be more efficient, save financial resources, and to be more responsive to environmental needs. These projects not only improve the performance of our buildings, but convert excess utility costs into jobs for local businesses,” said Tony O’Leary, Executive Director of the Akron Metropolitan Housing Authority. “In particular, we are proud that this new phase will include the installation of rooftop solar and wind power systems, which will serve as a very visible demonstration of our commitment to clean and renewable energy sources.”
Ameresco began working with AMHA in 2003 on energy efficiency measures that have resulted in a comprehensive water and lighting efficiency program as part of the first phase and a mechanical measure conservation program in the second phase. Including the third phase of this project, annual energy savings are expected to average over $1.5 million, with anticipated emission reductions equivalent to removing 4,952 metric tons of carbon dioxide from the atmosphere a year. The reduction in greenhouse gas emissions is roughly equivalent to reducing 557,054 gallons of gasoline burned or removing 947 cars from the road annually.
“We are excited to expand and continue our successful partnership with the Akron Metropolitan Housing Authority, which is a very forward-thinking organization that has shown great commitment to its facilities and residents while reducing its overall carbon footprint,” said David J. Anderson, Executive Vice President, Ameresco. “Our public housing team shares this commitment and views its work as more than just getting great results for our Housing Authority clients, but ensuring that these energy efficiency improvements have a positive impact on the people that call these facilities home.”
Ameresco’s Public Housing Group focuses exclusively on publicly assisted multi-family housing facilities of 50 apartments or more, which includes more than 14 million U.S. households. By leveraging performance contracting, a practice pioneered by Ameresco staff to address the $4 billion that HUD spends on public housing energy bills each year, the company has helped to significantly reduce utility costs using a performance-oriented approach that strategically addresses equipment and systems, energy management and resident education.
With more than 25 years of experience, Ameresco’s public housing energy specialists have executed performance contracts with project capital exceeding $450 million, more than any other North American energy services company in this sector. As of today, Ameresco’s contracts impact over 125,000 households under performance-based energy and water services contracts.
Ameresco’s phased project involves the majority of AMHA’s 4,379-unit portfolio, with 3,719 units in 34 large complexes and 660 scattered site units, which are primarily single-family homes. The third phase of the EPC, which was recently executed and financed, features an extension of the project term to perform additional boiler room and ventilation work and to install thermostatic controls, two solar photovoltaic rooftop systems and a rooftop wind generation system.
“We are pleased to continue this energy performance contract with Ameresco, which has empowered AMHA to be more efficient, save financial resources, and to be more responsive to environmental needs. These projects not only improve the performance of our buildings, but convert excess utility costs into jobs for local businesses,” said Tony O’Leary, Executive Director of the Akron Metropolitan Housing Authority. “In particular, we are proud that this new phase will include the installation of rooftop solar and wind power systems, which will serve as a very visible demonstration of our commitment to clean and renewable energy sources.”
Ameresco began working with AMHA in 2003 on energy efficiency measures that have resulted in a comprehensive water and lighting efficiency program as part of the first phase and a mechanical measure conservation program in the second phase. Including the third phase of this project, annual energy savings are expected to average over $1.5 million, with anticipated emission reductions equivalent to removing 4,952 metric tons of carbon dioxide from the atmosphere a year. The reduction in greenhouse gas emissions is roughly equivalent to reducing 557,054 gallons of gasoline burned or removing 947 cars from the road annually.
“We are excited to expand and continue our successful partnership with the Akron Metropolitan Housing Authority, which is a very forward-thinking organization that has shown great commitment to its facilities and residents while reducing its overall carbon footprint,” said David J. Anderson, Executive Vice President, Ameresco. “Our public housing team shares this commitment and views its work as more than just getting great results for our Housing Authority clients, but ensuring that these energy efficiency improvements have a positive impact on the people that call these facilities home.”
Ameresco’s Public Housing Group focuses exclusively on publicly assisted multi-family housing facilities of 50 apartments or more, which includes more than 14 million U.S. households. By leveraging performance contracting, a practice pioneered by Ameresco staff to address the $4 billion that HUD spends on public housing energy bills each year, the company has helped to significantly reduce utility costs using a performance-oriented approach that strategically addresses equipment and systems, energy management and resident education.
With more than 25 years of experience, Ameresco’s public housing energy specialists have executed performance contracts with project capital exceeding $450 million, more than any other North American energy services company in this sector. As of today, Ameresco’s contracts impact over 125,000 households under performance-based energy and water services contracts.
Solargenix Energy Sells Its 45% Ownership Stake in Acciona Solar Power, Inc to ACCIONA Energy
SANFORD, N.C.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Solargenix Energy and ACCIONA Energy announce that effective February 18, 2011, Solargenix has sold its 45% ownership stake in Acciona Solar Power, Inc. to ACCIONA Energy. With this transaction, ACCIONA Energy becomes the 100% owner of Acciona Solar Power, Inc. Terms of the sale were not made public. Both Solargenix and ACCIONA Energy announce that they each intend to pursue the concentrating solar power (CSP) business independently in the future.
Contacts
Solargenix Energy
Thomas Brennan, 919-774-4000
Contacts
Solargenix Energy
Thomas Brennan, 919-774-4000
Tioga Energy and Morris County, NJ Complete 19 Solar Projects in Morris Model Pilot Program
MORRISTOWN, N.J.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Tioga Energy, a leading provider of renewable energy services to commercial, government and non-profit institutions, and the Morris County Improvement Authority (MCIA) of New Jersey today announced the completion of 19 solar energy installations located on 16 schools and government facilities throughout the county. The projects are the first to be financed through the public-private collaboration known as the Morris Model and provide the county with 3.1 MW in clean energy and more than $3.8 million in savings.
In January 2010, MCIA issued $22.3 million in low-interest government bonds to finance the projects. As the developer, Tioga owns, operates and maintains the solar installations and sells the electricity produced by the systems to the county’s schools and local government agencies at a fixed rate for the duration of a 15-year power purchase agreement (PPA). New Jersey-based SunDurance Energy provided all design and installation services.
In addition to the low cost bond financing, Tioga Energy utilized New Jersey state incentives available through the sale of solar renewable energy certificates (SRECs) as well as federal income tax incentives not available to the county as a public entity, offsetting significant portions of total project costs. As a result, Morris County benefits from electricity prices approximately 35 percent less than those of the local utility.
“Tioga Energy has been an invaluable partner, both in developing the unique financing structure of the Morris Model for the first time and in the smooth delivery of these projects,” said Morris County Freeholder William Chegwidden, liaison to the Improvement Authority. “The success of the Morris Model establishes Morris County as the nation’s foremost example of how the government and the private sector can work together to adopt ambitious renewable energy programs swiftly and affordably.”
The 16 sites participating in the project include buildings used by the Morris County government and Parks Commission, as well as public schools across five area districts. Construction on the project’s first installation at the William G. Mennen Sports Arena began in June 2010.
“In a matter of months, Tioga Energy and installation partner SunDurance Energy took us from groundbreaking to completion, enabling us to ‘go solar’ with virtually no disruptions to our operations,” said David Helmer, Executive Director of the Morris County Parks Commission. “With the addition of 1.6 MW in solar rooftop and parking canopy structures, Mennen Sports Arena now receives 30 percent of its electricity from renewable resources and is a regional solar project showpiece.”
“SunDurance Energy is proud to have partnered with Tioga Energy on this important model project. We successfully completed a logistically challenging task, on time and on budget, while Tioga made this one of the smoothest PPA projects in which we’ve participated,” said Al Bucknam, CEO of SunDurance Energy. “Through our collaborative efforts, we’ve facilitated a substantial reduction in operating expenses for the local government and school districts at a time when every dollar counts.”
“We are fortunate to have aligned ourselves with a county now recognized as a national leader for its progressive and cost-effective renewable energy programs,” said Paul Detering, Tioga Energy CEO. “Together we’ve created an economically viable blueprint for local governments to work with the private sector to deliver economic value and sustainability at the community level. Tioga Energy commends MCIA for its initiative and we look forward to seeing the immense benefits of the Morris Model expand throughout New Jersey and across the country.”
In January 2010, MCIA issued $22.3 million in low-interest government bonds to finance the projects. As the developer, Tioga owns, operates and maintains the solar installations and sells the electricity produced by the systems to the county’s schools and local government agencies at a fixed rate for the duration of a 15-year power purchase agreement (PPA). New Jersey-based SunDurance Energy provided all design and installation services.
In addition to the low cost bond financing, Tioga Energy utilized New Jersey state incentives available through the sale of solar renewable energy certificates (SRECs) as well as federal income tax incentives not available to the county as a public entity, offsetting significant portions of total project costs. As a result, Morris County benefits from electricity prices approximately 35 percent less than those of the local utility.
“Tioga Energy has been an invaluable partner, both in developing the unique financing structure of the Morris Model for the first time and in the smooth delivery of these projects,” said Morris County Freeholder William Chegwidden, liaison to the Improvement Authority. “The success of the Morris Model establishes Morris County as the nation’s foremost example of how the government and the private sector can work together to adopt ambitious renewable energy programs swiftly and affordably.”
The 16 sites participating in the project include buildings used by the Morris County government and Parks Commission, as well as public schools across five area districts. Construction on the project’s first installation at the William G. Mennen Sports Arena began in June 2010.
“In a matter of months, Tioga Energy and installation partner SunDurance Energy took us from groundbreaking to completion, enabling us to ‘go solar’ with virtually no disruptions to our operations,” said David Helmer, Executive Director of the Morris County Parks Commission. “With the addition of 1.6 MW in solar rooftop and parking canopy structures, Mennen Sports Arena now receives 30 percent of its electricity from renewable resources and is a regional solar project showpiece.”
“SunDurance Energy is proud to have partnered with Tioga Energy on this important model project. We successfully completed a logistically challenging task, on time and on budget, while Tioga made this one of the smoothest PPA projects in which we’ve participated,” said Al Bucknam, CEO of SunDurance Energy. “Through our collaborative efforts, we’ve facilitated a substantial reduction in operating expenses for the local government and school districts at a time when every dollar counts.”
“We are fortunate to have aligned ourselves with a county now recognized as a national leader for its progressive and cost-effective renewable energy programs,” said Paul Detering, Tioga Energy CEO. “Together we’ve created an economically viable blueprint for local governments to work with the private sector to deliver economic value and sustainability at the community level. Tioga Energy commends MCIA for its initiative and we look forward to seeing the immense benefits of the Morris Model expand throughout New Jersey and across the country.”
Linde Sees Rapid Growth as Centres of Power Shift in the Global Solar Industry
MUNICH--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Capitalising on the return of growth to the photovoltaic (PV) industry in 2010, the Linde Gases Division of The Linde Group secured over 25 new contact wins and renewals with leading thin-film and crystalline silicon manufacturers worldwide. These include strategically important wins such Schueco and Bosch in Germany, GCL and Renesolar in China, as well as business expansion with Suntech, Trina and Motech.
This increase in new business has seen Linde’s global PV customer capacity treble to 17.4GW. The majority of this growth has been fuelled by customers in Greater China establishing new production capacity of nearly 13.5GW.
Linde is well positioned to take advantage of the renewed investment into amorphous silicon in 2011 and expects to supply its award-winning fluorine generation technology to additional customers worldwide. The Company is also moving to offer its fluorine expertise for the production of crystalline silicon, which is still expected to dominate the market in 2011, maintaining more than 70 percent market share.
Since January 2010, Linde estimates that over 80 percent of new production capacity has occurred in Asia given the competitive advantage offered by lower manufacturing costs. With manufacturing in Asia continuing to dominate the global supply of PV modules in 2011, Linde sees a number of important trends emerging this year:
1. PV manufacturers outside of Asia are likely to increase their focus on application-specific niche markets such as Building Integrated Photovoltaics (BIPV)
2. Further reductions in the manufacturing cost of solar panels, especially in thin film which is re-energising on a large scale in China
3. Continued cost and environmental drivers – Linde expects to partner with customers on more projects to replace NF3 with its innovative F2 gas technology
Dean O’Connor, Head of Market Development & Technology at Linde’s electronics business unit, said: “In 2010, we saw emerging markets in Asia dominate the more mature industry players in Europe. As a leading global supplier of gases to PV manufacturers, Linde is catering to demand. With our innovative fluorine gas solution, we are helping companies improve solar cell efficiency, decrease greenhouse gases and further drive down cost per watt.”
Further, O’Connor predicts: “Indicators are that later in the year, we could see an oversupply of modules which will lead to consolidation and further re-organisation of the leading solar players. Linde’s strategy is to focus on investment with these leading players who have a strong cost base, the best in-house technology and the strongest sales channels.”
In 2011, Linde will continue to lead the market in the supply of gases to Asian manufacturers, building on its recent heavy investment in silane and ammonia infrastructure in China.
GTM Research believes that demand for PV will grow to 18.5 GW in 2011, 11 percent higher than 2010, and will surpass 20 GW in 2012. According to GTM Senior Analyst, Shyam Mehta, “While significant subsidy reductions in 2011 and 2012 will cause Germany to lose much of its lustre as an attractive PV market, it should still be a 4-GW-plus market in these years. Moreover, strong growth in the U.S., Italy, France, Canada, China, and Japan (as well as secondary markets such as Bulgaria and Belgium) will continue to drive overall PV market growth, creating substantial supply chain opportunities in the space.”
This increase in new business has seen Linde’s global PV customer capacity treble to 17.4GW. The majority of this growth has been fuelled by customers in Greater China establishing new production capacity of nearly 13.5GW.
Linde is well positioned to take advantage of the renewed investment into amorphous silicon in 2011 and expects to supply its award-winning fluorine generation technology to additional customers worldwide. The Company is also moving to offer its fluorine expertise for the production of crystalline silicon, which is still expected to dominate the market in 2011, maintaining more than 70 percent market share.
Since January 2010, Linde estimates that over 80 percent of new production capacity has occurred in Asia given the competitive advantage offered by lower manufacturing costs. With manufacturing in Asia continuing to dominate the global supply of PV modules in 2011, Linde sees a number of important trends emerging this year:
1. PV manufacturers outside of Asia are likely to increase their focus on application-specific niche markets such as Building Integrated Photovoltaics (BIPV)
2. Further reductions in the manufacturing cost of solar panels, especially in thin film which is re-energising on a large scale in China
3. Continued cost and environmental drivers – Linde expects to partner with customers on more projects to replace NF3 with its innovative F2 gas technology
Dean O’Connor, Head of Market Development & Technology at Linde’s electronics business unit, said: “In 2010, we saw emerging markets in Asia dominate the more mature industry players in Europe. As a leading global supplier of gases to PV manufacturers, Linde is catering to demand. With our innovative fluorine gas solution, we are helping companies improve solar cell efficiency, decrease greenhouse gases and further drive down cost per watt.”
Further, O’Connor predicts: “Indicators are that later in the year, we could see an oversupply of modules which will lead to consolidation and further re-organisation of the leading solar players. Linde’s strategy is to focus on investment with these leading players who have a strong cost base, the best in-house technology and the strongest sales channels.”
In 2011, Linde will continue to lead the market in the supply of gases to Asian manufacturers, building on its recent heavy investment in silane and ammonia infrastructure in China.
GTM Research believes that demand for PV will grow to 18.5 GW in 2011, 11 percent higher than 2010, and will surpass 20 GW in 2012. According to GTM Senior Analyst, Shyam Mehta, “While significant subsidy reductions in 2011 and 2012 will cause Germany to lose much of its lustre as an attractive PV market, it should still be a 4-GW-plus market in these years. Moreover, strong growth in the U.S., Italy, France, Canada, China, and Japan (as well as secondary markets such as Bulgaria and Belgium) will continue to drive overall PV market growth, creating substantial supply chain opportunities in the space.”
Unirac Selected by Westwood Professional Services for 600kW Minneapolis Convention Center Solar Project
ALBUQUERQUE, N.M.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Unirac, Inc., North America’s leading provider of infrastructure for solar power systems, today announced that it was selected by Westwood Professional Services (Westwood) to supply an ISYS Roof Mount (IRM) custom racking solution for the recently completed 600kw solar array atop the Minneapolis Convention Center. The array consists of 2,613 PV modules that produce approximately 750 MWh of electricity per year. This system is one of the largest PV solar installations in the upper Midwest, as well as one of the largest commercial rooftop systems to feature a 30-degree tilt.
During the selection process, Westwood sought out a mounting solution that not only met the parameters for the project, but also had a superlative engineering support team behind it. “We selected Unirac for this project based upon their willingness to work within the design specifications of the project and their ability to deliver a first-class product,” says Nathan Franzen, Director of Solar Energy with Westwood.
The Minneapolis Convention Center site’s northern latitude required a mounting solution that could offer an acute angle tilt in order to best capture solar gain. An irregular rooftop design with slopes in multiple directions also required the utilization of adjustable feet to ensure an array in plane or level with the roof. Additionally, the location presented harsh climactic elements such as snow drifts up to eight feet high and loads of more than 100 pounds per square foot. These challenges were met by a customized IRM configured to a 30-degree tilt to optimize solar capture and output. IRM’s extreme flexibility — allowing for the adjustment of North South beams and the supports beneath those beams — was critical for load support, and was able to respond to sub-arrays in one section that required a 45-degree rotation to the building in order to capture the most solar gain. IRM’s best-in-class functionality, specifically its superior strength-to-weight ratio, was leveraged to ensure project success.
The IRM system was able to support the project’s unique requirements by providing enhanced structural integrity without incurring unnecessary costs. In addition, IRM’s ability to satisfy 90-120 mph basic wind speeds offered extra reassurance on a site at 70 feet above ground.
“ISYS Roof Mount’s unparalleled flexibility proved to be ideal for this site and project, and Unirac’s deep expertise in resolving design complexities was also integral to this project’s success,” said Unirac’s president and CEO, Doug May. “In addition, our team provided a seamless installation that adhered to a strict timeline. We are confident that Westwood will continue to be a key partner for Unirac in the renewable energy sector, and we value working with a company equally dedicated to quality and service.”
During the selection process, Westwood sought out a mounting solution that not only met the parameters for the project, but also had a superlative engineering support team behind it. “We selected Unirac for this project based upon their willingness to work within the design specifications of the project and their ability to deliver a first-class product,” says Nathan Franzen, Director of Solar Energy with Westwood.
The Minneapolis Convention Center site’s northern latitude required a mounting solution that could offer an acute angle tilt in order to best capture solar gain. An irregular rooftop design with slopes in multiple directions also required the utilization of adjustable feet to ensure an array in plane or level with the roof. Additionally, the location presented harsh climactic elements such as snow drifts up to eight feet high and loads of more than 100 pounds per square foot. These challenges were met by a customized IRM configured to a 30-degree tilt to optimize solar capture and output. IRM’s extreme flexibility — allowing for the adjustment of North South beams and the supports beneath those beams — was critical for load support, and was able to respond to sub-arrays in one section that required a 45-degree rotation to the building in order to capture the most solar gain. IRM’s best-in-class functionality, specifically its superior strength-to-weight ratio, was leveraged to ensure project success.
The IRM system was able to support the project’s unique requirements by providing enhanced structural integrity without incurring unnecessary costs. In addition, IRM’s ability to satisfy 90-120 mph basic wind speeds offered extra reassurance on a site at 70 feet above ground.
“ISYS Roof Mount’s unparalleled flexibility proved to be ideal for this site and project, and Unirac’s deep expertise in resolving design complexities was also integral to this project’s success,” said Unirac’s president and CEO, Doug May. “In addition, our team provided a seamless installation that adhered to a strict timeline. We are confident that Westwood will continue to be a key partner for Unirac in the renewable energy sector, and we value working with a company equally dedicated to quality and service.”
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