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 that it will provide the Spi-Sun Simulator™ 4600SLP to the European Commission’s Joint Research Centre in Ispra, Italy (JRC ISPRA). Spi-Sun Simulators are now used in more than thirty testing laboratories around the world to qualify PV modules.
The European Solar Test Installation (ESTI) lab in Ispra, Italy began certifying solar modules almost 20 years ago, based on their own industry standard “Ispra 503”. Eventually this standard was adopted by the International Electro Technical Commission (IEC) as the basis for the crystalline modules standard (IEC 61215), and later as the thin-film modules standard (IEC 61646).
Roger G. Little, Chairman and CEO of Spire Corporation, said, “With a Class AAA rating, Spire’s Simulators have become the industry standard for PV module testing, as demonstrated by utilization in over thirty test labs worldwide. Our proprietary method of controlling the Simulator's pulse length, its large irradiance range, and its superior spectral control provide test labs with a powerful tool for assessing PV module performance during development or qualification. Spire’s Simulators are also ideally suited for production manufacturing environments, and there are currently hundreds used in manufacturing facilities throughout the world.”
Thursday, March 31, 2011
Carmanah EG340 Solar Lights Illuminate Latin America Roadway Network
VICTORIA, British Columbia--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Carmanah Technologies (TSX: CMH) is pleased to announce a sale worth over $625,000 USD for Carmanah EG340 solar lights to illuminate a road network at a large industrial facility in Latin America.
This sale represents the first installation of the EG340 solar lights for a roadway lighting application. According to the facility owners, the company will save hundreds of MWh of electricity per year by introducing solar powered lighting into their operations. The EG340 Carmanah solar powered lights were specifically designed to meet the cost point, lighting and performance specifications for Latin American countries. One of the key reasons the EG340 was chosen was the low maintenance requirements for the lights – another cost saving advantage. The solar light also fit in well with the national Government’s support for renewable energy products.
Applications that the EG340 solar lights are ideal for include; public roadways, parking lots, perimeter lighting, and other area lighting applications. The EG340 lights offer adaptive lighting, standard IES light distributions, 6000K and 4300K color temperature options, as well as Carmanah’s patented Energy Management System.
Carmanah CEO, Ted Lattimore said, “Part of Carmanah’s strategic business plan is to be the world leader in the development and provision of solar powered lighting solutions. This installation of the EG340 for roadway lighting in Latin America will be a credible reference for any group considering the use of solar powered LED lights to illuminate a road network, from an organization in an industry where safe and reliable performance from any equipment deployed at their facility is mandatory. It is also another significant example of Carmanah’s continued progress towards achieving our strategic business plan.”
The EG340 has already experienced significant success illuminating pathways and park areas in Latin America. Since its release in January 2011, year to date booked sales of the EG340 and EG320 solar lights are nearing $1M USD for this exciting new product series. This sale is yet another success for Mr. Fernando Entrena and Ms. Iliana Fernandez of Carmanah Authorized Distributor, Iner Consultores.
This sale represents the first installation of the EG340 solar lights for a roadway lighting application. According to the facility owners, the company will save hundreds of MWh of electricity per year by introducing solar powered lighting into their operations. The EG340 Carmanah solar powered lights were specifically designed to meet the cost point, lighting and performance specifications for Latin American countries. One of the key reasons the EG340 was chosen was the low maintenance requirements for the lights – another cost saving advantage. The solar light also fit in well with the national Government’s support for renewable energy products.
Applications that the EG340 solar lights are ideal for include; public roadways, parking lots, perimeter lighting, and other area lighting applications. The EG340 lights offer adaptive lighting, standard IES light distributions, 6000K and 4300K color temperature options, as well as Carmanah’s patented Energy Management System.
Carmanah CEO, Ted Lattimore said, “Part of Carmanah’s strategic business plan is to be the world leader in the development and provision of solar powered lighting solutions. This installation of the EG340 for roadway lighting in Latin America will be a credible reference for any group considering the use of solar powered LED lights to illuminate a road network, from an organization in an industry where safe and reliable performance from any equipment deployed at their facility is mandatory. It is also another significant example of Carmanah’s continued progress towards achieving our strategic business plan.”
The EG340 has already experienced significant success illuminating pathways and park areas in Latin America. Since its release in January 2011, year to date booked sales of the EG340 and EG320 solar lights are nearing $1M USD for this exciting new product series. This sale is yet another success for Mr. Fernando Entrena and Ms. Iliana Fernandez of Carmanah Authorized Distributor, Iner Consultores.
Echelon and Direct Grid Bring the Benefits of Energy Control Networks to Solar Power
SAN JOSE, Calif.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Echelon Corporation (NASDAQ: ELON) announced that Direct Grid Technologies, LLC, a manufacturer of photovoltaic (PV) micro‐inverters for utility and commercial grade solar power generation, will be adding Echelon energy control networking to its micro-inverter products. Micro-inverters convert electricity generated by PV panels from direct to alternating current at the individual panel. This increases the overall reliability and efficiency of the entire solar power installation. By integrating the solar panels into a power line communicating energy control network with Echelon’s technology, Direct Grid can offer improved diagnostics, remote management and control, and lower the life cycle cost of the installation. The energy control network can be leveraged by Direct Grid and its customers over the lifetime of the panel installation, even as PV panel technology advances.
As part of its strategy to transform the electricity grid into a distributed, reliable and survivable energy control network, Echelon is working with its commercial customers to inject intelligence into their products so that they can analyze and act immediately in response to dynamic grid conditions to maximize efficiency, reliability and cost-effectiveness. Echelon is focusing this work with companies providing solar power solutions, smart street lighting and building energy management. Today’s announcement with Direct Grid is the latest deliverable on this strategy.
“PV panel efficiency is constantly improving but by small increments. Adding energy control networking to our micro-inverter products allows us to address efficiency at a system level and provide substantial additional performance improvement,” said Frank Cooper, Direct Grid’s president and principal. “Echelon’s energy control network multiplies the benefits of micro-inverters and gives us tremendous system control capabilities as well as insight into what is happening throughout the installation – system wide, by rows of panels, and at the individual panel. Efficiency and control are the combination that our customers want.”
According to Direct Grid, using Echelon’s energy control networking technology was the right choice because it integrates well with other equipment, scales easily and cost effectively to meet the expanding needs of Direct Grid customers because it is more reliable and less costly to install and maintain than competing systems. Echelon’s power line signaling technology, combined with its industry-leading SmartServer energy manager, has proven field reliability in the energy industry, delivering exceptional performance in utility and commercial applications with tens of millions of homes and more than a 100 million devices.
Anders Axelsson, Echelon’s senior vice president, commercial markets added, “Our energy control networking technology coupled with innovations like Direct Grid’s micro-inverters combine control of energy supply and demand right at the edge of the grid, facilitating the evolution of the smart grid. This combination is a big step forward in delivering low-cost, reliable, manageable, renewable energy.”
Find out more about power line signaling and the SmartServer at http://www.echelon.com/products/transceivers/powerline/ and http://www.echelon.com/products/cis/smartserver/.
More About the Echelon and Direct-Grid Collaboration
Direct Grid has added Echelon’s ISO standard power line smart transceivers to each micro-inverter. The micro-inverters communicate with Echelon’s i.LON® SmartServer to access Direct Grid’s WattTrack™ software for visualizing tracking, harvesting and performance data. The power line based network allows Direct Grid to reliably communicate amongst thousands of panels over hundreds of acres. Increased efficiency and lower costs come from a number of areas:
* Panel isolation;
* Decreased line loss;
* Improved diagnostics; and
* Prediction, identification and faster resolution of maintenance issues.
The energy control network allows Direct Grid to identify individual panel performance changes, minimize the cost of maintenance through improved diagnostics and visibility, and provides detailed performance logs for auditing and compliance purposes. The SmartServer’s sophisticated control software, standard web services, LonWorks® network, and Modbus interfaces allow Direct Grid installations to be integrated with other equipment, building systems, and energy management services.
As part of its strategy to transform the electricity grid into a distributed, reliable and survivable energy control network, Echelon is working with its commercial customers to inject intelligence into their products so that they can analyze and act immediately in response to dynamic grid conditions to maximize efficiency, reliability and cost-effectiveness. Echelon is focusing this work with companies providing solar power solutions, smart street lighting and building energy management. Today’s announcement with Direct Grid is the latest deliverable on this strategy.
“PV panel efficiency is constantly improving but by small increments. Adding energy control networking to our micro-inverter products allows us to address efficiency at a system level and provide substantial additional performance improvement,” said Frank Cooper, Direct Grid’s president and principal. “Echelon’s energy control network multiplies the benefits of micro-inverters and gives us tremendous system control capabilities as well as insight into what is happening throughout the installation – system wide, by rows of panels, and at the individual panel. Efficiency and control are the combination that our customers want.”
According to Direct Grid, using Echelon’s energy control networking technology was the right choice because it integrates well with other equipment, scales easily and cost effectively to meet the expanding needs of Direct Grid customers because it is more reliable and less costly to install and maintain than competing systems. Echelon’s power line signaling technology, combined with its industry-leading SmartServer energy manager, has proven field reliability in the energy industry, delivering exceptional performance in utility and commercial applications with tens of millions of homes and more than a 100 million devices.
Anders Axelsson, Echelon’s senior vice president, commercial markets added, “Our energy control networking technology coupled with innovations like Direct Grid’s micro-inverters combine control of energy supply and demand right at the edge of the grid, facilitating the evolution of the smart grid. This combination is a big step forward in delivering low-cost, reliable, manageable, renewable energy.”
Find out more about power line signaling and the SmartServer at http://www.echelon.com/products/transceivers/powerline/ and http://www.echelon.com/products/cis/smartserver/.
More About the Echelon and Direct-Grid Collaboration
Direct Grid has added Echelon’s ISO standard power line smart transceivers to each micro-inverter. The micro-inverters communicate with Echelon’s i.LON® SmartServer to access Direct Grid’s WattTrack™ software for visualizing tracking, harvesting and performance data. The power line based network allows Direct Grid to reliably communicate amongst thousands of panels over hundreds of acres. Increased efficiency and lower costs come from a number of areas:
* Panel isolation;
* Decreased line loss;
* Improved diagnostics; and
* Prediction, identification and faster resolution of maintenance issues.
The energy control network allows Direct Grid to identify individual panel performance changes, minimize the cost of maintenance through improved diagnostics and visibility, and provides detailed performance logs for auditing and compliance purposes. The SmartServer’s sophisticated control software, standard web services, LonWorks® network, and Modbus interfaces allow Direct Grid installations to be integrated with other equipment, building systems, and energy management services.
LDK Solar Finalizes Acquisition of 70% of Solar Power, Inc. for $33 Million
XINYU CITY, China & SUNNYVALE, Calif. & ROSEVILLE, Calif.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--LDK Solar Co., Ltd. ("LDK Solar") (NYSE:LDK), a leading manufacturer of multicrystalline solar wafers and PV products, and Solar Power, Inc. (“SPI”) (OTCBB:SOPW), announced today that LDK Solar has finalized its acquisition of a 70% interest in SPI for approximately $33 million. LDK paid an initial $10 million in January and today announced it has finalized the transaction with a second payment of $23 million.
The transaction adds significant financial strength to SPI’s balance sheet, enabling the acceleration of the development of its project pipeline, which primarily consists of utility-scale power plants and commercial/industrial distributed generation systems. SPI’s growing development portfolio and pipeline, in turn, should provide LDK Solar with enhanced downstream benefit to its vertical integration model through module supply for large-scale projects.
“We are very pleased to have this transaction concluded,” said Xiaofeng Peng, Chairman and CEO for LDK Solar. “SPI provides a strong strategic complement to our downstream vertical integration opportunities and provides LDK Solar and SPI the opportunity to jointly explore opening manufacturing operations in the U.S. to further enhance SPI’s competitive advantage in North America.”
“We are happy to be part of the growing LDK global team,” said Steve Kircher CEO for SPI. “The strength of our newly combined vertical platform should provide us significant competitive advantages going forward,” Mr. Kircher concluded.
The terms of the investment are more particularly detailed in the Stock Purchase Agreement dated January 5, 2011, as filed in the Company’s report on Form 8-K with the Securities and Exchange Commission on January 6, 2011.
The transaction adds significant financial strength to SPI’s balance sheet, enabling the acceleration of the development of its project pipeline, which primarily consists of utility-scale power plants and commercial/industrial distributed generation systems. SPI’s growing development portfolio and pipeline, in turn, should provide LDK Solar with enhanced downstream benefit to its vertical integration model through module supply for large-scale projects.
“We are very pleased to have this transaction concluded,” said Xiaofeng Peng, Chairman and CEO for LDK Solar. “SPI provides a strong strategic complement to our downstream vertical integration opportunities and provides LDK Solar and SPI the opportunity to jointly explore opening manufacturing operations in the U.S. to further enhance SPI’s competitive advantage in North America.”
“We are happy to be part of the growing LDK global team,” said Steve Kircher CEO for SPI. “The strength of our newly combined vertical platform should provide us significant competitive advantages going forward,” Mr. Kircher concluded.
The terms of the investment are more particularly detailed in the Stock Purchase Agreement dated January 5, 2011, as filed in the Company’s report on Form 8-K with the Securities and Exchange Commission on January 6, 2011.
Solar Manufacturing Receives Furnace Order from Major Chinese Aircraft Manufacturer
SOUDERTON, Pa.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Solar Manufacturing, Inc. announces it has received an order for a Model HCB-120180-2EQ car bottom type vacuum heat treating furnace from a major Chinese aircraft manufacturer. It is expected that the furnace will be used for the processing of various titanium aircraft parts and other related products.
“This is an important order in that it reinforces the confidence that the Chinese aircraft industry has placed in Solar Manufacturing,” said Rick Jones, vice president of international sales. “The Solar Model HCB-120180-2EQ Furnace is a horizontal, car bottom design incorporating a special motorized in/out front loading system. We are modifying the design of our standard car bottom loading system to uniquely suit the customer’s needs,” he added.
According to Jones, the furnace work zone measures 99” (2515 mm) wide x 48” (1219 mm) high x 180” (4572 mm) long and has a hearth designed to accommodate up to a 15,000 pound workload. The hot zone is an all metal design incorporating molybdenum/stainless steel shields and molybdenum heating elements with a maximum operating temperature of 1000 oC (1832 oF). Each of the two vacuum pumping systems will consist of a 35” diffusion pump with appropriate roughing and booster pumps to provide vacuum operation in the 10-5 Torr range. Cooling is accomplished via an internal 200 HP radial blower/heat exchanger system feeding the high velocity, molybdenum gas nozzles that surround the work load.
Solar Manufacturing designs and manufactures all types of vacuum heat treating, brazing, sintering, carburizing, and nitriding furnaces, as well as offers replacement hot zones and spare parts for various vacuum furnace brands. To learn more about the Solar Manufacturing’s diverse product line and services, contact Pete Reh, vice president of sales, at 267-384-5040 or pkr@solarmfg.com. For more information on Solar Manufacturing visit www.solarmfg.com.
“This is an important order in that it reinforces the confidence that the Chinese aircraft industry has placed in Solar Manufacturing,” said Rick Jones, vice president of international sales. “The Solar Model HCB-120180-2EQ Furnace is a horizontal, car bottom design incorporating a special motorized in/out front loading system. We are modifying the design of our standard car bottom loading system to uniquely suit the customer’s needs,” he added.
According to Jones, the furnace work zone measures 99” (2515 mm) wide x 48” (1219 mm) high x 180” (4572 mm) long and has a hearth designed to accommodate up to a 15,000 pound workload. The hot zone is an all metal design incorporating molybdenum/stainless steel shields and molybdenum heating elements with a maximum operating temperature of 1000 oC (1832 oF). Each of the two vacuum pumping systems will consist of a 35” diffusion pump with appropriate roughing and booster pumps to provide vacuum operation in the 10-5 Torr range. Cooling is accomplished via an internal 200 HP radial blower/heat exchanger system feeding the high velocity, molybdenum gas nozzles that surround the work load.
Solar Manufacturing designs and manufactures all types of vacuum heat treating, brazing, sintering, carburizing, and nitriding furnaces, as well as offers replacement hot zones and spare parts for various vacuum furnace brands. To learn more about the Solar Manufacturing’s diverse product line and services, contact Pete Reh, vice president of sales, at 267-384-5040 or pkr@solarmfg.com. For more information on Solar Manufacturing visit www.solarmfg.com.
Ferro Opens Solar Test Lab in Taiwan
CLEVELAND--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Ferro Corporation (NYSE: FOE) announced today the opening of a photovoltaic research and development laboratory in Neihu Technology Park, Taipei City, Taiwan. This expansion enables Ferro to provide timely technical support for customers in Taiwan and to deliver innovative solutions for improving the efficiency of solar cells and lowering the cost of solar cell production. The laboratory will provide testing and customer technical assistance to support rapid product development and resolution of technical issues.
The Ferro Taiwan Technology Center will perform tests related to the deposition of metallization pastes on solar cells. Services will include solar cell printing and firing, printing quality analysis, electrical performance measurement, wafer property analysis, and solderability and adhesion testing. These tests help demonstrate how to apply Ferro solar pastes and provide guidance on how to optimize process conditions in a customer's production line. Ferro customers also will be able to supply wafers to evaluate conductive pastes when their test facilities are busy, thus speeding up the paste qualification process.
“This development laboratory greatly improves Ferro’s ability to smoothly, rapidly and sustainably introduce innovative metallization pastes into the continually advancing solar cell market in Taiwan,“ notes Dr. Steven Florio, Chief Technology Officer for Ferro’s Electronic, Color and Glass Materials Group. “The addition of this laboratory and expansion of the staff in Taiwan will improve both the quality and timeliness of our local support by providing facilities for the optimization of all key process conditions to meet specific customer requirements.“
The Ferro Taiwan Technology Center will perform tests related to the deposition of metallization pastes on solar cells. Services will include solar cell printing and firing, printing quality analysis, electrical performance measurement, wafer property analysis, and solderability and adhesion testing. These tests help demonstrate how to apply Ferro solar pastes and provide guidance on how to optimize process conditions in a customer's production line. Ferro customers also will be able to supply wafers to evaluate conductive pastes when their test facilities are busy, thus speeding up the paste qualification process.
“This development laboratory greatly improves Ferro’s ability to smoothly, rapidly and sustainably introduce innovative metallization pastes into the continually advancing solar cell market in Taiwan,“ notes Dr. Steven Florio, Chief Technology Officer for Ferro’s Electronic, Color and Glass Materials Group. “The addition of this laboratory and expansion of the staff in Taiwan will improve both the quality and timeliness of our local support by providing facilities for the optimization of all key process conditions to meet specific customer requirements.“
Helix Water District Unveils New Clean Energy Source in San Diego County
EL CAJON, Calif.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--The Helix Water District, today announced the activation of a 290 kilowatt (KW) solar photovoltaic (PV) system. The zero-emission system, located at The Nat L. Eggert Operations Center (OC), was deployed through a partnership with Borrego Solar Systems, Inc., a leading designer and installer of grid-tied solar electric power systems, and the California Center for Sustainable Energy (CCSE). To celebrate the new system, The District will host an unveiling event on Wednesday, March 30, 2011 at 10 a.m. PT.
“Clean drinking water is one of our nation’s most important natural resources,” said DeAna Verbeke, President of The Helix Water District Board of Directors. “By working with the CCSE and Borrego Solar to incorporate solar, we have taken a step forward in combining water conservation with clean energy generation.”
The system will be operated and maintained under a Power Purchase Agreement (PPA) with Borrego Solar. Through the PPA, The District will purchase 454,000 kWhs per year of clean energy, approximately 90 percent of the energy consumed annually by the OC.
“The ongoing commitment from forward-thinking organizations like The Helix Water District is key to enabling the accelerated adoption of solar energy,” said Mike Hall, CEO of Borrego Solar Systems, Inc. “We are thrilled to have been selected by The District to be a part this project and be able to help them take advantage of the long-term financial and environmental benefits of clean, renewable solar power.”
The cost of the project was substantially offset by a $463,900 rebate from the California Solar Initiative awarded by the CCSE in San Diego. During the planning phase, The District contracted with CCSE's Energy Advisory Service to conduct an independent energy analysis in order to better understand the potential energy and cost savings of a solar power installation at their facility.
“This project is a terrific example of how to specify and procure a solar installation that will reduce energy costs while providing valuable shade to protect district equipment,” said Jon Fortune, consulting manager for CCSE’s Energy Advisory Service. “Helix Water District and Borrego Solar have shown how solar projects can be combined with shade structures to make the most of available funding.”
Over 20 years of production, the zero-emission system will offset more than an estimated 11.9 million pounds of greenhouse gas emissions (CO2) that would have been emitted during the production of electricity from fossil fuels. This is the equivalent of planting 107 acres of trees or conserving nearly 18,000 barrels of oil.
Media interested in attending the event on March 30th or speaking with the organizations involved prior to the event may contact Schwartz Communications at (415) 512-0770 or borregosolar@schwartzcomm.com.
“Clean drinking water is one of our nation’s most important natural resources,” said DeAna Verbeke, President of The Helix Water District Board of Directors. “By working with the CCSE and Borrego Solar to incorporate solar, we have taken a step forward in combining water conservation with clean energy generation.”
The system will be operated and maintained under a Power Purchase Agreement (PPA) with Borrego Solar. Through the PPA, The District will purchase 454,000 kWhs per year of clean energy, approximately 90 percent of the energy consumed annually by the OC.
“The ongoing commitment from forward-thinking organizations like The Helix Water District is key to enabling the accelerated adoption of solar energy,” said Mike Hall, CEO of Borrego Solar Systems, Inc. “We are thrilled to have been selected by The District to be a part this project and be able to help them take advantage of the long-term financial and environmental benefits of clean, renewable solar power.”
The cost of the project was substantially offset by a $463,900 rebate from the California Solar Initiative awarded by the CCSE in San Diego. During the planning phase, The District contracted with CCSE's Energy Advisory Service to conduct an independent energy analysis in order to better understand the potential energy and cost savings of a solar power installation at their facility.
“This project is a terrific example of how to specify and procure a solar installation that will reduce energy costs while providing valuable shade to protect district equipment,” said Jon Fortune, consulting manager for CCSE’s Energy Advisory Service. “Helix Water District and Borrego Solar have shown how solar projects can be combined with shade structures to make the most of available funding.”
Over 20 years of production, the zero-emission system will offset more than an estimated 11.9 million pounds of greenhouse gas emissions (CO2) that would have been emitted during the production of electricity from fossil fuels. This is the equivalent of planting 107 acres of trees or conserving nearly 18,000 barrels of oil.
Media interested in attending the event on March 30th or speaking with the organizations involved prior to the event may contact Schwartz Communications at (415) 512-0770 or borregosolar@schwartzcomm.com.
China Nuvo Solar Moves to Secure Financing for Freya Energy
WEST PALM BEACH, Fla.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--China Nuvo Solar Energy, Inc. (OTCQB: CNUV) outlined today its financing plans regarding the previously announced planned acquisition of Freya Energy, Inc. The Company is presently focusing on lenders and institutional investors for financings meeting the criteria that they be substantially non-dilutive and non-toxic to existing shareholders. The Company is currently in discussions with two groups that would provide up-front purchase order financing and has received strong indications of interest. It is also in discussions with several institutional investors for transactions contemplating the purchase of restricted stock. The Company anticipates it will seek an aggregate of approximately $2 million over the first twelve months to finance the Freya operations.
While the Company has received strong indications of interest and is presently negotiating term sheets, no agreements have been executed and there is no assurance that any transaction will be completed with respect to any of the financing alternatives.
About Freya Energy
Freya is a producer of safe large format lithium ion cells and batteries for demanding applications. Freya believes its proprietary separator provides greater safety than competitive products and provides a higher energy density than others on the market.
About China Nuvo Solar Energy
China Nuvo Solar Energy, Inc. is a development stage company that owns unique patent-pending solar and photovoltaic related technology. The Company's business model includes a roll-up strategy of clean energy companies and intellectual property within the renewable energy sector.
While the Company has received strong indications of interest and is presently negotiating term sheets, no agreements have been executed and there is no assurance that any transaction will be completed with respect to any of the financing alternatives.
About Freya Energy
Freya is a producer of safe large format lithium ion cells and batteries for demanding applications. Freya believes its proprietary separator provides greater safety than competitive products and provides a higher energy density than others on the market.
About China Nuvo Solar Energy
China Nuvo Solar Energy, Inc. is a development stage company that owns unique patent-pending solar and photovoltaic related technology. The Company's business model includes a roll-up strategy of clean energy companies and intellectual property within the renewable energy sector.
Tuesday, March 29, 2011
Canadian Solar Achieves ISO 14001 Environmental Management Standards and REACH Certification
MUNICH, Germany, March 29, 2011 /PRNewswire-Asia-FirstCall/ -- Canadian Solar Inc. (the "Company", "we" or "Canadian Solar") (Nasdaq: CSIQ), one of the world's largest solar companies, has been certified by the two industry standards ISO 14001 and REACH (registration, evaluation, authorization and restriction of chemicals). The basis for complying with the international ISO standard is the introduction of an environmental management system to administrate and to monitor the corporate environmental objectives. With their CS6 series modules, the company meets the requirements of the REACH directive: The relevant analysis has proven that the modules are free from so-called "substances of very high concern" (SVHC), and are therefore environmentally-friendly.
"We are proud to be compliant with ISO 14001. Environmental, technological, cost and performance are key concerns and anchors of our growth strategy," said Dr. Shawn Qu, Chairman and CEO of Canadian Solar. "Customers rely on Canadian Solar for our innovation leadership, product efficiency and environmentally-friendly policies. Central to our efforts and success is ensuring safe working conditions. Like we do in our product strategy, we also believe in permanently optimizing what has already been achieved in environmental standards."
The environmental management system required by ISO 14001 includes the corporate environmental policy, the goals that come with it and an environmental program. In the implementation, Canadian Solar has taken into account both aspects of environmental law and business. Moreover, the company has implemented mechanisms for the continuous improvement and development of the relevant measures and processes in the sense of the ISO standard.
REACH Certification
In addition to the ISO 14001 standard, Canadian Solar's CS6 series modules also comply with the European Union's REACH chemical directive. The substances used in the production of the CS6 modules are free from substances of high concern. This includes, for instance, carcinogenic or mutagenic substances. The analysis of the Canadian Solar modules was performed by the approved SGS group.
"We basically welcome the REACH directive, because it gives us legal security and provides a comparison against European manufacturers. But most of all, the directive is also a gauge for our success in research, development and production," said Qu.
REACH applies to all manufacturers who import more than 1,000 tons of chemical substances and their follow-up products per year into the EU. This value will step by step be reduced to one ton per year by 2018. REACH obliges domestic and foreign companies according to the "no data – no market" principle to have finished products analyzed for such substances of very high concern before they enter circulation. This applies to the entire value chain, ranging from preliminary products to production and recycling; the analysis also takes into account the working conditions for the people in production.
"We are proud to be compliant with ISO 14001. Environmental, technological, cost and performance are key concerns and anchors of our growth strategy," said Dr. Shawn Qu, Chairman and CEO of Canadian Solar. "Customers rely on Canadian Solar for our innovation leadership, product efficiency and environmentally-friendly policies. Central to our efforts and success is ensuring safe working conditions. Like we do in our product strategy, we also believe in permanently optimizing what has already been achieved in environmental standards."
The environmental management system required by ISO 14001 includes the corporate environmental policy, the goals that come with it and an environmental program. In the implementation, Canadian Solar has taken into account both aspects of environmental law and business. Moreover, the company has implemented mechanisms for the continuous improvement and development of the relevant measures and processes in the sense of the ISO standard.
REACH Certification
In addition to the ISO 14001 standard, Canadian Solar's CS6 series modules also comply with the European Union's REACH chemical directive. The substances used in the production of the CS6 modules are free from substances of high concern. This includes, for instance, carcinogenic or mutagenic substances. The analysis of the Canadian Solar modules was performed by the approved SGS group.
"We basically welcome the REACH directive, because it gives us legal security and provides a comparison against European manufacturers. But most of all, the directive is also a gauge for our success in research, development and production," said Qu.
REACH applies to all manufacturers who import more than 1,000 tons of chemical substances and their follow-up products per year into the EU. This value will step by step be reduced to one ton per year by 2018. REACH obliges domestic and foreign companies according to the "no data – no market" principle to have finished products analyzed for such substances of very high concern before they enter circulation. This applies to the entire value chain, ranging from preliminary products to production and recycling; the analysis also takes into account the working conditions for the people in production.
TEAL Electronics Receives $1M Order for Solar Power Product
SAN DIEGO, March 28, 2011 /PRNewswire/ -- TEAL Electronics, a San Diego based subsidiary of SL Industries, Inc. (AMEX: SLI), is pleased to announce the receipt of a $1M order from Energy Innovations, another local San Diego company, for product designed specifically for the Solar Power market. This is the initial order for a new TEAL product in a growing product family for the Solar Power industry.
TEAL has delivered the initial units of a very high reliability and ruggedized grid-tied power supply for Energy Innovations' Sunflower™ highly concentrated photovoltaic (HCPV) tracking system. The grid-tied power supply is a device designed to provide electrical power from the grid to the tracking system of a Solar Array until the Array begins producing power, at which point the power supply transitions off-line.
"TEAL Electronics is excited to partner with Energy Innovations, a leader in the HCPV market" said Don Klein, President of TEAL Electronics. "TEAL has been a leading provider of OEM power subsystems for many years, primarily in the Medical Imaging, Semiconductor Test, and Defense-Aerospace markets. We have recently been focused on growing into the Solar Power market, and this initial win is exciting for the entire company. It is also very appealing to be developing a partnership with another San Diego based company."
TEAL has delivered the initial units of a very high reliability and ruggedized grid-tied power supply for Energy Innovations' Sunflower™ highly concentrated photovoltaic (HCPV) tracking system. The grid-tied power supply is a device designed to provide electrical power from the grid to the tracking system of a Solar Array until the Array begins producing power, at which point the power supply transitions off-line.
"TEAL Electronics is excited to partner with Energy Innovations, a leader in the HCPV market" said Don Klein, President of TEAL Electronics. "TEAL has been a leading provider of OEM power subsystems for many years, primarily in the Medical Imaging, Semiconductor Test, and Defense-Aerospace markets. We have recently been focused on growing into the Solar Power market, and this initial win is exciting for the entire company. It is also very appealing to be developing a partnership with another San Diego based company."
Worldwide Annual Solar Cell Production More Than Doubles In 2010 For Photon International
AACHEN, Germany--(BUSINESS WIRE)--The annual survey of cell manufacturers published in the March 2011 issue of PHOTON International shows that the PV industry increased global cell production to 27.2 gigawatts (GW) in 2010, which is as much as the output of the previous 4 years combined. This incredibly large volume means an increase of 118-percent over the 12.5 GW produced in 2009 – the highest annual growth rate since PHOTON International started tracking cell production in 1999.
PV companies have reported similarly ambitious plans for this year. The 199 companies listed in the survey boasted around 37 GW of cell production capacity at the end of 2010, and they want to boost that by over 80 percent to roughly 67 GW by the end of this year, while increasing output by about 90 percent to 51.4 GW.
»The solar industry is ready to take responsibility for replacing dangerous nuclear power today,« says Michael Schmela, editor-in-chief of PHOTON International. »Solar has proven that it can grow fast, it’s getting big and it is already much less expensive than most people think,« he adds.
To put things into perspective, the 27.2 GW of PV cells produced last year are roughly equal in capacity to 27 typical nuclear reactors. The PV electricity generated annually by these cells would be around 27 terawatt hours (TWh), or 27 billion kilowatt hours (kWh), if they were installed in today’s major solar markets. »Even in a country with as little irradiance as Germany, the leading PV market, this is enough to replace the output of around three nuclear reactors,« says Schmela. »If this year’s PV production plans are realized, the output could not only generate as much electricity as about six nuclear plants in Germany, but it could also completely shave peak power demand during summer days in Italy.«
According to Schmela, »All that’s needed to quickly increase the share of solar power in the global energy mix is modest and sustainable funding levels.« Today, large utility-scale PV power plants can already generate electricity at around 15 euro cents per kWh in Germany – the level of offshore wind power feed-in tariffs. In Southern Italy, tariffs of only around 12 euro cents per kWh are needed for large-scale PV systems, rather than the 33 euro cents paid today. »The image of expensive solar power is outdated,« says Schmela. »As governments rethink their energy supply strategies in light of the terrible Fukushima nuclear plant accident, they have to look beyond gas and wind, making sure that they integrate solar power in their alternative scenario as well,« he adds.
The outlook of the worldwide PV market will be discussed at PHOTON’s 6th PV Investors Conference, and the implications and challenges for the large-scale integration of PV is the subject of PHOTON’s 6th Solar Electric Utility Conference. These events will take place in Berlin, Germany, on April 13 and April 14, respectively, as part of PHOTON’s Solar Terawatt-hours Conference Series Europe 2011. The topics of the other conferences include silicon, inverters, PV safety and production equipment (www.photon-expo.com).
To read the full survey on cell production 2010, please go to: www.photon-international.com/download/photon_cell_production_2010.pdf
PV companies have reported similarly ambitious plans for this year. The 199 companies listed in the survey boasted around 37 GW of cell production capacity at the end of 2010, and they want to boost that by over 80 percent to roughly 67 GW by the end of this year, while increasing output by about 90 percent to 51.4 GW.
»The solar industry is ready to take responsibility for replacing dangerous nuclear power today,« says Michael Schmela, editor-in-chief of PHOTON International. »Solar has proven that it can grow fast, it’s getting big and it is already much less expensive than most people think,« he adds.
To put things into perspective, the 27.2 GW of PV cells produced last year are roughly equal in capacity to 27 typical nuclear reactors. The PV electricity generated annually by these cells would be around 27 terawatt hours (TWh), or 27 billion kilowatt hours (kWh), if they were installed in today’s major solar markets. »Even in a country with as little irradiance as Germany, the leading PV market, this is enough to replace the output of around three nuclear reactors,« says Schmela. »If this year’s PV production plans are realized, the output could not only generate as much electricity as about six nuclear plants in Germany, but it could also completely shave peak power demand during summer days in Italy.«
According to Schmela, »All that’s needed to quickly increase the share of solar power in the global energy mix is modest and sustainable funding levels.« Today, large utility-scale PV power plants can already generate electricity at around 15 euro cents per kWh in Germany – the level of offshore wind power feed-in tariffs. In Southern Italy, tariffs of only around 12 euro cents per kWh are needed for large-scale PV systems, rather than the 33 euro cents paid today. »The image of expensive solar power is outdated,« says Schmela. »As governments rethink their energy supply strategies in light of the terrible Fukushima nuclear plant accident, they have to look beyond gas and wind, making sure that they integrate solar power in their alternative scenario as well,« he adds.
The outlook of the worldwide PV market will be discussed at PHOTON’s 6th PV Investors Conference, and the implications and challenges for the large-scale integration of PV is the subject of PHOTON’s 6th Solar Electric Utility Conference. These events will take place in Berlin, Germany, on April 13 and April 14, respectively, as part of PHOTON’s Solar Terawatt-hours Conference Series Europe 2011. The topics of the other conferences include silicon, inverters, PV safety and production equipment (www.photon-expo.com).
To read the full survey on cell production 2010, please go to: www.photon-international.com/download/photon_cell_production_2010.pdf
Lithodecor and Odersun Announce Co-Operation for Solar Façades
BERLIN--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Odersun AG, manufacturer of customized solar modules, and Lithodecor, producer of ventilated curtain wall systems, announce their co-operation in the area of solar façades. Odersun supplies Lithodecor with custom-made CIS (Copper-Indium-Disulphide) solar modules for the company’s Airtec system. Apart from classic materials such as glass and natural stone, Airtec façades are now available with multi-functional façade components integrating photovoltaics. Solutions already provided by Lithodecor, can be individually combined with the new solar components. Supplier Odersun manufactures system-compatible as well as project-specific solar modules for building integration. Lithodecor, therefore, is able to provide system standard sizes as well as individual made-to-measure solutions.
The integration of renewable energy into the building envelope is a very important matter for Lithodecor and the next logical step in upgrading its product portfolio: “Energy efficient building is not a ‘nice-to-have’ anymore but a mandatory requirement to meet low carbon goals. As an established manufacturer of building systems, we want to provide our customers with materials which help them to meet these new standards. With Odersun we have found the right partner with the technology and products to enable innovative and aesthetic façades solutions,” says Dr. Clemens von Trott zu Solz, Managing Director of Lithodecor’s façade division, which lately emerged from well-known Alsecco following an internal brand conversion.
Odersun AG is able to adapt its modules in size and design to fit exactly into the respective façade system. “Odersun modules have become a scalable building material thanks to our flexible technology and customizable product design, making it an ideal fit for the various parts of the building envelope. We are happy to have Lithodecor as an experienced system partner who shares our vision of energy efficient building with photovoltaics,” states Dr. Hein van der Zeeuw, Chief Executive Officer of Odersun AG.
The new solar façade system is designed to support builders who strive to meet the tightening standards of energy conservation regulations and energy efficient refurbishment. Solar components replace alternative façade elements with full functionality and provide payback through the façade-generated electricity. Both companies showed first samples of the Airtec Photovoltaic system at BAU 2011 in Germany earlier this year - with very positive industry feedback. Reference projects are in the setup phase.
The integration of renewable energy into the building envelope is a very important matter for Lithodecor and the next logical step in upgrading its product portfolio: “Energy efficient building is not a ‘nice-to-have’ anymore but a mandatory requirement to meet low carbon goals. As an established manufacturer of building systems, we want to provide our customers with materials which help them to meet these new standards. With Odersun we have found the right partner with the technology and products to enable innovative and aesthetic façades solutions,” says Dr. Clemens von Trott zu Solz, Managing Director of Lithodecor’s façade division, which lately emerged from well-known Alsecco following an internal brand conversion.
Odersun AG is able to adapt its modules in size and design to fit exactly into the respective façade system. “Odersun modules have become a scalable building material thanks to our flexible technology and customizable product design, making it an ideal fit for the various parts of the building envelope. We are happy to have Lithodecor as an experienced system partner who shares our vision of energy efficient building with photovoltaics,” states Dr. Hein van der Zeeuw, Chief Executive Officer of Odersun AG.
The new solar façade system is designed to support builders who strive to meet the tightening standards of energy conservation regulations and energy efficient refurbishment. Solar components replace alternative façade elements with full functionality and provide payback through the façade-generated electricity. Both companies showed first samples of the Airtec Photovoltaic system at BAU 2011 in Germany earlier this year - with very positive industry feedback. Reference projects are in the setup phase.
Daqo New Energy Announce Ground Breaking for its Phase 2 Polysilicon Project in Shihezi, Xinjiang
CHONGQING, China--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Daqo New Energy Corp. (NYSE: DQ) ("Daqo New Energy" or the "Company"), a leading polysilicon manufacturer based in China, today officially broke ground on its phase 2 polysilicon facility in Shihezi, Xinjiang. The ground breaking ceremony was hosted by Mr. Xu Guangfu, Chairman of the board. Local government officials attended the ceremony at site. The ceremony was also joined by other board members and management from the company. The initial capacity for the phase 2 polysilicon project will be for 3,000 metric ton (MT) polysilicon and the commercial production is scheduled to begin in the second half of 2012.
"The Shihezi, Xinjiang phase 2 project will play a key role in our future development." said Dr. Gongda Yao, Chief Executive Officer of Daqo New Energy. "With its favorable electricity cost and strong government support, we intend to utilize the strategic advantage of this site for our future polysilicon production expansion in order to meet our customers’ ever growing demand”
"The Shihezi, Xinjiang phase 2 project will play a key role in our future development." said Dr. Gongda Yao, Chief Executive Officer of Daqo New Energy. "With its favorable electricity cost and strong government support, we intend to utilize the strategic advantage of this site for our future polysilicon production expansion in order to meet our customers’ ever growing demand”
First Solar and juwi solar Sponsor Road Cycling Team
TEMPE, Ariz. & BOULDER, Colo.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Two of North America’s premier solar companies — First Solar Inc. (Nasdaq: FSLR) and juwi solar Inc. — are co-sponsoring a U.S. amateur road cycling team in an effort to promote awareness for sustainable solar energy in communities throughout the country.
Based in Boulder, Colo., the juwi / First Solar Cycling Team is comprised of 10 elite cyclists, including two-time national champion Michael Olheiser. Team members will participate in racing events from New York to California, including the Redlands Bicycle Classic on March 31-April 3. The race will take place not far from First Solar’s proposed Stateline and Desert Sunlight solar projects. The combined capacity of the solar projects will be 850 megawatts, enough electricity to power approximately 250,000 homes, displacing approximately 465,000 metric tons of CO2 annually, the equivalent of removing 92,000 cars from the road.
“First Solar is committed to sustainable energy solutions that promote a clean, emission-free environment and is proud to partner with juwi on this sponsorship opportunity,” said First Solar’s Components Business Group President TK Kallenbach. “The juwi / First Solar Cycling Team is powered by pure human energy — an excellent example of hard work and the competitive spirit.”
“juwi is excited to team up with First Solar to sponsor the juwi / First Solar Cycling Team,’” said Michael Martin, CEO of juwi solar Inc. “We are honored to support such talented cyclists who promote not only healthful living, but also supply a clean and renewable self-powered source of energy.”
For more information about the juwi / First Solar Cycling Team, visit www.solarcycling.org or www.facebook.com/solarcycling. For more information about the Redlands Bicycle Classic, including race dates and times, visit www.redlandsclassic.com.
Based in Boulder, Colo., the juwi / First Solar Cycling Team is comprised of 10 elite cyclists, including two-time national champion Michael Olheiser. Team members will participate in racing events from New York to California, including the Redlands Bicycle Classic on March 31-April 3. The race will take place not far from First Solar’s proposed Stateline and Desert Sunlight solar projects. The combined capacity of the solar projects will be 850 megawatts, enough electricity to power approximately 250,000 homes, displacing approximately 465,000 metric tons of CO2 annually, the equivalent of removing 92,000 cars from the road.
“First Solar is committed to sustainable energy solutions that promote a clean, emission-free environment and is proud to partner with juwi on this sponsorship opportunity,” said First Solar’s Components Business Group President TK Kallenbach. “The juwi / First Solar Cycling Team is powered by pure human energy — an excellent example of hard work and the competitive spirit.”
“juwi is excited to team up with First Solar to sponsor the juwi / First Solar Cycling Team,’” said Michael Martin, CEO of juwi solar Inc. “We are honored to support such talented cyclists who promote not only healthful living, but also supply a clean and renewable self-powered source of energy.”
For more information about the juwi / First Solar Cycling Team, visit www.solarcycling.org or www.facebook.com/solarcycling. For more information about the Redlands Bicycle Classic, including race dates and times, visit www.redlandsclassic.com.
Monday, March 28, 2011
Kupper Parker Communications, Inc. Completes Merger With Principal Solar
DALLAS, March 28, 2011 /PRNewswire/ -- Kupper Parker Communications, Inc. (Pink Sheets: KPCG) announces the completion of its merger with Principal Solar, Inc., www.PrincipalSolar.com, ("PSI"), the resignation of its prior management team and the appointment of Michael Gorton, PSI's Chief Executive Officer, as CEO for the Corporation.
The corporation is changing its name to Principal Solar, Inc., and applying for a new stock symbol. After the reverse split and issuance of the new shares associated with the merger, the total issued and outstanding common stock of the corporation will be 12,720,051 shares. Management intends to apply for listing on one of the major U.S. exchanges as soon as the company qualifies.
"Gorton, a proven leader with a successful entrepreneurial track record, will build a sustainable business that drives increased adoption of solar energy," says William B. Glenn, Jr., Kupper Parker's former CEO.
Gorton adds, "PSI emerges as a premier renewable energy holding company with a unique roll-up strategy that is positioned to rapidly advance the inevitable, worldwide utilization of solar energy – a competitively priced alternative to fossil fuel."
The corporation is changing its name to Principal Solar, Inc., and applying for a new stock symbol. After the reverse split and issuance of the new shares associated with the merger, the total issued and outstanding common stock of the corporation will be 12,720,051 shares. Management intends to apply for listing on one of the major U.S. exchanges as soon as the company qualifies.
"Gorton, a proven leader with a successful entrepreneurial track record, will build a sustainable business that drives increased adoption of solar energy," says William B. Glenn, Jr., Kupper Parker's former CEO.
Gorton adds, "PSI emerges as a premier renewable energy holding company with a unique roll-up strategy that is positioned to rapidly advance the inevitable, worldwide utilization of solar energy – a competitively priced alternative to fossil fuel."
University of Maryland Eastern Shore Activates a 2.2 Megawatt Solar Farm
PRINCESS ANNE, Md., March 28, 2011 /PRNewswire/ -- The University of Maryland Eastern Shore today celebrated the activation of a 2.2 megawatt solar-energy facility on the land-grant institution's campus.
The 7,800-panel "solar farm" occupies 17 acres and is the largest concentration of photovoltaic modules on one site in Maryland, according to university officials and SunEdison, the company that built and will operate the facility.
Located on university-owned land adjacent to Tom Nichols Road off Maryland Rt. 388 (West Post Office Road), the solar farm will enable UMES to reduce its energy bills over the next 20 years.
Attending today's activation event were UMES President Thelma B. Thompson, University System of Maryland Chancellor William E. Kirwan and local and state dignitaries.
The solar farm is projected to produce more than 3.3 million kilowatt hours (kWh) of energy in the first year alone. Over the two decades the panels will operate, they should produce more than 61 million kWh of energy -- roughly enough to power more than 5,700 homes for one year.
Thompson, who recently announced her plans to retire, said the solar farm is an example of UMES' commitment to developing public-private partnerships.
"UMES is proud to be on the cutting edge of setting an example in alternative energy production here on the Eastern Shore," Dr. Thompson said. "We encourage others to join us."
The solar farm was made possible through a strategic service agreement between SunEdison and UMES. SunEdison financed and built the solar farm at no cost to UMES or the state of Maryland. In return, UMES will purchase the power produced from the solar farm at long-term predictable rates to offset the university's demand from the energy grid.
Kirwan described the UMES-SunEdison partnership as mutually beneficial since the state had no upfront investment. "Perhaps most importantly, the people of Maryland will reap the enormous benefit of having literally millions of pounds of pollutants not released into the atmosphere as this power is generated," Kirwan said.
Two years ago, UMES converted one of its dormitories to geothermal energy and just recently learned a newly renovated classroom building qualified for a gold certificate from the U.S. Green Building Council.
According to SunEdison, the environmental attributes associated with the UMES solar farm is estimated to abate more than 121 million pounds of carbon dioxide emissions over the initial 20 years of production; the equivalent of removing more than 11,800 cars off the road for one year.
The 7,800-panel "solar farm" occupies 17 acres and is the largest concentration of photovoltaic modules on one site in Maryland, according to university officials and SunEdison, the company that built and will operate the facility.
Located on university-owned land adjacent to Tom Nichols Road off Maryland Rt. 388 (West Post Office Road), the solar farm will enable UMES to reduce its energy bills over the next 20 years.
Attending today's activation event were UMES President Thelma B. Thompson, University System of Maryland Chancellor William E. Kirwan and local and state dignitaries.
The solar farm is projected to produce more than 3.3 million kilowatt hours (kWh) of energy in the first year alone. Over the two decades the panels will operate, they should produce more than 61 million kWh of energy -- roughly enough to power more than 5,700 homes for one year.
Thompson, who recently announced her plans to retire, said the solar farm is an example of UMES' commitment to developing public-private partnerships.
"UMES is proud to be on the cutting edge of setting an example in alternative energy production here on the Eastern Shore," Dr. Thompson said. "We encourage others to join us."
The solar farm was made possible through a strategic service agreement between SunEdison and UMES. SunEdison financed and built the solar farm at no cost to UMES or the state of Maryland. In return, UMES will purchase the power produced from the solar farm at long-term predictable rates to offset the university's demand from the energy grid.
Kirwan described the UMES-SunEdison partnership as mutually beneficial since the state had no upfront investment. "Perhaps most importantly, the people of Maryland will reap the enormous benefit of having literally millions of pounds of pollutants not released into the atmosphere as this power is generated," Kirwan said.
Two years ago, UMES converted one of its dormitories to geothermal energy and just recently learned a newly renovated classroom building qualified for a gold certificate from the U.S. Green Building Council.
According to SunEdison, the environmental attributes associated with the UMES solar farm is estimated to abate more than 121 million pounds of carbon dioxide emissions over the initial 20 years of production; the equivalent of removing more than 11,800 cars off the road for one year.
David W. King to Succeed Amy Zhang as Chief Financial Officer of Suntech
WUXI, China, March 28, 2011 /PRNewswire-Asia/ -- Suntech Power Holdings Co., Ltd. (NYSE: STP), the world's largest producer of solar panels, today announced that Mr. David W. King will succeed Ms. Amy Zhang as Suntech's Chief Financial Officer. Mr. King will join the Company in April 2011 and will overlap with Ms. Zhang in early April for transitional purposes. Post the transition, Ms. Zhang will leave Suntech and resign her position on the Board of Directors to pursue other opportunities.
"I would like to thank Amy for the integral role she has played guiding Suntech's transition to a global leader in solar," said Dr. Zhengrong Shi, Suntech's Chairman and CEO. "We are grateful for her service both as an executive and member of the Board and wish her well in her future endeavors."
Commenting on Mr. King's appointment, Dr. Shi stated, "It is a great pleasure to welcome David to Suntech where his strong executive credentials and global business perspective will be an excellent fit with our organization. A seasoned CFO from a multi-billion dollar U.S. public company, David also brings a valued background from a business culture that promotes sustainability and social responsibility. I believe that his strategic vision and financial acumen will be great assets to our management team and will help Suntech to continue to grow and compete successfully around the world."
Mr. King is the former Chief Financial Officer and Treasurer of Tetra Tech, Inc. (Nasdaq: TTEK), a leading provider of consulting, engineering, program management, construction, and technical services addressing the resource management, energy and infrastructure markets. Prior to Tetra Tech, Mr. King served as Vice President of Finance and Operations of Walt Disney Imagineering, and earlier, as Vice President and Chief Financial Officer of the Asia Pacific region for Bechtel Group, Inc., a global engineering, construction and project management company.
"I've long admired Dr. Shi's visionary leadership and Suntech's prominence in solar innovation," said David King. "I look forward to being a member of Suntech's outstanding executive team and contributing to the ongoing growth and expansion of this premier organization."
Mr. King began his career at Price Waterhouse where he gained a decade of international and transactional experience at the firm's Seattle, Los Angeles and Hong Kong offices. Mr. King studied Business Administration at the University of Washington and is a Certified Public Accountant.
"I would like to thank Amy for the integral role she has played guiding Suntech's transition to a global leader in solar," said Dr. Zhengrong Shi, Suntech's Chairman and CEO. "We are grateful for her service both as an executive and member of the Board and wish her well in her future endeavors."
Commenting on Mr. King's appointment, Dr. Shi stated, "It is a great pleasure to welcome David to Suntech where his strong executive credentials and global business perspective will be an excellent fit with our organization. A seasoned CFO from a multi-billion dollar U.S. public company, David also brings a valued background from a business culture that promotes sustainability and social responsibility. I believe that his strategic vision and financial acumen will be great assets to our management team and will help Suntech to continue to grow and compete successfully around the world."
Mr. King is the former Chief Financial Officer and Treasurer of Tetra Tech, Inc. (Nasdaq: TTEK), a leading provider of consulting, engineering, program management, construction, and technical services addressing the resource management, energy and infrastructure markets. Prior to Tetra Tech, Mr. King served as Vice President of Finance and Operations of Walt Disney Imagineering, and earlier, as Vice President and Chief Financial Officer of the Asia Pacific region for Bechtel Group, Inc., a global engineering, construction and project management company.
"I've long admired Dr. Shi's visionary leadership and Suntech's prominence in solar innovation," said David King. "I look forward to being a member of Suntech's outstanding executive team and contributing to the ongoing growth and expansion of this premier organization."
Mr. King began his career at Price Waterhouse where he gained a decade of international and transactional experience at the firm's Seattle, Los Angeles and Hong Kong offices. Mr. King studied Business Administration at the University of Washington and is a Certified Public Accountant.
Here Enterprises Diversifies Clean Energy Strategy to Target Thriving Solar Power Market
FLORESVILLE, Texas, March 28, 2011 /PRNewswire/ -- Here Enterprises Inc. (Pink Sheets: HRTE), a growing developer of clean energy, is pursuing growth opportunities within the $46 billion solar energy market. In addition to working to bring wind power online at its Cycle Ranch project, the Company is now focused on developing solar power on the site, taking advantage of the Texas property's expansive acreage and excellent exposure. Here Enterprises is also moving forward with the acquisition of a local solar development firm with expertise in solar technology and systems installation.
Solar power installations worldwide increased 120% in 2010, with nearly 16 GW added, up from 7.2 GW of new capacity in 2009. Total worldwide capacity reached 40 GW, still just 0.2% of the world's electricity generation in 2010, leaving considerable room for growth. According to the European Photovoltaic Industry Association, global investment in solar panels, which topped $46 billion in 2010, is expected to double within the next five years. (Reuters, "Global solar power growth doubled in 2010", February 2011)
Last year nearly one gigawatt of new solar panel capacity was installed domestically, the highest total in United States history. Nonetheless, many analysts affirm that photovoltaic installations could reach two gigawatts this year as funding for solar installations continues to increase. (GetSolar, "Lenders Could Fuel Solar Industry's Growth in 2011", March 2011)
In the U.S. Texas ranks first in solar resource potential, according to the State Energy Conservation Office (SECO), as Texas has high levels of solar radiation that pass through the atmosphere unobstructed by pollutants, clouds, water vapor, and other matter. Solar energy is an ideal complement to, and is best employed in conjunction with, wind-driven energy as wind blows strongest at night. (Texas House of Representatives Focus Report, "Solar Energy in Texas", July 2010)
Mark Ryun, CEO of Here Enterprises, commented: "Here Enterprises is excited to expand into the rising solar energy market. Solar power is a perfect fit for our philosophy and ongoing operations. We intend to take full advantage of the Cycle Ranch property's available resources, through means that are both responsible and profitable. Texas offers a ready market and vast capacity for renewable energy production and we are proud to be a part of it."
Solar power installations worldwide increased 120% in 2010, with nearly 16 GW added, up from 7.2 GW of new capacity in 2009. Total worldwide capacity reached 40 GW, still just 0.2% of the world's electricity generation in 2010, leaving considerable room for growth. According to the European Photovoltaic Industry Association, global investment in solar panels, which topped $46 billion in 2010, is expected to double within the next five years. (Reuters, "Global solar power growth doubled in 2010", February 2011)
Last year nearly one gigawatt of new solar panel capacity was installed domestically, the highest total in United States history. Nonetheless, many analysts affirm that photovoltaic installations could reach two gigawatts this year as funding for solar installations continues to increase. (GetSolar, "Lenders Could Fuel Solar Industry's Growth in 2011", March 2011)
In the U.S. Texas ranks first in solar resource potential, according to the State Energy Conservation Office (SECO), as Texas has high levels of solar radiation that pass through the atmosphere unobstructed by pollutants, clouds, water vapor, and other matter. Solar energy is an ideal complement to, and is best employed in conjunction with, wind-driven energy as wind blows strongest at night. (Texas House of Representatives Focus Report, "Solar Energy in Texas", July 2010)
Mark Ryun, CEO of Here Enterprises, commented: "Here Enterprises is excited to expand into the rising solar energy market. Solar power is a perfect fit for our philosophy and ongoing operations. We intend to take full advantage of the Cycle Ranch property's available resources, through means that are both responsible and profitable. Texas offers a ready market and vast capacity for renewable energy production and we are proud to be a part of it."
Solar Nation® Installs Solar-Electric System for Sunham Home Fashions in New Providence, New Jersey
NEW PROVIDENCE, N.J.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Solar Nation has announced the installation and commissioning of an 876kW solar-electric system on the Sunham Home Fashions Distribution Center in New Providence, New Jersey. Sunham Home Fashions installed the solar-electric system to reduce and stabilize energy costs and to follow through on its long-standing commitment to environmental stewardship.
The 130,000 square foot solar-electric system was designed, engineered, and installed by Solar Nation. The rooftop array is comprised of 3,575 SolarWorld® 245 watt solar panels, manufactured in the U.S. In addition to the panels, the system incorporates two SMA America inverters and a Draker Laboratories web-based monitoring system. Clean, renewable energy generated by the system would be enough to power up to 83 homes and will meet 100% of Sunham’s electricity needs, providing immediate savings for the company.
The installation of the solar-electric system is part of Sunham Home Fashions continuing dedication to environmental impact reduction. It is estimated that the Sunham solar-electric system will cut greenhouse gas emissions by 618 metric tons annually—the equivalent CO2 offset of 32,000 trees or reducing automobile usage by 1,015,000 miles.
“We want this installation to be an example for other businesses,” explained Arthur Courbanou, Chief Operating and Financial Officer of Sunham Home Fashions. “Renewable energy is not just a smart environmental policy; it’s smart business. We hope our success can help convince other companies to implement green-energy practices in their day-to-day operations.”
“Sunham Home Fashions has a passion for quality and service and a commitment to sustainability. We are proud that they chose Solar Nation to further that commitment. By installing an advanced solar-electric system, Sunham Home Fashions will realize immediate and long-term savings that will make them an even stronger business, an even stronger employer, all the while reducing emissions and helping the environment,” said Paul Hodge, Chief Executive Officer of Solar Nation.
The 130,000 square foot solar-electric system was designed, engineered, and installed by Solar Nation. The rooftop array is comprised of 3,575 SolarWorld® 245 watt solar panels, manufactured in the U.S. In addition to the panels, the system incorporates two SMA America inverters and a Draker Laboratories web-based monitoring system. Clean, renewable energy generated by the system would be enough to power up to 83 homes and will meet 100% of Sunham’s electricity needs, providing immediate savings for the company.
The installation of the solar-electric system is part of Sunham Home Fashions continuing dedication to environmental impact reduction. It is estimated that the Sunham solar-electric system will cut greenhouse gas emissions by 618 metric tons annually—the equivalent CO2 offset of 32,000 trees or reducing automobile usage by 1,015,000 miles.
“We want this installation to be an example for other businesses,” explained Arthur Courbanou, Chief Operating and Financial Officer of Sunham Home Fashions. “Renewable energy is not just a smart environmental policy; it’s smart business. We hope our success can help convince other companies to implement green-energy practices in their day-to-day operations.”
“Sunham Home Fashions has a passion for quality and service and a commitment to sustainability. We are proud that they chose Solar Nation to further that commitment. By installing an advanced solar-electric system, Sunham Home Fashions will realize immediate and long-term savings that will make them an even stronger business, an even stronger employer, all the while reducing emissions and helping the environment,” said Paul Hodge, Chief Executive Officer of Solar Nation.
TEP to Develop New Grid-Connected Solar Power Systems on Local Rooftops
TUCSON, Ariz.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Tucson Electric Power (TEP) is preparing to build new grid-tied solar arrays on the roofs of large public buildings to help serve a growing demand for renewable power.
Through its new TEP Bright Roofs program, the company plans to lease space atop schools and other public facilities for the development of 11 megawatts (MW) of new TEP-owned solar generating capacity over the next three years. TEP Bright Roofs will feed solar energy directly into TEP’s local distribution grid, generating enough clean power to serve more than 1,800 Tucson homes.
“Our new TEP Bright Roofs program offers schools and other public agencies an opportunity to put their unused rooftop space to good use, generating both clean energy for our community and lease payments that can help support education and other public services,” said Paul Bonavia, Chairman, President and CEO of TEP and its parent company, UniSource Energy (NYSE: UNS).
The program is designed for buildings with at least 50,000 square feet of flat rooftop space, enough room for a photovoltaic (PV) system that generates about 250 kilowatts (kW). A high school with 200,000 square feet of available roof space could host a 1 MW system that generates enough power to serve about 170 homes.
TEP Bright Roofs will incorporate low-profile, high-efficiency T5 Solar Roof Tile systems from SunPower Corp. of San Jose, Calif. The innovative system can be installed without roof penetrations, making it relatively easy to remove for roof maintenance or recoating. Tilted at a five-degree angle, the T5 Roof Tile system approximately doubles the energy generated per square meter compared to systems that are mounted flat onto commercial rooftops.
“The TEP Bright Roofs program capitalizes on the growing value of advanced solar technology as a cost-effective energy resource that can be installed quickly anywhere and at any scale,” said Howard Wenger, president of SunPower’s utilities and power plant business group.
TEP Bright Roofs will be part of more than 125 MW of new solar generating capacity that TEP and its partners are developing in the Tucson area over the next three years. The output of those systems will help TEP satisfy Arizona’s Renewable Energy Standard (RES), which calls on utilities to increase their use of renewable energy each year until it represents 15 percent of their power in 2025.
The total installed cost of TEP Bright Roofs will be comparable to TEP’s other utility-scale systems. While they will generate less power than tracking arrays and other advanced solar technologies, they also offer unique advantages, said Dave Hutchens, Executive Vice President of TEP and UniSource Energy.
“This new program gives us an opportunity to develop new, clean energy resources in fully developed areas of our distribution grid,” said Hutchens, who oversees the company’s renewable energy and energy efficiency programs. “TEP Bright Roofs will help us satisfy growing energy needs without consuming land or creating new emission sources.”
The energy generated by TEP Bright Roofs will be available to TEP customers through the company’s Bright Tucson Community Solar Program. Participating customers can purchase 150 kilowatt-hour (kWh) “blocks” of solar energy, offsetting an equivalent amount of conventional power at a price that adds $3 apiece to their monthly bills. TEP customers can purchase some or all of their energy through the program, reducing or eliminating their use of fossil-fueled energy.
TEP customers have subscribed to more than 1,100 blocks of solar energy since the Bright Tucson Community Solar Program was launched Feb. 1. Solar power for the program currently is generated by a 1.6 MW solar array in the Solar Zone at the University of Arizona’s Science and Technology Park in southeast Tucson.
TEP provides safe, reliable power to more than 400,000 customers in southern Arizona. For more information, visit tep.com. To learn more about parent company UniSource Energy, visit uns.com.
Through its new TEP Bright Roofs program, the company plans to lease space atop schools and other public facilities for the development of 11 megawatts (MW) of new TEP-owned solar generating capacity over the next three years. TEP Bright Roofs will feed solar energy directly into TEP’s local distribution grid, generating enough clean power to serve more than 1,800 Tucson homes.
“Our new TEP Bright Roofs program offers schools and other public agencies an opportunity to put their unused rooftop space to good use, generating both clean energy for our community and lease payments that can help support education and other public services,” said Paul Bonavia, Chairman, President and CEO of TEP and its parent company, UniSource Energy (NYSE: UNS).
The program is designed for buildings with at least 50,000 square feet of flat rooftop space, enough room for a photovoltaic (PV) system that generates about 250 kilowatts (kW). A high school with 200,000 square feet of available roof space could host a 1 MW system that generates enough power to serve about 170 homes.
TEP Bright Roofs will incorporate low-profile, high-efficiency T5 Solar Roof Tile systems from SunPower Corp. of San Jose, Calif. The innovative system can be installed without roof penetrations, making it relatively easy to remove for roof maintenance or recoating. Tilted at a five-degree angle, the T5 Roof Tile system approximately doubles the energy generated per square meter compared to systems that are mounted flat onto commercial rooftops.
“The TEP Bright Roofs program capitalizes on the growing value of advanced solar technology as a cost-effective energy resource that can be installed quickly anywhere and at any scale,” said Howard Wenger, president of SunPower’s utilities and power plant business group.
TEP Bright Roofs will be part of more than 125 MW of new solar generating capacity that TEP and its partners are developing in the Tucson area over the next three years. The output of those systems will help TEP satisfy Arizona’s Renewable Energy Standard (RES), which calls on utilities to increase their use of renewable energy each year until it represents 15 percent of their power in 2025.
The total installed cost of TEP Bright Roofs will be comparable to TEP’s other utility-scale systems. While they will generate less power than tracking arrays and other advanced solar technologies, they also offer unique advantages, said Dave Hutchens, Executive Vice President of TEP and UniSource Energy.
“This new program gives us an opportunity to develop new, clean energy resources in fully developed areas of our distribution grid,” said Hutchens, who oversees the company’s renewable energy and energy efficiency programs. “TEP Bright Roofs will help us satisfy growing energy needs without consuming land or creating new emission sources.”
The energy generated by TEP Bright Roofs will be available to TEP customers through the company’s Bright Tucson Community Solar Program. Participating customers can purchase 150 kilowatt-hour (kWh) “blocks” of solar energy, offsetting an equivalent amount of conventional power at a price that adds $3 apiece to their monthly bills. TEP customers can purchase some or all of their energy through the program, reducing or eliminating their use of fossil-fueled energy.
TEP customers have subscribed to more than 1,100 blocks of solar energy since the Bright Tucson Community Solar Program was launched Feb. 1. Solar power for the program currently is generated by a 1.6 MW solar array in the Solar Zone at the University of Arizona’s Science and Technology Park in southeast Tucson.
TEP provides safe, reliable power to more than 400,000 customers in southern Arizona. For more information, visit tep.com. To learn more about parent company UniSource Energy, visit uns.com.
Friday, March 25, 2011
Petra Solar Appoints Dan Brdar as Chief Operating Officer
SOUTH PLAINFIELD, N.J.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Petra Solar, a pioneer and market leader in smart solar technology for utility companies that combines distributed solar energy generation with building a Smart Grid infrastructure, announced today the appointment of Dan Brdar as Chief Operating Officer. Mr. Brdar will assume this vital role with responsibility for the strategic and operational leadership of the company’s sales, marketing, operations, and engineering organizations.
“I am delighted to have Dan join the Petra Solar executive leadership team in the critical role of Chief Operating Officer,” said Petra Solar President and CEO, Dr. Shihab Kuran. “Petra Solar’s innovative SunWave™ system provides our utility partners with a powerful platform that transforms the way solar power is produced and delivered. I have no doubt that Dan’s extensive expertise, strategic vision and proven leadership will help Petra Solar continue our positive momentum and business performance, capitalize on the enormous growth opportunities that exist in today’s global market, and set a trajectory toward even greater levels of success for the company. ”
Mr. Brdar brings with him over 30 years of combined technology development, new product introduction and sales leadership experience in a variety of executive positions. Prior to joining Petra Solar, he served as President, Chief Executive Officer and Chairman of the Board of FuelCell Energy, the world’s leading stationary fuel cell manufacturer with five facilities for production and service located in three countries. At FuelCell, Mr. Brdar led the growth strategies, financial planning and capital creation efforts, new product and market development initiatives, and provided strategic direction to manufacturing, engineering and service operations. While there, Mr. Brdar was responsible for raising over $100 million in corporate funds from institutional investors and partners, converting negative product gross margins to positive via a 51% improvement, leading a 220% increase in the manufacturing production rate, and driving a record sales order backlog.
Before joining FuelCell Energy, Mr. Brdar held management positions at General Electric where he focused on new product introduction programs for the GE Power Systems business unit and managed its gas turbine product lines, which generated multi-billion dollar annual new unit sales. Prior to GE, he was Associate Director, Office of Power Systems Product Management, at the U.S. Department of Energy where he was responsible for directing the research, development and demonstration of advanced power systems including advanced gas turbines, gasification systems and fuel cells. He earned his Bachelor of Science Degree in Engineering from the University of Pittsburgh in 1981.
“When you look at the incredible portfolio of solar and Smart Grid products and technologies Petra Solar is poised to deliver, I see great opportunity in the markets in which it currently serves, as well as those where we will expand,” said Mr. Brdar. “With the world in the midst of a clean energy revolution, Petra Solar’s suite of products and services provides utilities around the globe with reliable, cost effective solutions that can assist them in preparing the electric grid to meet the energy needs of the 21st century. I am thrilled to join an organization that is so passionate about confronting today’s renewable energy challenges with innovative advancements that address the growing global demand for sustainable energy and grid reliability.”
“I am delighted to have Dan join the Petra Solar executive leadership team in the critical role of Chief Operating Officer,” said Petra Solar President and CEO, Dr. Shihab Kuran. “Petra Solar’s innovative SunWave™ system provides our utility partners with a powerful platform that transforms the way solar power is produced and delivered. I have no doubt that Dan’s extensive expertise, strategic vision and proven leadership will help Petra Solar continue our positive momentum and business performance, capitalize on the enormous growth opportunities that exist in today’s global market, and set a trajectory toward even greater levels of success for the company. ”
Mr. Brdar brings with him over 30 years of combined technology development, new product introduction and sales leadership experience in a variety of executive positions. Prior to joining Petra Solar, he served as President, Chief Executive Officer and Chairman of the Board of FuelCell Energy, the world’s leading stationary fuel cell manufacturer with five facilities for production and service located in three countries. At FuelCell, Mr. Brdar led the growth strategies, financial planning and capital creation efforts, new product and market development initiatives, and provided strategic direction to manufacturing, engineering and service operations. While there, Mr. Brdar was responsible for raising over $100 million in corporate funds from institutional investors and partners, converting negative product gross margins to positive via a 51% improvement, leading a 220% increase in the manufacturing production rate, and driving a record sales order backlog.
Before joining FuelCell Energy, Mr. Brdar held management positions at General Electric where he focused on new product introduction programs for the GE Power Systems business unit and managed its gas turbine product lines, which generated multi-billion dollar annual new unit sales. Prior to GE, he was Associate Director, Office of Power Systems Product Management, at the U.S. Department of Energy where he was responsible for directing the research, development and demonstration of advanced power systems including advanced gas turbines, gasification systems and fuel cells. He earned his Bachelor of Science Degree in Engineering from the University of Pittsburgh in 1981.
“When you look at the incredible portfolio of solar and Smart Grid products and technologies Petra Solar is poised to deliver, I see great opportunity in the markets in which it currently serves, as well as those where we will expand,” said Mr. Brdar. “With the world in the midst of a clean energy revolution, Petra Solar’s suite of products and services provides utilities around the globe with reliable, cost effective solutions that can assist them in preparing the electric grid to meet the energy needs of the 21st century. I am thrilled to join an organization that is so passionate about confronting today’s renewable energy challenges with innovative advancements that address the growing global demand for sustainable energy and grid reliability.”
Envision Solar Selected by Renewvia Energy as Exclusive Provider of Solar Tree® Parking Structures
SAN DIEGO--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Envision Solar International, Inc., (OTCBB:EVSI), a leading sustainable infrastructure designer and developer, announced that it has been selected by Renewvia Energy to be the exclusive provider of EnvisionTrak™ Solar Tree® structures and CleanCharge™ Electric Vehicle Charging Infrastructure for the company's growing pipeline of high quality solar deployments. The companies are currently approaching completion on a major project in Arizona.
Envision Solar’s solar parking arrays provide both shade and clean electricity for their owners. The architecturally superior, highly engineered designs are ideal for parking structures and surface lots, and environments that prefer competitively priced clean renewable energy. Additionally, they create added value for the property in the form of covered parking. The company designs and installs its Solar Tree® structures and Solar Groves® for a wide range of environments, including corporate campuses, commercial office buildings, light industrial facilities, shopping malls, restaurants, government buildings, schools, universities and hospitals.
“We are pleased to have been selected by Renewvia to provide our iconic solutions for their projects,” said Envision Solar President Desmond Wheatley. “Renewvia's commitment to quality has been very apparent throughout the 300kw project we have just completed with them and we look forward to working together on many more solar covered parking projects.”
Envision Solar has a significant portfolio of solar deployments in the commercial parking market. The Solar Grove parking structure at UC San Diego, designed by the company's founder Robert Noble, has won numerous awards for architectural and engineering excellence.
“At Renewvia, we recognize how important it is to deliver solar parking arrays of the highest quality to our discerning clientele of investor-owned commercial properties,” said Renewvia COO, Trey Jarrard. “Envision Solar is the obvious choice for deployments where beautiful design and superior installation is required. Envision Solar's industry-leading portfolio of high quality projects speaks for itself, and we look forward to doing many more projects with the company.”
For more information about Envision Solar or any of its Solar Tree designs and structures, visit www.envisionsolar.com
Envision Solar’s solar parking arrays provide both shade and clean electricity for their owners. The architecturally superior, highly engineered designs are ideal for parking structures and surface lots, and environments that prefer competitively priced clean renewable energy. Additionally, they create added value for the property in the form of covered parking. The company designs and installs its Solar Tree® structures and Solar Groves® for a wide range of environments, including corporate campuses, commercial office buildings, light industrial facilities, shopping malls, restaurants, government buildings, schools, universities and hospitals.
“We are pleased to have been selected by Renewvia to provide our iconic solutions for their projects,” said Envision Solar President Desmond Wheatley. “Renewvia's commitment to quality has been very apparent throughout the 300kw project we have just completed with them and we look forward to working together on many more solar covered parking projects.”
Envision Solar has a significant portfolio of solar deployments in the commercial parking market. The Solar Grove parking structure at UC San Diego, designed by the company's founder Robert Noble, has won numerous awards for architectural and engineering excellence.
“At Renewvia, we recognize how important it is to deliver solar parking arrays of the highest quality to our discerning clientele of investor-owned commercial properties,” said Renewvia COO, Trey Jarrard. “Envision Solar is the obvious choice for deployments where beautiful design and superior installation is required. Envision Solar's industry-leading portfolio of high quality projects speaks for itself, and we look forward to doing many more projects with the company.”
For more information about Envision Solar or any of its Solar Tree designs and structures, visit www.envisionsolar.com
Pictometry Makes Aerial Imagery Solutions Available to Solar Contractors
NEW YORK--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Pictometry Online™, a web-based technology offering a vast library of 3-D-like, high resolution aerial images, is now enabling solar contractors to quickly, easily and accurately calculate solar exposure, panel placement, sizing, roof pitch and square footage—information that is essential for positioning panels for maximum sun exposure and energy output.
Providing oblique angle images of properties throughout the United States, Pictometry offers the most advanced set of technologies that allow contractors to view and measure available roof space, determine the tilt and direction of the roof, and even identify obstacles that could make installation difficult or cause shade problems.
“Determining whether or not a home or commercial building is suitable for mounting solar panels is a big part of the job,” said Kevin Reilley, president of Pictometry Business Solutions. “Pictometry enables solar installation contractors to pre-qualify jobs right from their computer. This saves costly runarounds and speeds up the installation process, thus saving contractors time and money, while reducing carbon emissions.”
Determining the proper placement of solar panels is typically more complicated than taking a simple four-corner roof measurement. Steep, multi-story, and chopped-up roofs increase the complexity involved in determining panel placement, which in turn, increases human error. Using Pictometry to calculate accurate roof measurements makes the process of measuring unorthodox roofs a less daunting and error-filled task.
“Our goal is to make it easier and cheaper to install solar panels,” said Reilley. “Pictometry helps contractors reduce costs in assessments, bidding, staging, marketing, sales and support, while increasing their performance and ultimately, customer satisfaction.”
Macri Roofing, Inc., a full service roofing and solar panel installation company that has served the industrial/commercial and residential roofing industry for more than 54 years, uses Pictometry not only to easily determine panel placement , but also to educate prospective customers on the process of solar panel installation. For many property owners, cost and complications are the leading deterrents to retrofitting their rooftop with solar panels.
“Most of our customers have a general idea of what they’re getting when they’re repairing or replacing a roof, but when it comes to solar panel installation, they don’t have nearly as much information,” said Brandon Macri, estimator and solar specialist at Macri Roofing, Inc. “Pictometry gives us the ability to generate images that show people how solar panels will look on their homes without ever stepping foot on their roofs.”
Additional information about Pictometry is available online at http://www.pictometryonline.com/solar/pr/1/ or by calling 888-584-1086.
Providing oblique angle images of properties throughout the United States, Pictometry offers the most advanced set of technologies that allow contractors to view and measure available roof space, determine the tilt and direction of the roof, and even identify obstacles that could make installation difficult or cause shade problems.
“Determining whether or not a home or commercial building is suitable for mounting solar panels is a big part of the job,” said Kevin Reilley, president of Pictometry Business Solutions. “Pictometry enables solar installation contractors to pre-qualify jobs right from their computer. This saves costly runarounds and speeds up the installation process, thus saving contractors time and money, while reducing carbon emissions.”
Determining the proper placement of solar panels is typically more complicated than taking a simple four-corner roof measurement. Steep, multi-story, and chopped-up roofs increase the complexity involved in determining panel placement, which in turn, increases human error. Using Pictometry to calculate accurate roof measurements makes the process of measuring unorthodox roofs a less daunting and error-filled task.
“Our goal is to make it easier and cheaper to install solar panels,” said Reilley. “Pictometry helps contractors reduce costs in assessments, bidding, staging, marketing, sales and support, while increasing their performance and ultimately, customer satisfaction.”
Macri Roofing, Inc., a full service roofing and solar panel installation company that has served the industrial/commercial and residential roofing industry for more than 54 years, uses Pictometry not only to easily determine panel placement , but also to educate prospective customers on the process of solar panel installation. For many property owners, cost and complications are the leading deterrents to retrofitting their rooftop with solar panels.
“Most of our customers have a general idea of what they’re getting when they’re repairing or replacing a roof, but when it comes to solar panel installation, they don’t have nearly as much information,” said Brandon Macri, estimator and solar specialist at Macri Roofing, Inc. “Pictometry gives us the ability to generate images that show people how solar panels will look on their homes without ever stepping foot on their roofs.”
Additional information about Pictometry is available online at http://www.pictometryonline.com/solar/pr/1/ or by calling 888-584-1086.
Wednesday, March 23, 2011
Siemens Introduces Solar Power Purchase Program
BUFFALO GROVE, Ill., March 23, 2011 /PRNewswire/ -- Siemens Industry, Inc., today introduced the Siemens Solar Power Purchase Agreement (PPA) program from the Building Technologies Division. The program, implemented in collaboration with Siemens Financial Services, allows customers to bring "clean" solar energy projects on their properties without making an initial capital investment in solar equipment.
"Demand for solar power is on the rise, but for many of our customers the initial capital investment requirements were just too high," says Andreas Schierenbeck, president of the Building Technologies division of Siemens Industry, Inc. "With Siemens Solar PPA program both the financial and technical barriers associated with implementing solar energy are mitigated—we take on the risk—while our customers reap the rewards of clean energy and lower utility bills."
A Siemens Solar PPA, is particularly advantageous for public sector entities. Because schools and other government agencies are tax-exempt, they are prevented from taking advantage of available federal tax incentives for solar energy projects. Siemens Solar PPA program makes buying solar energy in the public sector more accessible and cost-effective: Siemens owns the solar equipment and builds the project on the customer's property. Customers work exclusively with Siemens for the project's entire lifecycle: from financing, design, construction and implementation, through ongoing maintenance. Solar power purchased in this way can also generate electricity expense savings, in addition to helping meet sustainability, clean energy and environmental goals.
Customers that take advantage of Siemens Solar PPA eliminate the third party financing and contractual agreements that are often requirements of other companies' PPA structures. Siemens customers work with a single, financially stable company for the project's entire lifecycle from financing, design, construction and implementation through ongoing maintenance.
"Demand for solar power is on the rise, but for many of our customers the initial capital investment requirements were just too high," says Andreas Schierenbeck, president of the Building Technologies division of Siemens Industry, Inc. "With Siemens Solar PPA program both the financial and technical barriers associated with implementing solar energy are mitigated—we take on the risk—while our customers reap the rewards of clean energy and lower utility bills."
A Siemens Solar PPA, is particularly advantageous for public sector entities. Because schools and other government agencies are tax-exempt, they are prevented from taking advantage of available federal tax incentives for solar energy projects. Siemens Solar PPA program makes buying solar energy in the public sector more accessible and cost-effective: Siemens owns the solar equipment and builds the project on the customer's property. Customers work exclusively with Siemens for the project's entire lifecycle: from financing, design, construction and implementation, through ongoing maintenance. Solar power purchased in this way can also generate electricity expense savings, in addition to helping meet sustainability, clean energy and environmental goals.
Customers that take advantage of Siemens Solar PPA eliminate the third party financing and contractual agreements that are often requirements of other companies' PPA structures. Siemens customers work with a single, financially stable company for the project's entire lifecycle from financing, design, construction and implementation through ongoing maintenance.
Spire to Deliver 20MW Solar PV Module Line to Brazil
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 it is providing a 20 megawatt (MW) solar PV module line to Tecnometal Equipamentos (Tecnometal) of San Paulo, Brazil.
“We worked Mr. Bruno Topel, a solar pioneer of Heliodynamica in San Paulo, many years ago and now we are pleased to be working with him again at Tecnometal,” said Roger G. Little, Chairman and CEO of Spire Corporation. “Brazil is quickly expanding its investments in green energy. We are pleased to provide this state-of-the-art production line to Tecnometal to allow them to capture an early market position in solar energy.”
“We worked Mr. Bruno Topel, a solar pioneer of Heliodynamica in San Paulo, many years ago and now we are pleased to be working with him again at Tecnometal,” said Roger G. Little, Chairman and CEO of Spire Corporation. “Brazil is quickly expanding its investments in green energy. We are pleased to provide this state-of-the-art production line to Tecnometal to allow them to capture an early market position in solar energy.”
HyperSolar Technology Well-Positioned to Capture Silicon Panel Market as New Study Predicts CPV Sector Growth
SANTA BARBARA, Calif.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--HyperSolar, Inc. (OTCBB: HYSR), the developer of a breakthrough technology that magnifies the power of the sun to significantly increase the power output of solar cells, today announced that following a new industry report predicting elevated growth of the CPV sector, the company expects its technology to redefine and expand the boundaries of conventional CPV with a product that captures the silicon solar panel market.
“This report confirms that concentrating sunlight onto a PV cell is gaining in popularity as a viable solar solution,” said Tim Young, CEO, HyperSolar, Inc. “But, to really drive this idea home and bring the cost per watt of solar energy down to prices equal to conventional electricity, the market needs a product that uses concentration techniques in mainstream applications – such as conventional flat silicon panels. This is exactly what HyperSolar offers.”
The “CPV Technology Market Status Update and Future Prospects” report by Strategy Analytics concluded the CPV sector is expected to grow by 174 per cent through 2015 to account for four percent of the global solar supply. It was presented last week at Solartech World 2011 in Gwangju, Korea.
The report also highlighted the intrinsic barrier the sector faces due to the fact that most CPV technologies require direct sunlight. Mr. Young added, “HyperSolar’s innovative new CPV approach does not require direct sunlight, nor does it require bulky optical elements or failure-prone tracking devices, as do other CPV technologies.”
The HyperSolar layer takes the form of an acrylic “top sheet” that allows a solar cell to produce as much as 400 percent more power. By adding the concentrator, manufacturers can use significantly fewer solar cells, thus dramatically reducing cost.
“This report confirms that concentrating sunlight onto a PV cell is gaining in popularity as a viable solar solution,” said Tim Young, CEO, HyperSolar, Inc. “But, to really drive this idea home and bring the cost per watt of solar energy down to prices equal to conventional electricity, the market needs a product that uses concentration techniques in mainstream applications – such as conventional flat silicon panels. This is exactly what HyperSolar offers.”
The “CPV Technology Market Status Update and Future Prospects” report by Strategy Analytics concluded the CPV sector is expected to grow by 174 per cent through 2015 to account for four percent of the global solar supply. It was presented last week at Solartech World 2011 in Gwangju, Korea.
The report also highlighted the intrinsic barrier the sector faces due to the fact that most CPV technologies require direct sunlight. Mr. Young added, “HyperSolar’s innovative new CPV approach does not require direct sunlight, nor does it require bulky optical elements or failure-prone tracking devices, as do other CPV technologies.”
The HyperSolar layer takes the form of an acrylic “top sheet” that allows a solar cell to produce as much as 400 percent more power. By adding the concentrator, manufacturers can use significantly fewer solar cells, thus dramatically reducing cost.
Hawaiian Electric and SunPower Sign Solar Power Agreement
HONOLULU, March 22, 2011 /PRNewswire/ -- Hawaiian Electric Company and SunPower Corporation (Nasdaq: SPWRA, SPWRB) today announced an agreement for SunPower to sell solar photovoltaic (PV) power to the utility under a fixed price contract for 20 years. The power will be generated from a five-megawatt (MW) solar farm that SunPower will design, build and operate at Kalaeloa in West Oahu.
The purchase power agreement is before the Hawaii Public Utilities Commission (PUC) for approval. Upon PUC and other needed approvals, SunPower plans to begin construction this year and complete the solar farm within five months. It will be located on 40 acres leased from the Department of Hawaiian Home Lands (DHHL) at Roosevelt Avenue and Boxer Road.
"With SunPower's high-efficiency technology, Hawaiian Electric will benefit from reliable, cost-effective, guaranteed performance," said SunPower Business Unit President Jim Pape. "The solar farm will contribute clean, renewable solar power to Oahu while generating welcome revenues for the important work of the Hawaiian Homelands department on behalf of native Hawaiians."
"We welcome this agreement for another solar facility for Oahu, part of our continuing effort to get as much renewable energy on our island grid as possible," said Robbie Alm, Hawaiian Electric executive vice president. "Hawaii already leads the nation in solar watts per person, much of it generated by customer-sited roof-top PV arrays. This and other large-scale projects will increase our solar leadership and help us meet our clean energy goals."
The SunPower agreement is an outcome of Hawaiian Electric's request for proposals for renewable energy projects for Oahu issued under the PUC's competitive bidding framework in 2008.
SunPower will install high-efficiency SunPower solar panels, the most productive on the market today, on a SunPower Tracker® system. The Tracker positions solar panels to follow the sun's movement during the day, increasing sunlight capture by up to 25 percent over conventional fixed-tilt systems, while significantly reducing land requirements.
According to estimates provided by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, the solar farm will produce enough renewable power to avoid almost 11,000 tons of carbon dioxide emissions per year, equivalent to removing 37,600 cars from Hawaii's roads over the 20-year term of the power purchase agreement.
The price per kilowatt-hour in the fixed-price, as-available contract is comparable to a similar recently completed solar facility agreement and is lower than the proposed price for the third tier of Hawaii's Feed-in Tariff.
On Oahu, this project joins a growing portfolio of renewable resources, including: an expanding waste-to-energy plant; a waste gasification plant in development; a new wind farm; other solar farms under development; renewable projects existing and being developed under the Feed-in Tariff and an enlarged Net Energy Metering program; as well as biofueling of new and existing power plants.
The purchase power agreement is before the Hawaii Public Utilities Commission (PUC) for approval. Upon PUC and other needed approvals, SunPower plans to begin construction this year and complete the solar farm within five months. It will be located on 40 acres leased from the Department of Hawaiian Home Lands (DHHL) at Roosevelt Avenue and Boxer Road.
"With SunPower's high-efficiency technology, Hawaiian Electric will benefit from reliable, cost-effective, guaranteed performance," said SunPower Business Unit President Jim Pape. "The solar farm will contribute clean, renewable solar power to Oahu while generating welcome revenues for the important work of the Hawaiian Homelands department on behalf of native Hawaiians."
"We welcome this agreement for another solar facility for Oahu, part of our continuing effort to get as much renewable energy on our island grid as possible," said Robbie Alm, Hawaiian Electric executive vice president. "Hawaii already leads the nation in solar watts per person, much of it generated by customer-sited roof-top PV arrays. This and other large-scale projects will increase our solar leadership and help us meet our clean energy goals."
The SunPower agreement is an outcome of Hawaiian Electric's request for proposals for renewable energy projects for Oahu issued under the PUC's competitive bidding framework in 2008.
SunPower will install high-efficiency SunPower solar panels, the most productive on the market today, on a SunPower Tracker® system. The Tracker positions solar panels to follow the sun's movement during the day, increasing sunlight capture by up to 25 percent over conventional fixed-tilt systems, while significantly reducing land requirements.
According to estimates provided by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, the solar farm will produce enough renewable power to avoid almost 11,000 tons of carbon dioxide emissions per year, equivalent to removing 37,600 cars from Hawaii's roads over the 20-year term of the power purchase agreement.
The price per kilowatt-hour in the fixed-price, as-available contract is comparable to a similar recently completed solar facility agreement and is lower than the proposed price for the third tier of Hawaii's Feed-in Tariff.
On Oahu, this project joins a growing portfolio of renewable resources, including: an expanding waste-to-energy plant; a waste gasification plant in development; a new wind farm; other solar farms under development; renewable projects existing and being developed under the Feed-in Tariff and an enlarged Net Energy Metering program; as well as biofueling of new and existing power plants.
Standard Solar’s Jack Copus One of First in the Country to Achieve National Photovoltaic Technical Sales Certification
ROCKVILLE, Md.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Standard Solar, Inc, a leader in the full-service development, installation and financing of solar electric systems for commercial, government and residential customers, today announced that Jack Copus, commercial channel manager, is one of the first in the country to earn the new Photovoltaic (PV) Technical Sales certification through the North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners (NABCEP). NABCEP’s new certification has been developed to ensure quality assurance throughout the entire sales process. This accomplishment affirms Standard Solar’s commitment to staying at the forefront of its industry and achieving measurable advantages for its customers.
“This certification is the ‘gold standard’ in our industry. This seal of approval demonstrates not only Jack’s expertise, but also Standard Solar’s attention to quality and value in all that we do,” said Michael Sloan, Vice President, Commercial, Standard Solar.
NABCEP is the most respected and well-established national certification organization for renewable energy professionals. The new PV Technical Sales certifications offer consumers a new level of confidence when they seek quotations, proposals, and energy and financial production estimates for potential solar electric projects.
To earn his NABCEP certification, Copus was required to demonstrate his knowledge on diverse subjects such as qualifying the customer; site analysis; conceptual design; financial costs, incentives, and savings; financial benefit analysis and financing; non-financial benefit analysis; performance analysis; and proposal preparation.
“One thing you can be assured of with NABCEP-Certified PV Technical Sales Professionals is that your sale won’t be their first,” said Ezra Auerbach, executive director of NABCEP. “Anyone who makes the considerable effort required to earn NABCEP PV Technical Sales Certification has been required to document his/her experience and education as part of the eligibility process. They have also made a very real commitment to upholding high standards of ethical and professional practice. We are delighted to welcome Jack Copus of Standard Solar to the ranks of the industry’s new standard for sales professionals.”
Copus is also LEED AP certified by the U.S. Green Building Council.
“This certification is the ‘gold standard’ in our industry. This seal of approval demonstrates not only Jack’s expertise, but also Standard Solar’s attention to quality and value in all that we do,” said Michael Sloan, Vice President, Commercial, Standard Solar.
NABCEP is the most respected and well-established national certification organization for renewable energy professionals. The new PV Technical Sales certifications offer consumers a new level of confidence when they seek quotations, proposals, and energy and financial production estimates for potential solar electric projects.
To earn his NABCEP certification, Copus was required to demonstrate his knowledge on diverse subjects such as qualifying the customer; site analysis; conceptual design; financial costs, incentives, and savings; financial benefit analysis and financing; non-financial benefit analysis; performance analysis; and proposal preparation.
“One thing you can be assured of with NABCEP-Certified PV Technical Sales Professionals is that your sale won’t be their first,” said Ezra Auerbach, executive director of NABCEP. “Anyone who makes the considerable effort required to earn NABCEP PV Technical Sales Certification has been required to document his/her experience and education as part of the eligibility process. They have also made a very real commitment to upholding high standards of ethical and professional practice. We are delighted to welcome Jack Copus of Standard Solar to the ranks of the industry’s new standard for sales professionals.”
Copus is also LEED AP certified by the U.S. Green Building Council.
Satcon Selected by Solar Cells Hellas for 20.5 Megawatts of PV Inverter Solutions for Multiple Solar Power Installations in Greece
BOSTON--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Satcon Technology Corporation® (NASDAQ CM: SATC), a leading provider of utility-scale power conversion solutions for the renewable energy market, today announced that it has been selected by Solar Cells Hellas for the installation of 20.5 megawatts (MW) of ground-mounted PV inverter solutions for projects that will be constructed in various locations throughout Southern Greece.
Solar Cells Hellas will equip the multiple installations with Solar Cells’ crystalline PV modules and Satcon inverters. SDL Solar®, a Satcon authorized distributor, and Satcon will supply 10 units of PowerGate Plus 500kW inverters, the world’s most widely deployed utility-scale inverter, and 31 units of Equinox 500kW inverters. The PV power plants are expected to be installed and put into operation throughout 2011 with the final inverter delivery in September of 2011. The multiple installations will produce enough electricity to power approximately 8,200 homes.
Satcon’s PowerGate Plus solution family is the world’s most widely deployed utility-ready solar PV inverter with over 1.5 gigawatts (GW) installed worldwide, including over 1 GW installed of the PowerGate Plus 500 kW model alone. Equinox is Satcon’s third-generation central inverter and delivers an industry-leading 98.5% peak efficiency combined with the industry’s widest thermal operating range.
Mr. Dimitris Panagakos, Chairman of the Board of Directors of Solar Cells Hellas, stated, “Solar Cells Hellas will develop and construct a total of 170 MW of its own projects and 130 MW on behalf of its group of investors in Greece and Bulgaria through 2014. The company has secured financing from Greek banks and is committed to use Greek component suppliers whenever possible in order to support Greece’s developing PV market. Solar Cells Hellas intends to establish a long-term partnership with Satcon based on its proven reliability and efficiency in utility-scale projects.”
“As we continue to expand our global market share in each of the key large-scale solar markets, our partnership with SDL Solar enables us to drive the next generation of utility-ready solar growth in Greece,” said Steve Rhoades, Satcon's President and Chief Executive Officer. “With its attractive feed-in tariff policy and high solar irradiation levels, Greece is emerging as one of the leading markets for advanced large-scale solar installations. Together, Satcon and SDL Solar brought the industry’s most advanced technologies and system expertise to Solar Cells Hellas to realize their vision of state-of-the-art utility-scale PV power in Greece.”
Dr. Kostas Daniilidis, Managing Partner of SDL Solar, stated, “Together with Satcon, we aim to acquire a significant share of the PV market in southeast Europe through strategic partnerships, such as our existing relationship with Solar Cells Hellas.”
Solar Cells Hellas will equip the multiple installations with Solar Cells’ crystalline PV modules and Satcon inverters. SDL Solar®, a Satcon authorized distributor, and Satcon will supply 10 units of PowerGate Plus 500kW inverters, the world’s most widely deployed utility-scale inverter, and 31 units of Equinox 500kW inverters. The PV power plants are expected to be installed and put into operation throughout 2011 with the final inverter delivery in September of 2011. The multiple installations will produce enough electricity to power approximately 8,200 homes.
Satcon’s PowerGate Plus solution family is the world’s most widely deployed utility-ready solar PV inverter with over 1.5 gigawatts (GW) installed worldwide, including over 1 GW installed of the PowerGate Plus 500 kW model alone. Equinox is Satcon’s third-generation central inverter and delivers an industry-leading 98.5% peak efficiency combined with the industry’s widest thermal operating range.
Mr. Dimitris Panagakos, Chairman of the Board of Directors of Solar Cells Hellas, stated, “Solar Cells Hellas will develop and construct a total of 170 MW of its own projects and 130 MW on behalf of its group of investors in Greece and Bulgaria through 2014. The company has secured financing from Greek banks and is committed to use Greek component suppliers whenever possible in order to support Greece’s developing PV market. Solar Cells Hellas intends to establish a long-term partnership with Satcon based on its proven reliability and efficiency in utility-scale projects.”
“As we continue to expand our global market share in each of the key large-scale solar markets, our partnership with SDL Solar enables us to drive the next generation of utility-ready solar growth in Greece,” said Steve Rhoades, Satcon's President and Chief Executive Officer. “With its attractive feed-in tariff policy and high solar irradiation levels, Greece is emerging as one of the leading markets for advanced large-scale solar installations. Together, Satcon and SDL Solar brought the industry’s most advanced technologies and system expertise to Solar Cells Hellas to realize their vision of state-of-the-art utility-scale PV power in Greece.”
Dr. Kostas Daniilidis, Managing Partner of SDL Solar, stated, “Together with Satcon, we aim to acquire a significant share of the PV market in southeast Europe through strategic partnerships, such as our existing relationship with Solar Cells Hellas.”
Tuesday, March 22, 2011
KB Home Launches Major New Solar Initiative
LOS ANGELES--(BUSINESS WIRE)--KB Home (NYSE: KBH), one of America’s premier homebuilders, today announced a new initiative to provide solar power systems for its new homes as a standard feature in 10 Southern California communities. The photovoltaic solar systems will help KB homeowners reduce their monthly energy bills and cost of homeownership for years to come, while also benefiting the environment.
“KB Home is already a leader in building energy-efficient homes that can provide homeowners with meaningful savings on their monthly energy bills,” said Jeffrey Mezger, president and chief executive officer of KB Home. “With this announcement, we are raising the bar even higher and taking an important step in making our homes even more efficient and affordable for our homebuyers over the long term, especially when compared to resale homes.”
“If consumers respond as positively as we expect to the tremendous financial and environmental advantages of these homes in the marketplace, we plan to expand this industry-leading initiative to our other markets across the country,” continued Mezger.
While KB Home has provided solar power systems as an option for its homebuyers in select communities in California and Colorado for a number of years, this is the first time it will build entire communities featuring solar power systems for every home. SunPower Corp. (Nasdaq: SPWRA, SPWRB), a leading manufacturer of the highest efficiency, highest reliability solar panels and systems available today, will provide the solar technology. When combined with the many additional energy-conserving features KB Home includes in all of its new homes across the country, these 10 Southern California communities will offer some of the most efficient new homes available on the market today at an affordable price. The solar power systems could also help qualify homeowners for a federal tax credit.
“By offering solar power systems as a standard feature on their award-winning homes, KB Home is providing homebuyers a secure, reliable alternative to electricity sourced from non-renewable fossil fuels,” said Jim Pape, president of SunPower’s residential and commercial business group. “We are pleased to partner with KB Home as they embark on this exciting initiative to help their homeowners take control of their energy usage and reduce their electricity costs.”
KB Home has already begun offering the solar power systems at its Newbury at the Enclave community in Eastvale, Manzanita at Paseo del Sol community in Temecula and Monterey at Otay Ranch community in Chula Vista. Five additional Southern California communities featuring solar power systems for every home will open over the next sixty days, and two more are expected to open in the fall of 2011.
To better illustrate the advantages of owning a new energy-efficient KB home, last month the company announced it is now including the KB Home Energy Performance Guide™ (EPG) in all of its new homes. Similar to an MPG sticker on cars, the KB Home EPG provides KB homebuyers with estimated monthly electric and gas costs for their new KB home as designed, as well as valuable information on the home’s relative energy efficiency when compared to a typical new home or resale home. The KB Home EPGs for the homes located in these 10 Southern California communities will reflect the additional energy efficiency provided by the solar power systems.
“KB Home is already a leader in building energy-efficient homes that can provide homeowners with meaningful savings on their monthly energy bills,” said Jeffrey Mezger, president and chief executive officer of KB Home. “With this announcement, we are raising the bar even higher and taking an important step in making our homes even more efficient and affordable for our homebuyers over the long term, especially when compared to resale homes.”
“If consumers respond as positively as we expect to the tremendous financial and environmental advantages of these homes in the marketplace, we plan to expand this industry-leading initiative to our other markets across the country,” continued Mezger.
While KB Home has provided solar power systems as an option for its homebuyers in select communities in California and Colorado for a number of years, this is the first time it will build entire communities featuring solar power systems for every home. SunPower Corp. (Nasdaq: SPWRA, SPWRB), a leading manufacturer of the highest efficiency, highest reliability solar panels and systems available today, will provide the solar technology. When combined with the many additional energy-conserving features KB Home includes in all of its new homes across the country, these 10 Southern California communities will offer some of the most efficient new homes available on the market today at an affordable price. The solar power systems could also help qualify homeowners for a federal tax credit.
“By offering solar power systems as a standard feature on their award-winning homes, KB Home is providing homebuyers a secure, reliable alternative to electricity sourced from non-renewable fossil fuels,” said Jim Pape, president of SunPower’s residential and commercial business group. “We are pleased to partner with KB Home as they embark on this exciting initiative to help their homeowners take control of their energy usage and reduce their electricity costs.”
KB Home has already begun offering the solar power systems at its Newbury at the Enclave community in Eastvale, Manzanita at Paseo del Sol community in Temecula and Monterey at Otay Ranch community in Chula Vista. Five additional Southern California communities featuring solar power systems for every home will open over the next sixty days, and two more are expected to open in the fall of 2011.
To better illustrate the advantages of owning a new energy-efficient KB home, last month the company announced it is now including the KB Home Energy Performance Guide™ (EPG) in all of its new homes. Similar to an MPG sticker on cars, the KB Home EPG provides KB homebuyers with estimated monthly electric and gas costs for their new KB home as designed, as well as valuable information on the home’s relative energy efficiency when compared to a typical new home or resale home. The KB Home EPGs for the homes located in these 10 Southern California communities will reflect the additional energy efficiency provided by the solar power systems.
Largest CPV Plant in Latin America to Feature New Skyline Solar X14 System
MOUNTAIN VIEW, Calif.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Skyline Solar today introduced the Skyline X14 System and announced that it has been selected for a 500-kilowatt (kW) concentrated photovoltaic (CPV) plant to be built in Durango, Mexico. DelSol Systems, one of Mexico’s leading solar integrators, will construct the project, which will be the largest CPV plant in Latin America.
In sunny climates and by leveraging U.S. federal incentives, the Skyline X14 System can deliver a levelized cost of electricity (LCOE) of less than 10¢ per kilowatt hour (kWh). The Skyline X14 System is named for its ability to concentrate sunlight 14 times using durable glass reflectors. Concentrated light illuminates the Skyline X14 Panels made with industry-proven silicon cells backed with metal cooling fins. An integrated and reliable single-axis tracker ensures that the Skyline X14 System is productive from dawn to dusk.
“The state of Durango is the leader in the deployment of clean, renewable solar energy in Mexico,” said Durango Governor C.P. Jorge Herrera Caldera. “Skyline Solar’s technology is ideal for this region because it takes advantage of our high solar radiation. Additionally, the system does not require much water or maintenance, resulting in a greater return on investment compared to traditional solar systems.”
“The Durango government seeks innovative solar solutions like the Skyline X14 System, where the upgradability of the technology permits extending the useful life of the system, improving financial returns and increasing social benefits,” said Ruben Renteria Ontiveros, the state advocate of strategic projects for the state of Durango.
Ignacio Osorio, director general of DelSol Systems, a leading solar systems integrator in Mexico, said, “The Skyline X14 System delivers high-performance and flexibility at a low cost, making it easier to build solar systems from a few hundred kilowatts to tens of megawatts. We enthusiastically look forward to completing this project, which will be a milestone for solar CPV in Mexico and Latin America.”
The Skyline X14 System improves upon Skyline Solar’s previous generation of products:
* Industry Leading LCOE: Skyline Solar’s low installed price, low operating costs, 170° tracking system and optimized thermal management enable it to deliver unmatched LCOE in sunny locations.
* Upgradability: In the future, when higher efficiency solar cells are available at a reasonable cost, the Skyline X14 System can be easily upgraded in the field. This allows the system owners to “future-proof” their investment by retaining the reflectors, tracker and framework and replacing only the Skyline X14 Panels.
* Reliability: The Skyline X14 System uses reliable materials that have been proven in the solar thermal and solar PV industries for decades. Field performance from Skyline Solar equipment with multiple years of operating history has been consistent and stable.
* Scalability: The system is manufactured using existing factories and processes. This reduces capital costs and improves scalability. In the field, the Skyline X14 System can be installed as rapidly as one megawatt (MW) per week with a 22-person crew.
“With multiple years of performance data on the architecture and multiple systems in the field, the Skyline X14 System is a generation ahead of other comparable systems in the CPV market,” said Tom Rohrs, CEO and chairman at Skyline Solar. “We’ve enhanced key elements of our patented system and set a new standard for cost of energy delivered.”
Since introducing its first CPV system and demonstration plant in 2009, Skyline Solar has hit a number of technology, cost and customer milestones. The company has been awarded four patents on its innovative architecture; has hit an LCOE of less than 10¢ per kWh in sunny climates when factoring in U.S. incentives; and has won contracts with the US Department of Energy and Department of Defense.
In sunny climates and by leveraging U.S. federal incentives, the Skyline X14 System can deliver a levelized cost of electricity (LCOE) of less than 10¢ per kilowatt hour (kWh). The Skyline X14 System is named for its ability to concentrate sunlight 14 times using durable glass reflectors. Concentrated light illuminates the Skyline X14 Panels made with industry-proven silicon cells backed with metal cooling fins. An integrated and reliable single-axis tracker ensures that the Skyline X14 System is productive from dawn to dusk.
“The state of Durango is the leader in the deployment of clean, renewable solar energy in Mexico,” said Durango Governor C.P. Jorge Herrera Caldera. “Skyline Solar’s technology is ideal for this region because it takes advantage of our high solar radiation. Additionally, the system does not require much water or maintenance, resulting in a greater return on investment compared to traditional solar systems.”
“The Durango government seeks innovative solar solutions like the Skyline X14 System, where the upgradability of the technology permits extending the useful life of the system, improving financial returns and increasing social benefits,” said Ruben Renteria Ontiveros, the state advocate of strategic projects for the state of Durango.
Ignacio Osorio, director general of DelSol Systems, a leading solar systems integrator in Mexico, said, “The Skyline X14 System delivers high-performance and flexibility at a low cost, making it easier to build solar systems from a few hundred kilowatts to tens of megawatts. We enthusiastically look forward to completing this project, which will be a milestone for solar CPV in Mexico and Latin America.”
The Skyline X14 System improves upon Skyline Solar’s previous generation of products:
* Industry Leading LCOE: Skyline Solar’s low installed price, low operating costs, 170° tracking system and optimized thermal management enable it to deliver unmatched LCOE in sunny locations.
* Upgradability: In the future, when higher efficiency solar cells are available at a reasonable cost, the Skyline X14 System can be easily upgraded in the field. This allows the system owners to “future-proof” their investment by retaining the reflectors, tracker and framework and replacing only the Skyline X14 Panels.
* Reliability: The Skyline X14 System uses reliable materials that have been proven in the solar thermal and solar PV industries for decades. Field performance from Skyline Solar equipment with multiple years of operating history has been consistent and stable.
* Scalability: The system is manufactured using existing factories and processes. This reduces capital costs and improves scalability. In the field, the Skyline X14 System can be installed as rapidly as one megawatt (MW) per week with a 22-person crew.
“With multiple years of performance data on the architecture and multiple systems in the field, the Skyline X14 System is a generation ahead of other comparable systems in the CPV market,” said Tom Rohrs, CEO and chairman at Skyline Solar. “We’ve enhanced key elements of our patented system and set a new standard for cost of energy delivered.”
Since introducing its first CPV system and demonstration plant in 2009, Skyline Solar has hit a number of technology, cost and customer milestones. The company has been awarded four patents on its innovative architecture; has hit an LCOE of less than 10¢ per kWh in sunny climates when factoring in U.S. incentives; and has won contracts with the US Department of Energy and Department of Defense.
Department of Energy Awards 3M $4.4 Million to Reduce Cost of Photovoltaic Energy Systems
ST. PAUL, Minn.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--The U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) has awarded 3M $4.4 million as part of DOE’s SunShot Initiative. SunShot aims to reduce the total costs of photovoltaic solar energy systems by about 75 percent, so that they are cost-competitive with other forms of energy without subsidies. SunShot calls for achieving this goal by the end of the decade. The sum of the 3M award is estimated at $4.4 million over three years.
The goal of 3M’s project is to accelerate efforts toward further development and commercialization of 3M™ Ultra Barrier Solar Film. The funding will support a robust reliability test program to validate the lifetime performance of 3M’s film as well as development of second-generation 3M Ultra Barrier Solar Film with enhanced performance and reduced costs.
As part of the initiative, 3M will collaborate with DOE’s National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL) located near Denver, Colorado, to test the performance and durability of Ultra Barrier Solar Films. NREL recently confirmed moisture vapor transmission rates in the range of 2*10-5 - 8*10-5 g/m2/day for 3M's current Ultra Barrier Film 9L product using its electrically based calcium moisture vapor transmission rate (MVTR) test. “Technology for economical production of transparent barrier films has been a missing link in the flexible CIGS photovoltaic supply chain for a long time, and we are looking forward to working with 3M in the development of this technology,” NREL Senior Scientist Mike Kempe said.
“We are delighted that DOE has recognized the relevance of 3M’s Ultra Barrier Solar Film toward achieving its goals for driving down the cost of solar,” said Derek DeScioli, Business Development Manager for the 3M Renewable Energy Division. “High-efficiency flexible solar modules manufactured with 3M's Film not only have the potential to significantly reduce the total system costs for rooftop solar installations, but also have an array of niche applications where our customers can take advantage of the unique module form factor.”
Designed to address the needs of flexible thin film solar manufacturers, 3M Ultra Barrier Solar Film acts as a replacement for glass with high light transmission, superb moisture barrier performance, and excellent weatherability. Compared with glass-glass modules, large area, light weight flexible PV modules manufactured with 3M Ultra Barrier Solar Film can achieve lower balance of systems (BOS) costs by requiring less installation time, removing the need for metal racking, and reducing logistics expenditures. 3M Ultra Barrier Film also enables lower module manufacturing costs by allowing manufacturers to commercialize large area modules, effectively reducing fixed costs associated with module manufacturing, assembled in a continuous roll-to-roll process.
The goal of 3M’s project is to accelerate efforts toward further development and commercialization of 3M™ Ultra Barrier Solar Film. The funding will support a robust reliability test program to validate the lifetime performance of 3M’s film as well as development of second-generation 3M Ultra Barrier Solar Film with enhanced performance and reduced costs.
As part of the initiative, 3M will collaborate with DOE’s National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL) located near Denver, Colorado, to test the performance and durability of Ultra Barrier Solar Films. NREL recently confirmed moisture vapor transmission rates in the range of 2*10-5 - 8*10-5 g/m2/day for 3M's current Ultra Barrier Film 9L product using its electrically based calcium moisture vapor transmission rate (MVTR) test. “Technology for economical production of transparent barrier films has been a missing link in the flexible CIGS photovoltaic supply chain for a long time, and we are looking forward to working with 3M in the development of this technology,” NREL Senior Scientist Mike Kempe said.
“We are delighted that DOE has recognized the relevance of 3M’s Ultra Barrier Solar Film toward achieving its goals for driving down the cost of solar,” said Derek DeScioli, Business Development Manager for the 3M Renewable Energy Division. “High-efficiency flexible solar modules manufactured with 3M's Film not only have the potential to significantly reduce the total system costs for rooftop solar installations, but also have an array of niche applications where our customers can take advantage of the unique module form factor.”
Designed to address the needs of flexible thin film solar manufacturers, 3M Ultra Barrier Solar Film acts as a replacement for glass with high light transmission, superb moisture barrier performance, and excellent weatherability. Compared with glass-glass modules, large area, light weight flexible PV modules manufactured with 3M Ultra Barrier Solar Film can achieve lower balance of systems (BOS) costs by requiring less installation time, removing the need for metal racking, and reducing logistics expenditures. 3M Ultra Barrier Film also enables lower module manufacturing costs by allowing manufacturers to commercialize large area modules, effectively reducing fixed costs associated with module manufacturing, assembled in a continuous roll-to-roll process.
Monday, March 21, 2011
New Solar Installation on the Roof of the World
WUXI, China and SAN FRANCISCO, Ca., March 21, 2011 /PRNewswire-Asia/ -- Suntech Power Holdings Co., Ltd. (NYSE: STP), the world's largest producer of solar panels, announced it will develop a 10MW solar installation on the roof of the world that will generate decades of clean electricity for thousands of residents of the Tibetan Plateau.Located in Chek Kang village in the Sangri County, Shannan Prefecture, Tibet, the solar power plant will be one of the highest on earth at around 4,000 meters above sea level. With target completion by the middle of the 2011, the facility will generate around 20,000MWh of renewable electricity per year to help facilitate sustainable economic development in Tibet.
Historically, the mountainous region has relied heavily on hydroelectric resources for much of its baseload power production. However, shifting weather patterns in recent years have caused more frequent droughts and reduced water volumes in hydroelectric reservoirs. These changes have led to peak power shortages that are an impediment to the region's continued economic growth. The new 10MW solar power plant will help to alleviate peak power shortages and serve as a strong complement to existing hydroelectric resources.
"With intense sunlight and cool temperatures, Tibet is extremely well-suited for the utilization of advanced photovoltaic technology," said Dr. Zhengrong Shi, Suntech's Founder, Chairman and CEO. "We're proud to invest in preserving the region's fragile ecosystem by providing an economically-viable and sustainable solution for electricity generation. From the desert sands of Arizona to the peaks of the Himalayas, anyone can look up and harness nature's cleanest and most abundant energy resource."
Suntech has been active in rural electrification projects in Tibet. Over the last few years, Suntech has donated more than fifty independent solar systems for schools, community centers, and houses throughout the region. In 2008, Suntech installed a solar system at Mt. Everest base camp to provide trekkers with clean and reliable access to power. In gratitude, a team of mountaineers carried a Suntech flag to the very peak of the world.
"As we approach grid parity, we're seeing a groundswell of appetite for multi-megawatt projects in Asia and emerging markets around the world. I'm confident that China will really turn some heads this year and perhaps even become a gigawatt market," said Dr. Zhengrong Shi. "In this exciting transitional period, we will continue to diversify our global footprint to drive solar industry growth everywhere under the sun."
By Harnessing Power of Group-Buying, One Block Off the Grid to Help Philadelphians Go Solar
SAN FRANCISCO, March 21, 2011 /PRNewswire/ -- With Pennsylvania's largest power utility poised to increase rates for the first time in over a decade, clean energy group-buying leader One Block Off the Grid today announced the launch of a 90-day group deal on home solar systems in the Philadelphia area. Using group purchasing power, One Block Off the Grid has secured a 15 percent discount on both panels and installation on behalf of all Philadelphia metro area homeowners. The deal is being offered in partnership with panel manufacturer Canadian Solar and one of the East Coast's leading installers, Mercury Solar Systems.
"With the utility rate hike in Philadelphia and no more cap to prevent further increases, now is definitely the time to go solar," said Dave Llorens, CEO and founder of One Block Off the Grid. "Our group deal allows homeowners to get panels on the roof much less expensively than they could on their own, but it only lasts 90 days, so we're urging Philadelphia homeowners who've been considering solar to move forward now."
One Block Off the Grid organizes group deals in markets where there are strong incentives for going solar. Homeowners in Philadelphia can combine One Block Off the Grid's discount with powerful new state incentives like the Solar Renewable Energy Credit (SREC) program. The SREC program is similar to a popular New Jersey program that pays homeowners above-market rates for the solar energy they feed back into the grid. Homeowners will also receive a federal tax credit equivalent to 30 percent of the cost for going solar.
Canadian Solar, one of the world's largest solar companies--known for the high quality and performance of its solar panels--has entered into this important partnership with One Block to help support affordable solar opportunities for the Philadelphia area.
"We are pleased to assist One Block Off the Grid in the drive to make solar available to homes and businesses," said Alan King, vice president of Canadian Solar USA. "This opportunity provides the community a cost-saving advantage to install clean, renewable solar power."
The deal also includes installation of those panels by Mercury Solar Systems with which One Block Off the Grid partnered during its first Philadelphia solar group discount in July 2010.
"We have partnered with One Block Off The Grid in several markets, including Philadelphia last year," said Jared Haines, president of Mercury Solar Systems. "We believe our success is driven by our ability to offer local homeowners the best product on the market: a top-of-the-line solar system at great price, installed by one of the most experienced companies."
This is the second solar group discount One Block Off the Grid has offered in Philadelphia.
"More homeowners are getting interested in becoming energy independent," said Dave Llorens. "One Block Off the Grid is here to make that easier and more affordable."
The Philadelphia group discount on solar kicks off on March 21, 2011 and is available until June 21, 2011. To participate and get a free evaluation for solar over the phone, homeowners should sign up on the One Block Off the Grid website, http://1bog.org
"With the utility rate hike in Philadelphia and no more cap to prevent further increases, now is definitely the time to go solar," said Dave Llorens, CEO and founder of One Block Off the Grid. "Our group deal allows homeowners to get panels on the roof much less expensively than they could on their own, but it only lasts 90 days, so we're urging Philadelphia homeowners who've been considering solar to move forward now."
One Block Off the Grid organizes group deals in markets where there are strong incentives for going solar. Homeowners in Philadelphia can combine One Block Off the Grid's discount with powerful new state incentives like the Solar Renewable Energy Credit (SREC) program. The SREC program is similar to a popular New Jersey program that pays homeowners above-market rates for the solar energy they feed back into the grid. Homeowners will also receive a federal tax credit equivalent to 30 percent of the cost for going solar.
Canadian Solar, one of the world's largest solar companies--known for the high quality and performance of its solar panels--has entered into this important partnership with One Block to help support affordable solar opportunities for the Philadelphia area.
"We are pleased to assist One Block Off the Grid in the drive to make solar available to homes and businesses," said Alan King, vice president of Canadian Solar USA. "This opportunity provides the community a cost-saving advantage to install clean, renewable solar power."
The deal also includes installation of those panels by Mercury Solar Systems with which One Block Off the Grid partnered during its first Philadelphia solar group discount in July 2010.
"We have partnered with One Block Off The Grid in several markets, including Philadelphia last year," said Jared Haines, president of Mercury Solar Systems. "We believe our success is driven by our ability to offer local homeowners the best product on the market: a top-of-the-line solar system at great price, installed by one of the most experienced companies."
This is the second solar group discount One Block Off the Grid has offered in Philadelphia.
"More homeowners are getting interested in becoming energy independent," said Dave Llorens. "One Block Off the Grid is here to make that easier and more affordable."
The Philadelphia group discount on solar kicks off on March 21, 2011 and is available until June 21, 2011. To participate and get a free evaluation for solar over the phone, homeowners should sign up on the One Block Off the Grid website, http://1bog.org
Solar Window Pioneer Announces Pilot Installment of Solar Windows in Willis Tower
CHICAGO and SAN MATEO, Calif., March 21, 2011 /PRNewswire/ -- Pythagoras Solar, a provider of unprecedented transparent, energy efficient windows that also generate solar power, today announced that it has been chosen by Willis Tower, formerly Sears Tower, to collaborate on a pilot project to help deliver on the building's renewable energy and energy efficiency improvement goals. The pilot project, deployed in November last year on the south facing windows of the Willis Tower's 56th floor, uses a building integrated photovoltaic (BIPV) solution that has the potential to expand to a surface area allowing over two megawatts of solar power generation. Willis Tower provides an example of how sustainable modernization endeavors are about more than reducing carbon emissions but also about re-investing in the local economy. Willis Tower is exploring innovative solutions that are directly re-investing in Chicago's new green economy. In addition, this project will illustrate one possible best practice for how to decrease the impact of the built environment on climate change, for easy duplication in other similar structures.
"We are excited to launch this pilot with Pythagoras Solar's leading-edge solar window solutions as a test for not only the energy savings that can be achieved, but the potential they represent to actually generate power through the sun," said John Huston, Executive Vice President of American Landmark Properties, one of the ownership partners of Willis Tower.
"We are incredibly proud to be considered to contribute our part for the 'greening' of the tallest building in the Western Hemisphere, the iconic Willis Tower," said Gonen Fink, Co-founder and CEO Pythagoras Solar. "It is inspiring to see a team not waver in its dedication to making a true and lasting change through smart investments in the right solutions. With its combined benefits, our technology is set to provide Willis Tower with a valuable tool that will help move it toward its energy efficiency goals."
Leveraging mass-scale solar power window installations has a direct impact on improving the energy efficiency and energy generation potential of a building's exterior envelope and windows. Pythagoras Solar is the first company to offer a fully integrated photovoltaic glass unit (PVGU) that addresses the need for simultaneous benefits of energy efficiency and high power density, while also offering architectural design benefits to increase real estate value and advance Net Zero Energy Buildings (NZB).
"We are excited to launch this pilot with Pythagoras Solar's leading-edge solar window solutions as a test for not only the energy savings that can be achieved, but the potential they represent to actually generate power through the sun," said John Huston, Executive Vice President of American Landmark Properties, one of the ownership partners of Willis Tower.
"We are incredibly proud to be considered to contribute our part for the 'greening' of the tallest building in the Western Hemisphere, the iconic Willis Tower," said Gonen Fink, Co-founder and CEO Pythagoras Solar. "It is inspiring to see a team not waver in its dedication to making a true and lasting change through smart investments in the right solutions. With its combined benefits, our technology is set to provide Willis Tower with a valuable tool that will help move it toward its energy efficiency goals."
Leveraging mass-scale solar power window installations has a direct impact on improving the energy efficiency and energy generation potential of a building's exterior envelope and windows. Pythagoras Solar is the first company to offer a fully integrated photovoltaic glass unit (PVGU) that addresses the need for simultaneous benefits of energy efficiency and high power density, while also offering architectural design benefits to increase real estate value and advance Net Zero Energy Buildings (NZB).
Yingli Green Energy and GRID Alternatives Partner to Provide Solar Energy to 400 Low-Income Families Across California
BAODING, China and OAKLAND, Calif., March 21, 2011 /PRNewswire-Asia-FirstCall/ -- Yingli Green Energy Holding Company Limited (NYSE: YGE) ("Yingli Green Energy" or the "Company"), a leading solar energy company and one of the world's largest vertically integrated photovoltaic (PV) manufacturers, which markets its products under the brand "Yingli Solar," announced today that its U.S. subsidiary, Yingli Green Energy Americas, Inc. ("Yingli Americas"), has formed a strategic partnership with GRID Alternatives, a nonprofit solar installer whose mission is to empower communities in need by providing renewable energy and energy efficiency services, equipment and training. Under the terms of the agreement, Yingli Americas will provide the largest donation in GRID Alternatives' history, and will become the organization's official solar module provider.
Combined with a network of community volunteers and green job trainees, Yingli Americas and GRID Alternatives will work together to install 1 MW of solar energy systems for 400 low-income families during 2011 using a combination of donated modules and modules purchased from Yingli at fair market value. These solar energy systems will generate $10 million worth of renewable energy over their lifespan, while eliminating 40,000 tons of greenhouse gas emissions. In addition, the projects will provide hands-on job training opportunities in solar PV installation to thousands of individuals looking to enter the solar workforce, through direct participation in the installations.
"GRID Alternatives is grateful to Yingli for helping us make solar power available to the working families that need the savings the most, while helping build the clean energy workforce of the future. We are also proving that if solar is a viable technology for low-income families, it can work for anyone anywhere," said Erica Mackie, Executive Director and Co-Founder of GRID Alternatives. "We are thrilled to announce this partnership – which is the first of its kind in our organization's history – and commend Yingli Americas for their vision and dedication to helping disadvantaged communities in the US."
"Social responsibility is a key pillar in our mission, and we're very proud to announce this partnership with GRID Alternatives," said Robert Petrina, Managing Director of Yingli Americas. "At Yingli, we believe in making solar power an affordable option for everyone, and addressing our local underserved communities is an important step in achieving this -- we're delivering clean energy and job training where it's required most."
Mr. Liansheng Miao, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Yingli Green Energy, commented, "We have a long-standing commitment to global social responsibility and to improving the lives of our future generations. That's why we seek out collaborations such as this one with GRID Alternatives in order to make a tangible difference."
Combined with a network of community volunteers and green job trainees, Yingli Americas and GRID Alternatives will work together to install 1 MW of solar energy systems for 400 low-income families during 2011 using a combination of donated modules and modules purchased from Yingli at fair market value. These solar energy systems will generate $10 million worth of renewable energy over their lifespan, while eliminating 40,000 tons of greenhouse gas emissions. In addition, the projects will provide hands-on job training opportunities in solar PV installation to thousands of individuals looking to enter the solar workforce, through direct participation in the installations.
"GRID Alternatives is grateful to Yingli for helping us make solar power available to the working families that need the savings the most, while helping build the clean energy workforce of the future. We are also proving that if solar is a viable technology for low-income families, it can work for anyone anywhere," said Erica Mackie, Executive Director and Co-Founder of GRID Alternatives. "We are thrilled to announce this partnership – which is the first of its kind in our organization's history – and commend Yingli Americas for their vision and dedication to helping disadvantaged communities in the US."
"Social responsibility is a key pillar in our mission, and we're very proud to announce this partnership with GRID Alternatives," said Robert Petrina, Managing Director of Yingli Americas. "At Yingli, we believe in making solar power an affordable option for everyone, and addressing our local underserved communities is an important step in achieving this -- we're delivering clean energy and job training where it's required most."
Mr. Liansheng Miao, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Yingli Green Energy, commented, "We have a long-standing commitment to global social responsibility and to improving the lives of our future generations. That's why we seek out collaborations such as this one with GRID Alternatives in order to make a tangible difference."
SOLON Corporation Appoints Senior Finance Executives from SunPower and Leoni
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., today announced the appointment of two prominent finance executives—David Goldman as Vice President, Project Finance and Strategic Planning, and Jay Meridew as Vice President, Finance. Further deepening SOLON’s roster of project finance experts, Goldman will oversee all financing aspects for SOLON’s commercial and utility-scale solar projects. Meridew will assume responsibility for accounting and information technology functions.
“We are excited to have both David and Jay contribute their considerable expertise to SOLON, and help continue to cement the company’s position as an industry leader in developing and constructing utility scale solar projects,” said Dan Alcombright, Regional Vice President and General Manager of North America for SOLON. “David’s experience closing distributed generation and utility-scale solar projects, and his deep knowledge of the solar industry will make him a tremendous asset to SOLON. Jay is a proven financial officer who has demonstrated exceptional strategic and tactical leadership throughout his career, and we look forward to adding his skills and experience to our leadership team.”
Goldman previously served as Director of Structured Finance at SunPower Corporation, where he held positions of increasing responsibility within the Structured Finance group and successfully closed over 350MW of solar transactions. He has led structuring, modeling, documentation and negotiations with multiple tax-equity investors, debt providers, and PPA off-takers.
Meridew has served for 17 years as a Chief Financial Officer to Tucson-based companies. Most recently, he served as Chief Financial Officer of Leoni Wiring Systems’ North American subsidiary in Tucson, where he oversaw sales, purchasing, finance, IT, risk management, human resources and administration functions. Prior to Leoni, Meridew served as Vice President of Finance at Ventana Medical Systems, Inc., where he was responsible for building a team of financial and information system professionals to support a rapidly growing technology business.
“We are excited to have both David and Jay contribute their considerable expertise to SOLON, and help continue to cement the company’s position as an industry leader in developing and constructing utility scale solar projects,” said Dan Alcombright, Regional Vice President and General Manager of North America for SOLON. “David’s experience closing distributed generation and utility-scale solar projects, and his deep knowledge of the solar industry will make him a tremendous asset to SOLON. Jay is a proven financial officer who has demonstrated exceptional strategic and tactical leadership throughout his career, and we look forward to adding his skills and experience to our leadership team.”
Goldman previously served as Director of Structured Finance at SunPower Corporation, where he held positions of increasing responsibility within the Structured Finance group and successfully closed over 350MW of solar transactions. He has led structuring, modeling, documentation and negotiations with multiple tax-equity investors, debt providers, and PPA off-takers.
Meridew has served for 17 years as a Chief Financial Officer to Tucson-based companies. Most recently, he served as Chief Financial Officer of Leoni Wiring Systems’ North American subsidiary in Tucson, where he oversaw sales, purchasing, finance, IT, risk management, human resources and administration functions. Prior to Leoni, Meridew served as Vice President of Finance at Ventana Medical Systems, Inc., where he was responsible for building a team of financial and information system professionals to support a rapidly growing technology business.
Energi’s Solar Installation Performance Warranty: New Program to Mitigate Risk on Commercial Solar Projects
PEABODY, Mass.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Energi announced today it has officially launched its “Solar Installation Performance Warranty,” an innovative cover to insure against lost revenue from a solar array in the event that a solar contractor’s design or installation causes reduced output. The Solar Installation Performance Warranty is purchased by the contractor and will provide project owners, developers and lenders additional security for the electricity and Solar Renewable Energy Credit (SREC) revenue generated from commercial solar installations. The cover also allows solar contractors to avoid posting balance sheet liabilities for performance guarantee obligations. Coverage is available for US-based solar contractors following best practices and will be underwritten through International Insurance Company of Hannover Limited, an operating insurance company of Hannover Re.
Energi’s Director of Alternative Energy Solutions Angela Ferrante describes the Program’s key benefits, “This performance warranty coverage aligns with project owner interests to protect the solar array’s electricity, Solar Renewable Energy Credit and rebate revenue. This Program improves the bankability of commercial solar projects and mitigates risk to all parties.”
Ralph Beutter, General Manager North American P&C, Multinational & Special Lines at Hannover Re, explains the motivation behind the warranty, “We’ve collaborated with solar project owners and have customized the program to satisfy their need for a stronger backstop on the guaranteed amount of solar energy produced. Our aim with the Solar Installation Performance Warranty is to support the growth and development of alternative energy and solidify ourselves as a leading provider of risk management solutions for the solar industry.”
Energi Programs are offered directly or through a select network of independent insurance agents and brokers, and is available in all 50 states. Contact Angela Ferrante or Kevin Kaminski at (978) 531-1822 or visit www.energi.com.
Energi’s Director of Alternative Energy Solutions Angela Ferrante describes the Program’s key benefits, “This performance warranty coverage aligns with project owner interests to protect the solar array’s electricity, Solar Renewable Energy Credit and rebate revenue. This Program improves the bankability of commercial solar projects and mitigates risk to all parties.”
Ralph Beutter, General Manager North American P&C, Multinational & Special Lines at Hannover Re, explains the motivation behind the warranty, “We’ve collaborated with solar project owners and have customized the program to satisfy their need for a stronger backstop on the guaranteed amount of solar energy produced. Our aim with the Solar Installation Performance Warranty is to support the growth and development of alternative energy and solidify ourselves as a leading provider of risk management solutions for the solar industry.”
Energi Programs are offered directly or through a select network of independent insurance agents and brokers, and is available in all 50 states. Contact Angela Ferrante or Kevin Kaminski at (978) 531-1822 or visit www.energi.com.
Ascent Solar Signs Distributor Agreement with Sunload Mobile Solutions GmbH
THORNTON, Colo.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Ascent Solar Technologies, Inc. (NASDAQ:ASTI), a developer of flexible thin-film solar modules, announced today that Sunload Mobile Solutions will act as an Authorized Distributor of Ascent Solar's lightweight, flexible, high-power thin-film CIGS modules for Electronic Integrated (EIPV) applications in Europe. This agreement with Sunload will give Ascent Solar access to multiple opportunities within Europe’s rapidly expanding off-grid battery charging and portable power markets.
Ascent Solar President and CEO Farhad Moghadam stated, "We are pleased to announce our agreement with Sunload Mobile Solutions. This relationship establishes a partnership through which we expect to market our lineup of flexible, lightweight CIGS modules for off-grid portable power. The innovative European market represents a significant opportunity for Ascent’s portfolio of products. We welcome Sunload Mobile Solutions to our network of distributors.”
About Sunload Mobile Solutions GmbH
Sunload Mobile Solutions GmbH is a leading manufacturer of Solar Chargers for small off-grid solar applications. Sunload is based in Berlin, Germany. Additional information can be found at www.sunload.com.
Ascent Solar President and CEO Farhad Moghadam stated, "We are pleased to announce our agreement with Sunload Mobile Solutions. This relationship establishes a partnership through which we expect to market our lineup of flexible, lightweight CIGS modules for off-grid portable power. The innovative European market represents a significant opportunity for Ascent’s portfolio of products. We welcome Sunload Mobile Solutions to our network of distributors.”
About Sunload Mobile Solutions GmbH
Sunload Mobile Solutions GmbH is a leading manufacturer of Solar Chargers for small off-grid solar applications. Sunload is based in Berlin, Germany. Additional information can be found at www.sunload.com.
Friday, March 18, 2011
Nevada Officials, Sempra Generation Dedicate Largest U.S. Photovoltaic Solar Plant
SAN DIEGO, March 18, 2011 /PRNewswire/ -- Nevada Governor Brian Sandoval, Boulder City Mayor Roger Tobler, Jeff Martin, president and chief executive officer of Sempra Generation, and other dignitaries were on hand today in southern Nevada to officially dedicate Sempra Generation's Copper Mountain Solar, the largest photovoltaic solar plant in the U.S.
The 48-megawatt (MW) project is located adjacent to Sempra Generation's 10-MW El Dorado Solar installation in Boulder City, Nev., about 40 miles southeast of Las Vegas.
In his comments, Governor Sandoval praised Sempra Generation for its commitment to Nevada and for creating hundreds of local construction jobs to build the solar facility. He also expressed strong support for the company's plan, which was recently approved by Boulder City, to expand the Copper Mountain Solar complex by more than 200 MW because of the benefits alternative energy projects bring to the state and local economy.
"This project exemplifies my goal of making Nevada the renewable energy capital of the country. Projects of this magnitude provide hundreds of jobs and invest millions of dollars in our state," said Governor Sandoval.
Recently named "Solar Project of the Year" by Renewable Energy World as part of the 2011 Excellence in Renewable Energy Awards, Copper Mountain Solar was selected from hundreds of nominations in the category.
Construction on Copper Mountain Solar began in January 2010 at the 380-acre desert site. Nearly 775,000 thin-film photovoltaic solar panels, which convert sunlight directly into electricity, were installed. The award-winning solar facility is now generating enough emission-free electricity to power about 14,000 average homes.
"Copper Mountain Solar represents Sempra Generation's commitment to developing world-class alternative energy projects that generate a new source of clean power and create jobs," said Jeffrey W. Martin, president and chief executive officer of Sempra Generation. "But the success of Copper Mountain Solar can be directly attributed to the vision and support of Boulder City, Pacific Gas & Electric and many state and federal officials in Nevada. Their leadership is accelerating our country's transition to a more sustainable energy future."
The power from Copper Mountain Solar and El Dorado Solar has been sold to Pacific Gas & Electric (PG&E) under separate 20-year contracts.
Sempra Generation operates and maintains a fleet of clean, efficient natural gas-fueled power plants and is a leading developer of solar and wind facilities that serve U.S. markets. Sempra Energy, based in San Diego, is a Fortune 500 energy services holding company with 2010 revenues of $9 billion. The Sempra Energy companies' 13,500 employees serve about 25 million consumers worldwide.
The 48-megawatt (MW) project is located adjacent to Sempra Generation's 10-MW El Dorado Solar installation in Boulder City, Nev., about 40 miles southeast of Las Vegas.
In his comments, Governor Sandoval praised Sempra Generation for its commitment to Nevada and for creating hundreds of local construction jobs to build the solar facility. He also expressed strong support for the company's plan, which was recently approved by Boulder City, to expand the Copper Mountain Solar complex by more than 200 MW because of the benefits alternative energy projects bring to the state and local economy.
"This project exemplifies my goal of making Nevada the renewable energy capital of the country. Projects of this magnitude provide hundreds of jobs and invest millions of dollars in our state," said Governor Sandoval.
Recently named "Solar Project of the Year" by Renewable Energy World as part of the 2011 Excellence in Renewable Energy Awards, Copper Mountain Solar was selected from hundreds of nominations in the category.
Construction on Copper Mountain Solar began in January 2010 at the 380-acre desert site. Nearly 775,000 thin-film photovoltaic solar panels, which convert sunlight directly into electricity, were installed. The award-winning solar facility is now generating enough emission-free electricity to power about 14,000 average homes.
"Copper Mountain Solar represents Sempra Generation's commitment to developing world-class alternative energy projects that generate a new source of clean power and create jobs," said Jeffrey W. Martin, president and chief executive officer of Sempra Generation. "But the success of Copper Mountain Solar can be directly attributed to the vision and support of Boulder City, Pacific Gas & Electric and many state and federal officials in Nevada. Their leadership is accelerating our country's transition to a more sustainable energy future."
The power from Copper Mountain Solar and El Dorado Solar has been sold to Pacific Gas & Electric (PG&E) under separate 20-year contracts.
Sempra Generation operates and maintains a fleet of clean, efficient natural gas-fueled power plants and is a leading developer of solar and wind facilities that serve U.S. markets. Sempra Energy, based in San Diego, is a Fortune 500 energy services holding company with 2010 revenues of $9 billion. The Sempra Energy companies' 13,500 employees serve about 25 million consumers worldwide.
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