By Nichola Groom
LOS ANGELES | Wed Jun 29, 2011 8:45am EDT
(Reuters) - German solar company Q-Cells unveiled its thin film modules in the United States on Wednesday as it seeks to cash in on growing demand in North America while lessening its reliance on the European market, where government support for solar is declining.
The company, which entered the North American market just a year ago and thus far has had a tiny presence in the utility-scale solar market, said it introduced its copper indium gallium selenide (CIGS) solar modules to get into the business for commercial and residential rooftop solar systems.
"Here in North America, with this announcement, it's rounding out and completing our presence here with all the market segments," said Marc van Gerven, managing director of Q-Cells' North American business, adding that the move was part of Q-Cells' two-year effort to "internationalize."
But Q-Cells is also walking into a highly competitive market, particularly as the United States is home to top thin film company First Solar Inc, whose cadmium telluride panels are the lowest cost in the industry.
CIGS technology holds the promise of having cheap production costs combined with cell efficiency near the best of traditional silicon-based panels.... read the rest
Wednesday, June 29, 2011
400 MW Solar Project Looking For a Home in the Southeast
A Florida-based solar developer announced today that it is considering seven communities in the Southeast US as potential sites for one of the world's largest solar projects.
Currently, the world's largest solar plant is an 80 MW project in Ontario, Canada.
National Solar Power says it is planning to build a 400 megawatt (MW) project in one of the following areas:
The project will consist of 20, 200-acre solar farms, each generating over 20 MW of energy. They will be less than seven feet tall and surrounded by vegetation, making them inconspicuous to the surrounding area.
CEO James Scrivener says the company will make a final decision within a month.
It's criteria for the site are:
National Solar says the project will inject millions of dollars into the winning community and create up to 400 solar energy jobs during the five-year construction phase and up to 120 permanent jobs.
The first phase is expected to be operational within six months of the start of construction.
Hensel Phelps Construction Co. will design, build and operate the solar farms for National Solar Power.
National Solar Power is a three-year-old company based in Melbourne, Florida, that says it has signed power supply agreements for 3,000 MW of solar power in the Southeast.
Currently, the world's largest solar plant is an 80 MW project in Ontario, Canada.
National Solar Power says it is planning to build a 400 megawatt (MW) project in one of the following areas:
- Florida: Gadsden, Hardee, Osceola and Suwannee counties
- Georgia: Sumter and Tatnall counties
- North Carolina: Guilford County (Greensboro area)
The project will consist of 20, 200-acre solar farms, each generating over 20 MW of energy. They will be less than seven feet tall and surrounded by vegetation, making them inconspicuous to the surrounding area.
CEO James Scrivener says the company will make a final decision within a month.
It's criteria for the site are:
- enough undeveloped land to meet the project's infrastructure needs
- appropriate business, government and community support
- economic development and tax incentives
- access to a qualified work force
National Solar says the project will inject millions of dollars into the winning community and create up to 400 solar energy jobs during the five-year construction phase and up to 120 permanent jobs.
The first phase is expected to be operational within six months of the start of construction.
Hensel Phelps Construction Co. will design, build and operate the solar farms for National Solar Power.
National Solar Power is a three-year-old company based in Melbourne, Florida, that says it has signed power supply agreements for 3,000 MW of solar power in the Southeast.
DUNMORE to Showcase Solar Module Cost Reduction Strategies at Intersolar North America 2011
BRISTOL, Pa., June 29, 2011 /PRNewswire/ -- Overcoming the solar industry's number-one strategic challenge, driving down the cost of solar modules, will be DUNMORE Corporation's focus at the upcoming Intersolar North America 2011 conference.
Reducing costs to make solar power competitive with fossil fuels is the key to gaining wider market acceptance. During the Intersolar exhibition, DUNMORE will offer advice on material choices, manufacturing and certification processes that can cut the cost of producing solar modules. The company will detail its FastCert™ program, which helps module manufacturers bring new products to market faster and at a lower cost. FastCert streamlines solar module development from concept through qualification and production. Drawing on its 40-plus years of manufacturing and material science experience, DUNMORE helps solar module producers optimize designs, quickly earn certification from standards bodies such as Underwriters Laboratories and the International Engineering Consortium, and identify reliable, economical material sources.
"The only way for solar to reach the cost levels it has to reach is by attacking expenses at every facet of solar module development," said John Jordon, DUNMORE vice president. "FastCert is designed to uncover savings everywhere in the design, certification and manufacturing processes without compromising performance."
In addition to FastCert, DUNMORE will also be demonstrating its DUN-SOLAR™ photovoltaic backsheets, including its FPE fluorinated products, TPE backsheets using DuPont™ Tedlar® and PPE+ all-polyester constructions.
Reducing costs to make solar power competitive with fossil fuels is the key to gaining wider market acceptance. During the Intersolar exhibition, DUNMORE will offer advice on material choices, manufacturing and certification processes that can cut the cost of producing solar modules. The company will detail its FastCert™ program, which helps module manufacturers bring new products to market faster and at a lower cost. FastCert streamlines solar module development from concept through qualification and production. Drawing on its 40-plus years of manufacturing and material science experience, DUNMORE helps solar module producers optimize designs, quickly earn certification from standards bodies such as Underwriters Laboratories and the International Engineering Consortium, and identify reliable, economical material sources.
"The only way for solar to reach the cost levels it has to reach is by attacking expenses at every facet of solar module development," said John Jordon, DUNMORE vice president. "FastCert is designed to uncover savings everywhere in the design, certification and manufacturing processes without compromising performance."
In addition to FastCert, DUNMORE will also be demonstrating its DUN-SOLAR™ photovoltaic backsheets, including its FPE fluorinated products, TPE backsheets using DuPont™ Tedlar® and PPE+ all-polyester constructions.
Q-Cells Introduces Breakthrough Q.SMART Thin Film Modules for North American PV Market
SAN FRANCISCO--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Q-Cells SE, one of the world’s leading photovoltaic companies, has introduced its Q.SMART modules, the world’s most efficient thin film modules, for the North American photovoltaic market. Q.SMART is a high-yield and high-efficiency thin film module, based on CIGS technology, designed to maximize power output and return-on-investment in distributed solar generation.
With aperture efficiencies of up to 14.7 percent, Q.SMART holds the world record for thin film modules in serial production since 2009. Q.SMART’s unique CIGS technology is the only thin film solar technology that does not initially degrade in the first years of operation. Q.SMART harnesses a “light-soaking” effect to generate an average of 2.5 percent power boost above Nominal Power at Standard Test Conditions when deployed the field. A Q.SMART solar module was the top performing thin film module in PHOTON Magazine’s recent Energy Yield Test (June 2011).
Q.SMART also outperforms competitors in diverse environmental conditions, including low-light periods of the day and high-heat climates. Ideal for commercial and residential settings, Q.SMART is positive sorted meaning customers always receive what they pay for, and more. Finally, Q.SMART modules are the highest yield panels in the world, with outstanding production efficiency rates.
An industry first, Q.SMART comes with an unrivaled Power Appreciation Warranty of 25 years – a 100 percent performance guaranty for the first three years, and linear degradation of not more than 0.7 percent per year thereafter, achieving still 85 percent of rated output power after 25 years. This warranty program reassures customers that their Q.SMART modules will continue at peak performance throughout their operational lifetimes.
Q.SMART modules also come with the Q-CELLS YIELD SECURITY seal of quality. This includes an Additional Power Boost (APB), an increase in output by up to 15 percent through positive sorting and the light soaking effect, a proven benefit of Q-CELLS thin-film technology; plus 360° efficiency (TDE – three-hundred-and-sixty degree efficiency) through flexible installation in diffused light conditions, in shade and at unfavorable angles.
“The release of our innovative Q.SMART technology in North America aligns with Q-Cells’ corporate vision to bring best-of-world solar technology and partnerships to local markets,” said Marc van Gerven, Managing Director of Q-Cells North America. “We are executing against our strategic roadmap. Since entering North America one year ago, Q-Cells introduced first its utility-scale solar business, then rolled out its PV systems business, and began module sales with the availability of Q.SMART.”
The technology behind Q.SMART was developed in 1983 by the Ångström Solar Center at Uppsala University, Sweden, commercialized by the spin-off company Solibro in 2006, and acquired by Q-Cells in 2009. In March 2011, Q-Cells announced it had achieved the milestone of 14.7 percent production efficiency on the aperture area, which is the latest world record for monolithically integrated CIGS thin film modules. Q.SMART is produced in Thalheim, Germany, at the company’s own factory. At the end of 2010, total production capacity of Q.SMART modules had reached 135 MWp.
Outside of North America, Q-Cells has already deployed Q.SMART modules in both commercial and residential installations. Q.SMART projects in 2010 include a 3.4 MWp commercial rooftop Tontarelli, Italy, a 610 kWp commercial rooftop at Venice Airport, Italy, and an 880 kWp carport at Frankfurt Trade Fair, Germany. Most recently in 2011, iGen Energy of Manchester, U.K., completed work on the first phase of a pioneering 96 kWp solar photovoltaic installation with Q.SMART modules in Buxton, Derbyshire, for a leading professional cleaning solutions manufacturer, Selden Research. The commercial roof-top project is the first in the United Kingdom to utilize Q.SMART modules. When it is completed, the new system covering 1,500 m² will be one of the largest in England.
“A technology 29 years in development, Q.SMART is another example of Q-Cells’ commitment to solar energy innovation,” continued van Gerven. “We provide best-of-world technology to maximize return on investment in solar energy. Our mission is to bring value to customers, investors and partners alike.”
With aperture efficiencies of up to 14.7 percent, Q.SMART holds the world record for thin film modules in serial production since 2009. Q.SMART’s unique CIGS technology is the only thin film solar technology that does not initially degrade in the first years of operation. Q.SMART harnesses a “light-soaking” effect to generate an average of 2.5 percent power boost above Nominal Power at Standard Test Conditions when deployed the field. A Q.SMART solar module was the top performing thin film module in PHOTON Magazine’s recent Energy Yield Test (June 2011).
Q.SMART also outperforms competitors in diverse environmental conditions, including low-light periods of the day and high-heat climates. Ideal for commercial and residential settings, Q.SMART is positive sorted meaning customers always receive what they pay for, and more. Finally, Q.SMART modules are the highest yield panels in the world, with outstanding production efficiency rates.
An industry first, Q.SMART comes with an unrivaled Power Appreciation Warranty of 25 years – a 100 percent performance guaranty for the first three years, and linear degradation of not more than 0.7 percent per year thereafter, achieving still 85 percent of rated output power after 25 years. This warranty program reassures customers that their Q.SMART modules will continue at peak performance throughout their operational lifetimes.
Q.SMART modules also come with the Q-CELLS YIELD SECURITY seal of quality. This includes an Additional Power Boost (APB), an increase in output by up to 15 percent through positive sorting and the light soaking effect, a proven benefit of Q-CELLS thin-film technology; plus 360° efficiency (TDE – three-hundred-and-sixty degree efficiency) through flexible installation in diffused light conditions, in shade and at unfavorable angles.
“The release of our innovative Q.SMART technology in North America aligns with Q-Cells’ corporate vision to bring best-of-world solar technology and partnerships to local markets,” said Marc van Gerven, Managing Director of Q-Cells North America. “We are executing against our strategic roadmap. Since entering North America one year ago, Q-Cells introduced first its utility-scale solar business, then rolled out its PV systems business, and began module sales with the availability of Q.SMART.”
The technology behind Q.SMART was developed in 1983 by the Ångström Solar Center at Uppsala University, Sweden, commercialized by the spin-off company Solibro in 2006, and acquired by Q-Cells in 2009. In March 2011, Q-Cells announced it had achieved the milestone of 14.7 percent production efficiency on the aperture area, which is the latest world record for monolithically integrated CIGS thin film modules. Q.SMART is produced in Thalheim, Germany, at the company’s own factory. At the end of 2010, total production capacity of Q.SMART modules had reached 135 MWp.
Outside of North America, Q-Cells has already deployed Q.SMART modules in both commercial and residential installations. Q.SMART projects in 2010 include a 3.4 MWp commercial rooftop Tontarelli, Italy, a 610 kWp commercial rooftop at Venice Airport, Italy, and an 880 kWp carport at Frankfurt Trade Fair, Germany. Most recently in 2011, iGen Energy of Manchester, U.K., completed work on the first phase of a pioneering 96 kWp solar photovoltaic installation with Q.SMART modules in Buxton, Derbyshire, for a leading professional cleaning solutions manufacturer, Selden Research. The commercial roof-top project is the first in the United Kingdom to utilize Q.SMART modules. When it is completed, the new system covering 1,500 m² will be one of the largest in England.
“A technology 29 years in development, Q.SMART is another example of Q-Cells’ commitment to solar energy innovation,” continued van Gerven. “We provide best-of-world technology to maximize return on investment in solar energy. Our mission is to bring value to customers, investors and partners alike.”
Tuesday, June 28, 2011
Expert Financing, Inc Commences to Market Solar-Powered ATMs
MIAMI, June 28, 2011 /PRNewswire/ -- Expert Group, Inc. announced today that it will deploy the region's first solar-powered ATM. The ATMs will be installed throughout Miami in high traffic outdoor areas, said Robert Rico, Chairmen of Expert Financing, Inc.
The ATMs are powered by solar panels installed on the top of the ATM. The panels are connected to a circuit breaker board, which feeds a power controller. Part of the collected energy is stored in the power controller for the ATM's night operation.
Miami has a hot/arid climate, and sunny and blue skies can be expected throughout the year. It is the largest city in Florida.
The city of Miami is encouraging the establishment of the hotel, sports and tourism industries to use solar power.
"We are planning to put 100 solar-powered ATMs in various areas in Miami in the near future," Robert said. "The wonderful thing about these machines is that they are not costly and will provide our customers with the chance to contribute to helping the environment."
The ATMs are powered by solar panels installed on the top of the ATM. The panels are connected to a circuit breaker board, which feeds a power controller. Part of the collected energy is stored in the power controller for the ATM's night operation.
Miami has a hot/arid climate, and sunny and blue skies can be expected throughout the year. It is the largest city in Florida.
The city of Miami is encouraging the establishment of the hotel, sports and tourism industries to use solar power.
"We are planning to put 100 solar-powered ATMs in various areas in Miami in the near future," Robert said. "The wonderful thing about these machines is that they are not costly and will provide our customers with the chance to contribute to helping the environment."
Denver Federal Center Solar Work Will Exceed Original Production Expectations
LAKEWOOD, Colo.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--The U.S. General Services Administration’s (GSA) Denver Federal Center (DFC) campus is nearing the completion of its nearly 7 megawatt (MW) solar photovoltaic (PV) project. This project combined, with an existing 1.2 MW solar park, will provide more than 15% of the DFC’s electrical needs annually. The combined capacity of all of the solar arrays is enough to power 1,064 residential homes for one year. The project’s final phase, originally scheduled for 3.45 MW, has been increased to 3.5 MW. All told, the project is GSA’s largest solar installation across the United States, and all campus PV is expected to be online by the end of 2011.
In 2007, GSA installed its first, six-acre, 1.2 MW solar PV park, which includes 6,192 solar panels at the 624-acre campus in Lakewood, Colo. In 2009, GSA received additional funding to add nearly 7 MW more PV. “GSA has made great strides over the years reducing energy consumption in buildings and we are well under way in turning our vision of becoming the greenest campus by 2020 into a reality,” said Susan Damour, GSA Rocky Mountain Regional Administrator. “The past couple of years have been an unprecedented opportunity for GSA to help create and sustain jobs all across the country.”
In 2009, E Light Wind and Solar, Inc./Centerre, a Colorado small business joint venture company was awarded a design-build contract for the installation of the additional solar at the DFC. The solar is being installed in a two-phased approach. The first phase was completed ahead of schedule and brought online December 15, 2010. It included roof replacement and the design and installation of a 3.2-MW solar PV system. In all, 14,612 roof-mounted, 224-watt solar panels were installed on Buildings 20, 56 and 810. In the final phase, the company is installing 14,352 245-watt solar panels manufactured by SolarWorld at its factories in Camarillo, Calif., and Hillsboro, Ore., as well as products from other U.S. technology manufacturers.
“I applaud our workforce for a successful installation with these multiple applications,” said Perry Herrmann, President/CEO of E Light Wind and Solar, Inc. “Being able to provide the DFC with more renewable power has surpassed our expectations with this installation and is a testament to the skill and professionalism of our electricians.”
Kevin Kilkelly, president of SolarWorld Americas, said the collaboration among U.S. businesses and employees involved in manufacturing and installing solar technology and balance-of-system components at a federal government site has been a heartening sign of the nation’s promising renewable-energy future.
“Renewable energy technology and its manufacture and installation are more than mere sources of clean electricity,” says Kilkelly, whose company has been the largest U.S. solar technology manufacturer for more than 35 years. “They are the very keys to the nation’s energy supply and affordability, international and economic stability, and environmental and climate stewardship. By tapping the many strengths and ingenuity of the American workforce, this project has quite simply bolstered the country’s path toward greater security.”
The final phase originally was planned for 3.45 MW but was increased to 3.5 MW. The work includes ground-mount solar arrays visible near the main entrance on Kipling Avenue; ground-mount solar arrays located near Sixth Avenue; and 14 carport structures with solar panels on top at Buildings 20, 25, 53, 810 on the DFC campus. The last phase features solar ground-mounting systems from Schletter Inc. in Arizona; carport racking from Tra-Mage in Utah; and PV inverters from Satcon in California.
In 2007, GSA installed its first, six-acre, 1.2 MW solar PV park, which includes 6,192 solar panels at the 624-acre campus in Lakewood, Colo. In 2009, GSA received additional funding to add nearly 7 MW more PV. “GSA has made great strides over the years reducing energy consumption in buildings and we are well under way in turning our vision of becoming the greenest campus by 2020 into a reality,” said Susan Damour, GSA Rocky Mountain Regional Administrator. “The past couple of years have been an unprecedented opportunity for GSA to help create and sustain jobs all across the country.”
In 2009, E Light Wind and Solar, Inc./Centerre, a Colorado small business joint venture company was awarded a design-build contract for the installation of the additional solar at the DFC. The solar is being installed in a two-phased approach. The first phase was completed ahead of schedule and brought online December 15, 2010. It included roof replacement and the design and installation of a 3.2-MW solar PV system. In all, 14,612 roof-mounted, 224-watt solar panels were installed on Buildings 20, 56 and 810. In the final phase, the company is installing 14,352 245-watt solar panels manufactured by SolarWorld at its factories in Camarillo, Calif., and Hillsboro, Ore., as well as products from other U.S. technology manufacturers.
“I applaud our workforce for a successful installation with these multiple applications,” said Perry Herrmann, President/CEO of E Light Wind and Solar, Inc. “Being able to provide the DFC with more renewable power has surpassed our expectations with this installation and is a testament to the skill and professionalism of our electricians.”
Kevin Kilkelly, president of SolarWorld Americas, said the collaboration among U.S. businesses and employees involved in manufacturing and installing solar technology and balance-of-system components at a federal government site has been a heartening sign of the nation’s promising renewable-energy future.
“Renewable energy technology and its manufacture and installation are more than mere sources of clean electricity,” says Kilkelly, whose company has been the largest U.S. solar technology manufacturer for more than 35 years. “They are the very keys to the nation’s energy supply and affordability, international and economic stability, and environmental and climate stewardship. By tapping the many strengths and ingenuity of the American workforce, this project has quite simply bolstered the country’s path toward greater security.”
The final phase originally was planned for 3.45 MW but was increased to 3.5 MW. The work includes ground-mount solar arrays visible near the main entrance on Kipling Avenue; ground-mount solar arrays located near Sixth Avenue; and 14 carport structures with solar panels on top at Buildings 20, 25, 53, 810 on the DFC campus. The last phase features solar ground-mounting systems from Schletter Inc. in Arizona; carport racking from Tra-Mage in Utah; and PV inverters from Satcon in California.
New Energy Bolsters Patent Protection for SolarWindow™ Capable of Generating Electricity on See-Thru Glass
COLUMBIA, Md.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--New Energy Technologies, Inc. (OTCQB: NENE) today announced that, as part of the Company’s ongoing pathway to commercialize its SolarWindow™ technology, capable of generating electricity on see-thru glass windows, four new patent applications have been filed with the United States Patent and Trademark Office.
Including previous patent submissions, a total of 10 new patent applications have been filed for SolarWindow™, and 18 International and US patent filings have been submitted for protection of New Energy’s MotionPower™ technology, engineered to generate electricity from vehicles as they slow or come to a stop.
“We recently announced plans to advance our alternative energy technologies, SolarWindow™ and MotionPower™, towards manufacturability and commercialization. An important precursor to commercial launch of these first-of-their-kind technologies is the protection of valuable intellectual property related to our underlying inventions,” explained Mr. John A. Conklin, President and CEO of New Energy Technologies, Inc.
“With a total of 28 new patents filed internationally and in the United States, I’m proud to announce that we are making important strides in safeguarding the technological breakthroughs which make it possible to create meaningful commercial products from our early inventions.”
Among such inventions are important SolarWindow™-related discoveries, including New Energy’s development of:
Late last year, many of these patent-pending discoveries were collectively unveiled as a working SolarWindow™ model to mainstream media, scientists, academics, industry attendees, and investors.
At a high-profile public demonstration, attendees witnessed New Energy’s SolarWindow™ prototypes in action, successfully producing sufficient voltage to power electrical lights and generating enough current to drive a mechanical device. During the demonstration, SolarWindow™ not only generated electrical power from exposure to sunlight but also from artificial fluorescent light - an attribute unique to New Energy’s SolarWindow™.
Recently, scientists developing SolarWindow™ have achieved a major research goal, resulting in the fabrication of New Energy’s first ever 1’X1’ prototype – a necessary step for commercial scalability.
The patent filings announced today assist the Company with advancing SolarWindow™ into product development and eventual commercialization. The next phase of product development includes boosting power conversion efficiency, power production, voltage and current. Engineering efforts include the development of technologies that allow for large scale application of New Energy’s electricity-generating coatings onto glass surfaces, using standard industrial manufacturing techniques.
There are nearly 85 million commercial buildings and single detached homes in America, according to the Energy Information Administration. New Energy’s SolarWindow™ technology is under development for commercial application in such buildings.
Including previous patent submissions, a total of 10 new patent applications have been filed for SolarWindow™, and 18 International and US patent filings have been submitted for protection of New Energy’s MotionPower™ technology, engineered to generate electricity from vehicles as they slow or come to a stop.
“We recently announced plans to advance our alternative energy technologies, SolarWindow™ and MotionPower™, towards manufacturability and commercialization. An important precursor to commercial launch of these first-of-their-kind technologies is the protection of valuable intellectual property related to our underlying inventions,” explained Mr. John A. Conklin, President and CEO of New Energy Technologies, Inc.
“With a total of 28 new patents filed internationally and in the United States, I’m proud to announce that we are making important strides in safeguarding the technological breakthroughs which make it possible to create meaningful commercial products from our early inventions.”
Among such inventions are important SolarWindow™-related discoveries, including New Energy’s development of:
- Coatings that remain see-thru while generating electricity;
- Electricity-generating coatings that can be sprayed on to glass surfaces;
- Electricity-generating coatings that can applied at room temperature, unlike temperature and pressure sensitive manufacturing required in the production of other solar-photovoltaic products;
- Transparent ‘contacts’ that conduct electricity generated on SolarWindow™ without the loss of transparency, an issue typical to conventional contacts, which make use of metals;
- Improved solar cell arrangement and array architecture to increase electrical power production;
- Manufacturing methods for improved electrical power production; and
- Replacement compounds that support one of the most important functions for generating electricity on glass surfaces of SolarWindow™, namely, the movement of electrons. This ‘flow’ of electrons (negatively charged particles) is fundamental to generating electric ‘current’, necessary for powering appliances and fixtures.
Late last year, many of these patent-pending discoveries were collectively unveiled as a working SolarWindow™ model to mainstream media, scientists, academics, industry attendees, and investors.
At a high-profile public demonstration, attendees witnessed New Energy’s SolarWindow™ prototypes in action, successfully producing sufficient voltage to power electrical lights and generating enough current to drive a mechanical device. During the demonstration, SolarWindow™ not only generated electrical power from exposure to sunlight but also from artificial fluorescent light - an attribute unique to New Energy’s SolarWindow™.
Recently, scientists developing SolarWindow™ have achieved a major research goal, resulting in the fabrication of New Energy’s first ever 1’X1’ prototype – a necessary step for commercial scalability.
The patent filings announced today assist the Company with advancing SolarWindow™ into product development and eventual commercialization. The next phase of product development includes boosting power conversion efficiency, power production, voltage and current. Engineering efforts include the development of technologies that allow for large scale application of New Energy’s electricity-generating coatings onto glass surfaces, using standard industrial manufacturing techniques.
There are nearly 85 million commercial buildings and single detached homes in America, according to the Energy Information Administration. New Energy’s SolarWindow™ technology is under development for commercial application in such buildings.
National Solar Power Announces Finalists Competing for World’s Largest Solar Farm
MELBOURNE, Fla.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--National Solar Power today announced the names of seven communities in the southeast U.S. that are in serious contention to be the one chosen by the company as the site for the construction and operation of the world’s largest solar farm. The finalists’ list of communities includes four in Florida, two in Georgia and one in North Carolina.
“We are excited about the progress we have made in narrowing the search for establishing our groundbreaking solar farm project that will provide a source for renewable energy for consumers while boosting job creation and economic health in the winning community,” said James Scrivener, CEO of National Solar Power, the utility solar solutions company based in Melbourne, Florida. “Over the next month we will continue our due diligence and make a final decision about where this revolutionary venture will make its permanent home. Every one of the communities on our finalist list is an attractive location for this project.”
The communities National Solar Power has selected as finalists to become the location of the world’s largest solar farm are:
Florida: Gadsden, Hardee, Osceola and Suwannee counties.
Georgia: Sumter and Tatnall counties
North Carolina: Guilford County (Greensboro-area)
National Solar Power plans to establish a 400-megawatt solar project in the winning community – which would make it the world’s largest photovoltaic (PV) power plant. The project is made up of 20 related 200-acre solar farms, with each generating more than 20-megawatts of renewable energy. Currently, the world’s largest solar power plant is an 80-megawatt solar project in Ontario, Canada.
By converting the natural power of the sun into electricity, National Solar Power’s planned 400-megawatt farm will be capable of providing enough renewable energy to power roughly 32,000 homes.
National Solar Power’s criteria in selecting its community partner for the new solar farm location includes:
Scrivener said the company’s final process for selecting a community partner will include a combination of ongoing site visits in some communities and strategic conversations with key political/governmental, business and community leaders.
Injecting hundreds of millions of dollars into the winning community, National Solar Power’s landmark project has the potential to create 400 jobs during the five-year construction phase and up to 120 permanent jobs – all based on a clean energy endeavor. The first phase of the solar farm project is expected to be up and running within six months of construction commencing.
Hensel Phelps Construction Co., a world leader in construction, will design, build and operate the solar farms for National Solar Power. Once a final site is selected, it will take around six months for the first segment of the farm to be constructed. Each of the 20 farm segments represents a $70 million investment. When construction of the solar farm is complete in six years, it will represent a nearly $1.5 billion investment in the winning community.
Once operational, the low-profile solar farms will be less than seven-feet tall and surrounded by vegetation, making them inconspicuous to the surrounding area.
National Solar Power is a three-year-old company established to meet the growing demand in the utility market for renewable energy generation by providing utilities with cost-effective solar solutions. The company has entered into power supply agreements for more than 3,000 megawatts of solar farms in the Southeastern United States. With these agreements, the company is well positioned to be a market leader in utility-scale solar production.
“We are excited about the progress we have made in narrowing the search for establishing our groundbreaking solar farm project that will provide a source for renewable energy for consumers while boosting job creation and economic health in the winning community,” said James Scrivener, CEO of National Solar Power, the utility solar solutions company based in Melbourne, Florida. “Over the next month we will continue our due diligence and make a final decision about where this revolutionary venture will make its permanent home. Every one of the communities on our finalist list is an attractive location for this project.”
The communities National Solar Power has selected as finalists to become the location of the world’s largest solar farm are:
Florida: Gadsden, Hardee, Osceola and Suwannee counties.
Georgia: Sumter and Tatnall counties
North Carolina: Guilford County (Greensboro-area)
National Solar Power plans to establish a 400-megawatt solar project in the winning community – which would make it the world’s largest photovoltaic (PV) power plant. The project is made up of 20 related 200-acre solar farms, with each generating more than 20-megawatts of renewable energy. Currently, the world’s largest solar power plant is an 80-megawatt solar project in Ontario, Canada.
By converting the natural power of the sun into electricity, National Solar Power’s planned 400-megawatt farm will be capable of providing enough renewable energy to power roughly 32,000 homes.
National Solar Power’s criteria in selecting its community partner for the new solar farm location includes:
- Finding ideal available sites with adequate supply of undeveloped land that can properly meet infrastructure needs related to the establishment of the solar facility;
- Receiving appropriate business, government and community support;
- Qualifying for appropriate economic development and tax incentives; and
- Access to a qualified work force
Scrivener said the company’s final process for selecting a community partner will include a combination of ongoing site visits in some communities and strategic conversations with key political/governmental, business and community leaders.
Injecting hundreds of millions of dollars into the winning community, National Solar Power’s landmark project has the potential to create 400 jobs during the five-year construction phase and up to 120 permanent jobs – all based on a clean energy endeavor. The first phase of the solar farm project is expected to be up and running within six months of construction commencing.
Hensel Phelps Construction Co., a world leader in construction, will design, build and operate the solar farms for National Solar Power. Once a final site is selected, it will take around six months for the first segment of the farm to be constructed. Each of the 20 farm segments represents a $70 million investment. When construction of the solar farm is complete in six years, it will represent a nearly $1.5 billion investment in the winning community.
Once operational, the low-profile solar farms will be less than seven-feet tall and surrounded by vegetation, making them inconspicuous to the surrounding area.
National Solar Power is a three-year-old company established to meet the growing demand in the utility market for renewable energy generation by providing utilities with cost-effective solar solutions. The company has entered into power supply agreements for more than 3,000 megawatts of solar farms in the Southeastern United States. With these agreements, the company is well positioned to be a market leader in utility-scale solar production.
With System Complete, IKEA Powers up Solar in West Sacramento
WEST SACRAMENTO, Calif.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--IKEA, the world’s leading home furnishings retailer, today officially plugged-in the solar energy system installed at its store in West Sacramento, California. The 65,000-square-foot array consists of a 573-kW system, built with approximately 2,548 panels. IKEA West Sacramento’s program will produce approximately 795,500 kWh of clean electricity annually – the equivalent of reducing 630 tons of carbon dioxide (CO2), eliminating the emissions of 109 cars or powering 69 homes yearly (calculating clean energy equivalents at www.epa.gov/cleanenergy/energy-resources/calculator.html).
This investment by IKEA to purchase its own solar photovoltaic energy system and to install and operate it atop the West Sacramento store will lower the carbon intensity of the electrical grid, and represents the eighth completed solar energy project for IKEA in the United States. There also currently are plans underway to install systems at four other IKEA locations in California as well as eight more in the Eastern U.S.
For the development, design and installation of this customized solar power system, IKEA contracted with Gloria Solar, the U.S. operating group focused on the photovoltaic business within the family of E-Ton Solar Group. This project is the third IKEA installation in the 70,000-square-mile service area of PG&E, the utility providing natural gas and electric service to approximately 15 million people throughout northern and central California.
“We at IKEA believe in the never-ending job of striving to improve the sustainability of our day-to-day business,” said Heine Roikjer, IKEA West Sacramento store manager. “The IKEA coworkers in West Sacramento are excited to help contribute to this goal with our newly operational solar energy system. We appreciate the support of the City of West Sacramento, PG&E and Gloria Solar, our partners in this project.”
IKEA, drawing from its Swedish heritage and respect of nature, believes it can be a good business while doing good business and strives for its operations to minimize impacts on the environment. Globally, IKEA evaluates all locations regularly for energy conservation opportunities, integrates innovative materials into product design, works with Global Forest Watch to maintain sustainable resources, and flat-packs goods for efficient distribution. Specific U.S. sustainable efforts include: recycling waste material (paper, wood, plastic, etc.); incorporating environmental measures into the construction of buildings in terms of energy-efficient HVAC and lighting systems, recycled construction materials, skylights in warehouse areas, and water conserving restrooms; and operationally, phasing out the sale of incandescent light bulbs and facilitating recycling of customers’ compact fluorescent bulbs.
Located on 21 acres at I-80 and Reed Avenue, the 265,000-s.f. IKEA West Sacramento opened March 2006 and employs approximately 250 coworkers. In addition to 10,000 exclusively designed items, IKEA West Sacramento presents 50 different room-settings, three model home interiors, a supervised children’s play area, and a 250-seat restaurant serving Swedish specialties such as meatballs with lingonberries and salmon plates, as well as American dishes and other family-friendly features including a Children’s IKEA area in the Showroom, baby care rooms, preferred parking and play areas throughout the store.
IKEA strives to be ‘The Life Improvement Store,’ and since its 1943 founding in Sweden, has offered home furnishings of good design and function, at low prices so the majority of people can afford them. There are currently more than 320 IKEA stores in 38 countries, including 37 in the U.S. IKEA, the world’s leading home furnishings company, incorporates sustainable efforts into day-to-day business and supports initiatives that benefit children and the environment. For more information, go to IKEA-USA.com.
This investment by IKEA to purchase its own solar photovoltaic energy system and to install and operate it atop the West Sacramento store will lower the carbon intensity of the electrical grid, and represents the eighth completed solar energy project for IKEA in the United States. There also currently are plans underway to install systems at four other IKEA locations in California as well as eight more in the Eastern U.S.
For the development, design and installation of this customized solar power system, IKEA contracted with Gloria Solar, the U.S. operating group focused on the photovoltaic business within the family of E-Ton Solar Group. This project is the third IKEA installation in the 70,000-square-mile service area of PG&E, the utility providing natural gas and electric service to approximately 15 million people throughout northern and central California.
“We at IKEA believe in the never-ending job of striving to improve the sustainability of our day-to-day business,” said Heine Roikjer, IKEA West Sacramento store manager. “The IKEA coworkers in West Sacramento are excited to help contribute to this goal with our newly operational solar energy system. We appreciate the support of the City of West Sacramento, PG&E and Gloria Solar, our partners in this project.”
IKEA, drawing from its Swedish heritage and respect of nature, believes it can be a good business while doing good business and strives for its operations to minimize impacts on the environment. Globally, IKEA evaluates all locations regularly for energy conservation opportunities, integrates innovative materials into product design, works with Global Forest Watch to maintain sustainable resources, and flat-packs goods for efficient distribution. Specific U.S. sustainable efforts include: recycling waste material (paper, wood, plastic, etc.); incorporating environmental measures into the construction of buildings in terms of energy-efficient HVAC and lighting systems, recycled construction materials, skylights in warehouse areas, and water conserving restrooms; and operationally, phasing out the sale of incandescent light bulbs and facilitating recycling of customers’ compact fluorescent bulbs.
Located on 21 acres at I-80 and Reed Avenue, the 265,000-s.f. IKEA West Sacramento opened March 2006 and employs approximately 250 coworkers. In addition to 10,000 exclusively designed items, IKEA West Sacramento presents 50 different room-settings, three model home interiors, a supervised children’s play area, and a 250-seat restaurant serving Swedish specialties such as meatballs with lingonberries and salmon plates, as well as American dishes and other family-friendly features including a Children’s IKEA area in the Showroom, baby care rooms, preferred parking and play areas throughout the store.
IKEA strives to be ‘The Life Improvement Store,’ and since its 1943 founding in Sweden, has offered home furnishings of good design and function, at low prices so the majority of people can afford them. There are currently more than 320 IKEA stores in 38 countries, including 37 in the U.S. IKEA, the world’s leading home furnishings company, incorporates sustainable efforts into day-to-day business and supports initiatives that benefit children and the environment. For more information, go to IKEA-USA.com.
Monday, June 27, 2011
Constellation Energy Selects Astrum Solar for Equity Investment
ANNAPOLIS JUNCTION, Md., June 27, 2011 /PRNewswire/ -- Astrum Solar announced that it has secured an equity investment from Constellation Energy (NYSE: CEG) to support future growth and expansion efforts as it continues its mission to spread solar power to rooftops across America. Building on the belief that simplifying the process of going solar will lead to its widespread adoption, Astrum Solar provides the industry's premier customer experience to help homeowners share in the personal rewards of going from energy consumers to clean energy producers.
"Constellation Energy's commitment affirms Astrum Solar's position as a leading player in the residential solar market," said Astrum Solar President Vadim Polikov, PhD. "We remain focused on providing the absolute best customer experience and Constellation's financial power and traditional energy expertise will accelerate our planned geographic expansion. An investment from a highly respected Fortune 500 energy company such as Constellation also signals the beginning of a new understanding of residential solar as a stable, mature, and fast-growing market whose time has come."
"Residential continues to be a fast growing segment of the solar industry," said Andrew Good, senior vice president of corporate strategy and development for Constellation Energy. "Astrum's business model aligns with Constellation's strategy of bringing more innovative solutions to customers and complements our commercial solar business, as well as our residential solar offerings through BGE Home."
Specific terms of the Astrum Solar funding agreement were not disclosed.
"Constellation Energy's commitment affirms Astrum Solar's position as a leading player in the residential solar market," said Astrum Solar President Vadim Polikov, PhD. "We remain focused on providing the absolute best customer experience and Constellation's financial power and traditional energy expertise will accelerate our planned geographic expansion. An investment from a highly respected Fortune 500 energy company such as Constellation also signals the beginning of a new understanding of residential solar as a stable, mature, and fast-growing market whose time has come."
"Residential continues to be a fast growing segment of the solar industry," said Andrew Good, senior vice president of corporate strategy and development for Constellation Energy. "Astrum's business model aligns with Constellation's strategy of bringing more innovative solutions to customers and complements our commercial solar business, as well as our residential solar offerings through BGE Home."
Specific terms of the Astrum Solar funding agreement were not disclosed.
China Sunergy to Invest RMB1.8 billion in 1GW Solar Cells Production Expansion Project
NANJING, China, June 27, 2011 /PRNewswire-Asia/ -- China Sunergy Co., Ltd. (NASDAQ: CSUN) ("China Sunergy" or "the Company"), a specialized solar cell and module manufacturer, is pleased to announce that its fully owned subsidiaries China Sunergy (HK) Co., Ltd. and China Sunergy (Nanjing) Co., Ltd. are to increase China Sunergy's annual silicon cell production capacity by co-investing in a 1GW solar cells expansion project in Yangzhou City situated in Jiangsu Province, China. The first batch of 500MW solar cells production line is expected to be commercialized in the first half of 2012.
The investment cost for the fixed assets of the project is estimated to total RMB1.8 billion. This project will be partially funded by a RMB500 million three year general corporate loan from China Electric Equipment Group Corporation Ltd. ("CEEG"). The interest rate for the loan is comparable to a bank loan over the same period. The remaining investment costs will be primarily funded by credit facilities from other local banks.
The project will focus on the production of the newly developed Quasar cells, pioneered by China Sunergy, which has demonstrated the highest cell efficiency of 18.85% and an average efficiency of 18.55% from the best batch. The company is confident to reach large scale Quasar cell production efficiency of over 19% in the batch of 500MW, and then to reach 20% within two years.
The Yi Zheng Economic Development Zone, a county-level city under Yangzhou City, has shown great interest in the project and is providing China Sunergy a piece of land with 500 Mu (1 Mu=667 square meters) for industrial use, which includes comprehensive accessibility to local drainage, water, electricity, heating, gas supply, telecommunication, traffic as well as providing a power station of 110KV prior to the construction of the facility.
Dr. Jianhua ZHAO, Chief Technology Officer expressed: "Using the current equipment and R&D capability, we're confident to reach large scale Quasar cell production efficiency of higher than 19%; and within the next two years, we are further developing new techniques with the same equipment, to reach 20%. This level of efficiency, produced at this scale, will reduce costs significantly for our customers."
Mr. Stephen Cai, CEO of China Sunergy, commented: "We believe solar industry has a very promising future. We take this golden opportunity to expand our production capacity and commercialize on our leading R&D technologies with the strong support of the Yi Zheng Development Zone. We are confident that this 1GW production capabilities and highly efficient Quasar cells will provide us the scale and technological edge to be better positioned for industry growth and to become an industry leading player."
The investment cost for the fixed assets of the project is estimated to total RMB1.8 billion. This project will be partially funded by a RMB500 million three year general corporate loan from China Electric Equipment Group Corporation Ltd. ("CEEG"). The interest rate for the loan is comparable to a bank loan over the same period. The remaining investment costs will be primarily funded by credit facilities from other local banks.
The project will focus on the production of the newly developed Quasar cells, pioneered by China Sunergy, which has demonstrated the highest cell efficiency of 18.85% and an average efficiency of 18.55% from the best batch. The company is confident to reach large scale Quasar cell production efficiency of over 19% in the batch of 500MW, and then to reach 20% within two years.
The Yi Zheng Economic Development Zone, a county-level city under Yangzhou City, has shown great interest in the project and is providing China Sunergy a piece of land with 500 Mu (1 Mu=667 square meters) for industrial use, which includes comprehensive accessibility to local drainage, water, electricity, heating, gas supply, telecommunication, traffic as well as providing a power station of 110KV prior to the construction of the facility.
Dr. Jianhua ZHAO, Chief Technology Officer expressed: "Using the current equipment and R&D capability, we're confident to reach large scale Quasar cell production efficiency of higher than 19%; and within the next two years, we are further developing new techniques with the same equipment, to reach 20%. This level of efficiency, produced at this scale, will reduce costs significantly for our customers."
Mr. Stephen Cai, CEO of China Sunergy, commented: "We believe solar industry has a very promising future. We take this golden opportunity to expand our production capacity and commercialize on our leading R&D technologies with the strong support of the Yi Zheng Development Zone. We are confident that this 1GW production capabilities and highly efficient Quasar cells will provide us the scale and technological edge to be better positioned for industry growth and to become an industry leading player."
Hanwha SolarOne Bolsters Management Team with New Appointments
SHANGHAI, June 27, 2011 /PRNewswire/ -- Hanwha SolarOne Co., Ltd. ("SolarOne" or the "Company") (NASDAQ: HSOL), a vertically integrated manufacturer of silicon ingots, wafers and photovoltaic ("PV") cells and modules in China, today announced that the Company's Board of Directors has appointed Mr. Ki-Joon HONG as chief executive officer, Mr. Jung Pyo SEO as chief financial officer, Mr. Chris Eberspacher as chief technology officer, and Mr. Justin Koo Yung LEE as chief commercial officer. The appointments will become effective July 1, 2011, and are intended to bolster SolarOne's management systems and brand positioning and to enhance the Company's R&D and marketing capabilities through longer-term investment. The Hanwha Group remains the Company's largest shareholder at 49.9 %.
Mr. HONG is currently the Chairman of the Board of SolarOne and chief executive officer of Hanwha Chemical Corporation. He was previously the chief executive officer of Hanwha's pharmaceutical and refinery businesses. Under his leadership, Hanwha Chemical entered into the solar energy and secondary battery businesses and also actively expanded its overseas operations, forming a joint venture in Saudi Arabia and building a PVC factory in Ningbo, Zhejiang, China. He received a bachelor of science in Chemical Engineering from Seoul National University.
Mr. SEO joins SolarOne from Azdel Inc, an automotive thermoplastic material manufacturer based in Virginia, where he was chief financial officer and chief operating officer. In his three and a half years at the company, he rebuilt the company's cash and debt management systems and processes, implemented a new ERP system, managed commercial banking relationships, raised capital, and helped the company expand market share in a competitive market with rising raw material prices. He also played an important role in the acquisition and post-acquisition integration of Azdel Inc. by Hanhwa Corporation. Prior to joining Azdel, Mr. SEO held a variety of accounting, finance and sales-related roles at Hanwha Resorts Corporation and Hanwha Chemical Corporation over a twelve year period. Mr. SEO received an MBA with a concentration in finance from the University of Washington, and a bachelor of arts with a concentration in finance and accounting from Seoul National University.
Mr. Eberspacher is currently president of Hanwha Solar America and was previously with Applied Materials in Santa Clara, California, where he was chief technology officer of their solar business and was tasked with exploring next-generation crystalline wafer silicon and thin-film photovoltaic technologies and with managing the development and implementation of that company's current-generation thin-film PV technology. From 2004 to 2007, Mr. Eberspacher was vice president of engineering and chief scientist at Nanosolar in Palo Alto, California, where he was in charge of developing a vertically-integrated capability for making efficient thin-film PV cells using innovative low-cost processes. From 1993 to 2004, he was co-founder and managing director of Unisun in Newbury Park, California, where he provided consulting services in technology, marketing and strategic planning for the photovoltaic and allied fields of photonics and electronics. From 1983 to 1993, Mr. Eberspacher held a variety of roles in research and development at Siemens Solar/ARCO Solar (now SolarWorld Industries) in Camarillo, California. Mr. Eberspacher received a Ph.D in applied physics from Stanford University and a bachelor of science from the University of Texas at Austin.
Mr. LEE joins SolarOne from Hanwha International in New Jersey. In his last two years at Hanwha International as vice president, Mr. Lee helped expand the Hanwha chemical business in new markets in North America. He was also instrumental in developing Hanwha's strategic plan for entering the solar business in North America. Prior to this position, Mr. LEE spent 15 years managing a variety of businesses and products at Hanwha Chemical in Kuala Lumpur and Seoul. Mr. LEE received a degree in political science and diplomacy from Yonsei University in Seoul.
As a part of these changes, Dr. Peter Xie and Mr. Gareth Kung will step down from their positions as president and chief executive officer and chief financial officer, respectively.
Thomas Toy, an independent director of SolarOne, commented, "We are pleased to see Mr. HONG take on the added responsibilities of the CEO role, and we are happy to welcome Mr. SEO , Mr. Eberspacher and Mr. LEE to Hanwha SolarOne. Mr. HONG has played a vital role in the integration of SolarOne into the Hanwha family and in the growth and rebranding of SolarOne over the past year. He is a proven operating executive at one of Korea's largest chemical enterprises and his contributions and strategic direction to us as Chairman have been significant. Mr. SEO, Mr. Eberspacher and Mr. LEE bring a vast amount of experience that will be invaluable as SolarOne moves into the next phase of its development. At the same time, we would like to thank Dr. Xie and Mr. Kung for the leadership they have provided. In their time with SolarOne, they played important roles in building the Company's production capacity and shipment volumes, and implementing management and financial systems that leave the Company in a particularly strong position for our new management team. We thank them both and wish them all the best in their future endeavors."
Mr. HONG is currently the Chairman of the Board of SolarOne and chief executive officer of Hanwha Chemical Corporation. He was previously the chief executive officer of Hanwha's pharmaceutical and refinery businesses. Under his leadership, Hanwha Chemical entered into the solar energy and secondary battery businesses and also actively expanded its overseas operations, forming a joint venture in Saudi Arabia and building a PVC factory in Ningbo, Zhejiang, China. He received a bachelor of science in Chemical Engineering from Seoul National University.
Mr. SEO joins SolarOne from Azdel Inc, an automotive thermoplastic material manufacturer based in Virginia, where he was chief financial officer and chief operating officer. In his three and a half years at the company, he rebuilt the company's cash and debt management systems and processes, implemented a new ERP system, managed commercial banking relationships, raised capital, and helped the company expand market share in a competitive market with rising raw material prices. He also played an important role in the acquisition and post-acquisition integration of Azdel Inc. by Hanhwa Corporation. Prior to joining Azdel, Mr. SEO held a variety of accounting, finance and sales-related roles at Hanwha Resorts Corporation and Hanwha Chemical Corporation over a twelve year period. Mr. SEO received an MBA with a concentration in finance from the University of Washington, and a bachelor of arts with a concentration in finance and accounting from Seoul National University.
Mr. Eberspacher is currently president of Hanwha Solar America and was previously with Applied Materials in Santa Clara, California, where he was chief technology officer of their solar business and was tasked with exploring next-generation crystalline wafer silicon and thin-film photovoltaic technologies and with managing the development and implementation of that company's current-generation thin-film PV technology. From 2004 to 2007, Mr. Eberspacher was vice president of engineering and chief scientist at Nanosolar in Palo Alto, California, where he was in charge of developing a vertically-integrated capability for making efficient thin-film PV cells using innovative low-cost processes. From 1993 to 2004, he was co-founder and managing director of Unisun in Newbury Park, California, where he provided consulting services in technology, marketing and strategic planning for the photovoltaic and allied fields of photonics and electronics. From 1983 to 1993, Mr. Eberspacher held a variety of roles in research and development at Siemens Solar/ARCO Solar (now SolarWorld Industries) in Camarillo, California. Mr. Eberspacher received a Ph.D in applied physics from Stanford University and a bachelor of science from the University of Texas at Austin.
Mr. LEE joins SolarOne from Hanwha International in New Jersey. In his last two years at Hanwha International as vice president, Mr. Lee helped expand the Hanwha chemical business in new markets in North America. He was also instrumental in developing Hanwha's strategic plan for entering the solar business in North America. Prior to this position, Mr. LEE spent 15 years managing a variety of businesses and products at Hanwha Chemical in Kuala Lumpur and Seoul. Mr. LEE received a degree in political science and diplomacy from Yonsei University in Seoul.
As a part of these changes, Dr. Peter Xie and Mr. Gareth Kung will step down from their positions as president and chief executive officer and chief financial officer, respectively.
Thomas Toy, an independent director of SolarOne, commented, "We are pleased to see Mr. HONG take on the added responsibilities of the CEO role, and we are happy to welcome Mr. SEO , Mr. Eberspacher and Mr. LEE to Hanwha SolarOne. Mr. HONG has played a vital role in the integration of SolarOne into the Hanwha family and in the growth and rebranding of SolarOne over the past year. He is a proven operating executive at one of Korea's largest chemical enterprises and his contributions and strategic direction to us as Chairman have been significant. Mr. SEO, Mr. Eberspacher and Mr. LEE bring a vast amount of experience that will be invaluable as SolarOne moves into the next phase of its development. At the same time, we would like to thank Dr. Xie and Mr. Kung for the leadership they have provided. In their time with SolarOne, they played important roles in building the Company's production capacity and shipment volumes, and implementing management and financial systems that leave the Company in a particularly strong position for our new management team. We thank them both and wish them all the best in their future endeavors."
Suntech's Just-Roof Receives CEIAB Approval for Premium BIPV Feed-in Tariff in France
MONTBONNOT, France, June 27, 2011 /PRNewswire-Asia/ -- Suntech Power Holdings Co., Ltd. (NYSE: STP), the world's largest producer of solar panels, announced that Just-Roof™, Suntech's best-selling building integrated photovoltaic (BIPV) product, has been approved by CEIAB in France and qualifies for the highest solar feed-in tariff for end customers.
CEIAB, France's Evaluation Committee for BIPV products, has added Just Roof™ into the list of recommended, reliable building-integrated solar products for residential buildings. As a CEIAB-approved BIPV product, clients that choose Just Roof™ for their solar installations now qualify for the highest feed-in-tariff available in France.
Jean-Yves Lindheimer, head of Suntech's French operations headquartered in Grenoble stated, "This approval from CEIAB is another positive milestone for Just-Roof™ in France and is testimony to the reliability and quality of our BIPV system. This assures our partners and customers that Suntech's best-selling BIPV product is indeed the right choice."
In January 2012, commercial and residential buildings in France will need to comply with the RT 2012 law, which regulates the carbon dioxide emissions and energy consumption of buildings. Suntech's Just Roof™ system integrates seamlessly into rooftops and is an excellent solution to help buildings comply with the new regulations.
The recently released second-generation Just-Roof™ combines the high efficiency of Suntech's cell technology with ease of installation, and is ideal for renovations and new buildings.
CEIAB, France's Evaluation Committee for BIPV products, has added Just Roof™ into the list of recommended, reliable building-integrated solar products for residential buildings. As a CEIAB-approved BIPV product, clients that choose Just Roof™ for their solar installations now qualify for the highest feed-in-tariff available in France.
Jean-Yves Lindheimer, head of Suntech's French operations headquartered in Grenoble stated, "This approval from CEIAB is another positive milestone for Just-Roof™ in France and is testimony to the reliability and quality of our BIPV system. This assures our partners and customers that Suntech's best-selling BIPV product is indeed the right choice."
In January 2012, commercial and residential buildings in France will need to comply with the RT 2012 law, which regulates the carbon dioxide emissions and energy consumption of buildings. Suntech's Just Roof™ system integrates seamlessly into rooftops and is an excellent solution to help buildings comply with the new regulations.
The recently released second-generation Just-Roof™ combines the high efficiency of Suntech's cell technology with ease of installation, and is ideal for renovations and new buildings.
LDK Solar Announces Share Repurchase Program
XINYU CITY, China and SUNNYVALE, Calif., June 27, 2011 /PRNewswire/ -- LDK Solar Co., Ltd. (NYSE: LDK), a leading vertically integrated manufacturer of photovoltaic products, today announced that its Board of Directors approved a share buyback program that authorizes LDK Solar to repurchase up to US$110 million of its American Depository Shares ("ADSs") in the open market or through privately negotiated transactions. The program does not obligate LDK Solar to acquire any particular amount of its ADSs and may be modified or suspended at any time at the sole discretion of LDK Solar.
Mr. Xiaofeng Peng, Chairman and CEO of LDK Solar, commented, "We remain confident in our current outlook as well as the long-term prospects for our business. However, we believe our ADSs are currently grossly undervalued. We believe our share buyback program not only represents a good investment for our company, but also demonstrates our commitment to enhance shareholder value."
About LDK Solar (NYSE: LDK)
LDK Solar Co., Ltd. (NYSE: LDK) is a leading vertically integrated manufacturer of photovoltaic (PV) products. LDK Solar manufactures polysilicon, mono and multicrystalline ingots, wafers, cells, modules, systems, power projects and solutions. LDK Solar's headquarters and principal manufacturing facilities are located in Hi-Tech Industrial Park, Xinyu City, Jiangxi Province in the People's Republic of China. LDK Solar's office in the United States is located in Sunnyvale, California. For more information about LDK Solar and its products, please visit www.ldksolar.com.
Mr. Xiaofeng Peng, Chairman and CEO of LDK Solar, commented, "We remain confident in our current outlook as well as the long-term prospects for our business. However, we believe our ADSs are currently grossly undervalued. We believe our share buyback program not only represents a good investment for our company, but also demonstrates our commitment to enhance shareholder value."
About LDK Solar (NYSE: LDK)
LDK Solar Co., Ltd. (NYSE: LDK) is a leading vertically integrated manufacturer of photovoltaic (PV) products. LDK Solar manufactures polysilicon, mono and multicrystalline ingots, wafers, cells, modules, systems, power projects and solutions. LDK Solar's headquarters and principal manufacturing facilities are located in Hi-Tech Industrial Park, Xinyu City, Jiangxi Province in the People's Republic of China. LDK Solar's office in the United States is located in Sunnyvale, California. For more information about LDK Solar and its products, please visit www.ldksolar.com.
Standard Solar to be Recognized by the Clinton Global Initiative for Meeting its Commitment to “Fight Global Warming One Roof at a Time”
CHICAGO--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Standard Solar, Inc., today announced it has been recognized by the Clinton Global Initiative (CGI) as a featured example of a new domestic business venture that has succeeded at becoming a fast-growth solar service company. Standard Solar and its Founder Neville Williams are participating in the invitation-only CGI America on June 29-30 in Chicago. Standard Solar is one of six organizations highlighted by the CGI, which was founded by President Bill Clinton to solve world problems.
“Solar energy is the world’s fastest growing business,” said Williams. “Last year the solar power industry grew 96 percent with $6 billion in PV installations. Nearly 4 gigawatts of solar power now feed the U.S. electric grid, from small home systems to multi-megawatt solar farms. Solar energy offers the biggest growth opportunities and the brightest prospect for jobs and economic prosperity in America today.”
“We are honored to be recognized by this prestigious organization for our commitment to bringing solar energy to thousands of residents and businesses,” said Tony Clifford, CEO, Standard Solar. “This recognition further establishes Standard Solar as a successful organization dedicated to helping solve global issues, one solar energy system at a time.”
In 2006, Williams and Standard Solar made one of 256 domestic CGI "Commitments", agreeing to install 15,000 kW of solar PV within five years. This accomplishment is slated to be complete by fall 2011. These systems will reduce U.S. greenhouse gas emissions by 20,000 tons annually - the equivalent of planting 7,800 acres of trees a year. Over the expected 30-year life of the systems, greenhouse gas emissions will be reduced by a total of nearly 600,000 tons.
Williams also committed to President Clinton to raise sufficient capital to build a company that would “enable American homeowners to reduce their reliance on fossil fuels and purchase affordable residential solar electric systems so they can fight global warming one roof at a time.” Williams was originally invited by President Clinton to attend the annual Clinton Global Initiative in New York based on his earlier work selling solar power in the developing world.
Standard Solar has also surpassed that 2006 financial goal of $5,500,000. The company now has more than $12 million of direct equity investment and has raised tens of millions in project financing to date. With a project pipeline in excess of 100,000 kW of solar projects, Standard Solar is poised for growth well in excess of the company’s initial commitment made by Williams in 2006.
Standard Solar has grown from two employees in 2006 to 81 today, with plans to hire another 20 to 25 workers by the end of the year. The company also supports employee efforts to bring solar power to economically distressed areas. Plans for this year include projects in distressed neighborhoods in Washington, DC and in developing countries including Haiti, Tanzania and South Africa.
These achievements and others will be recognized at CGI America, the first CGI event dedicated completely to U.S. issues. CGI America will bring together more than 600 leaders from businesses, nonprofits, and all levels of government to develop and highlight ideas for spurring economic growth and creating jobs in the United States. CGI America is focused on seeking ways to unleash innovation, spur entrepreneurship, reshape core American industries, and build the infrastructure for a clean energy economy.
“Solar energy is the world’s fastest growing business,” said Williams. “Last year the solar power industry grew 96 percent with $6 billion in PV installations. Nearly 4 gigawatts of solar power now feed the U.S. electric grid, from small home systems to multi-megawatt solar farms. Solar energy offers the biggest growth opportunities and the brightest prospect for jobs and economic prosperity in America today.”
“We are honored to be recognized by this prestigious organization for our commitment to bringing solar energy to thousands of residents and businesses,” said Tony Clifford, CEO, Standard Solar. “This recognition further establishes Standard Solar as a successful organization dedicated to helping solve global issues, one solar energy system at a time.”
In 2006, Williams and Standard Solar made one of 256 domestic CGI "Commitments", agreeing to install 15,000 kW of solar PV within five years. This accomplishment is slated to be complete by fall 2011. These systems will reduce U.S. greenhouse gas emissions by 20,000 tons annually - the equivalent of planting 7,800 acres of trees a year. Over the expected 30-year life of the systems, greenhouse gas emissions will be reduced by a total of nearly 600,000 tons.
Williams also committed to President Clinton to raise sufficient capital to build a company that would “enable American homeowners to reduce their reliance on fossil fuels and purchase affordable residential solar electric systems so they can fight global warming one roof at a time.” Williams was originally invited by President Clinton to attend the annual Clinton Global Initiative in New York based on his earlier work selling solar power in the developing world.
Standard Solar has also surpassed that 2006 financial goal of $5,500,000. The company now has more than $12 million of direct equity investment and has raised tens of millions in project financing to date. With a project pipeline in excess of 100,000 kW of solar projects, Standard Solar is poised for growth well in excess of the company’s initial commitment made by Williams in 2006.
Standard Solar has grown from two employees in 2006 to 81 today, with plans to hire another 20 to 25 workers by the end of the year. The company also supports employee efforts to bring solar power to economically distressed areas. Plans for this year include projects in distressed neighborhoods in Washington, DC and in developing countries including Haiti, Tanzania and South Africa.
These achievements and others will be recognized at CGI America, the first CGI event dedicated completely to U.S. issues. CGI America will bring together more than 600 leaders from businesses, nonprofits, and all levels of government to develop and highlight ideas for spurring economic growth and creating jobs in the United States. CGI America is focused on seeking ways to unleash innovation, spur entrepreneurship, reshape core American industries, and build the infrastructure for a clean energy economy.
KYOCERA Brings Modern Solar Energy Solution to an Historic New Jersey Property
SCOTTSDALE, Ariz.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Kyocera Solar, Inc., NJ Solar Power, LLC and Solar Power Partners, Inc. announced today the completion of a 1.16 Megawatt (MW) solar energy system at The Masonic Home of New Jersey. The completed installation will be inaugurated with a ribbon-cutting ceremony this summer.
Designed and installed by NJ Solar Power, LLC on property owned by the Masons since the mid-1800s, the photovoltaic system consists of 5,656 Kyocera KD205 modules. The panels are ground-mounted in a single, contiguous design utilizing UniRac structures and four PV-powered, PVP 260-480 inverters. With an estimated yearly power production of 1,547,412 kilowatt hours (kWh), the utility-tied system is enough to power 145 average homes. The site required special zoning permits to guarantee the protection of the buildings and surrounding landscape.
A power purchase agreement (PPA), provided by Solar Power Partners, Inc. (using institutional financing and Solar Renewable Energy Certificates) will allow the Burlington Property to purchase the electricity without incurring the initial cost of system installation. The project is the latest in a series of east coast installations for Solar Power Partners, a Larkspur, California-based developer and owner.
The full-service integrator — NJ Solar Power — was the east coast workforce for this project and will continue to service the Masons throughout the life of the solar panels. “Our company is committed to providing cost-effective energy that is environmentally and socially responsible, as are our partners in the project: Kyocera and Solar Power Partners,” stated Bill Hoey, CEO of NJ Solar Power. “This bicoastal collaboration proved highly successful and will yield excellent results for the Masons.”
The conversion to solar energy also serves as a cost-cutting measure for the Burlington Lodge Masons. “The Masons have a long history of being responsible global citizens — their conversion to solar energy will minimize both their carbon footprint and utility expenses,” commented Bob Powell, President and CEO of Solar Power Partners, Inc. “Making the PPA available for the members of the Burlington Lodge ensures that they will have access to clean energy at a stable rate for years to come.”
As the cost of traditional fossil fuels increase, so does the market for sustainable energy solutions. Kyocera, with a 35-year history of innovation in the solar industry, continues to provide high quality solar modules to meet this global demand.
“To meet increasing market demand, Kyocera continues to seize opportunities for growth and innovation in solar energy while developing key partnerships with industry leaders to provide clean alternatives to fossil fuel-generated electricity,” said Steve Hill, president of Kyocera Solar, Inc. “The Masons’ progressive approach in converting their historic facilities to renewable energy and working with Solar Power Partners and NJ Solar Power made this a rewarding venture.”
Designed and installed by NJ Solar Power, LLC on property owned by the Masons since the mid-1800s, the photovoltaic system consists of 5,656 Kyocera KD205 modules. The panels are ground-mounted in a single, contiguous design utilizing UniRac structures and four PV-powered, PVP 260-480 inverters. With an estimated yearly power production of 1,547,412 kilowatt hours (kWh), the utility-tied system is enough to power 145 average homes. The site required special zoning permits to guarantee the protection of the buildings and surrounding landscape.
A power purchase agreement (PPA), provided by Solar Power Partners, Inc. (using institutional financing and Solar Renewable Energy Certificates) will allow the Burlington Property to purchase the electricity without incurring the initial cost of system installation. The project is the latest in a series of east coast installations for Solar Power Partners, a Larkspur, California-based developer and owner.
The full-service integrator — NJ Solar Power — was the east coast workforce for this project and will continue to service the Masons throughout the life of the solar panels. “Our company is committed to providing cost-effective energy that is environmentally and socially responsible, as are our partners in the project: Kyocera and Solar Power Partners,” stated Bill Hoey, CEO of NJ Solar Power. “This bicoastal collaboration proved highly successful and will yield excellent results for the Masons.”
The conversion to solar energy also serves as a cost-cutting measure for the Burlington Lodge Masons. “The Masons have a long history of being responsible global citizens — their conversion to solar energy will minimize both their carbon footprint and utility expenses,” commented Bob Powell, President and CEO of Solar Power Partners, Inc. “Making the PPA available for the members of the Burlington Lodge ensures that they will have access to clean energy at a stable rate for years to come.”
As the cost of traditional fossil fuels increase, so does the market for sustainable energy solutions. Kyocera, with a 35-year history of innovation in the solar industry, continues to provide high quality solar modules to meet this global demand.
“To meet increasing market demand, Kyocera continues to seize opportunities for growth and innovation in solar energy while developing key partnerships with industry leaders to provide clean alternatives to fossil fuel-generated electricity,” said Steve Hill, president of Kyocera Solar, Inc. “The Masons’ progressive approach in converting their historic facilities to renewable energy and working with Solar Power Partners and NJ Solar Power made this a rewarding venture.”
Amtech Systems Joins Russell 3000 Index
TEMPE, Ariz.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Amtech Systems, Inc. (NASDAQ: ASYS), a global supplier of production and automation systems and related supplies for the manufacture of solar cells, semiconductors, and sapphire and silicon wafers, today announced that it has joined the Russell 3000 Index. Russell Investments reconstituted its comprehensive set of global equity indexes after the close of the market on June 24, 2011.
The Russell 3000 Index measures the performance of the largest 3000 U.S. companies representing approximately 98% of the investable U.S. equity market. The Russell 3000 Index is constructed to provide a comprehensive, unbiased, and stable barometer of the broad market and is completely reconstituted annually to ensure new and growing equities are reflected. Russell Indexes are widely used by investment managers and institutional investors for index funds and as benchmarks for both passive and active investment strategies. An industry-leading $3.9 trillion in institutional assets currently are benchmarked to them.
Daily returns for the Russell Indexes are available at http://www.russell.com/indexes/data/default.asp.
The Russell 3000 Index measures the performance of the largest 3000 U.S. companies representing approximately 98% of the investable U.S. equity market. The Russell 3000 Index is constructed to provide a comprehensive, unbiased, and stable barometer of the broad market and is completely reconstituted annually to ensure new and growing equities are reflected. Russell Indexes are widely used by investment managers and institutional investors for index funds and as benchmarks for both passive and active investment strategies. An industry-leading $3.9 trillion in institutional assets currently are benchmarked to them.
Daily returns for the Russell Indexes are available at http://www.russell.com/indexes/data/default.asp.
REC Appoints Luc Graré as Senior Vice President Sales and Marketing, Cells & Modules
SANDVIKA, Norway--(BUSINESS WIRE)--REC announces that Luc Graré is appointed Senior Vice President, Sales and Marketing, Cells & Modules reporting to EVP, John Andersen, Jr.
Luc Graré will join REC on July 1st. His most recent work experience is from LG Electronics where he held various executive positions in sales, marketing and product management from 2004. He was most recently Director of Business Solutions for Europe. He previously held positions in sales, marketing and product management with Sony, Agfa, Xerox and TomTom.
The Belgian citizen holds a Masters in Engineering from the University of Antwerp with post graduate courses in business, economics and telecommunications. He is based in Munich.
“REC is today well recognized as a quality module supplier, much due to the significant efforts by our sales and marketing team. With extensive management experience from the electronics sector, I feel confident that Luc will further strengthen our sales and marketing capabilities”, said John Andersen, Jr., Group COO and Executive Vice President Wafers, Cells & Modules.
Luc Graré will join REC on July 1st. His most recent work experience is from LG Electronics where he held various executive positions in sales, marketing and product management from 2004. He was most recently Director of Business Solutions for Europe. He previously held positions in sales, marketing and product management with Sony, Agfa, Xerox and TomTom.
The Belgian citizen holds a Masters in Engineering from the University of Antwerp with post graduate courses in business, economics and telecommunications. He is based in Munich.
“REC is today well recognized as a quality module supplier, much due to the significant efforts by our sales and marketing team. With extensive management experience from the electronics sector, I feel confident that Luc will further strengthen our sales and marketing capabilities”, said John Andersen, Jr., Group COO and Executive Vice President Wafers, Cells & Modules.
Friday, June 24, 2011
Schott Solar Completes Two PV Solar Installations
SCHOTT Solar PV, Inc. (SCHOTT Solar) and Dayton-based Kastle Solar & Wind has completed two photovoltaic (PV) solar module installations generating nearly 600 kilowatts (kW) of clean renewable solar energy at two elementary schools in Adams County.
The arrays at Peebles Elementary School and North Adams Elementary School are expected to save approximately $40,000 per year in electricity costs, which is equivalent to saving a teacher’s position at a time when many schools face tight budgets.
The two systems – a 287 kW array at Peebles and a 299 kW array at North Adams – are the result of the school district’s pursuit of innovative solutions to reduce energy bills. Three of the county’s schools have already been built to LEED Silver Standards for new construction. The addition of solar could help the schools apply for additional LEED certifications.
In addition to providing clean energy, the solar arrays will become part of the community. School officials are looking to integrate the solar panels into classroom lessons and to develop a website where the community can track the electricity generated from the installations.
“Our staff and teachers are eager to incorporate the system into the learning environment because we want our students to be educated for the jobs of tomorrow,” said Steve Wolfe, facilities manager for Adams County and Ohio Valley District Schools. “That means learning about renewable energy technology like solar as early as elementary school. We are thrilled by both the educational and financial impact that Kastle Solar and SCHOTT Solar’s work will have on our school system.”
The installations consist of a combined 2,500 SCHOTT POLY® 225 PV solar panels that were manufactured at SCHOTT Solar’s Albuquerque, New Mexico facility, which employs more than 300 employees. The projects also employed Ohio-based electricians, fence contractors and installation crews. Ohio distributors provided over 100,000 feet of wire and 10,000 feet of conduit for the projects. The maintenance of these systems will be performed by Ohio-based electricians for the entire 20-year contract period.
“SCHOTT Solar is committed to building a strong U.S. solar industry so that students like the ones in Adams County can look towards a bright future,” said Tom Hecht, president of sales and marketing at SCHOTT Solar PV, Inc. “It’s our privilege to work with partners like Kastle, who match their history of excellence in the electrical world with the quality of SCHOTT solar panels, to deliver cost-effective, reliable solutions for customers.”
Kastle Solar & Wind is part of Kastle Electric, one of Ohio’s leading electrical contractors for the past 80 years. Kastle completed installing the SCHOTT PV panels at Peebles Elementary School and North Adams Elementary School over the last month, with the Peebles installation going online on June 14.
“We see tremendous opportunities for schools like Peebles Elementary and North Adams Elementary to save money on their electric bills by installing clean, reliable solar,” said Mark Wiley, president of Kastle Solar & Wind. “That potential and our partnerships with high-quality, American manufacturers like SCHOTT are what will help us grow our business and help build a robust solar industry in Ohio.”
The arrays at Peebles Elementary School and North Adams Elementary School are expected to save approximately $40,000 per year in electricity costs, which is equivalent to saving a teacher’s position at a time when many schools face tight budgets.
The two systems – a 287 kW array at Peebles and a 299 kW array at North Adams – are the result of the school district’s pursuit of innovative solutions to reduce energy bills. Three of the county’s schools have already been built to LEED Silver Standards for new construction. The addition of solar could help the schools apply for additional LEED certifications.
In addition to providing clean energy, the solar arrays will become part of the community. School officials are looking to integrate the solar panels into classroom lessons and to develop a website where the community can track the electricity generated from the installations.
“Our staff and teachers are eager to incorporate the system into the learning environment because we want our students to be educated for the jobs of tomorrow,” said Steve Wolfe, facilities manager for Adams County and Ohio Valley District Schools. “That means learning about renewable energy technology like solar as early as elementary school. We are thrilled by both the educational and financial impact that Kastle Solar and SCHOTT Solar’s work will have on our school system.”
The installations consist of a combined 2,500 SCHOTT POLY® 225 PV solar panels that were manufactured at SCHOTT Solar’s Albuquerque, New Mexico facility, which employs more than 300 employees. The projects also employed Ohio-based electricians, fence contractors and installation crews. Ohio distributors provided over 100,000 feet of wire and 10,000 feet of conduit for the projects. The maintenance of these systems will be performed by Ohio-based electricians for the entire 20-year contract period.
“SCHOTT Solar is committed to building a strong U.S. solar industry so that students like the ones in Adams County can look towards a bright future,” said Tom Hecht, president of sales and marketing at SCHOTT Solar PV, Inc. “It’s our privilege to work with partners like Kastle, who match their history of excellence in the electrical world with the quality of SCHOTT solar panels, to deliver cost-effective, reliable solutions for customers.”
Kastle Solar & Wind is part of Kastle Electric, one of Ohio’s leading electrical contractors for the past 80 years. Kastle completed installing the SCHOTT PV panels at Peebles Elementary School and North Adams Elementary School over the last month, with the Peebles installation going online on June 14.
“We see tremendous opportunities for schools like Peebles Elementary and North Adams Elementary to save money on their electric bills by installing clean, reliable solar,” said Mark Wiley, president of Kastle Solar & Wind. “That potential and our partnerships with high-quality, American manufacturers like SCHOTT are what will help us grow our business and help build a robust solar industry in Ohio.”
Magnolia Solar Demonstrates Record High Voltage Performance
WOBURN, MA and ALBANY, NY (June 23, 2011) - Magnolia Solar Corporation (OTCBB: MGLT) ("Magnolia Solar") announced today that its wholly owned subsidiary, Magnolia Solar, Inc., has demonstrated InGaAs quantum well solar cells that operate at record high voltages. These ground-breaking technical results were presented by Magnolia Solar, Inc.'s Chief Technical Officer, Dr. Roger E. Welser, at the 37th IEEE Photovoltaic Specialist Conference (PVSC) in Seattle, WA on June 23, 2011. The presentation entitled "Reducing Non-Radiative and Radiative Recombination in InGaAs Quantum Well Solar Cells" was part of a special session on Quantum Engineered and Hybrid Devices, and summarizes work done in collaboration with colleagues at Kopin Corporation. Dr. Welser also co-chaired a session of the PVSC on the Physics and Engineering of Quantum Well and Super-lattice Devices.
Dr. Ashok K. Sood, President and CEO of Magnolia Solar, stated, "Quantum structured solar cells seek to harness a wide spectrum of photons at high voltages in a single-junction device by embedding low energy-gap wells within a high energy-gap matrix. Quantum well solar cells have the potential to deliver ultra-high power conversion efficiencies in single junction devices; efficiencies that in theory can approach 45% in un-concentrated sunlight over a wide range of environmental conditions. In his presentation at the Photovoltaic Specialist Conference, Dr. Welser reviews and summarizes Magnolia's recent efforts to enhance the open circuit voltage of InGaAs quantum well solar cell structures by employing a patent-pending device structure. This technology is of great interest for defense and space-based applications, and the work presented at the PVSC has been funded by the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA). We also see future growth potential for this technology in the commercial marketplace, particularly in the area of concentrator-photovoltaic (CPV) solar panels for terrestrial power generation applications."
"Historically, the challenge for quantum structured solar cells has been to incorporate low energy-gap material without severely degrading the operating voltage of the photovoltaic device," noted Dr. Welser. "In this work, we demonstrate record high open circuit voltages by employing a novel III-V material structure with an extended wide band gap emitter heterojunction. These results will enable quantum well solar cells to begin achieving their promised levels of performance. Nanostructured devices provide a means to decouple the usual dependence of short circuit current on open circuit voltage that limits conventional solar cell design."
Dr. Ashok K. Sood, President and CEO of Magnolia Solar, stated, "Quantum structured solar cells seek to harness a wide spectrum of photons at high voltages in a single-junction device by embedding low energy-gap wells within a high energy-gap matrix. Quantum well solar cells have the potential to deliver ultra-high power conversion efficiencies in single junction devices; efficiencies that in theory can approach 45% in un-concentrated sunlight over a wide range of environmental conditions. In his presentation at the Photovoltaic Specialist Conference, Dr. Welser reviews and summarizes Magnolia's recent efforts to enhance the open circuit voltage of InGaAs quantum well solar cell structures by employing a patent-pending device structure. This technology is of great interest for defense and space-based applications, and the work presented at the PVSC has been funded by the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA). We also see future growth potential for this technology in the commercial marketplace, particularly in the area of concentrator-photovoltaic (CPV) solar panels for terrestrial power generation applications."
"Historically, the challenge for quantum structured solar cells has been to incorporate low energy-gap material without severely degrading the operating voltage of the photovoltaic device," noted Dr. Welser. "In this work, we demonstrate record high open circuit voltages by employing a novel III-V material structure with an extended wide band gap emitter heterojunction. These results will enable quantum well solar cells to begin achieving their promised levels of performance. Nanostructured devices provide a means to decouple the usual dependence of short circuit current on open circuit voltage that limits conventional solar cell design."
Solar Beaverton Extends Discount Program Dates, Offers "Safe Harbor" to Ensure Oregon Homeowner Tax Savings
BEAVERTON, Ore., June 24, 2011 /PRNewswire/ -- Solar Beaverton partners and the City of Beaverton staff are extending the deadline for Solar Beaverton sign-ups to Monday, August 1. The extension of this community discount program for photovoltaic (PV) home systems has been restructured into a "Safe Harbor" program for Oregon state tax credits. The new deadline accommodates unforeseen demand, to-date over 400 homeowners have applied for free site assessments, and confusion by potential participants caused by memorandums issued in May by agencies and industry associations. These notices established a June 30 deadline for homeowner certification for state tax credits. The August Safe Harbor sign-up date ensures homeowner qualification for the 2011 Residential Energy Tax Credit (RETC). Homeowners do not need to live in Beaverton to participate in this program. To sign-up and for a listing of free Solar Beaverton community events, visit solarbeaverton.org.
The Solar Beaverton program uses a negotiated discount price for residential solar panel arrays from vetted City of Beaverton contractor LiveLight Energy. Combined with Energy Trust of Oregon incentives, federal and state energy tax credits; the price for a locally made system is reduced by an average of 80 percent. Pricing models that include the RETC incentive are posted at solarbeaverton.org.
The news about state program cuts by Oregon lawmakers continuously evolves as they wrestle with the $3.2 billion budget shortfall projected for the next biennium (2012 – 2014). The final state budget will potentially effect 2011 RETC qualifications and the future of all energy tax credit programs in Oregon. For legislative updates, visit livelightenergy.com.
The Solar Beaverton program uses a negotiated discount price for residential solar panel arrays from vetted City of Beaverton contractor LiveLight Energy. Combined with Energy Trust of Oregon incentives, federal and state energy tax credits; the price for a locally made system is reduced by an average of 80 percent. Pricing models that include the RETC incentive are posted at solarbeaverton.org.
The news about state program cuts by Oregon lawmakers continuously evolves as they wrestle with the $3.2 billion budget shortfall projected for the next biennium (2012 – 2014). The final state budget will potentially effect 2011 RETC qualifications and the future of all energy tax credit programs in Oregon. For legislative updates, visit livelightenergy.com.
Applied Energy Technologies (AET) Announces Expansion of Manufacturing in Ontario, Canada
MAUMEE, Ohio, June 24, 2011 /PRNewswire/ -- Applied Energy Technologies (AET), a leading global provider of solar mounting solutions, announced today they are manufacturing their Rayport™ solar mounting system in Ontario, Canada.
AET is pleased to add their racking products to Canada's environmentally responsible market. Having the mounting solutions manufactured locally in Canada enables Canadian customers to take full advantage of the government incentives. Additionally, the mounting solutions will benefit Ontario's economic growth. The manufacturing of the racking products conforms to ISO 9001 certifications and Ontario's FIT and MicroFit domestic content requirements.
"We are committed to serving the Canadian market and excited to be able to meet the local manufacturing requirements for Ontario's FIT and MicroFit programs. This also represents a stepping-stone for AET into international markets," said Aaron Faust, Vice President of Business Development for AET.
AET's new Canadian operation, which began production in April, supplies the Canadian PV market with its Rayport™ stainless series ballasted racking system for commercial roof applications. Rayport is the first of AET's product lineup to launch in Ontario as a response to the requirements set forth by the Canadian Provinces Feed-in-Tariff program.
"The Rayport™ system has been incredibly successful in the U.S. market and we're excited to offer local manufacturing to the Canadian market," said Aaron Faust, Vice President of Business Development at AET. "We have found an immediate need to produce the Rayport™ in Ontario for our growing Canadian customer base. Being able to offer the Rayport™ in Canada will allow our customers to both meet the associated FIT requirements and deploy one of the premier roof top systems in North America."
AET is pleased to add their racking products to Canada's environmentally responsible market. Having the mounting solutions manufactured locally in Canada enables Canadian customers to take full advantage of the government incentives. Additionally, the mounting solutions will benefit Ontario's economic growth. The manufacturing of the racking products conforms to ISO 9001 certifications and Ontario's FIT and MicroFit domestic content requirements.
"We are committed to serving the Canadian market and excited to be able to meet the local manufacturing requirements for Ontario's FIT and MicroFit programs. This also represents a stepping-stone for AET into international markets," said Aaron Faust, Vice President of Business Development for AET.
AET's new Canadian operation, which began production in April, supplies the Canadian PV market with its Rayport™ stainless series ballasted racking system for commercial roof applications. Rayport is the first of AET's product lineup to launch in Ontario as a response to the requirements set forth by the Canadian Provinces Feed-in-Tariff program.
"The Rayport™ system has been incredibly successful in the U.S. market and we're excited to offer local manufacturing to the Canadian market," said Aaron Faust, Vice President of Business Development at AET. "We have found an immediate need to produce the Rayport™ in Ontario for our growing Canadian customer base. Being able to offer the Rayport™ in Canada will allow our customers to both meet the associated FIT requirements and deploy one of the premier roof top systems in North America."
Amonix Manufacturing Facility to Host U.S. Department of Energy Secretary Steven Chu
NORTH LAS VEGAS, Nev.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--U.S. Department of Energy Secretary Dr. Steven Chu will visit the new Amonix production facility today to see firsthand how the Obama Administration’s renewable energy policies are turning into economic activity and energy independence.
Chu will tour the North Las Vegas facility where Amonix produces concentrated photovoltaic (CPV) solar power systems for utility-scale power plants, such as the 2-megawatt power plant in Tucson, Arizona, that showcases the world’s most efficient solar technology. After the tour, Chu will lead a roundtable discussion with solar industry business leaders at the Amonix facility.
Chu was a co-winner of the Nobel Prize for Physics in 1997 and former director of the Department of Energy's Lawrence Berkeley National Lab, where he led the lab in pursuit of alternative and renewable energy technologies.
“Secretary Chu has a long-standing interest in renewable energy sources. It’s an honor to have him visit Amonix to take a closer look at our state-of-the-art manufacturing facility,” said Amonix CEO Brian Robertson. “His visit emphasizes the reality that utility-scale solar energy is an economically viable reality.”
Renewable energy development is a cornerstone of President Barack Obama’s long-term economic strategy. The Department of Energy also recently announced the SunShot Initiative in an effort to cut the cost of solar energy by 75 percent by 2020. The 2009 American Recovery and Reinvestment Act included $70 billion in renewable energy and energy efficiency measures. The Amonix facility in North Las Vegas was financed with a $5.9 million investment tax credit from the Recovery Act awarded in 2010 and $12 million in private capital. The facility will bring $560 million of overall economic impact, including more than 300 private-sector clean energy jobs, to Southern Nevada in the next five years, according to the Nevada Development Authority.
Chu will tour the North Las Vegas facility where Amonix produces concentrated photovoltaic (CPV) solar power systems for utility-scale power plants, such as the 2-megawatt power plant in Tucson, Arizona, that showcases the world’s most efficient solar technology. After the tour, Chu will lead a roundtable discussion with solar industry business leaders at the Amonix facility.
Chu was a co-winner of the Nobel Prize for Physics in 1997 and former director of the Department of Energy's Lawrence Berkeley National Lab, where he led the lab in pursuit of alternative and renewable energy technologies.
“Secretary Chu has a long-standing interest in renewable energy sources. It’s an honor to have him visit Amonix to take a closer look at our state-of-the-art manufacturing facility,” said Amonix CEO Brian Robertson. “His visit emphasizes the reality that utility-scale solar energy is an economically viable reality.”
Renewable energy development is a cornerstone of President Barack Obama’s long-term economic strategy. The Department of Energy also recently announced the SunShot Initiative in an effort to cut the cost of solar energy by 75 percent by 2020. The 2009 American Recovery and Reinvestment Act included $70 billion in renewable energy and energy efficiency measures. The Amonix facility in North Las Vegas was financed with a $5.9 million investment tax credit from the Recovery Act awarded in 2010 and $12 million in private capital. The facility will bring $560 million of overall economic impact, including more than 300 private-sector clean energy jobs, to Southern Nevada in the next five years, according to the Nevada Development Authority.
Thursday, June 23, 2011
A New Audio Interview with David Natan, Chief Executive Officer of SunSi Energies, Inc., is Now at SmallCapVoice.com
AUSTIN, Texas, June 23, 2011 /PRNewswire/ -- SmallCapVoice.com, Inc. announced today that a new audio interview with SunSi Energies, Inc. ("SunSi") (OTCQB:SSIE) (OTCBB:SSIE) a specialty chemical provider to the solar industry, is now available. The interview can be heard at http://smallcapvoice.com/blog/6-21-11-audio-interview-with-sunsi-energies-inc-otcqb-ssie
SmallCapVoice is a recognized corporate investor relations firm, with clients nationwide, known for its ability to help emerging growth companies build a following among retail and institutional investors. SmallCapVoice utilizes its stock newsletter to feature its daily stock picks, audio interviews, as well as its clients' financial news releases.
SmallCapVoice also offers individual investors all the tools they need to make informed decisions about the stocks they are interested in. Tools like stock charts, stock alerts, and Company Information Sheets can assist with investing in stocks that are traded on the OTC QB, OTC QX and OTC Pink. To learn more about SmallCapVoice and their services, please visit http://www.smallcapvoice.com/services.html.
To sign up for the free small cap stock newsletter, The Small Cap Daily, please visit http://smallcapvoice.com/newsletter.html
SmallCapVoice is a recognized corporate investor relations firm, with clients nationwide, known for its ability to help emerging growth companies build a following among retail and institutional investors. SmallCapVoice utilizes its stock newsletter to feature its daily stock picks, audio interviews, as well as its clients' financial news releases.
SmallCapVoice also offers individual investors all the tools they need to make informed decisions about the stocks they are interested in. Tools like stock charts, stock alerts, and Company Information Sheets can assist with investing in stocks that are traded on the OTC QB, OTC QX and OTC Pink. To learn more about SmallCapVoice and their services, please visit http://www.smallcapvoice.com/services.html.
To sign up for the free small cap stock newsletter, The Small Cap Daily, please visit http://smallcapvoice.com/newsletter.html
Pythagoras Solar Wins GE Ecomagination Innovation Award
SAN MATEO, Calif., June 23, 2011 /PRNewswire/ -- Pythagoras Solar, provider of Photovoltaic Glass Unit (PVGU) technology, the industry's first solar window to simultaneously deliver energy efficiency, high power density and transparency, has been selected as a winner of GE (NYSE: GE) ecomagination Challenge, which recognizes the most promising building energy innovations. Winners were selected from nearly than 5,000 entrants based on originality, feasibility and potential impact. Pythagoras Solar's window technology, an innovation for the real world, revolutionizes the design and construction of buildings, and answers market demand for aesthetically appealing architectural solutions that offer sustainability benefits and fast return on investment. With commercial installations underway, a growing project pipeline, and this prestigious award, Pythagoras Solar is well positioned for success in the global marketplace.
"After one year and $134 million committed to new partners, we delivered on our goal to scale and commercialize the best new ideas through open innovation," said Beth Comstock, senior vice president and chief marketing officer, GE. "The power of networked ideas, collaboration and partnerships to accelerate innovation represents a gathering force whose impact will be a significant driver in the future of business."
"GE sets high standards and we are proud that our technology has been recognized as a distinctive solution, ready for the real world and set to enable a market shift towards net zero energy buildings," said Udi Paret, VP Marketing and Business Development, Pythagoras Solar. "This award, along with its $100,000 prize, validates our proposition and supplements the increased interest we are seeing from successful pilots, first commercial projects and growing product demand."
The Challenge, a collaboration of venture capital firms RockPort Capital, KPCB, Foundation Capital, and Emerald Technology Ventures is part of GE's ecomagination initiative, a global commitment to build innovative clean energy technologies. The other innovation award winners include PlottWatt, Suntulit, Viridity and Xergy.
"After one year and $134 million committed to new partners, we delivered on our goal to scale and commercialize the best new ideas through open innovation," said Beth Comstock, senior vice president and chief marketing officer, GE. "The power of networked ideas, collaboration and partnerships to accelerate innovation represents a gathering force whose impact will be a significant driver in the future of business."
"GE sets high standards and we are proud that our technology has been recognized as a distinctive solution, ready for the real world and set to enable a market shift towards net zero energy buildings," said Udi Paret, VP Marketing and Business Development, Pythagoras Solar. "This award, along with its $100,000 prize, validates our proposition and supplements the increased interest we are seeing from successful pilots, first commercial projects and growing product demand."
The Challenge, a collaboration of venture capital firms RockPort Capital, KPCB, Foundation Capital, and Emerald Technology Ventures is part of GE's ecomagination initiative, a global commitment to build innovative clean energy technologies. The other innovation award winners include PlottWatt, Suntulit, Viridity and Xergy.
WESCO and Suntech Help California School System Save Money
GOODYEAR, Ariz. and SAN FRANCISCO, Calif., June 23, 2011 -- /PRNewswire-Asia/ -- WESCO International, Inc. (NYSE: WCC), a leading provider of electrical, industrial, and communications MRO and OEM products, construction materials, and advanced supply chain management and logistics services, together with Suntech Power Holdings Co., Ltd. (NYSE: STP), the world's largest producer of solar panels, recently completed a 625 kilowatt-peak (kWp)solar project for the Contra Costa County Office of Education (CCCOE) in California.
Altogether, 2,272Suntech solar panels cover nearly one acre, comprising a 503kWp carport array and26Kw parray on the roof of the CCCOE office in Pleasant Hill, California, as well as a 96kWp ground-mounted installation located at Lucille Mauzy School in Alamo, California. Over the next 25 years, the solar installation is expected to generate more than 15 million kilowatt-hours of electricity and to save the CCCOE millions of dollars in electricity costs. The CCCOE plays a leadership role in the delivery of quality education to more than 166,000 K-12 students in Contra Costa County.
"These installations will not only reduce our electricity bills, but will serve as a strong example for the local community and the students we serve about the importance of taking responsibility for our planet's future," said John F. Hild, Director, General Services of the Contra Costa County Office of Education. "In this case, the smart financial decision was also the right thing to do."
WESCO teamed with general contractor, Roebbelen Contracting, on the project that featured solar panels, inverters, and other installation components manufactured in the U.S. The installations were some of the first to use Suntech solar panels made in Goodyear, Arizona. The project also represents WESCO's first major project with Suntech, and now the two companies are working together on additional megawatts of installations in northern California, all with solar panels from Suntech's Arizona manufacturing facility.
As a full service distribution provider, WESCO sees solar as an important opportunity for future growth. "WESCO believes strongly in promoting clean sources of energy like solar power. Working with key partners like Suntech and Roebbelen Contracting on large scale solar projects furthers our commitment to becoming a leading national distributor of solar PV products providing clean energy solutions to our customers," said Jeff Stroin, WESCO Distribution's Regional Vice President.
Suntech's manufacturing facility in Goodyear, Arizona, features highly-automated manufacturing and product testing equipment and currently produces Suntech's 280W multicrystalline solar panels for commercial and utility-scale electricity generation. All modules produced at the facility are backed by an industry-leading 25-year power output warranty and are compliant for procurement in American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (ARRA) projects.
The 117,000 square foot manufacturing facility opened in October 2010 with 40 employees, and has expanded steadily since. Suntech Arizona just brought on a 3rd production shift, growing to about 107 employees, and remains on-target to employ 150 employees by the end of 2011.
"This is a great way to kick-off our partnership with WESCO, and we look forward to working together on several megawatts of solar installations this year," said Steve Chan, President of Suntech America. "It's rewarding to see our U.S.-manufactured products installed just down the road from our North America headquarters here in San Francisco. Over the last four years, our U.S. operations have grown from one person to now about 200 people. We're still just getting started, and projects like this will allow us to continue to grow."
Altogether, 2,272Suntech solar panels cover nearly one acre, comprising a 503kWp carport array and26Kw parray on the roof of the CCCOE office in Pleasant Hill, California, as well as a 96kWp ground-mounted installation located at Lucille Mauzy School in Alamo, California. Over the next 25 years, the solar installation is expected to generate more than 15 million kilowatt-hours of electricity and to save the CCCOE millions of dollars in electricity costs. The CCCOE plays a leadership role in the delivery of quality education to more than 166,000 K-12 students in Contra Costa County.
"These installations will not only reduce our electricity bills, but will serve as a strong example for the local community and the students we serve about the importance of taking responsibility for our planet's future," said John F. Hild, Director, General Services of the Contra Costa County Office of Education. "In this case, the smart financial decision was also the right thing to do."
WESCO teamed with general contractor, Roebbelen Contracting, on the project that featured solar panels, inverters, and other installation components manufactured in the U.S. The installations were some of the first to use Suntech solar panels made in Goodyear, Arizona. The project also represents WESCO's first major project with Suntech, and now the two companies are working together on additional megawatts of installations in northern California, all with solar panels from Suntech's Arizona manufacturing facility.
As a full service distribution provider, WESCO sees solar as an important opportunity for future growth. "WESCO believes strongly in promoting clean sources of energy like solar power. Working with key partners like Suntech and Roebbelen Contracting on large scale solar projects furthers our commitment to becoming a leading national distributor of solar PV products providing clean energy solutions to our customers," said Jeff Stroin, WESCO Distribution's Regional Vice President.
Suntech's manufacturing facility in Goodyear, Arizona, features highly-automated manufacturing and product testing equipment and currently produces Suntech's 280W multicrystalline solar panels for commercial and utility-scale electricity generation. All modules produced at the facility are backed by an industry-leading 25-year power output warranty and are compliant for procurement in American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (ARRA) projects.
The 117,000 square foot manufacturing facility opened in October 2010 with 40 employees, and has expanded steadily since. Suntech Arizona just brought on a 3rd production shift, growing to about 107 employees, and remains on-target to employ 150 employees by the end of 2011.
"This is a great way to kick-off our partnership with WESCO, and we look forward to working together on several megawatts of solar installations this year," said Steve Chan, President of Suntech America. "It's rewarding to see our U.S.-manufactured products installed just down the road from our North America headquarters here in San Francisco. Over the last four years, our U.S. operations have grown from one person to now about 200 people. We're still just getting started, and projects like this will allow us to continue to grow."
MNswan Technologies Corporation Develops Do-It-Yourself Guide Available to Help Homeowners Cut Energy Costs
GRAND RAPIDS, Minn., June 23, 2011 /PRNewswire/ -- When Mike Swanson paid his bills each month, he kept thinking he could do more to save money. With no way to control the rising cost of energy, reducing the amount of energy that his family was using seemed to be the only way.
"We've been pinching pennies, turning down the thermostat, weather-proofing... the stuff most people do. But I started looking at the cost to heat my hot water, and researched how I could cut my expenses," said Swanson. "What I learned saves my family a lot of money. And it was simple and inexpensive to install."
Using materials purchased from the local hardware store and on the internet, Swanson, who is not a plumber by trade, built a domestic water heating system that is heated by the sun. The pre-heated water is returned to his hot water heater so the "traditional" system operates less often, using much less energy, and resulting in big savings for the family budget.
He's so enthusiastic about how well his idea works, he wrote a do-it-yourself guide for others to install a similar system on their own homes. While writing the guide, Swanson was thinking to himself that there had to be other families, here in the U.S and in other countries around the world, having the same concerns about energy bills as he was.
"This is for people who really want to take charge of their energy bills and who enjoy, or want to try, a simple DIY project," said Swanson. "I have to laugh, because it turned out to be a fun project. Watching the water heat up and my energy bills go down put a big smile on my face. It's a simple design. You just have to figure out how to make it work for your house," Swanson explained. "But I think it's easy enough that anyone anywhere can do this."
The system comes down during Minnesota's cold winter and goes back up in the spring. But in warmer climates, this domestic water heating system can be used much longer, or even year-round.
When Swanson first started researching solar heating for domestic hot water, he wanted four things: to save money, a simple design, a system that would pay for itself in a short period of time, and upfront affordability. After creating a system that fit all those criteria, he realized that with straight-forward guidelines, others could also benefit. He launched MNswan Technologies Corporation in 2010 to promote the instructional guides for his Energy Saving Systems, starting with the Simple Solar Water Heating System.
Alternative energy systems can be complicated and expensive. This can make these systems very intimidating. Getting a return on your investment can take a long time. MNswan Technologies creates Energy Saving Systems that are simple and affordable. Several other energy saving projects are in the works and will be available in 2011.
"We wanted to create an opportunity for everyone to tap into the potential of solar energy without spending an arm and a leg," said Swanson. "I think people really want to try alternative energy options, but the thought of trying something different can be overwhelming. This is an easy way to get started, and the best part is that the sun's energy is free."
You can find more information at http://www.mnswantech.com/.
"We've been pinching pennies, turning down the thermostat, weather-proofing... the stuff most people do. But I started looking at the cost to heat my hot water, and researched how I could cut my expenses," said Swanson. "What I learned saves my family a lot of money. And it was simple and inexpensive to install."
Using materials purchased from the local hardware store and on the internet, Swanson, who is not a plumber by trade, built a domestic water heating system that is heated by the sun. The pre-heated water is returned to his hot water heater so the "traditional" system operates less often, using much less energy, and resulting in big savings for the family budget.
He's so enthusiastic about how well his idea works, he wrote a do-it-yourself guide for others to install a similar system on their own homes. While writing the guide, Swanson was thinking to himself that there had to be other families, here in the U.S and in other countries around the world, having the same concerns about energy bills as he was.
"This is for people who really want to take charge of their energy bills and who enjoy, or want to try, a simple DIY project," said Swanson. "I have to laugh, because it turned out to be a fun project. Watching the water heat up and my energy bills go down put a big smile on my face. It's a simple design. You just have to figure out how to make it work for your house," Swanson explained. "But I think it's easy enough that anyone anywhere can do this."
The system comes down during Minnesota's cold winter and goes back up in the spring. But in warmer climates, this domestic water heating system can be used much longer, or even year-round.
When Swanson first started researching solar heating for domestic hot water, he wanted four things: to save money, a simple design, a system that would pay for itself in a short period of time, and upfront affordability. After creating a system that fit all those criteria, he realized that with straight-forward guidelines, others could also benefit. He launched MNswan Technologies Corporation in 2010 to promote the instructional guides for his Energy Saving Systems, starting with the Simple Solar Water Heating System.
Alternative energy systems can be complicated and expensive. This can make these systems very intimidating. Getting a return on your investment can take a long time. MNswan Technologies creates Energy Saving Systems that are simple and affordable. Several other energy saving projects are in the works and will be available in 2011.
"We wanted to create an opportunity for everyone to tap into the potential of solar energy without spending an arm and a leg," said Swanson. "I think people really want to try alternative energy options, but the thought of trying something different can be overwhelming. This is an easy way to get started, and the best part is that the sun's energy is free."
You can find more information at http://www.mnswantech.com/.
Southwest Solar Completes Proof of Concept Testing of Solar-Turbine Receiver
PHOENIX--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Southwest Solar Technologies Inc. announced today the successful on-sun testing and proof of concept of a high temperature air receiver. The high temperature air receiver is a prototype test component to validate the design for the advanced solar-turbine power system being developed by the Company. The Company’s system uses a parabolic solar dish with mirrors to concentrate the sun’s energy to power a high-efficiency turbine engine and produce electricity.
The testing was conducted using the Company’s 320 square meter solar concentrating dish, the largest solar dish in North America. The dish is capable of delivering over a quarter megawatt of thermal energy in the form of concentrated sunlight, focusing the equivalent heat of 2,000 suns into the proprietary design “receiver.” Inside this receiver compressed air is super-heated to power a high speed turbine alternator. Initial testing was conducted with attenuation screens on the dish to reduce the input energy to 50 kWth, approximately 20% of full capacity. Even at this reduced power, the receiver operated at the temperature goal of 925 C (1700 F), and met goals for efficiency.
“This high temperature performance achieved far exceeds typical 400 C temperature of other concentrating solar power (CSP) systems, such as trough and power towers, that use steam turbine technology to produce electricity, and the system requires no water cooling. The Company’s unique air based turbine cycle, operating at much higher temperatures, is designed to achieve greater than 30% efficiency. This efficiency would far exceed typical photovoltaic (PV) or other CSP solar power systems,” said Herb Hayden, Chief Technical Officer.
“We are moving our solar-turbine technology forward consistently and methodically. This is the latest big milestone in our development work,” said Brad Forst, CEO. “We believe we are the leading innovators in this space.”
The test results and data also position the project for the next phase of funding from the US Department of Energy (“DOE”) under a program being conducted by Brayton Energy LLC with participation by Southwest Solar.
Testing is conducted at the Company’s facility at Southwest Solar Research Park in Phoenix, Arizona. www.swsolartech.com
The testing was conducted using the Company’s 320 square meter solar concentrating dish, the largest solar dish in North America. The dish is capable of delivering over a quarter megawatt of thermal energy in the form of concentrated sunlight, focusing the equivalent heat of 2,000 suns into the proprietary design “receiver.” Inside this receiver compressed air is super-heated to power a high speed turbine alternator. Initial testing was conducted with attenuation screens on the dish to reduce the input energy to 50 kWth, approximately 20% of full capacity. Even at this reduced power, the receiver operated at the temperature goal of 925 C (1700 F), and met goals for efficiency.
“This high temperature performance achieved far exceeds typical 400 C temperature of other concentrating solar power (CSP) systems, such as trough and power towers, that use steam turbine technology to produce electricity, and the system requires no water cooling. The Company’s unique air based turbine cycle, operating at much higher temperatures, is designed to achieve greater than 30% efficiency. This efficiency would far exceed typical photovoltaic (PV) or other CSP solar power systems,” said Herb Hayden, Chief Technical Officer.
“We are moving our solar-turbine technology forward consistently and methodically. This is the latest big milestone in our development work,” said Brad Forst, CEO. “We believe we are the leading innovators in this space.”
The test results and data also position the project for the next phase of funding from the US Department of Energy (“DOE”) under a program being conducted by Brayton Energy LLC with participation by Southwest Solar.
Testing is conducted at the Company’s facility at Southwest Solar Research Park in Phoenix, Arizona. www.swsolartech.com
Satcon Selected by BIOSAR Energy SA for 20 MW of Utility-Scale Solar Projects in Southern Europe
BOSTON--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Satcon Technology Corporation® (NASDAQ CM:SATC), a leading provider of utility-scale power solutions for the renewable energy market, today announced that it has been selected by BIOSAR Energy SA, one of Europe’s leading photovoltaic (PV) solar energy development companies, for multiple utility-scale power plants across Italy, Greece and Bulgaria.
BIOSAR will deploy thirty-two 625 kilowatt (kW) Equinox™ inverters, Satcon’s next-generation utility-ready solution. With a peak efficiency of 98.5% and the industry’s widest thermal operating range, Equinox enhances system-wide energy harvest and solar plant yield, enabling the large-scale solar industry's highest return on investment (ROI) and the industry's lowest Levelized Cost of Energy (LCOE).
“BIOSAR is one of the region’s most successful solar energy companies and the largest and most successful EPC in the Balkans,” said Dr. Kostas Daniilidis, Managing Partner of SDL Solar. “These sites will showcase the state of the art in system design and technology, and will achieve the highest levels of performance and reliability. In addition, Satcon inverters’ significantly low consumption will provide more assurance to BIOSAR when offering Performance Ratio Guarantees to investors.”
Built upon Satcon's industry-leading PowerGate® Plus inverter family, the world's most widely-deployed large-scale solution, Equinox's advanced utility-ready features enable remote control of real and reactive power, low-voltage ride through and power factor control. The solution supports fast communications, allowing it to be easily integrated into SCADA systems through standardized communication interfaces.
“The BIOSAR projects continue to demonstrate the strength of the Mediterranean solar market, and in particular, the significant growth in demand for utility-scale solutions," said Steve Rhoades, Satcon’s President and Chief Executive Officer. “Together with SDL Solar, we have built a strong foundation to showcase our industry leading utility-ready solar solutions in the region. We are honored to be selected by BIOSAR and to be a part of these innovative utility-scale solar projects.”
BIOSAR will deploy thirty-two 625 kilowatt (kW) Equinox™ inverters, Satcon’s next-generation utility-ready solution. With a peak efficiency of 98.5% and the industry’s widest thermal operating range, Equinox enhances system-wide energy harvest and solar plant yield, enabling the large-scale solar industry's highest return on investment (ROI) and the industry's lowest Levelized Cost of Energy (LCOE).
“BIOSAR is one of the region’s most successful solar energy companies and the largest and most successful EPC in the Balkans,” said Dr. Kostas Daniilidis, Managing Partner of SDL Solar. “These sites will showcase the state of the art in system design and technology, and will achieve the highest levels of performance and reliability. In addition, Satcon inverters’ significantly low consumption will provide more assurance to BIOSAR when offering Performance Ratio Guarantees to investors.”
Built upon Satcon's industry-leading PowerGate® Plus inverter family, the world's most widely-deployed large-scale solution, Equinox's advanced utility-ready features enable remote control of real and reactive power, low-voltage ride through and power factor control. The solution supports fast communications, allowing it to be easily integrated into SCADA systems through standardized communication interfaces.
“The BIOSAR projects continue to demonstrate the strength of the Mediterranean solar market, and in particular, the significant growth in demand for utility-scale solutions," said Steve Rhoades, Satcon’s President and Chief Executive Officer. “Together with SDL Solar, we have built a strong foundation to showcase our industry leading utility-ready solar solutions in the region. We are honored to be selected by BIOSAR and to be a part of these innovative utility-scale solar projects.”
Wednesday, June 22, 2011
Bosch planning new manufacturing site for solar energy in Malaysia
Stuttgart/Kuala Lumpur. The Bosch Group wants to further expand its photovoltaics business and is planning a new manufacturing site in the Batu Kawan region in Penang, Malaysia. With a planned investment of some 520 million euros, the construction project for the new manufacturing site is one of the biggest in the company's history. “With this investment, Bosch is moving further along the path of internationalization it has already set for its photovoltaics business,” said Franz Fehrenbach, chairman of the Bosch board of management, in Stuttgart. The new manufacturing site in Batu Kawan will mainly serve Asia's solar energy market, which is growing strongly. In the coming years, the Asian market is set to see average annual growth of 30 percent. Components for manufacturing sites in other countries will also be produced at the new Malaysian site, said Fehrenbach.
Construction of the new site is set to begin before the end of this year. “The planned facility will cover the entire value-added chain, from silicon crystals – known as ingots – and solar cells to the modules which can be installed on roofs or in solar power plants,” said Holger von Hebel, chairman of Bosch Solar Energy AG. Start of production is planned for the end of 2013. Construction is expected to be completed the following year. By then, some 2000 associates will be working at the new site in Penang, producing solar power plants with a total output of 640 megawatts peak each year. The module production lines will reach an annual capacity of 150 megawatts peak. The megawatt peak (MWp) unit is commonly used in the solar energy industry to indicate the power rating, and thus the best possible output, of a solar cell. In practice, current efficiency depends strongly on where in the world the cell is in use. While the annual cell production of the new manufacturing site in Malaysia would cover the energy needs of 165,000 households in central Europe, the number of households covered in Malaysia would be almost twice as high, at up to 300,000.
Internationalization in line with developments in global markets
In spring of 2011, the company decided to build another manufacturing facility for modules in Vénissieux, France, with the aim of better serving the French and southern European markets. “By further internationalizing Bosch Solar Energy, we aim to further boost its development,” said von Hebel. This year, the company already expects its sales to exceed one billion euros. The decision to build a new site in Asia reflects general developments in the global market for photovoltaics. By 2020, total installed output in the region is expected to reach some 130 gigawatts peak. This would be enough to meet the energy needs of 200 million people in Europe. There are currently five gigawatts installed.
In Germany, which is currently Bosch Solar Energy AG's main market, total newly installed output is expected to remain constant at around 3.5 gigawatts per year. “This is assuming that the political framework is reliable, that companies and customers have the planning security they need, and that the demand situation stabilizes once again,” said von Hebel. With an investment of more than 500 million euros in its manufacturing facility in Arnstadt, Thuringia, Bosch has more than tripled production capacity. In addition, a new research and development center is set to open at the site in the coming month, as well as a new headquarters and training center. By 2012, more than 1000 new jobs will be created. At the Arnstadt competence center, the next product generation and manufacturing processes are going to be developed. “The Arnstadt site will serve markets in Europe.” From Penang, we will serve the southeast Asian market, where we also see excellent opportunities for growth. The two major Bosch Solar Energy investments in Germany and Malaysia complement each other and help secure the future of our photovoltaics business,” said Fehrenbach.
Malaysia offers good conditions
The solar industry refers to the part of the world Malaysia is located in as the sun belt, as the level of solar radiation in countries located between the 35th parallels of the northern and southern hemispheres is twice as high as in Germany. Market growth is expected to be particularly strong in this region. Moreover, Malaysia offers a qualified workforce in the fields of electronics and semiconductors as well as a good local infrastructure. The country's reliable power supply is also decisive, particularly since this is indispensable for the challenging and sensitive production processes in the field of photovoltaics.
Bosch has been present in Malaysia since 1923. The company is already quite familiar with the favorable conditions offered in Penang. With a workforce of 1,100 associates, Bosch Power Tools manufactures cordless drill/drivers, drills and measuring instruments there. Moreover, with 600 associates, the Car Multimedia division manufactures car radios and navigation devices in Malaysia. In 2010, Bosch generated sales of 130 million euros in Malaysia, and counted 2,300 associates in the country.
Construction of the new site is set to begin before the end of this year. “The planned facility will cover the entire value-added chain, from silicon crystals – known as ingots – and solar cells to the modules which can be installed on roofs or in solar power plants,” said Holger von Hebel, chairman of Bosch Solar Energy AG. Start of production is planned for the end of 2013. Construction is expected to be completed the following year. By then, some 2000 associates will be working at the new site in Penang, producing solar power plants with a total output of 640 megawatts peak each year. The module production lines will reach an annual capacity of 150 megawatts peak. The megawatt peak (MWp) unit is commonly used in the solar energy industry to indicate the power rating, and thus the best possible output, of a solar cell. In practice, current efficiency depends strongly on where in the world the cell is in use. While the annual cell production of the new manufacturing site in Malaysia would cover the energy needs of 165,000 households in central Europe, the number of households covered in Malaysia would be almost twice as high, at up to 300,000.
Internationalization in line with developments in global markets
In spring of 2011, the company decided to build another manufacturing facility for modules in Vénissieux, France, with the aim of better serving the French and southern European markets. “By further internationalizing Bosch Solar Energy, we aim to further boost its development,” said von Hebel. This year, the company already expects its sales to exceed one billion euros. The decision to build a new site in Asia reflects general developments in the global market for photovoltaics. By 2020, total installed output in the region is expected to reach some 130 gigawatts peak. This would be enough to meet the energy needs of 200 million people in Europe. There are currently five gigawatts installed.
In Germany, which is currently Bosch Solar Energy AG's main market, total newly installed output is expected to remain constant at around 3.5 gigawatts per year. “This is assuming that the political framework is reliable, that companies and customers have the planning security they need, and that the demand situation stabilizes once again,” said von Hebel. With an investment of more than 500 million euros in its manufacturing facility in Arnstadt, Thuringia, Bosch has more than tripled production capacity. In addition, a new research and development center is set to open at the site in the coming month, as well as a new headquarters and training center. By 2012, more than 1000 new jobs will be created. At the Arnstadt competence center, the next product generation and manufacturing processes are going to be developed. “The Arnstadt site will serve markets in Europe.” From Penang, we will serve the southeast Asian market, where we also see excellent opportunities for growth. The two major Bosch Solar Energy investments in Germany and Malaysia complement each other and help secure the future of our photovoltaics business,” said Fehrenbach.
Malaysia offers good conditions
The solar industry refers to the part of the world Malaysia is located in as the sun belt, as the level of solar radiation in countries located between the 35th parallels of the northern and southern hemispheres is twice as high as in Germany. Market growth is expected to be particularly strong in this region. Moreover, Malaysia offers a qualified workforce in the fields of electronics and semiconductors as well as a good local infrastructure. The country's reliable power supply is also decisive, particularly since this is indispensable for the challenging and sensitive production processes in the field of photovoltaics.
Bosch has been present in Malaysia since 1923. The company is already quite familiar with the favorable conditions offered in Penang. With a workforce of 1,100 associates, Bosch Power Tools manufactures cordless drill/drivers, drills and measuring instruments there. Moreover, with 600 associates, the Car Multimedia division manufactures car radios and navigation devices in Malaysia. In 2010, Bosch generated sales of 130 million euros in Malaysia, and counted 2,300 associates in the country.
Landmark Rooftop Solar Project to Create Thousands of Jobs in 28 States
NEW YORK--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Rooftop solar generation takes a giant leap forward as a consortium of leading companies – Bank of America Merrill Lynch, Prologis and NRG Energy – announce an offer of a conditional commitment from the U.S. Department of Energy’s Loan Programs Office to help finance the largest distributed rooftop solar generation project in the world. The loan guarantee supporting $1.4 billion of debt facilitates a total project size of about $2.6 billion, which is being financed entirely by the private sector over the next four years.
This distributed solar project will generate employment across 28 states and will create the equivalent of more than 10,000 full-year jobs. Once fully funded and completed, these installations are expected to provide approximately 733 megawatts (MW) of distributed solar energy, which is enough clean, renewable energy to power approximately 100,000 homes.
Having received this offer of a conditional commitment from the Department of Energy, the three firms are working to finalize the financing documentation for the distributed solar project and begin the first phase of installation. Of this first phase, 15 MW of solar capacity is ready immediately for construction and installation in Southern California, where the power generated will be sold to a local utility under long-term power purchase agreements that have been approved and executed. NRG Energy has committed to be the lead investor for the first phase of the project over the next 18 months.
BofA Merrill is acting as sole financial and structuring advisor and sole lender on this transaction, which is being executed under the Department of Energy’s Financial Institutions Partnership Program (FIPP). Through FIPP, the DOE will guarantee 80 percent of the $1.4 billion debt financing for this transaction.
“By harnessing the full capabilities of our platform we’re able to deliver this innovative transaction that brings together many parts of our Global Banking and Markets franchise,” said Tom Montag, president of Global Banking and Markets. “This important accomplishment transforms the dynamics of distributed solar generation, delivers a significant source of clean energy and creates thousands of jobs across the U.S.”
Prologis, the leading owner, operator and developer of industrial real estate, will provide site access to rooftops and will also act as developer, construction manager and program sponsor, in addition to making an equity investment. This effort is the most recent example of the company’s long-standing and industry-leading commitment to renewable energy.
“As one of the world’s largest owners of distribution facilities and an active solar industry participant, we’re pleased to be a partner in a project of this magnitude,” said Drew Torbin, vice president of Prologis Renewable Energy. “This project will add significant scale to the distributed solar market and provides economic and environmental benefit to our shareholders and customers.”
NRG Energy, one of the nation’s largest electric power companies and solar energy developers, in addition to funding the first phase of the project, has a right of first offer for the remainder (up to the program total of 733 MW) and will provide development resources and project expertise for the installations.
“NRG believes rooftop solar is a smart choice for industrial, commercial and residential property owners in markets around the country, and this program provides the commercial scale that will bring the benefits of solar power to customers across the country,” said Tom Doyle, president of NRG Solar, NRG’s solar subsidiary. “This program will nearly double the amount of grid-connected solar online in the United States today and make another positive contribution to cleaner air and a healthy environment.”
Within BofA Merrill, the transaction was led by the Cross Asset Solutions and Strategies group, a team established to leverage the bank’s entire platform and coordinate the vast resources of the firm from origination to execution, in partnership with the company’s Global Investment Banking and Global Leasing teams. In addition to demonstrating the strength of its Global Banking and Markets platform, this transaction also is a part of the company’s 10-year, $20 billion environmental business initiative, which focuses on addressing climate change by aligning its global financial products and services to help advance energy efficiency and low-carbon energy markets.
NRG Solar pursues a diverse, multi-technology approach to commercializing solar generation, including large-scale concentrated solar thermal and photovoltaic, and distributed solar. The company owns the largest solar photovoltaic plant currently operating in California and has more than 2,000 MW of solar projects under development or in construction across the United States.
This distributed solar project will generate employment across 28 states and will create the equivalent of more than 10,000 full-year jobs. Once fully funded and completed, these installations are expected to provide approximately 733 megawatts (MW) of distributed solar energy, which is enough clean, renewable energy to power approximately 100,000 homes.
Having received this offer of a conditional commitment from the Department of Energy, the three firms are working to finalize the financing documentation for the distributed solar project and begin the first phase of installation. Of this first phase, 15 MW of solar capacity is ready immediately for construction and installation in Southern California, where the power generated will be sold to a local utility under long-term power purchase agreements that have been approved and executed. NRG Energy has committed to be the lead investor for the first phase of the project over the next 18 months.
BofA Merrill is acting as sole financial and structuring advisor and sole lender on this transaction, which is being executed under the Department of Energy’s Financial Institutions Partnership Program (FIPP). Through FIPP, the DOE will guarantee 80 percent of the $1.4 billion debt financing for this transaction.
“By harnessing the full capabilities of our platform we’re able to deliver this innovative transaction that brings together many parts of our Global Banking and Markets franchise,” said Tom Montag, president of Global Banking and Markets. “This important accomplishment transforms the dynamics of distributed solar generation, delivers a significant source of clean energy and creates thousands of jobs across the U.S.”
Prologis, the leading owner, operator and developer of industrial real estate, will provide site access to rooftops and will also act as developer, construction manager and program sponsor, in addition to making an equity investment. This effort is the most recent example of the company’s long-standing and industry-leading commitment to renewable energy.
“As one of the world’s largest owners of distribution facilities and an active solar industry participant, we’re pleased to be a partner in a project of this magnitude,” said Drew Torbin, vice president of Prologis Renewable Energy. “This project will add significant scale to the distributed solar market and provides economic and environmental benefit to our shareholders and customers.”
NRG Energy, one of the nation’s largest electric power companies and solar energy developers, in addition to funding the first phase of the project, has a right of first offer for the remainder (up to the program total of 733 MW) and will provide development resources and project expertise for the installations.
“NRG believes rooftop solar is a smart choice for industrial, commercial and residential property owners in markets around the country, and this program provides the commercial scale that will bring the benefits of solar power to customers across the country,” said Tom Doyle, president of NRG Solar, NRG’s solar subsidiary. “This program will nearly double the amount of grid-connected solar online in the United States today and make another positive contribution to cleaner air and a healthy environment.”
Within BofA Merrill, the transaction was led by the Cross Asset Solutions and Strategies group, a team established to leverage the bank’s entire platform and coordinate the vast resources of the firm from origination to execution, in partnership with the company’s Global Investment Banking and Global Leasing teams. In addition to demonstrating the strength of its Global Banking and Markets platform, this transaction also is a part of the company’s 10-year, $20 billion environmental business initiative, which focuses on addressing climate change by aligning its global financial products and services to help advance energy efficiency and low-carbon energy markets.
NRG Solar pursues a diverse, multi-technology approach to commercializing solar generation, including large-scale concentrated solar thermal and photovoltaic, and distributed solar. The company owns the largest solar photovoltaic plant currently operating in California and has more than 2,000 MW of solar projects under development or in construction across the United States.
Opening of Application Period for FPL Solar Rebates Rescheduled for June 29 at 8:30 a.m.
JUNO BEACH, Fla., June 22, 2011 /PRNewswire/ -- Florida Power & Light Company customers who are interested in installing solar water heating and solar photovoltaic (PV) systems in their homes and businesses as part of a new pilot program can apply for rebates at www.FPL.com/solarrebates starting at 8:30 a.m. on Wednesday, June 29.
The application window was originally scheduled to open at 8:30 a.m. June 21. However, visitors to FPL's website experienced significant delays in page-loading due to an unrelated technical issue that impacted the overall performance of FPL.com. The issue occurred prior to 8:30 a.m. on June 21. It was not related to customers visiting the website to apply for solar rebate programs and will not impact the fair distribution of the available rebate funding.
"We sincerely apologize for the inconvenience. While the issue was fixed within a few hours, we have opted to postpone the application period launch in order to ensure the rebate process continues to be fair to all customers. This will allow ample time to widely communicate the new launch date, enabling our customers to adjust their plans accordingly," said Marlene Santos, FPL's vice president of customer service.
Rebates will be available on a first-come, first-served basis for residential and business customers who are planning to install solar water heating or solar photovoltaic (PV) panels. The program is designed to help reduce energy consumption and peak demand and is part of a pilot project approved by the Florida Public Service Commission.
Customers can go online at www.FPL.com/solarrebates to view program details and application checklists to ensure they have all of the necessary information ready to complete the application on June 29.
The application window was originally scheduled to open at 8:30 a.m. June 21. However, visitors to FPL's website experienced significant delays in page-loading due to an unrelated technical issue that impacted the overall performance of FPL.com. The issue occurred prior to 8:30 a.m. on June 21. It was not related to customers visiting the website to apply for solar rebate programs and will not impact the fair distribution of the available rebate funding.
"We sincerely apologize for the inconvenience. While the issue was fixed within a few hours, we have opted to postpone the application period launch in order to ensure the rebate process continues to be fair to all customers. This will allow ample time to widely communicate the new launch date, enabling our customers to adjust their plans accordingly," said Marlene Santos, FPL's vice president of customer service.
Rebates will be available on a first-come, first-served basis for residential and business customers who are planning to install solar water heating or solar photovoltaic (PV) panels. The program is designed to help reduce energy consumption and peak demand and is part of a pilot project approved by the Florida Public Service Commission.
Customers can go online at www.FPL.com/solarrebates to view program details and application checklists to ensure they have all of the necessary information ready to complete the application on June 29.
Satcon Named the World’s Second Largest Provider of Utility-Scale Inverters by IMS Research
BOSTON--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Satcon Technology Corporation® (NASDAQ CM: SATC), a leading provider of utility-scale power conversion solutions for the renewable energy market, announced today that it has achieved the second largest share in the worldwide utility-scale inverter market for 2010.
Based upon the results from IMS Research’s recently released World Market for Photovoltaic Inverters 2011 (4th Edition) and its Q1 2011 PV Inverter Quarterly Market Tracker, Satcon has obtained commanding positions within the North American and Asian markets, and has successfully achieved significant growth in Europe.
“Satcon demonstrated significant worldwide gains in 2010,” said Ash Sharma, Research Director at IMS Research. “It was one of the biggest market share gainers of all non-European inverter suppliers in the year and shows a significant increase in worldwide market share as well as year over year growth.”
Satcon’s successful growth continues into 2011, as reflected in its May 23, 2011 announcement of Satcon obtaining the number one market share position in total megawatts shipped for Q1 2011 in the Americas, and the number two market share position in China and the rest of Asia.
“2010 was a marquee year for Satcon in which we achieved record bookings of over 1.1 gigawatts of our utility-ready solar inverter solutions,” said Steve Rhoades, Satcon's President and Chief Executive Officer. “Our focus over the past three years has been to build a world class global organization. Our continued dedication to product innovation and operational excellence, combined with the industry’s most widely deployed and proven utility scale solar technologies, is now the foundation for our successful growth in all three of the world’s major solar markets.”
Based upon the results from IMS Research’s recently released World Market for Photovoltaic Inverters 2011 (4th Edition) and its Q1 2011 PV Inverter Quarterly Market Tracker, Satcon has obtained commanding positions within the North American and Asian markets, and has successfully achieved significant growth in Europe.
“Satcon demonstrated significant worldwide gains in 2010,” said Ash Sharma, Research Director at IMS Research. “It was one of the biggest market share gainers of all non-European inverter suppliers in the year and shows a significant increase in worldwide market share as well as year over year growth.”
Satcon’s successful growth continues into 2011, as reflected in its May 23, 2011 announcement of Satcon obtaining the number one market share position in total megawatts shipped for Q1 2011 in the Americas, and the number two market share position in China and the rest of Asia.
“2010 was a marquee year for Satcon in which we achieved record bookings of over 1.1 gigawatts of our utility-ready solar inverter solutions,” said Steve Rhoades, Satcon's President and Chief Executive Officer. “Our focus over the past three years has been to build a world class global organization. Our continued dedication to product innovation and operational excellence, combined with the industry’s most widely deployed and proven utility scale solar technologies, is now the foundation for our successful growth in all three of the world’s major solar markets.”
Carmanah Reports Successful Results at Annual General Meeting
VICTORIA, British Columbia--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Carmanah Technologies Corporation (TSX: CMH), is pleased to announce that all resolutions proposed at its annual general meeting held on June 21, 2011 (the "AGM") were duly passed.
Of the shareholders that voted, approximately 98% approved the re-appointment of Rob Cruickshank, Ted Lattimore, Bob Wiens, and Peter Berrang as directors. Also, Dr. David Green was newly appointed as a director of Carmanah.
Before the AGM, Robert Logan decided to not stand for re-election. “I want to thank Rob for his many years of valuable service to Carmanah during his long tenure as a director. We wish him great success in his future endeavors,” said Rob Cruickshank, Chairman of Carmanah’s Board of Directors.
"We are pleased that despite the current postal strike in Canada, almost 40% of the common shares were represented at the AGM,” noted Ted Lattimore, Carmanah’s CEO. “Our shareholders responded positively with an overwhelming majority to the resolutions that were presented by management. With no objection or contrary votes of any significance, the vote of confidence allows us now to collectively focus on continuing to build Carmanah as a leader in the industry and taking all measures to aggressively defend and bring the Lightech action to an end.”
About Carmanah Technologies Corporation
As one of the most trusted names in solar technology, Carmanah has earned a reputation for delivering strong and effective products for industrial applications worldwide. Industry proven to perform reliably in some of the world's harshest environments, Carmanah solar LED lights and solar power systems provide a durable, dependable and cost effective energy alternative. Carmanah is a publicly traded company, with common shares listed on the Toronto Stock Exchange under the symbol "CMH”. For more information, visit www.carmanah.com.
Of the shareholders that voted, approximately 98% approved the re-appointment of Rob Cruickshank, Ted Lattimore, Bob Wiens, and Peter Berrang as directors. Also, Dr. David Green was newly appointed as a director of Carmanah.
Before the AGM, Robert Logan decided to not stand for re-election. “I want to thank Rob for his many years of valuable service to Carmanah during his long tenure as a director. We wish him great success in his future endeavors,” said Rob Cruickshank, Chairman of Carmanah’s Board of Directors.
"We are pleased that despite the current postal strike in Canada, almost 40% of the common shares were represented at the AGM,” noted Ted Lattimore, Carmanah’s CEO. “Our shareholders responded positively with an overwhelming majority to the resolutions that were presented by management. With no objection or contrary votes of any significance, the vote of confidence allows us now to collectively focus on continuing to build Carmanah as a leader in the industry and taking all measures to aggressively defend and bring the Lightech action to an end.”
About Carmanah Technologies Corporation
As one of the most trusted names in solar technology, Carmanah has earned a reputation for delivering strong and effective products for industrial applications worldwide. Industry proven to perform reliably in some of the world's harshest environments, Carmanah solar LED lights and solar power systems provide a durable, dependable and cost effective energy alternative. Carmanah is a publicly traded company, with common shares listed on the Toronto Stock Exchange under the symbol "CMH”. For more information, visit www.carmanah.com.
With System Complete, IKEA Powers Up Solar in East Palo Alto
EAST PALO ALTO, Calif.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--IKEA, the world’s leading home furnishings retailer, today officially plugged-in the solar energy system installed at its store in East Palo Alto, California. The 38,000-square-foot array consists of a 302-kW system, built with approximately 1,344 panels. IKEA East Palo Alto’s program will produce approximately 427,900 kWh of clean electricity annually – the equivalent of reducing 326 tons of carbon dioxide (CO2), eliminating the emissions of 58 cars or powering 35 homes yearly (calculating clean energy equivalents at www.epa.gov/cleanenergy/energy-resources/calculator.html).
This initiative by IKEA will contribute to the local utility’s renewable portfolio goals and will lower the carbon intensity of the electrical grid. The East Palo Alto effort represents the seventh solar energy project for IKEA in the United States. Systems already are operational in: Brooklyn, NY, Burbank, CA, Pittsburgh, PA, Tejon, CA, and Tempe, AZ, with both a solar energy system and a geothermal system operational at the Denver-area store opening this July in Centennial, CO. Also, there currently are plans underway to install systems at five other IKEA locations in California as well as eight more in the Eastern U.S.
For the development, design and installation of this customized solar power system, IKEA contracted with Gloria Solar, the U.S. operating group focused on the photovoltaic business within the family of E-Ton Solar Group. This project is the second IKEA installation in the 70,000-square-mile service area of PG&E, the utility providing natural gas and electric service to approximately 15 million people throughout northern and central California.
“Our mission is to create a better everyday life for the many, and at IKEA East Palo Alto, we are happy to do so with this effort,” said Jill Matherson, store manager. “A solar energy system will help reduce the store’s carbon footprint and represents another investment toward our future in this community. We appreciate the continued support of the City of East Palo Alto, Pacific Gas & Electric, and Gloria Solar, our partners in this project.”
IKEA, drawing from its Swedish heritage and respect of nature, believes it can be a good business while doing good business and strives for its operations to minimize impacts on the environment. Globally, IKEA evaluates all locations regularly for energy conservation opportunities, integrates innovative materials into product design, works with Global Forest Watch to maintain sustainable resources, and flat-packs goods for efficient distribution. Specific U.S. sustainable efforts include: recycling waste material (paper, wood, plastic, etc.); incorporating environmental measures into the construction of buildings in terms of energy-efficient HVAC and lighting systems, recycled construction materials, skylights in warehouse areas, and water conserving restrooms; and operationally, phasing out the sale of incandescent light bulbs and facilitating recycling of customers’ compact fluorescent bulbs.
Located on 10.5 acres at US-101 and University Avenue, the 290,000-s.f. IKEA East Palo Alto opened August 2003 and employs approximately 300 coworkers. In addition to 10,000 exclusively designed items, IKEA East Palo Alto presents 50 different room-settings, three model home interiors, a supervised children’s play area, and a 250-seat restaurant serving Swedish specialties such as meatballs with lingonberries and salmon plates, as well as American dishes. Other family-friendly features include a Children’s IKEA area in the Showroom, baby care rooms, preferred parking and play areas throughout the store.
IKEA strives to be ‘The Life Improvement Store,’ and since its 1943 founding in Sweden, has offered home furnishings of good design and function, at low prices so the majority of people can afford them. There are currently more than 320 IKEA stores in 38 countries, including 37 in the U.S. IKEA, the world’s leading home furnishings company, incorporates sustainable efforts into day-to-day business and supports initiatives that benefit children and the environment. For more information, go to IKEA-USA.com.
This initiative by IKEA will contribute to the local utility’s renewable portfolio goals and will lower the carbon intensity of the electrical grid. The East Palo Alto effort represents the seventh solar energy project for IKEA in the United States. Systems already are operational in: Brooklyn, NY, Burbank, CA, Pittsburgh, PA, Tejon, CA, and Tempe, AZ, with both a solar energy system and a geothermal system operational at the Denver-area store opening this July in Centennial, CO. Also, there currently are plans underway to install systems at five other IKEA locations in California as well as eight more in the Eastern U.S.
For the development, design and installation of this customized solar power system, IKEA contracted with Gloria Solar, the U.S. operating group focused on the photovoltaic business within the family of E-Ton Solar Group. This project is the second IKEA installation in the 70,000-square-mile service area of PG&E, the utility providing natural gas and electric service to approximately 15 million people throughout northern and central California.
“Our mission is to create a better everyday life for the many, and at IKEA East Palo Alto, we are happy to do so with this effort,” said Jill Matherson, store manager. “A solar energy system will help reduce the store’s carbon footprint and represents another investment toward our future in this community. We appreciate the continued support of the City of East Palo Alto, Pacific Gas & Electric, and Gloria Solar, our partners in this project.”
IKEA, drawing from its Swedish heritage and respect of nature, believes it can be a good business while doing good business and strives for its operations to minimize impacts on the environment. Globally, IKEA evaluates all locations regularly for energy conservation opportunities, integrates innovative materials into product design, works with Global Forest Watch to maintain sustainable resources, and flat-packs goods for efficient distribution. Specific U.S. sustainable efforts include: recycling waste material (paper, wood, plastic, etc.); incorporating environmental measures into the construction of buildings in terms of energy-efficient HVAC and lighting systems, recycled construction materials, skylights in warehouse areas, and water conserving restrooms; and operationally, phasing out the sale of incandescent light bulbs and facilitating recycling of customers’ compact fluorescent bulbs.
Located on 10.5 acres at US-101 and University Avenue, the 290,000-s.f. IKEA East Palo Alto opened August 2003 and employs approximately 300 coworkers. In addition to 10,000 exclusively designed items, IKEA East Palo Alto presents 50 different room-settings, three model home interiors, a supervised children’s play area, and a 250-seat restaurant serving Swedish specialties such as meatballs with lingonberries and salmon plates, as well as American dishes. Other family-friendly features include a Children’s IKEA area in the Showroom, baby care rooms, preferred parking and play areas throughout the store.
IKEA strives to be ‘The Life Improvement Store,’ and since its 1943 founding in Sweden, has offered home furnishings of good design and function, at low prices so the majority of people can afford them. There are currently more than 320 IKEA stores in 38 countries, including 37 in the U.S. IKEA, the world’s leading home furnishings company, incorporates sustainable efforts into day-to-day business and supports initiatives that benefit children and the environment. For more information, go to IKEA-USA.com.
Wall Street Reporter, Inc. Interviews SPI Solar’s CEO Stephen Kircher
ROSEVILLE, Calif.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--SPI Solar (“SPI”) (OTCBB: SOPW) a leading vertically integrated photovoltaic (“PV”) solar developer and engineering, procurement and construction (“EPC”) services provider, today announced that Stephen Kircher, CEO of SPI Solar was interviewed on Friday, June 17th by Wall Street Reporter (WSR) Senior Analyst Juan Costello. The interview has been posted to the WSR web site and provides an overview of the first-quarter 2010 stock purchase by LDK Solar USA, Inc. (‘LDK”) that gave LDK a 70% interest in SPI’s stock, and the operational benefits the transaction has brought to SPI. Mr. Costello’s interview includes a discussion of the recent announcement by SPI of its 3-year agreement with KDC Solar (“KDC”) to serve as KDC’s preferred provider for engineering, procurement and construction of up to 300 megawatts in projects throughout New Jersey and New York. The agreement has the potential to generate as much as $1.2 billion in revenue for SPI.
The interview is available at www.wallstreetreporter.com, or directly via the link provided below:
http://www.wallstreetreporter.com/2011/06/solar-power-otcbbsopw-ceo-interview/
The interview is available at www.wallstreetreporter.com, or directly via the link provided below:
http://www.wallstreetreporter.com/2011/06/solar-power-otcbbsopw-ceo-interview/
Tuesday, June 21, 2011
SunPower Solar Discovery Game Promotes Energy Awareness and Education via Social Media
SAN JOSE, Calif., June 21, 2011 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- SunPower Corp. (NASDAQ: SPWRA, SPWRB) today launched the Solar Discovery Game, an online contest and sweepstakes that promotes solar energy education and awareness in the U.S. The grand prize, which will be announced on September 16, 2011, is a high-efficiency SunPower solar power system, valued at up to $25,000.
To play, participants can access the Solar Discovery Game through SunPower's Facebook page and answer a series of questions on solar power. Correct responses will earn players points and virtual badges, which can be posted to their Facebook walls. New questions will be added weekly through September 14. All participants will be entered into bi-weekly sweepstakes drawings to win prizes, including roundtrip plane tickets for two between any U.S. mainland airports via Hawaiian Airlines, video cameras, gift cards, event tickets, SunPower gear and more. The grand prize winner will receive an installed SunPower solar power system for their own home, or they may gift the system to a friend, neighbor or local community building, such as a school or recreation center.
"SunPower's Solar Discovery Game is a great way to educate virtual audiences about solar, while providing the opportunity to win a high-efficiency SunPower solar power system," said David Henry, SunPower chief marketing officer. "SunPower customers value our products for reliably delivering up to 50 percent more power than conventional solar power systems. With this game, we hope to inspire SunPower's growing online community to discover more about emission-free solar power, and share that knowledge virally with friends and family."
Partners collaborating with SunPower on the Solar Discovery Game include the Solar Energy Industries Association® (SEIA®), Del Monte Foods, Hawaiian Airlines, eBay Green Team and California Academy of Sciences.
The Solar Discovery Game is sponsored by SunPower Corp. and available to legal residents in the 50 U.S. states and the District of Columbia. The promotion starts on June 21 and continues through September 14. Employees, directors and officers of SunPower Corporation, and any of their respective affiliates, parents, subsidiary companies, and advertising and promotion agencies and members of the immediate families and/or those living in the same household of any of the foregoing are not eligible. For complete rules, visit http://us.sunpowercorp.com/solardiscoverygamesrules.
To play, participants can access the Solar Discovery Game through SunPower's Facebook page and answer a series of questions on solar power. Correct responses will earn players points and virtual badges, which can be posted to their Facebook walls. New questions will be added weekly through September 14. All participants will be entered into bi-weekly sweepstakes drawings to win prizes, including roundtrip plane tickets for two between any U.S. mainland airports via Hawaiian Airlines, video cameras, gift cards, event tickets, SunPower gear and more. The grand prize winner will receive an installed SunPower solar power system for their own home, or they may gift the system to a friend, neighbor or local community building, such as a school or recreation center.
"SunPower's Solar Discovery Game is a great way to educate virtual audiences about solar, while providing the opportunity to win a high-efficiency SunPower solar power system," said David Henry, SunPower chief marketing officer. "SunPower customers value our products for reliably delivering up to 50 percent more power than conventional solar power systems. With this game, we hope to inspire SunPower's growing online community to discover more about emission-free solar power, and share that knowledge virally with friends and family."
Partners collaborating with SunPower on the Solar Discovery Game include the Solar Energy Industries Association® (SEIA®), Del Monte Foods, Hawaiian Airlines, eBay Green Team and California Academy of Sciences.
The Solar Discovery Game is sponsored by SunPower Corp. and available to legal residents in the 50 U.S. states and the District of Columbia. The promotion starts on June 21 and continues through September 14. Employees, directors and officers of SunPower Corporation, and any of their respective affiliates, parents, subsidiary companies, and advertising and promotion agencies and members of the immediate families and/or those living in the same household of any of the foregoing are not eligible. For complete rules, visit http://us.sunpowercorp.com/solardiscoverygamesrules.
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