MOUNTAIN VIEW, Calif. and PUERTOLLANO, Spain, July 30 /PRNewswire/ -- SolFocus today announced the completion of its initial phase of the world's first full scale concentrator photovoltaic (CPV) solar power plant. This facility, owned by the Institute of Concentration Photovoltaic Systems (ISFOC), has been created both as a power production facility and a proving ground for CPV technology. The project demonstrates that CPV technology, with its higher efficiency and potential for cost reduction, will be an attractive alternative to other solar technologies in key high solar resource regions around the globe. This first 200 kilowatt (kW) phase of SolFocus' deployment is ready to generate clean, reliable, carbon-free electricity for the local power grid for decades to come.
"Completing this first stage of the ISFOC project marks a major milestone for SolFocus, and for concentrator photovoltaics in general, on our way toward achieving grid parity for renewable energy," said Gary D. Conley, CEO of SolFocus. "Working with the ISFOC team in this collaborative project of commercial deployment and scale, we are proud to deliver on the immense promise and potential that CPV holds in scaling to meet the world's energy needs."
SolFocus is continuing its second phase of the project, which will bring installed capacity of its CPV systems at ISFOC to 500 kW over the next month.
"We chose SolFocus' CPV arrays as part of the ISFOC project because we believed their non-imaging optical design would provide efficient and reliable systems," said Dr. Pedro Banda, Director General of ISFOC. "We had confidence that they would be able to meet not just the design challenges, but the manufacturing challenges for volume deployment as well; we could not be more pleased with the results."
The company's innovative CPV technology employs a system of imaging and non-imaging reflective optics to concentrate sunlight 500 times onto small, highly efficient solar cells. SolFocus CPV systems use 1/1,000th of the active, expensive solar cell material compared to traditional photovoltaic panels. In addition, the cells used in SolFocus CPV systems have over twice the conversion efficiency of traditional cells, accelerating the trajectory for solar energy to reach cost parity with fossil fuels. SolFocus CPV solar panels are made primarily of readily available and cost-effective materials such as aluminum and glass. These CPV systems have the lowest carbon footprint in manufacturing, and are over 95-percent recyclable.
SolFocus integrates its CPV panels with its advanced tracking system that continuously aligns the solar array with direct sunlight throughout the day as the sun moves across the sky. SolFocus tracking systems are also being used with traditional PV, as the tracker's high degree of accuracy allows PV systems to produce as much as 40 percent more energy over fixed PV installations.
SolFocus, with European headquarters in Madrid, Spain and United States headquarters in Mountain View, Calif., also has installed systems in Arizona, California, Hawaii and India. Last month, the company was honored at the prestigious 6th World Investment Conference in La Baule France with the Best Cleantech Investment Award for the company's investment in Spain and expansion into the European market.
Wednesday, July 30, 2008
Monday, July 28, 2008
CSU Pueblo Announces 1 Megawatt Solar Plant Project
PUEBLO, Colo., July 28 /PRNewswire/ -- Colorado State University-Pueblo soon will be the home of a solar electric system in excess of one megawatt, one of the largest such systems for an education facility in the United States. Under this innovative arrangement with Black Hills Energy (formerly Aquila) and BP Solar, the system is estimated to contribute more than 10
percent of the University's electricity needs. Installation of the ground- based solar array will begin in July with full operation scheduled for late this fall.
The University will purchase the electricity generated by the solar array from BP Solar, who will install and operate the system. Black Hills Energy will purchase the solar on-site renewable energy credits generated from the system from BP Solar. The system will be constructed on the east side of campus between the physical plant complex and the softball fields on a strip of land that could not easily serve any other purpose.
"We view this as an extension of the commitment the University and the CSU System have made to renewable and sustainable energy," said CSU-Pueblo President Joseph Garcia. "Because this solar array will be visible from new facilities being constructed to support our new athletic programs and the planned development on our eastern campus border, it will serve as a strong
statement about the University's commitment to supporting sustainable energy resources."
"We are proud to be able to bring large-scale solar energy to Pueblo," said Mary Shields, vice president of global sales and marketing for BP Solar. "The CSU-Pueblo campus is the perfect place to demonstrate the clean, efficient power that solar can provide to communities throughout
Colorado and other parts of the U.S."
Garcia added that the new system supports Governor Ritter's New Energy Economy to make Colorado a hub for solar energy and supports Black Hills Energy's effort to bring more solar energy to Colorado. As part of its Solar Rebate Program, Black Hills Energy will provide a $200,000 upfront rebate incentive for the installation of the solar system. The program
helps Black Hills Energy meet Colorado's Renewable Energy Standard, which requires that five percent of Black Hills Energy's electricity sales be generated from renewable sources.
"Black Hills Energy is excited to be a part of this project and about the solar energy contribution this system will provide CSU-Pueblo," said Gary Stone, Black Hills Energy vice president for Colorado electric operations. "Combined with the Black Hills Energy Solar Rebate Program, biomass and wind resources already in use, the CSU-Pueblo solar system
builds on Black Hills Energy's commitment to renewable energy for the communities we serve in Colorado."
With new facilities being brought on-line during the next six months, including a new $11.2 million student recreation center, CSU-Pueblo estimates the completed project will generate savings in utility costs and help absorb the cost of increased demand.
Garcia said the project is a winning venture for all three partners.
"In short, this project will help control the University's utility costs as prices and usage increase, promote the use of sustainable resources, help satisfy Black Hills Energy's state mandates, and allow BP Solar to bring a major solar project to Southern Colorado," Garcia said.
Smart Growth Advocates (SGA), a local non-profit, connected the partners last year.
"Assembling the combined talents of a team of this caliber ensured results which exceeded expectations. Our goal was to highlight the effectiveness of public-private partnerships to deliver concrete sustainable solutions, and we are elated with the result," said Vickie Massam, SGA President.
percent of the University's electricity needs. Installation of the ground- based solar array will begin in July with full operation scheduled for late this fall.
The University will purchase the electricity generated by the solar array from BP Solar, who will install and operate the system. Black Hills Energy will purchase the solar on-site renewable energy credits generated from the system from BP Solar. The system will be constructed on the east side of campus between the physical plant complex and the softball fields on a strip of land that could not easily serve any other purpose.
"We view this as an extension of the commitment the University and the CSU System have made to renewable and sustainable energy," said CSU-Pueblo President Joseph Garcia. "Because this solar array will be visible from new facilities being constructed to support our new athletic programs and the planned development on our eastern campus border, it will serve as a strong
statement about the University's commitment to supporting sustainable energy resources."
"We are proud to be able to bring large-scale solar energy to Pueblo," said Mary Shields, vice president of global sales and marketing for BP Solar. "The CSU-Pueblo campus is the perfect place to demonstrate the clean, efficient power that solar can provide to communities throughout
Colorado and other parts of the U.S."
Garcia added that the new system supports Governor Ritter's New Energy Economy to make Colorado a hub for solar energy and supports Black Hills Energy's effort to bring more solar energy to Colorado. As part of its Solar Rebate Program, Black Hills Energy will provide a $200,000 upfront rebate incentive for the installation of the solar system. The program
helps Black Hills Energy meet Colorado's Renewable Energy Standard, which requires that five percent of Black Hills Energy's electricity sales be generated from renewable sources.
"Black Hills Energy is excited to be a part of this project and about the solar energy contribution this system will provide CSU-Pueblo," said Gary Stone, Black Hills Energy vice president for Colorado electric operations. "Combined with the Black Hills Energy Solar Rebate Program, biomass and wind resources already in use, the CSU-Pueblo solar system
builds on Black Hills Energy's commitment to renewable energy for the communities we serve in Colorado."
With new facilities being brought on-line during the next six months, including a new $11.2 million student recreation center, CSU-Pueblo estimates the completed project will generate savings in utility costs and help absorb the cost of increased demand.
Garcia said the project is a winning venture for all three partners.
"In short, this project will help control the University's utility costs as prices and usage increase, promote the use of sustainable resources, help satisfy Black Hills Energy's state mandates, and allow BP Solar to bring a major solar project to Southern Colorado," Garcia said.
Smart Growth Advocates (SGA), a local non-profit, connected the partners last year.
"Assembling the combined talents of a team of this caliber ensured results which exceeded expectations. Our goal was to highlight the effectiveness of public-private partnerships to deliver concrete sustainable solutions, and we are elated with the result," said Vickie Massam, SGA President.
Palm Desert To Provide Loans For Greenovating Homes
PALM DESERT, Calif.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Already an innovator in its efforts to reduce its carbon footprint, the city of Palm Desert last week got one step closer to realizing its goal of reducing citywide energy consumption by 30 percent before 2011. Governor Schwarzenegger last week signed Assembly Bill 811 into law as an “urgency measure,” for the first time allowing city governments throughout California to provide loans to property owners planning home or business improvements that will reduce energy consumption. The bill, termed locally the Energy Independence Act, was written and lobbied for by Palm Desert’s civic leaders.
Palm Desert’s City Council is working to formulate a strategy to put the bill into effect locally as quickly and simply as possibly. The city plans to provide loans for as little as $5,000, with no upper limit, for improvements such as efficient air-conditioning systems, lighting systems, water-heating equipment, refrigerators, or pool pumps; and installation of solar panels, white roofs, or insulation—anything that will reduce electricity consumption and is considered a permanent fixture. The city will provide low-interest loans requiring no credit checks or other qualifications other than a property title. The loans will be paid back as part of the residents’ tax bill—meaning if the home or business is sold, the loan stays with the property.
“Two years ago, we set a lofty goal of reducing our energy use by 30 percent, and now we have the means to accomplish it,” said Councilman Jim Ferguson, who spearheaded the passage of the Energy Independence Act. “During the summer months, when temperatures regularly reach over 100 degrees, Palm Desert residents can pay up to $1000 a month for electricity. This program will empower them to explore renewable energy sources and make meaningful changes for the environment as well as their own finances.”
The city has enlisted the expertise of EcoMotion, a consulting company that also advises cities such as Anaheim and Santa Monica on their environmental initiatives. Under the leadership of president Ted Flanigan, EcoMotion will coordinate and help facilitate the loan program. Flanigan will also work to document Palm Desert’s carbon footprint and suggest further improvements to the city’s already aggressive energy- and emissions-reduction programs.
“Palm Desert is unbelievably progressive,” said Flanigan. “I really salute them for having the creativity and foresight to change state law in this historic way.”
Classifying the reduction of a city’s energy consumption and carbon footprint as “public good” is a groundbreaking approach, and opens the door for cities across the state to adopt similar programs. AB811 updates sections of California’s Streets and Highways Code that allow cities to set up assessment districts to pay for public improvements such as sewers and roads. Mindful of the far-reaching possibilities, Palm Desert will work to create a program that can be easily replicated elsewhere. Berkeley, Santa Monica and Palm Springs are also researching similar programs, which will likely be modeled after Palm Desert’s Energy Independence Program.
Besides creativity, another major asset in Palm Desert is sunshine. With 350 days of sunshine each year and an average of 5.5 hours of high-quality solar insulation per day, the city far outperforms the national average and is an ideal site for sun-powered energy systems. Home solar systems last up to 40 years, so the Energy Independence Act allows homeowners to finance systems – using the good credit of the city – with long-term loans to match the long-term benefits of solar.
In a city so dependent on electricity for features such as air conditioning and pool pumps, energy-efficient improvements represent a long-term investment and increase the value of homes and businesses. Palm Desert aims to begin providing loans by the end of August, and plans to bring funding to the Energy Independence Program through the sale of municipal bonds—allowing investors across the country to bring a new level to their socially responsible investment plans.
The Energy Independence Program is just one more way Palm Desert is thinking green. In 2006, the city introduced a new government division, the Office of Energy Management, and unveiled Set to Save: its unprecedented plan to cut energy consumption by 30 percent—or 215 million kilowatt hours of electric energy—in five years. The plan is the most ambitious of its kind in California and provides incentives to businesses and residents engaging in energy-saving behavior. Palm Desert has since then opened 141 energy-efficient apartments for low- and middle-income families, including several that are partially fueled by solar energy.
That same year, Palm Desert passed a law requiring all new construction to surpass state energy requirements by 10 to 15 percent. It’s also banned drive-through restaurants, waived permit fees on the installation of photovoltaic solar systems in homes and businesses and declared electric golf carts street-legal. Palm Desert has the only LEED-certified visitor center in the United States and opened the country’s first environmentally sound public golf course 10 years ago. For more information, visit www.cityofpalmdesert.org.
Palm Desert’s City Council is working to formulate a strategy to put the bill into effect locally as quickly and simply as possibly. The city plans to provide loans for as little as $5,000, with no upper limit, for improvements such as efficient air-conditioning systems, lighting systems, water-heating equipment, refrigerators, or pool pumps; and installation of solar panels, white roofs, or insulation—anything that will reduce electricity consumption and is considered a permanent fixture. The city will provide low-interest loans requiring no credit checks or other qualifications other than a property title. The loans will be paid back as part of the residents’ tax bill—meaning if the home or business is sold, the loan stays with the property.
“Two years ago, we set a lofty goal of reducing our energy use by 30 percent, and now we have the means to accomplish it,” said Councilman Jim Ferguson, who spearheaded the passage of the Energy Independence Act. “During the summer months, when temperatures regularly reach over 100 degrees, Palm Desert residents can pay up to $1000 a month for electricity. This program will empower them to explore renewable energy sources and make meaningful changes for the environment as well as their own finances.”
The city has enlisted the expertise of EcoMotion, a consulting company that also advises cities such as Anaheim and Santa Monica on their environmental initiatives. Under the leadership of president Ted Flanigan, EcoMotion will coordinate and help facilitate the loan program. Flanigan will also work to document Palm Desert’s carbon footprint and suggest further improvements to the city’s already aggressive energy- and emissions-reduction programs.
“Palm Desert is unbelievably progressive,” said Flanigan. “I really salute them for having the creativity and foresight to change state law in this historic way.”
Classifying the reduction of a city’s energy consumption and carbon footprint as “public good” is a groundbreaking approach, and opens the door for cities across the state to adopt similar programs. AB811 updates sections of California’s Streets and Highways Code that allow cities to set up assessment districts to pay for public improvements such as sewers and roads. Mindful of the far-reaching possibilities, Palm Desert will work to create a program that can be easily replicated elsewhere. Berkeley, Santa Monica and Palm Springs are also researching similar programs, which will likely be modeled after Palm Desert’s Energy Independence Program.
Besides creativity, another major asset in Palm Desert is sunshine. With 350 days of sunshine each year and an average of 5.5 hours of high-quality solar insulation per day, the city far outperforms the national average and is an ideal site for sun-powered energy systems. Home solar systems last up to 40 years, so the Energy Independence Act allows homeowners to finance systems – using the good credit of the city – with long-term loans to match the long-term benefits of solar.
In a city so dependent on electricity for features such as air conditioning and pool pumps, energy-efficient improvements represent a long-term investment and increase the value of homes and businesses. Palm Desert aims to begin providing loans by the end of August, and plans to bring funding to the Energy Independence Program through the sale of municipal bonds—allowing investors across the country to bring a new level to their socially responsible investment plans.
The Energy Independence Program is just one more way Palm Desert is thinking green. In 2006, the city introduced a new government division, the Office of Energy Management, and unveiled Set to Save: its unprecedented plan to cut energy consumption by 30 percent—or 215 million kilowatt hours of electric energy—in five years. The plan is the most ambitious of its kind in California and provides incentives to businesses and residents engaging in energy-saving behavior. Palm Desert has since then opened 141 energy-efficient apartments for low- and middle-income families, including several that are partially fueled by solar energy.
That same year, Palm Desert passed a law requiring all new construction to surpass state energy requirements by 10 to 15 percent. It’s also banned drive-through restaurants, waived permit fees on the installation of photovoltaic solar systems in homes and businesses and declared electric golf carts street-legal. Palm Desert has the only LEED-certified visitor center in the United States and opened the country’s first environmentally sound public golf course 10 years ago. For more information, visit www.cityofpalmdesert.org.
GT Solar Tries to Ease Market Fears
GT Solar International, Inc. (NASDAQ: SOLR) today issued the following statement concerning the announcement by LDK Solar that it has signed a contract to purchase JYT multicrystalline and monocrystalline furnaces. According to the announcement, LDK Solar has been granted the exclusive right by JYT to purchase furnaces for the contract period, which extends through 2010.
Bob Woodbury, chief financial officer for GT Solar International, Inc. made the following statement.
“This announcement by LDK does not in any way impact GT Solar’s backlog, nor do we believe it will have any effect on our internal targets or projections. In fact, LDK Solar’s total orders represent less than 20 percent of our current backlog. Moreover, LDK’s furnace orders represent less than eight percent of our current backlog.
“Additionally, GT Solar has and will continue to diversify its customer base. LDK Solar remains an important customer, and we continue to negotiate with them for future equipment needs related to multicrystalline furnaces and silicon reactors.”
The stock continued to plummet to $12.08 Monday after last weeks IPO high of $17.00
Bob Woodbury, chief financial officer for GT Solar International, Inc. made the following statement.
“This announcement by LDK does not in any way impact GT Solar’s backlog, nor do we believe it will have any effect on our internal targets or projections. In fact, LDK Solar’s total orders represent less than 20 percent of our current backlog. Moreover, LDK’s furnace orders represent less than eight percent of our current backlog.
“Additionally, GT Solar has and will continue to diversify its customer base. LDK Solar remains an important customer, and we continue to negotiate with them for future equipment needs related to multicrystalline furnaces and silicon reactors.”
The stock continued to plummet to $12.08 Monday after last weeks IPO high of $17.00
Evolution Solar Announces New President of Asian Operations
GILBERT, Ariz.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Evolution Solar Corp (OTC:EVSO) announced it has retained Michael Franklin to its newly created position of President of Asian Operations.
“I consider Mr. Franklin’s qualifications to be key for sourcing and contractual negotiations in the Asian Markets,” stated Robert Kaapke, CEO of Evolution Solar. “Michael’s associative resources, located in almost every major city in China, tips the balance of supply and demand in our favor.”
Michael Franklin is the USA consultant for Impact Hong Kong, Asia's largest production company. With a staff and offices in Xiamen, China and associates in every major city in China, he currently sources products for AMD (NYSE:AMD), USSSA (Sporting goods) and Home Depot (NYSE:HD).
“The historical growth within the solar industry is creating a huge demand on suppliers and manufactures in the market,” stated Robert Kaapke, CEO of Evolution Solar.
Some think the U.S. could be generating 10% of its electricity from the sun within 10-15 years, and Scientific American published a scheme last year for drawing almost 70% of our power using solar by 2050. Merrill Lynch's Mark Heller noted that solar startups raised more money in 2007-8 than Internet stocks did in their 1998 heyday.
Mr. Michael Franklin has thrived in the Asian market for over 10 years, working in China, Hong Kong, Taiwan Philippines and Japan as a contracts negotiator, purchasing agent and consultant for several large US companies opening the Chinese markets. Mr Franklin works directly with the regional Chinese governments of Chongqing, Wuhan, Naning, Tianjin, Beijing, Suzhou, Wuxi, Qingdao, Dalian and others.
Evolution Solar is a vertically integrated company, which intends to manufacture high-efficiency cells and run an instillation unit, as does SunPower (NASDAQ:SPWR). JA Solar Holdings Co. (NASDAQ:JASO) announced recently that Elmer Hsu would replace Kang Sun as chief operating officer on Aug. 1, 2008.
“I consider Mr. Franklin’s qualifications to be key for sourcing and contractual negotiations in the Asian Markets,” stated Robert Kaapke, CEO of Evolution Solar. “Michael’s associative resources, located in almost every major city in China, tips the balance of supply and demand in our favor.”
Michael Franklin is the USA consultant for Impact Hong Kong, Asia's largest production company. With a staff and offices in Xiamen, China and associates in every major city in China, he currently sources products for AMD (NYSE:AMD), USSSA (Sporting goods) and Home Depot (NYSE:HD).
“The historical growth within the solar industry is creating a huge demand on suppliers and manufactures in the market,” stated Robert Kaapke, CEO of Evolution Solar.
Some think the U.S. could be generating 10% of its electricity from the sun within 10-15 years, and Scientific American published a scheme last year for drawing almost 70% of our power using solar by 2050. Merrill Lynch's Mark Heller noted that solar startups raised more money in 2007-8 than Internet stocks did in their 1998 heyday.
Mr. Michael Franklin has thrived in the Asian market for over 10 years, working in China, Hong Kong, Taiwan Philippines and Japan as a contracts negotiator, purchasing agent and consultant for several large US companies opening the Chinese markets. Mr Franklin works directly with the regional Chinese governments of Chongqing, Wuhan, Naning, Tianjin, Beijing, Suzhou, Wuxi, Qingdao, Dalian and others.
Evolution Solar is a vertically integrated company, which intends to manufacture high-efficiency cells and run an instillation unit, as does SunPower (NASDAQ:SPWR). JA Solar Holdings Co. (NASDAQ:JASO) announced recently that Elmer Hsu would replace Kang Sun as chief operating officer on Aug. 1, 2008.
Friday, July 25, 2008
GT Solar Continues To Collapse After IPO
NEW YORK (Associated Press) - Shares of GT Solar International Inc. lost nearly a quarter of their value Friday, their second day of trading
The Merrimack, N.H.-based solar equipment maker launched an initial public offering of 30.3 million shares Thursday priced at $16.50 each, the midpoint of an expected range. The $500 million offering represents the nation's largest IPO this year in the alternative energy industry.
Yet the stock closed Thursday at $14.59, down 11.6 percent for the day.
In Friday morning trading shares continued their downward spiral, shedding $2.59, or 17.7 percent, to $12. Earlier in the day the stock touched an all-time low of $9.30.
Part of the drop may be connected to decreasing prices for crude oil, which have slipped more than $20 per barrel in recent days. During Friday trading, light, sweet crude for September delivery fell $2.01 to $123.48 on the New York Mercantile Exchange.
The Merrimack, N.H.-based solar equipment maker launched an initial public offering of 30.3 million shares Thursday priced at $16.50 each, the midpoint of an expected range. The $500 million offering represents the nation's largest IPO this year in the alternative energy industry.
Yet the stock closed Thursday at $14.59, down 11.6 percent for the day.
In Friday morning trading shares continued their downward spiral, shedding $2.59, or 17.7 percent, to $12. Earlier in the day the stock touched an all-time low of $9.30.
Part of the drop may be connected to decreasing prices for crude oil, which have slipped more than $20 per barrel in recent days. During Friday trading, light, sweet crude for September delivery fell $2.01 to $123.48 on the New York Mercantile Exchange.
Thursday, July 24, 2008
Pudget Sound Energy Ranked As National Solar Leader
BELLEVUE, Wash.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Despite the Northwest’s reputation for cloudy skies, Puget Sound Energy (PSE) is receiving high marks for its work in developing solar energy resources. According to rankings released by the Solar Electric Power Association (SEPA) today, PSE merits a “Top 10 Solar Ranking” among all utilities across the country.
“Solar energy is proving its potential in Washington, even with weather that some may not see as ideal for harnessing the power of the sun,” said Kimberly Harris, executive vice president and chief resource officer for PSE. “We’re proud that the work being done by PSE and its customers is showing that the future for solar energy is bright for the Puget Sound area and the state.”
According to SEPA, PSE ranks in the top 10 among the nation’s utilities in two categories: solar electric capacity on the utility side of the meter (ranking eighth); and, solar electric capacity per customer on the utility side of the meter (ranking ninth). These rankings measure the amount of utility-owned solar generation, and were achieved due to the utility’s 500 kilowatt (kW) solar array at the Wild Horse Wind and Solar Facility near Ellensburg in Kittitas County.
The Wild Horse solar array uses photovoltaic (PV) panels to convert sunlight directly to electricity. The array, which entered service in October 2007, currently comprises 2,400 solar panels, and will gain an additional 300 panels later in 2008. Rated at 500 kW, the array produces the energy equivalent to that needed by 300 homes.
“PSE developed the Wild Horse solar facility to gain real-world experience with solar power and how it can be integrated with wind power,” said Harris. “Now, after nearly a year in operation, solar is proving its capability in a wide range of weather, from sunny skies to winter storms.”
Sited at 3,800 feet of elevation atop Whiskey Dick Mountain, the array has withstood winds of more than 100 mph and temperatures ranging from well below freezing to more than 100 degrees and continued to perform up to expectations. Even during overcast skies, the PV panels have produced up to 70 percent of their rated power output.
In addition to generating electric power, the Wild Horse solar array has also brought attention to the technologies and possibilities of alternative energy, with some 8,000 people now having visited the Renewable Energy Center (REC) at Wild Horse. The REC, which opened in April 2008, offers a first-hand look at solar and wind power, giving visitors a chance to see how clean, renewable energy is produced. At the center, interactive computer displays show how much energy the solar panels are producing at any given moment, and their total energy output over time. The REC is open to the public daily from 9 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. from April through November, excluding during severe weather.
PSE customers have also demonstrated the value of solar energy, with nearly 300 customers currently having solar PV systems at their home or business connected to the utility’s distribution system. Through the utility’s net-metering program, customers are able to receive credits for any excess energy they generate, with the excess energy flowing into the utility’s grid. When the customer is using more electricity than their system is producing, they are then able to draw on those credits to offset the cost of any electricity provided by PSE.
In addition to the net-metering program, PSE also administers cash payments to customers through the state of Washington’s Renewable Energy Advantage Program (REAP) that offers payments on a sliding scale based on how much energy is produced by the customer’s PV system and how much of their system includes made-in-Washington components.
PSE has also worked with area schools to bring solar to the classroom. A dozen Western Washington schools have received grants from PSE for solar array installations and classroom monitoring software, with further grants expected in 2009.
In addition, PSE is the only Washington state utility using solar technology to protect its natural gas system and one of the largest users in the U.S. PSE installed its first system in 1984 and now has approximately a quarter of the utility’s 300 cathodic protection systems operating on solar power.
“Solar energy is proving its potential in Washington, even with weather that some may not see as ideal for harnessing the power of the sun,” said Kimberly Harris, executive vice president and chief resource officer for PSE. “We’re proud that the work being done by PSE and its customers is showing that the future for solar energy is bright for the Puget Sound area and the state.”
According to SEPA, PSE ranks in the top 10 among the nation’s utilities in two categories: solar electric capacity on the utility side of the meter (ranking eighth); and, solar electric capacity per customer on the utility side of the meter (ranking ninth). These rankings measure the amount of utility-owned solar generation, and were achieved due to the utility’s 500 kilowatt (kW) solar array at the Wild Horse Wind and Solar Facility near Ellensburg in Kittitas County.
The Wild Horse solar array uses photovoltaic (PV) panels to convert sunlight directly to electricity. The array, which entered service in October 2007, currently comprises 2,400 solar panels, and will gain an additional 300 panels later in 2008. Rated at 500 kW, the array produces the energy equivalent to that needed by 300 homes.
“PSE developed the Wild Horse solar facility to gain real-world experience with solar power and how it can be integrated with wind power,” said Harris. “Now, after nearly a year in operation, solar is proving its capability in a wide range of weather, from sunny skies to winter storms.”
Sited at 3,800 feet of elevation atop Whiskey Dick Mountain, the array has withstood winds of more than 100 mph and temperatures ranging from well below freezing to more than 100 degrees and continued to perform up to expectations. Even during overcast skies, the PV panels have produced up to 70 percent of their rated power output.
In addition to generating electric power, the Wild Horse solar array has also brought attention to the technologies and possibilities of alternative energy, with some 8,000 people now having visited the Renewable Energy Center (REC) at Wild Horse. The REC, which opened in April 2008, offers a first-hand look at solar and wind power, giving visitors a chance to see how clean, renewable energy is produced. At the center, interactive computer displays show how much energy the solar panels are producing at any given moment, and their total energy output over time. The REC is open to the public daily from 9 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. from April through November, excluding during severe weather.
PSE customers have also demonstrated the value of solar energy, with nearly 300 customers currently having solar PV systems at their home or business connected to the utility’s distribution system. Through the utility’s net-metering program, customers are able to receive credits for any excess energy they generate, with the excess energy flowing into the utility’s grid. When the customer is using more electricity than their system is producing, they are then able to draw on those credits to offset the cost of any electricity provided by PSE.
In addition to the net-metering program, PSE also administers cash payments to customers through the state of Washington’s Renewable Energy Advantage Program (REAP) that offers payments on a sliding scale based on how much energy is produced by the customer’s PV system and how much of their system includes made-in-Washington components.
PSE has also worked with area schools to bring solar to the classroom. A dozen Western Washington schools have received grants from PSE for solar array installations and classroom monitoring software, with further grants expected in 2009.
In addition, PSE is the only Washington state utility using solar technology to protect its natural gas system and one of the largest users in the U.S. PSE installed its first system in 1984 and now has approximately a quarter of the utility’s 300 cathodic protection systems operating on solar power.
GT Solar Sets Price For IPO
NEW YORK--(BUSINESS WIRE)--GT Solar International, Inc. (NASDAQ: SOLR) today announced that the initial public offering of 30.3 million shares of its common stock has been priced at $16.50 per share. All of the shares are being sold by one selling stockholder, GT Solar Holdings, LLC. The selling stockholder has also granted the underwriters an option to purchase up to an additional 4,545,000 shares of common stock to cover over-allotments, if any.
Credit Suisse Securities (USA) LLC and UBS Investment Bank acted as joint book-running managers for the offering, and Banc of America Securities LLC, Deutsche Bank Securities, Piper Jaffray and Thomas Weisel Partners LLC acted as co-managers.
A copy of the prospectus relating to the offering may be obtained by contacting: Credit Suisse Securities (USA) LLC, Eleven Madison Avenue, New York, New York, 10010-3629 (800-221-1037) or UBS Securities LLC, 299 Park Avenue, New York, New York, 10171, Attn: Prospectus Department (888-827-7275, ext. 3884).
A registration statement relating to the offering was filed with and declared effective on July 23, 2008 by the Securities and Exchange Commission. This press release shall not constitute an offer to sell or solicitation of an offer to buy, nor shall there be any sale of these securities in any state or jurisdiction in which such offer, solicitation, or sale would be unlawful prior to registration or qualification under the securities laws of any such state or jurisdiction.
Credit Suisse Securities (USA) LLC and UBS Investment Bank acted as joint book-running managers for the offering, and Banc of America Securities LLC, Deutsche Bank Securities, Piper Jaffray and Thomas Weisel Partners LLC acted as co-managers.
A copy of the prospectus relating to the offering may be obtained by contacting: Credit Suisse Securities (USA) LLC, Eleven Madison Avenue, New York, New York, 10010-3629 (800-221-1037) or UBS Securities LLC, 299 Park Avenue, New York, New York, 10171, Attn: Prospectus Department (888-827-7275, ext. 3884).
A registration statement relating to the offering was filed with and declared effective on July 23, 2008 by the Securities and Exchange Commission. This press release shall not constitute an offer to sell or solicitation of an offer to buy, nor shall there be any sale of these securities in any state or jurisdiction in which such offer, solicitation, or sale would be unlawful prior to registration or qualification under the securities laws of any such state or jurisdiction.
Clears Skies Solar Completes Commercial PV Installation For Hawthorne Machinery
NEW YORK--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Clear Skies Solar, Inc. (OTCBB:CSKH), a leading developer of solar energy products and a full-service integration company specializing in the turnkey installation of commercial photovoltaic (PV) solar systems, today announced the successful installation of the Hawthorne Machinery solar energy system at the company’s 25-acre headquarters in Rancho Bernardo, CA.
For this $1,276,684 project, Clear Skies Solar installed a 155.39 kw DC solar photovoltaic (PV) system designed to offset current energy usage charges incurred by Hawthorne’s headquarters. Following the initial engineering and permitting periods, total installation time was a mere five weeks. Through a reduction in energy cost and government incentives, Hawthorne is expected to recoup its initial investment in approximately seven years.
Ezra Green, Chief Executive Officer and Chairman of Clear Skies Solar. “Anytime you have the opportunity to work with a quality organization such as Hawthorne CAT, you jump at the chance. Everything went like clockwork, and we couldn’t be more pleased.”
Clyde Marion, Director of Corporate Procurement of Hawthorne Machinery, stated, “We were very happy with the Clear Skies team and the work they performed. Their team was efficient and professional.”
“This system’s 758 Kyocera 205-watt panels will offset the electricity usage of approximately 77 average-sized American homes, making it a perfect example of implementing positive energy solutions in the real world,” added Green. “Providing both cost savings and environmental benefits, it’s truly a win-win scenario.”
For this $1,276,684 project, Clear Skies Solar installed a 155.39 kw DC solar photovoltaic (PV) system designed to offset current energy usage charges incurred by Hawthorne’s headquarters. Following the initial engineering and permitting periods, total installation time was a mere five weeks. Through a reduction in energy cost and government incentives, Hawthorne is expected to recoup its initial investment in approximately seven years.
Ezra Green, Chief Executive Officer and Chairman of Clear Skies Solar. “Anytime you have the opportunity to work with a quality organization such as Hawthorne CAT, you jump at the chance. Everything went like clockwork, and we couldn’t be more pleased.”
Clyde Marion, Director of Corporate Procurement of Hawthorne Machinery, stated, “We were very happy with the Clear Skies team and the work they performed. Their team was efficient and professional.”
“This system’s 758 Kyocera 205-watt panels will offset the electricity usage of approximately 77 average-sized American homes, making it a perfect example of implementing positive energy solutions in the real world,” added Green. “Providing both cost savings and environmental benefits, it’s truly a win-win scenario.”
Monday, July 21, 2008
ICP Partners With Nissan To Provide Solar Chargers
MONTREAL--(BUSINESS WIRE)--ICP Solar Technologies Inc. (OTCBB:ICPR) (FRANKFURT:K1U), a developer, manufacturer and marketer of solar panels and products, today announced that they have entered into a sales contract with Nissan in Europe and North America for OEM solar charger. A discharged battery is one of the most common problems facing the automotive industry with cars sitting in parking lots for a long period of time in cold or hot conditions. The ICP Solar OEM solar charger will help reduce the related costs and will avoid strong 12V battery drain using the power of the sun.
“ICP Solar Technologies wants to be a major player in the automotive industry which is looking for a more cost effective green solution to the dead battery problem. We have proved in the past with other car manufacturers that this OEM solar charger placed on the dashboard inside the car would be a great cost saving tool for 12V battery in the entire automotive industry,” said Sass Peress, CEO ICP Solar.
“After a very positive test from Nissan Europe with our new OEM Solar charger, equipped with cutting edge suction cups including OBD connector, we are extremely happy that Nissan North America has decided to extend our partnership,” said Tom Clark, Vice President Sales Americas. “With the new generation of cars including more and more electronics embedded such as GPS navigation systems, DVD player, cruise control, hand free cell phones, voice activation, the battery drain on new cars will become more of an issue for major automotive manufacturers and car dealers,” added Clark.
INTI Energy Solutions Kicks Off Carbon Footprint Reduction Effort
LOS ANGELES--(BUSINESS WIRE)--INTI Energy Solutions, LLC, a new company dedicated to empowering homeowners, government and business to reduce their carbon (CO2) footprint through the implementation of a customized Green Action Plans has opened its doors in Los Angeles.
The organization brings together a multi-lingual team of energy and construction experts who will provide services to a major metropolitan community that is seeking to use energy efficiently, reduce energy costs and minimize their carbon footprint, said Roland Aranjo, a principal with the company.
Aranjo said, “We believe reducing our carbon footprint is of extreme importance to our community and nation.” Speaking of the need to reduce carbon emissions, former Vice President Al Gore just this week stated: “The survival of the United States of America as we know it is at risk, and the future of human civilization is at stake.”
Local public officials, current business associates and others in the energy and Climate Action organizations joined them in the grand opening of their offices at 12 noon today (located in the State Enterprise Zone) at 4301 E. Valley Blvd. Suite A-8 Los Angeles, CA 90032.
The organization will be providing a number of services to help public institutions such as local cities and school districts, as well as homeowners develop their “green action plans,” said Aranjo.
“The company will assist clients with their assessment, planning and implementation of customized Green Action Plans in a viable and economic approach,” said Aranjo.
“For example,” Aranjo explained, “INTI Energy Solutions helps commercial customers reduce their carbon impact by offering solar energy services that deliver predictable energy pricing with no capital outlays.”
Our commercial solution removes the complexity and cost from the equation, by taking 100% responsibility to build, own and operate a solar system. The customer pays only for the solar energy produced at prices equal to or below current retail energy solutions.
For local municipalities, solutions are available. Governor Schwarzenegger recently signed into law Assembly Bill 32, the Global Warming Solutions Act, which requires the state to reduce its greenhouse gas emissions to 1990 levels by 2020.
In addition, the federal government established the Solar America Initiative and a block grant program as part of the Energy Independence Security Act of 2007 to support cities in implementing conservation, energy efficiency and renewable energy programs.
For our municipal customers we will develop and implement local Green Action Plans, supported by multi-lingual outreach strategies for grass roots energy efficiency and renewable energy services for residents and businesses.
INTI Energy Solutions has established a team of experienced professionals who can provide energy solutions in multi-lingual environments, including Spanish and Chinese languages for Southern Californians, the company said. INTI Energy Solutions will be working in partnerships with many federal, state and local governments, community associations, unions and Climate-Action non-profit agencies.
The organization brings together a multi-lingual team of energy and construction experts who will provide services to a major metropolitan community that is seeking to use energy efficiently, reduce energy costs and minimize their carbon footprint, said Roland Aranjo, a principal with the company.
Aranjo said, “We believe reducing our carbon footprint is of extreme importance to our community and nation.” Speaking of the need to reduce carbon emissions, former Vice President Al Gore just this week stated: “The survival of the United States of America as we know it is at risk, and the future of human civilization is at stake.”
Local public officials, current business associates and others in the energy and Climate Action organizations joined them in the grand opening of their offices at 12 noon today (located in the State Enterprise Zone) at 4301 E. Valley Blvd. Suite A-8 Los Angeles, CA 90032.
The organization will be providing a number of services to help public institutions such as local cities and school districts, as well as homeowners develop their “green action plans,” said Aranjo.
“The company will assist clients with their assessment, planning and implementation of customized Green Action Plans in a viable and economic approach,” said Aranjo.
“For example,” Aranjo explained, “INTI Energy Solutions helps commercial customers reduce their carbon impact by offering solar energy services that deliver predictable energy pricing with no capital outlays.”
Our commercial solution removes the complexity and cost from the equation, by taking 100% responsibility to build, own and operate a solar system. The customer pays only for the solar energy produced at prices equal to or below current retail energy solutions.
For local municipalities, solutions are available. Governor Schwarzenegger recently signed into law Assembly Bill 32, the Global Warming Solutions Act, which requires the state to reduce its greenhouse gas emissions to 1990 levels by 2020.
In addition, the federal government established the Solar America Initiative and a block grant program as part of the Energy Independence Security Act of 2007 to support cities in implementing conservation, energy efficiency and renewable energy programs.
For our municipal customers we will develop and implement local Green Action Plans, supported by multi-lingual outreach strategies for grass roots energy efficiency and renewable energy services for residents and businesses.
INTI Energy Solutions has established a team of experienced professionals who can provide energy solutions in multi-lingual environments, including Spanish and Chinese languages for Southern Californians, the company said. INTI Energy Solutions will be working in partnerships with many federal, state and local governments, community associations, unions and Climate-Action non-profit agencies.
Tuesday, July 15, 2008
Clear Skies Solar To Open Office In Greece
NEW YORK & LARISSA, Greece--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Clear Skies Solar, Inc. (OTCBB:CSKH), a leading developer and provider of solar power solutions, today announced the establishment of a corporate office in the city of Larissa, in Central Greece. Partnering with Larissa-based Aspen Energy, whose focus is the procurement of solar energy business opportunities throughout Greece, Clear Skies Solar (CSS) will serve as Aspen’s exclusive supplier of renewable energy technology and installation.
“We are extremely enthusiastic about entering a country that represents one of the fastest-growing markets for solar energy,” said Clear Skies Solar Chairman and CEO Ezra Green. “In teaming up with Aspen Energy, a locally based company, and combining our industry expertise with Aspen’s extensive knowledge of the country’s unique and rapidly expanding renewable energy needs, we are certain of our ability to anticipate and meet the growing demand.”
Due to government tax incentives, Greece has emerged as a leading market for solar power. In 2006, the country’s Parliament passed comprehensive Renewable Energy Sources legislation, part of which provides grants and favorable tax treatment as incentives for implementing solar energy solutions. For commercial entities, incentives in the form of grants can run as high as 50 percent of the total cost of a company’s solar system.
Furthermore, high levels of environmental awareness among Greece’s populace are a driving demand for renewable energy sources.
For its new office, which will be led by Aspen Energy Managing Director Evaggelos Tsoupakis, Clear Skies Solar will hire a staff of local individuals, with US-based personnel overseeing the location’s operational setup.
“This partnership will exponentially enhance our companies’ joint ability to capitalize on Greece’s burgeoning solar market,” Tsoupakis stated. “Given the strategic location of the new office, I am confident we will be able to proactively identify, pursue and secure a variety of significant business opportunities and this process has already begun with proposals submitted for a number of near-term commercial projects being evaluated.”
“Clear Skies Solar’s expansion and collaboration with Aspen Energy is simply a win-win for everyone involved,” Green added, “We look forward to many, many years of productive and profitable partnership.”
Going beyond its base in the United States, Clear Skies Solar’s Larissa office marks the company’s second expansion into the international arena. In April, CSS announced a $20 million letter of intent to develop and build a multi-megawatt solar energy system in Uttar Pradesh, India, that will power a steel mill and support the community’s energy grid system. For this project, CSS will provide technology, engineering and construction services. Additionally, the company will be available to support the system’s operational and maintenance needs.
“We are extremely enthusiastic about entering a country that represents one of the fastest-growing markets for solar energy,” said Clear Skies Solar Chairman and CEO Ezra Green. “In teaming up with Aspen Energy, a locally based company, and combining our industry expertise with Aspen’s extensive knowledge of the country’s unique and rapidly expanding renewable energy needs, we are certain of our ability to anticipate and meet the growing demand.”
Due to government tax incentives, Greece has emerged as a leading market for solar power. In 2006, the country’s Parliament passed comprehensive Renewable Energy Sources legislation, part of which provides grants and favorable tax treatment as incentives for implementing solar energy solutions. For commercial entities, incentives in the form of grants can run as high as 50 percent of the total cost of a company’s solar system.
Furthermore, high levels of environmental awareness among Greece’s populace are a driving demand for renewable energy sources.
For its new office, which will be led by Aspen Energy Managing Director Evaggelos Tsoupakis, Clear Skies Solar will hire a staff of local individuals, with US-based personnel overseeing the location’s operational setup.
“This partnership will exponentially enhance our companies’ joint ability to capitalize on Greece’s burgeoning solar market,” Tsoupakis stated. “Given the strategic location of the new office, I am confident we will be able to proactively identify, pursue and secure a variety of significant business opportunities and this process has already begun with proposals submitted for a number of near-term commercial projects being evaluated.”
“Clear Skies Solar’s expansion and collaboration with Aspen Energy is simply a win-win for everyone involved,” Green added, “We look forward to many, many years of productive and profitable partnership.”
Going beyond its base in the United States, Clear Skies Solar’s Larissa office marks the company’s second expansion into the international arena. In April, CSS announced a $20 million letter of intent to develop and build a multi-megawatt solar energy system in Uttar Pradesh, India, that will power a steel mill and support the community’s energy grid system. For this project, CSS will provide technology, engineering and construction services. Additionally, the company will be available to support the system’s operational and maintenance needs.
Evergreen Solar Inks $1.2 Billion Deal
MARLBORO, Mass.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Evergreen Solar, Inc. (Nasdaq: ESLR), a manufacturer of solar power panels with its proprietary, low-cost String Ribbon™ wafer technology, announced it has signed a new long-term sales contract valued at approximately $1.2 billion with German-based IBC SOLAR AG. This contract extends through 2013 and brings the company’s total contractual backlog to nearly $3 billion with 5 customers.
“We are very pleased to begin this significant long term relationship with IBC SOLAR, the largest PV distributor in the world”, said Richard M. Feldt, Evergreen Solar's chairman, president and chief executive officer. “This contract represents the single largest contract in the history of our company and is one of the largest contracts ever between a panel manufacturer and a distributor.”
The solar panels for these take-or-pay contracts will be manufactured at the Company’s new 160 MW facility in Devens, Massachusetts, which opened in June, and at the Company’s next factory, which is expected to open in 2010. To date, the Company has contracted approximately 70 percent of Devens expected capacity through 2010 and all of Devens capacity in 2011 through 2013.
“Quality comes first at IBC SOLAR”, said Udo Möhrstedt, President and CEO of IBC SOLAR. “Our aim is to make the use of solar energy easy and competitive for our customers. Evergreen’s solar panels are one of the highest quality products in the industry. By adding Evergreen to our product portfolio, we can meet the growing demand of our customers.”
“We are very pleased to begin this significant long term relationship with IBC SOLAR, the largest PV distributor in the world”, said Richard M. Feldt, Evergreen Solar's chairman, president and chief executive officer. “This contract represents the single largest contract in the history of our company and is one of the largest contracts ever between a panel manufacturer and a distributor.”
The solar panels for these take-or-pay contracts will be manufactured at the Company’s new 160 MW facility in Devens, Massachusetts, which opened in June, and at the Company’s next factory, which is expected to open in 2010. To date, the Company has contracted approximately 70 percent of Devens expected capacity through 2010 and all of Devens capacity in 2011 through 2013.
“Quality comes first at IBC SOLAR”, said Udo Möhrstedt, President and CEO of IBC SOLAR. “Our aim is to make the use of solar energy easy and competitive for our customers. Evergreen’s solar panels are one of the highest quality products in the industry. By adding Evergreen to our product portfolio, we can meet the growing demand of our customers.”
WorldWater And Solar Kicks Off Ocean City Project
EWING, N.J.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--WorldWater & Solar Technologies Corp. (OTC BB: WWAT), developer and marketer of proprietary high-power solar systems, today announced that it has begun work on several solar installations for Ocean City. The systems, consisting of roof mounts on the Cultural Arts and Community Center, the new Public Works Complex building, the Vehicle Maintenance Center, the Sports and Civic Center and the Firehouse, are anticipated to produce nearly 550,000 kilowatt-hours of energy in their first year. Project completion is expected by the fourth quarter of 2008.
“As announced earlier, Ocean City will take a leap forward in its efforts to harness the power of the sun through our proven roof-mounted systems,” said Frank Smith, CEO. “The 15 year contract provides the city with lower-cost energy at a time when oil prices remain at record highs. As a leader in providing solar energy in our home state of New Jersey, where Governor Corzine recently unveiled his draft Energy Master Plan, we are pleased to see this project get underway.”
“As announced earlier, Ocean City will take a leap forward in its efforts to harness the power of the sun through our proven roof-mounted systems,” said Frank Smith, CEO. “The 15 year contract provides the city with lower-cost energy at a time when oil prices remain at record highs. As a leader in providing solar energy in our home state of New Jersey, where Governor Corzine recently unveiled his draft Energy Master Plan, we are pleased to see this project get underway.”
Solarfun Lands 47 MW Solar Contract With Major European Distributor
SHANGHAI, China--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Solarfun Power Holdings Co., Ltd. (NASDAQ: SOLF), an established manufacturer of photovoltaic (“PV”) cells, modules and ingots in China, today announced that one of its wholly owned subsidiaries has entered into a 47.0 MW sales contract with Schüco International KG (“Schüco”), a leading PV system provider in Europe.
Under the terms of the agreement, Solarfun has agreed to supply a total of 47.0 MW of PV modules to Schüco at a fixed price to be delivered according to a binding delivery schedule from December 2008 to October 2009. The PV modules are intended to be installed in major projects in south-east Europe and the Middle-East.
Harold Hoskens, Chief Executive Officer of Solarfun, commented, "This is our largest project contract to date and we are happy to have signed it with Schüco. Schüco is a leading PV system provider in Europe and is recognized as an important player in the growing PV market. We look forward to further developing our relationship with them. We are also particularly happy to partner on this project since it gives us the opportunity to diversify our business outside of the more established markets in Europe and introduce our PV modules in significant quantities to south-east Europe and the Middle East, which we believe will be key markets for solar energy in the near future.”
Under the terms of the agreement, Solarfun has agreed to supply a total of 47.0 MW of PV modules to Schüco at a fixed price to be delivered according to a binding delivery schedule from December 2008 to October 2009. The PV modules are intended to be installed in major projects in south-east Europe and the Middle-East.
Harold Hoskens, Chief Executive Officer of Solarfun, commented, "This is our largest project contract to date and we are happy to have signed it with Schüco. Schüco is a leading PV system provider in Europe and is recognized as an important player in the growing PV market. We look forward to further developing our relationship with them. We are also particularly happy to partner on this project since it gives us the opportunity to diversify our business outside of the more established markets in Europe and introduce our PV modules in significant quantities to south-east Europe and the Middle East, which we believe will be key markets for solar energy in the near future.”
Thursday, July 10, 2008
Office Depot Opens First "Green" Store
DELRAY BEACH, Fla.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Office Depot® (NYSE:ODP), a leading global provider of office products and services, today will celebrate the grand opening of its first “Green” store, located at 2620 W. Anderson Lane in Austin, TX, with a Ribbon Cutting Ceremony scheduled for 2:00 pm. The event will be attended by Office Depot executives, Texas dignitaries, including City of Austin Mayor Will Wynn, local environmental organizations and representatives from the U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC).
Office Depot’s “Green” store, which is pre-certified to Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) standards by the USGBC, will use less energy and water in its daily operations, increase recycling and leave a much smaller overall environmental footprint than the typical store of its size.
“The City of Austin is the birthplace of the USGBC and a leader in our nation’s fight against climate change,” said City of Austin Mayor Will Wynn. “We are proud that Office Depot chose to select Austin as the site of its green retail prototype. We think what they are doing shows real leadership – and paves the path for more retailers to invest in green building.”
Office Depot is the only office supply retailer participating in the USGBC’s prestigious Retail Volume Certification Portfolio Program, a pilot group formed to help retailers achieve LEED-Certification at numerous locations and to facilitate the certification process for a company’s prototype. Office Depot is the first Company to have its prototype pre-certified under the USGBC's LEED for New Construction Volume Certification Program.
“We are looking forward to taking care of business for our Austin customers at our first pre-certified ‘Green’ store,” said Chuck Rubin, President of North American Retail for Office Depot. “Not only can customers choose from thousands of greener office products within Office Depot's industry-leading assortment but they will also have a better understanding of why a particular product is green and how they can make sustainable products a part of their home office or business environment.”
"We took a series of innovative green design elements used in Office Depot store locations across the country and brought them together in our new store prototype," added Ed Costa, Vice President of Construction for Office Depot. "Through the construction phase of this prototype design we used a wide range of greener building products and practices.”
Office Depot Green Store Highlights
Features of the new Office Depot “Green” store in Austin include:
* T5 energy-efficient lighting, which is over 30 percent more efficient than traditional, incandescent lighting.
* Over 50 active skylights that adjust with the path of the sun and provide natural light to over 90 percent of the store.
* Solar panels on the roof, which generate about 10 percent of the store’s energy needs and power the exterior Office Depot signage.
* Reflective roof which features a membrane that helps to prevent absorption of the heat from the sun and keeps the interior of the store much cooler.
* Steel decking and joists made of over 85 percent recycled steel and recycled concrete partitions composed of more than 95 percent recycled materials.
* Water conservation interior fixtures, including dual flush toilets, low flow urinals, and automatic shutoff sensors in restrooms that will use over 40 percent less water than the typical facility.
* Exterior Landscaping system featuring xeriscaping, a water-efficient technique.
* Native plants that require no additional irrigation for sustenance.
* Energy Management System that allows tracking of energy usage and trends from one central location.
* Office supplies, technology and furniture options featuring a wide range of green attributes such as recycled content, remanufactured, EnergyStar certified and non-toxic.
* In-store Recycling Center with environmental solutions including Office Depot Ink and Toner Cartridge Recycling, Tech Recycling Service and Cell Phone and Rechargeable Battery Recycling.
Another innovative aspect of the Office Depot green store is a new approach to visual merchandising. The interior walls feature educational vignettes about how the store and product assortment are both greener; customers will be welcomed by an informational board containing interesting facts and details on what makes the store green; and store associates will be armed with tips and recommendations to help customers learn how to green their own business.
Yalmaz Siddiqui, Director of Environmental Strategy for Office Depot added: “Office Depot has an environmental vision to increasingly buy green, be green and sell green. While we have already achieved dramatic reductions in carbon emissions from our existing facilities, this new store takes us to a completely new level of energy efficiency, carbon reduction and waste reduction. The pre-certification of our prototype further establishes Office Depot as the green leader in the office products industry."
Office Depot’s “Green” store, which is pre-certified to Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) standards by the USGBC, will use less energy and water in its daily operations, increase recycling and leave a much smaller overall environmental footprint than the typical store of its size.
“The City of Austin is the birthplace of the USGBC and a leader in our nation’s fight against climate change,” said City of Austin Mayor Will Wynn. “We are proud that Office Depot chose to select Austin as the site of its green retail prototype. We think what they are doing shows real leadership – and paves the path for more retailers to invest in green building.”
Office Depot is the only office supply retailer participating in the USGBC’s prestigious Retail Volume Certification Portfolio Program, a pilot group formed to help retailers achieve LEED-Certification at numerous locations and to facilitate the certification process for a company’s prototype. Office Depot is the first Company to have its prototype pre-certified under the USGBC's LEED for New Construction Volume Certification Program.
“We are looking forward to taking care of business for our Austin customers at our first pre-certified ‘Green’ store,” said Chuck Rubin, President of North American Retail for Office Depot. “Not only can customers choose from thousands of greener office products within Office Depot's industry-leading assortment but they will also have a better understanding of why a particular product is green and how they can make sustainable products a part of their home office or business environment.”
"We took a series of innovative green design elements used in Office Depot store locations across the country and brought them together in our new store prototype," added Ed Costa, Vice President of Construction for Office Depot. "Through the construction phase of this prototype design we used a wide range of greener building products and practices.”
Office Depot Green Store Highlights
Features of the new Office Depot “Green” store in Austin include:
* T5 energy-efficient lighting, which is over 30 percent more efficient than traditional, incandescent lighting.
* Over 50 active skylights that adjust with the path of the sun and provide natural light to over 90 percent of the store.
* Solar panels on the roof, which generate about 10 percent of the store’s energy needs and power the exterior Office Depot signage.
* Reflective roof which features a membrane that helps to prevent absorption of the heat from the sun and keeps the interior of the store much cooler.
* Steel decking and joists made of over 85 percent recycled steel and recycled concrete partitions composed of more than 95 percent recycled materials.
* Water conservation interior fixtures, including dual flush toilets, low flow urinals, and automatic shutoff sensors in restrooms that will use over 40 percent less water than the typical facility.
* Exterior Landscaping system featuring xeriscaping, a water-efficient technique.
* Native plants that require no additional irrigation for sustenance.
* Energy Management System that allows tracking of energy usage and trends from one central location.
* Office supplies, technology and furniture options featuring a wide range of green attributes such as recycled content, remanufactured, EnergyStar certified and non-toxic.
* In-store Recycling Center with environmental solutions including Office Depot Ink and Toner Cartridge Recycling, Tech Recycling Service and Cell Phone and Rechargeable Battery Recycling.
Another innovative aspect of the Office Depot green store is a new approach to visual merchandising. The interior walls feature educational vignettes about how the store and product assortment are both greener; customers will be welcomed by an informational board containing interesting facts and details on what makes the store green; and store associates will be armed with tips and recommendations to help customers learn how to green their own business.
Yalmaz Siddiqui, Director of Environmental Strategy for Office Depot added: “Office Depot has an environmental vision to increasingly buy green, be green and sell green. While we have already achieved dramatic reductions in carbon emissions from our existing facilities, this new store takes us to a completely new level of energy efficiency, carbon reduction and waste reduction. The pre-certification of our prototype further establishes Office Depot as the green leader in the office products industry."
NeoSolar To Partner With MTI Microfuel Cells
ALBANY, N.Y. & SEOUL, Korea--(BUSINESS WIRE)--MTI MicroFuel Cells Inc. (MTI Micro), the developer of Mobion® off-the-grid portable power solutions and a subsidiary of Mechanical Technology, Incorporated (MTI) (NASDAQ: MKTY), and NeoSolar (KOSDAQ: 036610), a Korean manufacturer of portable digital devices and energy products, today announced that they have entered into an agreement for the development of Mobion® fuel cell technology for use in future models of NeoSolar portable digital devices including ultra mobile portable computers (UMPCs.)
Both MTI Micro and NeoSolar will work together to develop, test, and evaluate Mobion® prototypes for their integration with a number of NeoSolar products that could lead to the use of external Mobion® power sources like chargers, snap-on attachments, and embedded Mobion® power sources for integration into various digital products.
“At NeoSolar, we want to incorporate the best technologies available into our products, and provide our customers with the most advanced features and cutting-edge functionality,” said Dr. James Y. Yu, President of NeoSolar. “This co-development agreement with MTI Micro will give us the opportunity to provide fuel cell technology with incredible benefits that may allow us to bring a new class of digital products to consumers.”
NeoSolar’s UMPCs, branded as “Wibrain” are much smaller than traditional portable notebook computers with enough processor strength to support a full operating system, as well as complete browsing, communication, video and gaming capabilities in a compact package. According to research from Frost and Sullivan, the annual portable power market for UMPCs had grown to $343 million as of the end of 2007 from $93 million in 2003 and is projected to cross the half billion dollar mark in 2010.
“Working with NeoSolar gives us access to a new segment of the consumer electronics market - UMPCs,” said Peng Lim, Chairman and CEO of MTI. “NeoSolar’s UMPCs are well suited for a new power source that can take them to the next step in their product evolution. Today’s announcement is also an important step for MTI Micro toward our goal of becoming a leading provider of portable power for handheld electronic devices.”
“MTI Micro’s effort with its third consumer electronic OEM engagement in less than a year is proof of the interest in the marketplace for direct methanol fuel cell solutions for the ever increasing number of new multi-functional devices in the consumer market that need more power,” said Sara Bradford, Research Director of Power Systems Group at Frost & Sullivan. “We believe MTI Micro is gaining momentum as its potential market opportunity has now expanded to include UMPCs.”
NeoSolar joins other consumer OEMs which have recently entered into agreements with MTI Micro to evaluate the use of Mobion® power solutions in their products. As MTI Micro continues to work towards commercialization of its Mobion® technology, it recently opened a representative office in China to allow for the development of manufacturing and low-cost component supplier relationships and entered into agreements with representatives in both Korea and Japan.
Both MTI Micro and NeoSolar will work together to develop, test, and evaluate Mobion® prototypes for their integration with a number of NeoSolar products that could lead to the use of external Mobion® power sources like chargers, snap-on attachments, and embedded Mobion® power sources for integration into various digital products.
“At NeoSolar, we want to incorporate the best technologies available into our products, and provide our customers with the most advanced features and cutting-edge functionality,” said Dr. James Y. Yu, President of NeoSolar. “This co-development agreement with MTI Micro will give us the opportunity to provide fuel cell technology with incredible benefits that may allow us to bring a new class of digital products to consumers.”
NeoSolar’s UMPCs, branded as “Wibrain” are much smaller than traditional portable notebook computers with enough processor strength to support a full operating system, as well as complete browsing, communication, video and gaming capabilities in a compact package. According to research from Frost and Sullivan, the annual portable power market for UMPCs had grown to $343 million as of the end of 2007 from $93 million in 2003 and is projected to cross the half billion dollar mark in 2010.
“Working with NeoSolar gives us access to a new segment of the consumer electronics market - UMPCs,” said Peng Lim, Chairman and CEO of MTI. “NeoSolar’s UMPCs are well suited for a new power source that can take them to the next step in their product evolution. Today’s announcement is also an important step for MTI Micro toward our goal of becoming a leading provider of portable power for handheld electronic devices.”
“MTI Micro’s effort with its third consumer electronic OEM engagement in less than a year is proof of the interest in the marketplace for direct methanol fuel cell solutions for the ever increasing number of new multi-functional devices in the consumer market that need more power,” said Sara Bradford, Research Director of Power Systems Group at Frost & Sullivan. “We believe MTI Micro is gaining momentum as its potential market opportunity has now expanded to include UMPCs.”
NeoSolar joins other consumer OEMs which have recently entered into agreements with MTI Micro to evaluate the use of Mobion® power solutions in their products. As MTI Micro continues to work towards commercialization of its Mobion® technology, it recently opened a representative office in China to allow for the development of manufacturing and low-cost component supplier relationships and entered into agreements with representatives in both Korea and Japan.
Evolution Solar To Attend COPENMIND
GILBERT, Ariz.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Evolution Solar Corp (OTC:EVSO) has accepted an invitation to attend the inaugural groundbreaking COPENMIND Conference and Exhibit in Copenhagen, Denmark. COPENMIND is devoted to research, technology and innovation through university-industry partnerships, creating a global and dedicated forum in Copenhagen, Denmark.
“The value of COPENMIND is the unique combination of academia and business,” stated Robert Kaapke, CEO of Evolution Solar. “COPENMIND creates a cutting-edge platform for partnerships creating the world’s first truly global marketplace for university-industry interaction in relation to technology transfer and research partnerships.”
Major sponsors of the event include: SIEMENS, Maersk Oil, Earth2Tech, Cleantech Group, KPMG, and Danfoss. The Danish manufacturing group, Danfoss AS, on Monday was approved to take full control of Sauer-Danfoss Inc (NYSE:SHS), its joint venture with Sauer Holding GmbH. ARCO announced that it would sell its solar energy subsidiary to Siemens A.G. (NYSE:SI). According to Siemens, the market is growing by 30 percent a year.
COPENMIND brings together the greatest minds from the scientific, corporate and political worlds. Over 150 universities taking part in the exhibition have achieved great research results and offer tech transfer, licensing and partnering opportunities.
COPENMIND enables an intellectual match-making between more than 100 university exhibitors and 4,000 company representatives on a scale that has never been seen before. The COPENMIND 2008 topic is CleanTech. For more information please go to: http://www.copenmind.com.
“The value of COPENMIND is the unique combination of academia and business,” stated Robert Kaapke, CEO of Evolution Solar. “COPENMIND creates a cutting-edge platform for partnerships creating the world’s first truly global marketplace for university-industry interaction in relation to technology transfer and research partnerships.”
Major sponsors of the event include: SIEMENS, Maersk Oil, Earth2Tech, Cleantech Group, KPMG, and Danfoss. The Danish manufacturing group, Danfoss AS, on Monday was approved to take full control of Sauer-Danfoss Inc (NYSE:SHS), its joint venture with Sauer Holding GmbH. ARCO announced that it would sell its solar energy subsidiary to Siemens A.G. (NYSE:SI). According to Siemens, the market is growing by 30 percent a year.
COPENMIND brings together the greatest minds from the scientific, corporate and political worlds. Over 150 universities taking part in the exhibition have achieved great research results and offer tech transfer, licensing and partnering opportunities.
COPENMIND enables an intellectual match-making between more than 100 university exhibitors and 4,000 company representatives on a scale that has never been seen before. The COPENMIND 2008 topic is CleanTech. For more information please go to: http://www.copenmind.com.
eSolar Names New CFO
PASADENA, Calif.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Today eSolar™, a producer of modular, scalable solar thermal power plants, announced the addition of Merrick Kerr as Chief Financial Officer (CFO). As CFO, Mr. Kerr will oversee the financial and administrative functions of the Company as it expands its presence across the southwest United States and globally. Mr. Kerr joins the Company following the closing of $130 million in funding from Idealab, Oak Investment Partners and Google.org, as well as a recently announced power purchase agreement (PPA) with Southern California Edison to produce 245 MW of solar thermal power.
“As eSolar continues its ambitious growth trajectory, the role of CFO will be imperative in guaranteeing that our strategic and financial planning promotes our market goals,” said Asif Ansari, Chief Executive Officer of eSolar. “We are extremely pleased to add Merrick to our team. His addition enables us to secure a key management role that will help support eSolar’s rapid expansion and bring our modular, scalable solar thermal power plants to market.”
Mr. Kerr brings with him 15 years of experience in the energy industry, including nearly seven years in the renewable energy sector. Throughout his career, Mr. Kerr has overseen the accounting, financial and strategic planning and operations functions of various energy organizations. Mr. Kerr recently served as CFO of Rentech, Inc., a publicly traded company which specializes in the conversion of carbon-based materials into alternative fuels. Prior to that, Mr. Kerr served as CFO of PPM Energy, Inc., the Portland, OR-based non-utility subsidiary of ScottishPower. At PPM, Mr. Kerr was responsible for all project financing activities, including the notable low-cost financing of the Colorado Green Wind Project. Mr. Kerr holds a bachelor’s degree in accountancy and economics from the University of Edinburgh and is a member of the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Scotland. Mr. Kerr also completed the Stanford Graduate School of Business Executive Program and the Business Leadership Program at the Wharton School.
“Smart, concentrating solar thermal power is poised to make a significant impact on how utilities large and small across the sunniest parts of the United States generate power. As more and more energy providers look to integrate CSP into their portfolio, they are also looking for the companies that present the best technological solutions to the problems facing the industry,” Mr. Kerr said. “eSolar has addressed these concerns, with a design that overcomes the most pressing obstacles characterizing larger renewable energy installations: rapid deployment, ease of scalability, lower price and lessened grid impact.”
“As eSolar continues its ambitious growth trajectory, the role of CFO will be imperative in guaranteeing that our strategic and financial planning promotes our market goals,” said Asif Ansari, Chief Executive Officer of eSolar. “We are extremely pleased to add Merrick to our team. His addition enables us to secure a key management role that will help support eSolar’s rapid expansion and bring our modular, scalable solar thermal power plants to market.”
Mr. Kerr brings with him 15 years of experience in the energy industry, including nearly seven years in the renewable energy sector. Throughout his career, Mr. Kerr has overseen the accounting, financial and strategic planning and operations functions of various energy organizations. Mr. Kerr recently served as CFO of Rentech, Inc., a publicly traded company which specializes in the conversion of carbon-based materials into alternative fuels. Prior to that, Mr. Kerr served as CFO of PPM Energy, Inc., the Portland, OR-based non-utility subsidiary of ScottishPower. At PPM, Mr. Kerr was responsible for all project financing activities, including the notable low-cost financing of the Colorado Green Wind Project. Mr. Kerr holds a bachelor’s degree in accountancy and economics from the University of Edinburgh and is a member of the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Scotland. Mr. Kerr also completed the Stanford Graduate School of Business Executive Program and the Business Leadership Program at the Wharton School.
“Smart, concentrating solar thermal power is poised to make a significant impact on how utilities large and small across the sunniest parts of the United States generate power. As more and more energy providers look to integrate CSP into their portfolio, they are also looking for the companies that present the best technological solutions to the problems facing the industry,” Mr. Kerr said. “eSolar has addressed these concerns, with a design that overcomes the most pressing obstacles characterizing larger renewable energy installations: rapid deployment, ease of scalability, lower price and lessened grid impact.”
Tuesday, July 08, 2008
Cupertino Cool Cities Program Selects REC Solar
CUPERTINO, Calif.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Leading residential and commercial solar installation company REC Solar, Inc. announced it has been selected as a preferred solar electricity provider by Cupertino’s “Cool Cities” program. To celebrate, REC Solar is running a special summer program offering Cupertino residents group discounts on solar electric systems for their homes and businesses.
According to Lisa A. Giefer, Vice Chairperson of the Planning Commission for the City of Cupertino, “Members of Cool Cities, a division of the Sierra Club, have selected two leading vendors to provide group purchase discounts on solar installations. REC Solar, Inc. has the largest base of installed solar systems in the area and is the leader in residential installations. We are pleased that they are offering Cupertino residents and commercial building owners an incentive to purchase or lease cost effective solar systems.”
Through the program home owners will have the option of purchasing a discounted system directly from REC Solar or contracting with the company’s partner SunRun, Inc. for a solar energy service agreement.
Previously, REC Solar has also been chosen as a preferred provider by other Bay Area cities including Walnut Creek, Livermore, Pleasanton, and San Jose.
“There are several forces at play at present which make solar energy a smart decision including generous tax credits and rebates offered by the government and the fact that energy costs are rising on average more than 6% per year,” said Matthew Woods, Director of Sales for REC Solar. “The state of California has taken a leadership role in production of alternative energy and we applaud Cupertino for educating its residents and helping the state to achieve its goal.”
REC Solar will be hosting an informational workshop on solar on Thursday, July 9, 2008 at 7:00 p.m. at the Cupertino Community Hall located at 10350 Torre Avenue, Cupertino, CA, 95014. Discounts on solar electric systems will be offered to all Cupertino residents and businesses through September 15, 2008.
According to Lisa A. Giefer, Vice Chairperson of the Planning Commission for the City of Cupertino, “Members of Cool Cities, a division of the Sierra Club, have selected two leading vendors to provide group purchase discounts on solar installations. REC Solar, Inc. has the largest base of installed solar systems in the area and is the leader in residential installations. We are pleased that they are offering Cupertino residents and commercial building owners an incentive to purchase or lease cost effective solar systems.”
Through the program home owners will have the option of purchasing a discounted system directly from REC Solar or contracting with the company’s partner SunRun, Inc. for a solar energy service agreement.
Previously, REC Solar has also been chosen as a preferred provider by other Bay Area cities including Walnut Creek, Livermore, Pleasanton, and San Jose.
“There are several forces at play at present which make solar energy a smart decision including generous tax credits and rebates offered by the government and the fact that energy costs are rising on average more than 6% per year,” said Matthew Woods, Director of Sales for REC Solar. “The state of California has taken a leadership role in production of alternative energy and we applaud Cupertino for educating its residents and helping the state to achieve its goal.”
REC Solar will be hosting an informational workshop on solar on Thursday, July 9, 2008 at 7:00 p.m. at the Cupertino Community Hall located at 10350 Torre Avenue, Cupertino, CA, 95014. Discounts on solar electric systems will be offered to all Cupertino residents and businesses through September 15, 2008.
Yingli Green Energy Books 7 MW Of Photovoltaic Business
BAODING, China--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Yingli Green Energy Holding Company Limited (NYSE: YGE) (“Yingli Green Energy” or the “Company”), one of the world’s leading vertically integrated photovoltaic (“PV”) product manufacturers, today announced that it has entered into five new sales contracts to supply an aggregate of more than 7 MW of PV modules to five companies in Korea. All modules will be used in projects located in Korea.
Customers that signed these contracts include LG CNS Co., Ltd., DMS Co., Ltd., Hyosung Corporation, Nam Jung Energy Co., Ltd. and Kaycom Corp, to which Yingli Green Energy will supply PV modules during the third quarter of 2008.
“We are pleased with the success that we have had so far in building our business in Korea and these new contracts clearly demonstrate continued progress in extending our global presence,” commented Mr. Seok Jin Lee, Chief Operating Officer of Yingli Green Energy. “In a relatively short period of time, we have been able to develop good relationships with reputable companies in Korea. Our strong brand in other established markets has given us a solid starting point and we believe these contracts will further build customer confidence in the region. We are confident that Korea will develop into an exciting emerging solar market on the back of strong demand and favorable feed-in tariffs. As we continue to promote our products in new markets around the world, we will always remain deeply committed to further solidifying relationships with our existing customers.”
Customers that signed these contracts include LG CNS Co., Ltd., DMS Co., Ltd., Hyosung Corporation, Nam Jung Energy Co., Ltd. and Kaycom Corp, to which Yingli Green Energy will supply PV modules during the third quarter of 2008.
“We are pleased with the success that we have had so far in building our business in Korea and these new contracts clearly demonstrate continued progress in extending our global presence,” commented Mr. Seok Jin Lee, Chief Operating Officer of Yingli Green Energy. “In a relatively short period of time, we have been able to develop good relationships with reputable companies in Korea. Our strong brand in other established markets has given us a solid starting point and we believe these contracts will further build customer confidence in the region. We are confident that Korea will develop into an exciting emerging solar market on the back of strong demand and favorable feed-in tariffs. As we continue to promote our products in new markets around the world, we will always remain deeply committed to further solidifying relationships with our existing customers.”
Kyocera Donates Solar Panels to Primary Schools in Tanzania
KYOTO, Japan--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Kyocera Corporation (NYSE:KYO)(TOKYO:6971)(ISIN:JP3249600002)(President: Makoto Kawamura) has decided to donate solar power generating systems to primary schools in the United Republic of Tanzania. Commemorating the contribution officially, Kazuo Inamori, the Kyocera Chairman Emeritus, today presented a donation certificate to His Excellency Mr. Jakaya Mrisho Kikwete, the President of the United Republic of Tanzania and Chairman of the African Union, who is currently in Japan attending the outreach sessions for the 2008 G8 Hokkaido Toyako Summit.
During the 4th Tokyo International Conference on African Development (TICAD IV) in Yokohama, the Japanese Government pledged an aggressive assistance program for Africa by yen loans, totaling the equivalent of four billion U.S. dollars. A large number of supports from the private sectors are required, as the infrastructures for transportation aiming for the economic development as well as those of education for development of human resources are considered to be urgent tasks to achieve the goal.
In Tanzania, the top priorities include improving its educational infrastructures to develop the human resources for the future. To partly solve this challenge, Kyocera decided to donate and install its solar power generating systems to Tanzanian primary schools where the education conditions are not yet sufficient. The company hopes to support to improve the education standard to some extent by lighting up the classrooms and installing the electrification equipment.
-- 20 Sets of Donation for the Following Five Years
The donation package contains 600-watt solar power generating systems including storage batteries that Kyocera will install in schools in Tanzania. Each system will come with basic equipment, such as a TV set and lights. Kyocera will donate and install the systems in four schools each year over the coming five years, totaling 20 schools starting from 2008.
-- Supporting Rural Electrification
Kyocera entered the solar energy business in 1975 when then-President Kazuo Inamori first recognized the long-term potential for solar technology to contribute to global energy demand. The company’s solar business has continued for 33 years based on the principle of “Contributing to society through pollution-free energy around the world”.
Kyocera has also continued to light up many people’s lives in developing areas without electricity by solar power generation, believing that it could contribute to people and society.
Kyocera’s efforts in rural electrification began with the village of Kankoi in Pakistan in 1983, and Gansu Province of China in 1985, along with a series of projects involving agricultural irrigation, vaccine refrigeration, and power for medical facilities. The company is scheduled to supply solar power generating systems to 500 households in Tunisia under a Japanese Government yen-loan project in October 2008. This will be the first use of yen loans for the delivery and installation of solar power systems.
During the 4th Tokyo International Conference on African Development (TICAD IV) in Yokohama, the Japanese Government pledged an aggressive assistance program for Africa by yen loans, totaling the equivalent of four billion U.S. dollars. A large number of supports from the private sectors are required, as the infrastructures for transportation aiming for the economic development as well as those of education for development of human resources are considered to be urgent tasks to achieve the goal.
In Tanzania, the top priorities include improving its educational infrastructures to develop the human resources for the future. To partly solve this challenge, Kyocera decided to donate and install its solar power generating systems to Tanzanian primary schools where the education conditions are not yet sufficient. The company hopes to support to improve the education standard to some extent by lighting up the classrooms and installing the electrification equipment.
-- 20 Sets of Donation for the Following Five Years
The donation package contains 600-watt solar power generating systems including storage batteries that Kyocera will install in schools in Tanzania. Each system will come with basic equipment, such as a TV set and lights. Kyocera will donate and install the systems in four schools each year over the coming five years, totaling 20 schools starting from 2008.
-- Supporting Rural Electrification
Kyocera entered the solar energy business in 1975 when then-President Kazuo Inamori first recognized the long-term potential for solar technology to contribute to global energy demand. The company’s solar business has continued for 33 years based on the principle of “Contributing to society through pollution-free energy around the world”.
Kyocera has also continued to light up many people’s lives in developing areas without electricity by solar power generation, believing that it could contribute to people and society.
Kyocera’s efforts in rural electrification began with the village of Kankoi in Pakistan in 1983, and Gansu Province of China in 1985, along with a series of projects involving agricultural irrigation, vaccine refrigeration, and power for medical facilities. The company is scheduled to supply solar power generating systems to 500 households in Tunisia under a Japanese Government yen-loan project in October 2008. This will be the first use of yen loans for the delivery and installation of solar power systems.
Monday, July 07, 2008
Hoku Scientific Announces Investors Conference Call
KAPOLEI, HI--(Marketwire - July 2, 2008) - Hoku Scientific, Inc. (NASDAQ: HOKU), a materials science company focused on clean energy technologies, announced today that it will hold a conference call with investors and analysts on Wednesday, July 16, 2008 at 5:00 p.m. Eastern Time to discuss results for the Company's first quarter fiscal year 2009 ended June 30, 2008 and the Company's business outlook.
The news release announcing the first quarter fiscal year 2009 results will be disseminated over a national wire service on July 16, 2008 after the market close. The press release will be posted at the Company's website: www.hokuscientific.com.
The dial-in number for the live audio call beginning at 5:00 p.m. Eastern Time is (719) 325-4911. A live webcast of the conference call will be available on Hoku's website at www.hokuscientific.com.
A replay of the call will be available shortly after the conclusion of the call via the web at www.hokuscientific.com. The webcast will be recorded and available for replay until the Company's conference call to discuss its financial results for its second quarter of fiscal year 2009.
The news release announcing the first quarter fiscal year 2009 results will be disseminated over a national wire service on July 16, 2008 after the market close. The press release will be posted at the Company's website: www.hokuscientific.com.
The dial-in number for the live audio call beginning at 5:00 p.m. Eastern Time is (719) 325-4911. A live webcast of the conference call will be available on Hoku's website at www.hokuscientific.com.
A replay of the call will be available shortly after the conclusion of the call via the web at www.hokuscientific.com. The webcast will be recorded and available for replay until the Company's conference call to discuss its financial results for its second quarter of fiscal year 2009.
Sustainable Energy Technologies Signs Second Distribution Deal For Greece
CALGARY, ALBERTA--(Marketwire - July 2, 2008) - Sustainable Energy Technologies Ltd. (TSX VENTURE:STG), announced today that it has signed a Distribution Agreement with a.c.e. Power Electronics S.A, ("ACEP") of Athens, Greece, under which ACEP has the non-exclusive right to distribute Sustainable's products and services as part of turnkey solar PV systems being marketed and installed by ACEP throughout Greece.
ACEP has assembled a series of solar PV projects for its own account and for customers, into which it has specified Sustainable products, and which are awaiting permitting by the Greek authorities for, among other things, capital subsidies for solar PV systems. The initial projects total 5.8 megawatts.
Sustainable has committed to supply its products to these projects against purchase orders from ACEP, as the projects are approved. Assuming all the projects go ahead as planned, the total value of the deliveries would be approximately $3.2 million at current exchange rates.
"Greece has enacted a generous incentive program, consisting of feed in tariffs and capital subsidies, but imposed a moratorium on approvals for capital subsidies shortly after announcement last year due to an unexpectedly high number of applications," said Michael Carten President & CEO of Sustainable. "It appears that applications for subsidies are now being processed, and we are optimistic that this market will begin to realize its growth potential later this summer and that our deliveries will begin in September of this year."
ACEP has assembled a series of solar PV projects for its own account and for customers, into which it has specified Sustainable products, and which are awaiting permitting by the Greek authorities for, among other things, capital subsidies for solar PV systems. The initial projects total 5.8 megawatts.
Sustainable has committed to supply its products to these projects against purchase orders from ACEP, as the projects are approved. Assuming all the projects go ahead as planned, the total value of the deliveries would be approximately $3.2 million at current exchange rates.
"Greece has enacted a generous incentive program, consisting of feed in tariffs and capital subsidies, but imposed a moratorium on approvals for capital subsidies shortly after announcement last year due to an unexpectedly high number of applications," said Michael Carten President & CEO of Sustainable. "It appears that applications for subsidies are now being processed, and we are optimistic that this market will begin to realize its growth potential later this summer and that our deliveries will begin in September of this year."
Ericsson Partners With Digicel For Solar Project In Suriname
Ericsson's (NASDAQ: ERIC) pioneering solar-powered site solution has been selected by Digicel Group, the largest mobile telecommunications operator in the Caribbean, to provide energy-lean network coverage in remote areas of Suriname. The solution offers the market's lowest energy consumption, helping reduce operating costs and environmental impact, and its deployment marks a first in South America.
The solution is based on Ericsson's main remote GSM base station RBS 2111, which is one in a series of energy-optimized, innovative base stations from Ericsson. It has a smaller environmental footprint than a standard base station, consuming up to 50 percent less energy.
As part of the agreement, Ericsson will also supply MINI-LINK TN all-outdoor transmission, solar panels and battery back-up solutions. Ericsson will also be responsible for network deployment and systems integration.
Ericsson's solar radio-site solution allows autonomous sites to be deployed in remote areas that have limited access to the electricity grid. It helps reduce total cost of ownership by cutting energy-related operating and maintenance costs. It also improves the environmental performance of mobile networks.
Mario Assaad, Chief Technology Officer for Digicel Group, says: "Ericsson's energy-friendly solution will help lower operational expenditure and reduce environmental impact. By extending coverage in Suriname, we open the door to new revenue streams, giving subscribers access to services on the move, as well as providing communications to people in remote areas for the first time."
Sergio Quiroga da Cunha, President of Ericsson in northern Latin America, says: "This deal marks an important milestone and we are proud to implement the first solar solution in South America. Energy efficiency is a key factor for network optimization: it helps lower total cost of ownership and enables operators to bring affordable communications to subscribers."
This deployment follows a series of initiatives from Ericsson to optimize the energy efficiency of mobile networks by creating solutions that reduce environmental impact and lower operator costs. These initiatives include: GSM power-saving features; the Ericsson Tower Tube; biofuel-powered telecom sites; hybrid diesel/battery back-ups; and the Solar Village Charger, co-developed with Sony Ericsson. Ericsson delivered its first solar-powered sites in 2000 to Maroc Telecom, and has so far provided more than 200 sites in Africa and Southeast Asia.
The solution is based on Ericsson's main remote GSM base station RBS 2111, which is one in a series of energy-optimized, innovative base stations from Ericsson. It has a smaller environmental footprint than a standard base station, consuming up to 50 percent less energy.
As part of the agreement, Ericsson will also supply MINI-LINK TN all-outdoor transmission, solar panels and battery back-up solutions. Ericsson will also be responsible for network deployment and systems integration.
Ericsson's solar radio-site solution allows autonomous sites to be deployed in remote areas that have limited access to the electricity grid. It helps reduce total cost of ownership by cutting energy-related operating and maintenance costs. It also improves the environmental performance of mobile networks.
Mario Assaad, Chief Technology Officer for Digicel Group, says: "Ericsson's energy-friendly solution will help lower operational expenditure and reduce environmental impact. By extending coverage in Suriname, we open the door to new revenue streams, giving subscribers access to services on the move, as well as providing communications to people in remote areas for the first time."
Sergio Quiroga da Cunha, President of Ericsson in northern Latin America, says: "This deal marks an important milestone and we are proud to implement the first solar solution in South America. Energy efficiency is a key factor for network optimization: it helps lower total cost of ownership and enables operators to bring affordable communications to subscribers."
This deployment follows a series of initiatives from Ericsson to optimize the energy efficiency of mobile networks by creating solutions that reduce environmental impact and lower operator costs. These initiatives include: GSM power-saving features; the Ericsson Tower Tube; biofuel-powered telecom sites; hybrid diesel/battery back-ups; and the Solar Village Charger, co-developed with Sony Ericsson. Ericsson delivered its first solar-powered sites in 2000 to Maroc Telecom, and has so far provided more than 200 sites in Africa and Southeast Asia.
Record Oil Prices Spur Solar Energy Sector
SANTA CLARITA, Calif.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--BioSolar, Inc. (OTCBB:BSRC) reports that surging oil prices have resulted in unprecedented price hikes in photovoltaic solar module manufacturing, creating substantial growth opportunities for BioSolar. The company’s breakthrough technology dramatically reduces the cost of solar modules by replacing traditional and expensive petroleum-based components with bio-based materials derived from renewable plant sources. This dramatic pricing differential is expected to accelerate demand for BioSolar’s products as manufacturers scramble to control skyrocketing manufacturing and components costs.
“With the plastics industry undergoing price increases of up to 40% for petroleum-based plastics, we believe that the cost savings offered by our BioBacksheet™ product will accelerate manufacturers’ adoption of our product into their photovoltaic modules,” said Dr. David Lee, BioSolar’s CEO. “The savings will reduce the final cost per watt of solar electricity by allowing manufacturers to lower the cost of their finished product without being impacted by the rising cost of petroleum.”
A recent article in PlasticsNews underscores how manufacturers are impacted by price increases of commodity chemicals, as well as "almost unprecedented" run-ups in energy and raw materials costs. The June 22, 2008 article notes that companies are impacted not only by rising raw materials costs, but the associated electricity and transportation costs as well. Kevin Swift, chief economist at the American Chemistry Council, says, “Each $1 increase in the price of a barrel of crude oil costs the chemical industry $660 million annually …For a $1 increase in 1 million BTUs of natural gas, it's $3.3 billion in new costs.“1
“The market for solar power is already in explosive growth mode, and photovoltaic technology has progressed markedly in recent years with advances making the cells more efficient, lighter and less expensive. But BioSolar is singularly positioned to lead the development of truly sustainable and cost-effective solar technology as the first company to introduce a new dimension of cost reduction by replacing petroleum-based plastic solar cell module components with durable non-food, bio-based materials,” said Lee.
BioSolar is in the process of transitioning into full-scale production of its BioBacksheet™ in a 60,000-square-foot state-of-the-art facility operated by its contract manufacturing partner, Rowland Technologies, Inc.
By incorporating Rowland Technologies’ world-class manufacturing capabilities with BioSolar’s unique material engineering, BioSolar is producing an environmentally-friendly product with characteristics that exceed the thermal index requirements of solar module manufacturers.
“We expect this breakthrough product to be rapidly accepted as the standard for the backsheet component of both traditional and certain thin-film photovoltaic modules,” said Lee.
“With the plastics industry undergoing price increases of up to 40% for petroleum-based plastics, we believe that the cost savings offered by our BioBacksheet™ product will accelerate manufacturers’ adoption of our product into their photovoltaic modules,” said Dr. David Lee, BioSolar’s CEO. “The savings will reduce the final cost per watt of solar electricity by allowing manufacturers to lower the cost of their finished product without being impacted by the rising cost of petroleum.”
A recent article in PlasticsNews underscores how manufacturers are impacted by price increases of commodity chemicals, as well as "almost unprecedented" run-ups in energy and raw materials costs. The June 22, 2008 article notes that companies are impacted not only by rising raw materials costs, but the associated electricity and transportation costs as well. Kevin Swift, chief economist at the American Chemistry Council, says, “Each $1 increase in the price of a barrel of crude oil costs the chemical industry $660 million annually …For a $1 increase in 1 million BTUs of natural gas, it's $3.3 billion in new costs.“1
“The market for solar power is already in explosive growth mode, and photovoltaic technology has progressed markedly in recent years with advances making the cells more efficient, lighter and less expensive. But BioSolar is singularly positioned to lead the development of truly sustainable and cost-effective solar technology as the first company to introduce a new dimension of cost reduction by replacing petroleum-based plastic solar cell module components with durable non-food, bio-based materials,” said Lee.
BioSolar is in the process of transitioning into full-scale production of its BioBacksheet™ in a 60,000-square-foot state-of-the-art facility operated by its contract manufacturing partner, Rowland Technologies, Inc.
By incorporating Rowland Technologies’ world-class manufacturing capabilities with BioSolar’s unique material engineering, BioSolar is producing an environmentally-friendly product with characteristics that exceed the thermal index requirements of solar module manufacturers.
“We expect this breakthrough product to be rapidly accepted as the standard for the backsheet component of both traditional and certain thin-film photovoltaic modules,” said Lee.
Thursday, July 03, 2008
Kansai and Sharp To Build World's Largest Solar Power Plant
OSAKA--Kansai Electric Power Co., the nation's second-biggest electricity producer, and Sharp Corp., the consumer electronics giant, recently announced plans to set up a solar power plant in Sakai, Osaka Prefecture, that will be one of the world's largest.
The two firms aim to demonstrate their awareness of environmental issues by building the plant, which will be the first in the nation to deliver solar-generated electricity to households and factories.
The plant will comprise two separate facilities. One is to be operated solely by KEPCO and will supply electricity to the public power grid, while the other will be jointly managed and generate electricity for use at factories owned by the two firms.
The generating capacity of the plant is expected to be about 28 megawatts, which, despite representing only 0.02 percent of the total output of all KEPCO plants, is enough electricity for about 8,000 households, and would make the plant one of the most productive solar facilities in the world.
Construction of the first facility is to begin in fiscal 2009, on a site of about 20 hectares leased from the Osaka prefectural government.
The firms announced the plan in the lead-up to the Group of Eight nations summit in Toyakocho, Hokkaido, which begins Monday and has environmental issues as a major topic on its agenda.
Establishing the plant will potentially benefit both firms' business operations, but the firms say their true aim in making the 5 billion yen investment is to help reduce carbon dioxide emissions in Japan.
As a signatory to the 1997 Kyoto Protocol, Japan is required to cut emissions of CO2 and other greenhouse gases by 6 percent from 1990 levels before 2012, and the new projects by Sharp and KEPCO aim to help meet the targets.
KEPCO hopes to reduce its own average annual CO2 emissions by about 16 percent over the same period.
Despite making use of CO2 emission trading--which allows the purchase of CO2 emission credits from firms in developing nations that do not use their full quota--the firm has so far been unable to reach its target, leading to its exploration of alternative energy.
Firms trying to turn solar power generation into a profitable business face considerable hurdles.
The technical problem of how to guarantee a stable supply of solar power, which could make it the primary means of generating electricity, is yet to be solved, KEPCO Executive Vice President Sakae Kanno said.
The amount of electricity generated by solar power depends greatly on weather conditions. Whether KEPCO can solve these problems is likely to be a harbinger for the future of solar power in Japan.
Meanwhile, Sharp will supply solar power to a number of buildings in an industrial park in Sakai, including its own liquid crystal television factory, by installing a system on the factory's roof that employs a new type of solar battery known as thin-film photovoltaics (PV).
The thin-film PV system requires only 1 percent of the silicon needed for other solar cell systems, and due to the scarcity and rising cost of silicon, the system is expected to be widely adopted internationally.
Sharp has been striving to increase its overseas production of the thin-film PV, due to limited domestic demand for solar power (partly due to the central government's decision to discontinue subsidies for solar-powered households at the end of fiscal 2005), as well as wide interest in other countries.
In some nations in Europe and elsewhere, solar-generated electricity costs less than that created by less environmentally friendly means, prompting rapid growth of the solar power market.
In mid-May, Sharp reached a basic agreement to launch a solar power project with Enel SpA, the largest power company in Italy. The project is expected to see Sharp set up several solar power plants using thin-film PV in Italy by the end of 2011, with a combined generating capacity of about 160 megawatts, or enough to power about 40,000 households in Japan.
Sharp also will examine the possibility of jointly establishing with Enel SpA a plant to manufacture solar battery panels for thin-film PV. It intends to increase its annual production capacity for the panels from 15 megawatts as of November 2007 to 6,000 megawatts in the future.
Sharp has nurtured the production of thin-film PV as one of its primary business projects. "We will collect data as well as operational know-how on the generating efficiency of thin-film photovoltaics," said Toshishige Hamano, vice president of Sharp Corp.
As a participant in the bidding for KEPCO's solar power generation facility with thin-film PV, Sharp hopes to obtain data for the facility so that it can better provide the products to its customers.
The two firms aim to demonstrate their awareness of environmental issues by building the plant, which will be the first in the nation to deliver solar-generated electricity to households and factories.
The plant will comprise two separate facilities. One is to be operated solely by KEPCO and will supply electricity to the public power grid, while the other will be jointly managed and generate electricity for use at factories owned by the two firms.
The generating capacity of the plant is expected to be about 28 megawatts, which, despite representing only 0.02 percent of the total output of all KEPCO plants, is enough electricity for about 8,000 households, and would make the plant one of the most productive solar facilities in the world.
Construction of the first facility is to begin in fiscal 2009, on a site of about 20 hectares leased from the Osaka prefectural government.
The firms announced the plan in the lead-up to the Group of Eight nations summit in Toyakocho, Hokkaido, which begins Monday and has environmental issues as a major topic on its agenda.
Establishing the plant will potentially benefit both firms' business operations, but the firms say their true aim in making the 5 billion yen investment is to help reduce carbon dioxide emissions in Japan.
As a signatory to the 1997 Kyoto Protocol, Japan is required to cut emissions of CO2 and other greenhouse gases by 6 percent from 1990 levels before 2012, and the new projects by Sharp and KEPCO aim to help meet the targets.
KEPCO hopes to reduce its own average annual CO2 emissions by about 16 percent over the same period.
Despite making use of CO2 emission trading--which allows the purchase of CO2 emission credits from firms in developing nations that do not use their full quota--the firm has so far been unable to reach its target, leading to its exploration of alternative energy.
Firms trying to turn solar power generation into a profitable business face considerable hurdles.
The technical problem of how to guarantee a stable supply of solar power, which could make it the primary means of generating electricity, is yet to be solved, KEPCO Executive Vice President Sakae Kanno said.
The amount of electricity generated by solar power depends greatly on weather conditions. Whether KEPCO can solve these problems is likely to be a harbinger for the future of solar power in Japan.
Meanwhile, Sharp will supply solar power to a number of buildings in an industrial park in Sakai, including its own liquid crystal television factory, by installing a system on the factory's roof that employs a new type of solar battery known as thin-film photovoltaics (PV).
The thin-film PV system requires only 1 percent of the silicon needed for other solar cell systems, and due to the scarcity and rising cost of silicon, the system is expected to be widely adopted internationally.
Sharp has been striving to increase its overseas production of the thin-film PV, due to limited domestic demand for solar power (partly due to the central government's decision to discontinue subsidies for solar-powered households at the end of fiscal 2005), as well as wide interest in other countries.
In some nations in Europe and elsewhere, solar-generated electricity costs less than that created by less environmentally friendly means, prompting rapid growth of the solar power market.
In mid-May, Sharp reached a basic agreement to launch a solar power project with Enel SpA, the largest power company in Italy. The project is expected to see Sharp set up several solar power plants using thin-film PV in Italy by the end of 2011, with a combined generating capacity of about 160 megawatts, or enough to power about 40,000 households in Japan.
Sharp also will examine the possibility of jointly establishing with Enel SpA a plant to manufacture solar battery panels for thin-film PV. It intends to increase its annual production capacity for the panels from 15 megawatts as of November 2007 to 6,000 megawatts in the future.
Sharp has nurtured the production of thin-film PV as one of its primary business projects. "We will collect data as well as operational know-how on the generating efficiency of thin-film photovoltaics," said Toshishige Hamano, vice president of Sharp Corp.
As a participant in the bidding for KEPCO's solar power generation facility with thin-film PV, Sharp hopes to obtain data for the facility so that it can better provide the products to its customers.
BLM Does About Face On Solar Moratorium
SAN FRANCISCO -(Dow Jones)- The federal government is again accepting applications to build new solar power plants on public land, reversing a previous moratorium on new projects, a key agency said Wednesday.
The Bureau of Land Management said it will keep its doors open for new proposals while it studies how large solar plants might affect the environment of undeveloped areas of California and the Southwest. The agency had said last week it would put a hold on new applications pending its environmental review.
"By continuing to accept and process new applications for solar energy projects, we will aggressively help meet growing interest in renewable energy sources, while ensuring environmental protections," James Caswell, the agency's director, said in a statement.
In the last three years, solar companies have filed 125 proposals with the agency to lease public land for solar projects. The projects would cover almost a million acres and could power as many as 20 million homes, according to the bureau. Plants have been proposed using two different technologies: concentrating collectors and tilted photovoltaic panels... read the rest
The Bureau of Land Management said it will keep its doors open for new proposals while it studies how large solar plants might affect the environment of undeveloped areas of California and the Southwest. The agency had said last week it would put a hold on new applications pending its environmental review.
"By continuing to accept and process new applications for solar energy projects, we will aggressively help meet growing interest in renewable energy sources, while ensuring environmental protections," James Caswell, the agency's director, said in a statement.
In the last three years, solar companies have filed 125 proposals with the agency to lease public land for solar projects. The projects would cover almost a million acres and could power as many as 20 million homes, according to the bureau. Plants have been proposed using two different technologies: concentrating collectors and tilted photovoltaic panels... read the rest
Argan Raises $25 Million Through Private Placement
ROCKVILLE, Md.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Argan, Inc. (Amex:AGX) announced that it has completed a private placement for 2.2 million shares of common stock to investors at a price of $12.00 per share with net proceeds of approximately $25 million.
Commenting on the placement, Rainer Bosselmann, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer stated, “The proceeds from this capital raise will provide resources to support our continued growth, including the recently announced joint venture with Invenergy Wind LLC for the design and construction of wind farms located from the Mid-Western region of the United States into Canada. These funds will also provide additional collateral to support the bonding requirements associated with future projects."
About Argan, Inc.
Argan’s primary business is designing and building energy plants through its Gemma Power Systems subsidiary. These energy plants include traditional gas as well as alternative energy including biodiesel, ethanol, and renewable energy sources such as wind power and solar. Argan also owns Southern Maryland Cable, Inc. and Vitarich Laboratories, Inc.
Commenting on the placement, Rainer Bosselmann, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer stated, “The proceeds from this capital raise will provide resources to support our continued growth, including the recently announced joint venture with Invenergy Wind LLC for the design and construction of wind farms located from the Mid-Western region of the United States into Canada. These funds will also provide additional collateral to support the bonding requirements associated with future projects."
About Argan, Inc.
Argan’s primary business is designing and building energy plants through its Gemma Power Systems subsidiary. These energy plants include traditional gas as well as alternative energy including biodiesel, ethanol, and renewable energy sources such as wind power and solar. Argan also owns Southern Maryland Cable, Inc. and Vitarich Laboratories, Inc.
Yingli Green Energy Books 10 MW Contract With Enfinity Management
BAODING, China--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Yingli Green Energy Holding Company Limited (NYSE: YGE) ("Yingli Green Energy" or “the Company”), one of the world's leading vertically integrated photovoltaic ("PV") product manufacturers, today announced that it has entered into a sales contract with Enfinity Management, bvba (“Enfinity”), a global renewable energy project developer located in Ghent, Belgium. Under the terms of the agreement, Yingli Green Energy is expected to supply 10 MW of PV modules to Enfinity from July 2008 to December 2008.
"This is the first time we have collaborated with Enfinity and we are pleased that they trusted us with such a large initial order,” commented Mr. Liansheng Miao, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Yingli Green Energy. “We earned their confidence with our solid track record and the growing recognition of our reliable and efficient modules that have been used in a number of other European projects. We look forward to building this relationship and diversifying our market presence in Europe with other partners."
"This is the first time we have collaborated with Enfinity and we are pleased that they trusted us with such a large initial order,” commented Mr. Liansheng Miao, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Yingli Green Energy. “We earned their confidence with our solid track record and the growing recognition of our reliable and efficient modules that have been used in a number of other European projects. We look forward to building this relationship and diversifying our market presence in Europe with other partners."
Jarvis Winery Taps Real Goods Solar For Power Project
SAN RAFAEL, Calif.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Jarvis Winery just joined the solar revolution with a new solar electric system that will generate approximately 155,000 kilowatt-hours of electricity annually. Newly acquired Marin Solar, now fully integrated into Real Goods Solar (NASDAQ:RSOL), was selected to perform all facets of the project, including design, engineering and installation.Jarvis Winery will be producing as much energy as it uses, and will have a net zero utility bill. It will take approximately seven years to pay for itself, after which all electricity will be free from the sun. This system is warranted for 25 years, but industry experts say that solar panels will still produce power for 40 years or more.
The 107 DC kW system is comprised of 520 SunPower SPR-205 panels, one Xantrex GT100 inverter, and balance of system components including disconnects and mounting hardware for a ground mount on the winery premises.
According to winery owners William and Leticia Jarvis, “This completes our latest shift to a green operation. Since the winery is completely underground and has a constant temperature of 62 degrees year round, it requires no power for air conditioning which is normally the greatest usage factor for a business. The next greatest usage factor is for lighting. Jarvis employs fluorescent lamps of the new lower energy type. From now on all of our electrical energy will be sunpowered.”
Real Goods Solar CEO and Founder, John Schaeffer, commented, “We’re gratified to solarize yet another winery, helping the Jarvis’ to lessen their carbon footprint and contribute to the energy solution while providing a return on investment of over 10%.”
Pricester.com Announces SunBlazer Cell Phone Charger
HOLLYWOOD, Fla.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Pricester.com, Inc. (OTCBB:PRCC), www.pricester.com, announced that it’s Genesis Electronics subsidiary has unveiled its first consumer product release, the revolutionary SunBlazer™. To view the SunBlazer™ and learn more about Genesis, visit www.genesiselectronics.net.
The SunBlazer™ is a sleek, wearable, holster-type cell phone case that utilizes solar energy to maintain the cell phone’s battery at peak charge. The SunBlazer™ eliminates the need to re-charge the battery with time-consuming ”plug-in” methods. Plus, by continuously charging the battery, SunBlazer™ vastly increases the talk-time available to the user. Genesis holds a U.S. patent for the technology.
Phil Thomas, Genesis’s Chief Technology Officer and a former executive with Cisco Systems and Hitachi, commented, “We’re living and working in an increasingly mobile environment, with a growing dependence on portable electronic devices. Genesis is developing technologies and will deliver products that are specifically geared to improving the efficiency of the electronic tools that we rely on.”
The world-wide proliferation of hand-held electronic devices — particularly cell phones — has created an enormous demand for a consumer-friendly response to the problem of limited battery life. Genesis Electronics, with its SunBlazer™ and other upcoming product releases, is on the cutting edge of solar and alternative energy solutions.
The SunBlazer™ is a sleek, wearable, holster-type cell phone case that utilizes solar energy to maintain the cell phone’s battery at peak charge. The SunBlazer™ eliminates the need to re-charge the battery with time-consuming ”plug-in” methods. Plus, by continuously charging the battery, SunBlazer™ vastly increases the talk-time available to the user. Genesis holds a U.S. patent for the technology.
Phil Thomas, Genesis’s Chief Technology Officer and a former executive with Cisco Systems and Hitachi, commented, “We’re living and working in an increasingly mobile environment, with a growing dependence on portable electronic devices. Genesis is developing technologies and will deliver products that are specifically geared to improving the efficiency of the electronic tools that we rely on.”
The world-wide proliferation of hand-held electronic devices — particularly cell phones — has created an enormous demand for a consumer-friendly response to the problem of limited battery life. Genesis Electronics, with its SunBlazer™ and other upcoming product releases, is on the cutting edge of solar and alternative energy solutions.
Wednesday, July 02, 2008
Solar Semiconductor Announces Strategic Supplier Relationship With SolarWorld AG
HYDERABAD, INDIA and SUNNYVALE, CA--(Marketwire - July 1, 2008) - Solar Semiconductor strengthened its position as a rapidly growing international manufacturer of high-quality solar photovoltaic (PV) modules today by concluding a comprehensive delivery agreement with SolarWorld AG subsidiary Deutsche Solar AG, which operates one of the largest factories worldwide for the production of multi-crystalline solar silicon wafers. The agreement is a multi-year contract for the delivery of wafers worth over $1.2 billion U.S. dollars (750 million euros).
Significant and Proven Step Ensuring a Steady Module Supply
"We are very pleased to conclude a long term wafer-delivery agreement and are proud to be associated with SolarWorld AG," commented Hari Surapaneni, Chief Executive Officer of Solar Semiconductor. "Solar Semiconductor has a reputation for delivering the highest quality modules to the global marketplace. One of the key raw materials is the cell which derives its high quality from the source wafer. As a rapidly growing manufacturer of high-quality modules, it is important to assure our customers that we not only use cells from reputed manufacturers, but also employ high-quality wafers to ensure high-quality cells. With the addition of Deutsche Solar AG as our strategic supplier, we are continuing our tradition of exclusive partnering with world-class organizations."
Capacity Utilization Ensured
"We value our partnership with Solar Semiconductor who is known for high quality and proud to be associated with Solar Semiconductor as our long-term business partner. With this wafer contract we are securing the capacity utilization of the first expansion stage of our new wafer factory in Freiberg," said Dipl.-Ing. Frank H. Asbeck, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of SolarWorld AG. Shortly, the Group will start construction of the new wafer factory in an industrial park near Freiberg, Saxony. In the first expansion step the capacity at the Saxony location will be increased to a total of 750 Megawatts (MW) by adding 250 MW by the end of year 2009. The ground-breaking ceremony for this new, highly advanced industrial complex of the SolarWorld Group will take place on July 7, 2008.
Significant and Proven Step Ensuring a Steady Module Supply
"We are very pleased to conclude a long term wafer-delivery agreement and are proud to be associated with SolarWorld AG," commented Hari Surapaneni, Chief Executive Officer of Solar Semiconductor. "Solar Semiconductor has a reputation for delivering the highest quality modules to the global marketplace. One of the key raw materials is the cell which derives its high quality from the source wafer. As a rapidly growing manufacturer of high-quality modules, it is important to assure our customers that we not only use cells from reputed manufacturers, but also employ high-quality wafers to ensure high-quality cells. With the addition of Deutsche Solar AG as our strategic supplier, we are continuing our tradition of exclusive partnering with world-class organizations."
Capacity Utilization Ensured
"We value our partnership with Solar Semiconductor who is known for high quality and proud to be associated with Solar Semiconductor as our long-term business partner. With this wafer contract we are securing the capacity utilization of the first expansion stage of our new wafer factory in Freiberg," said Dipl.-Ing. Frank H. Asbeck, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of SolarWorld AG. Shortly, the Group will start construction of the new wafer factory in an industrial park near Freiberg, Saxony. In the first expansion step the capacity at the Saxony location will be increased to a total of 750 Megawatts (MW) by adding 250 MW by the end of year 2009. The ground-breaking ceremony for this new, highly advanced industrial complex of the SolarWorld Group will take place on July 7, 2008.
China's Solar Companies Latest Victim Of Credit Crunch
NEW YORK (Associated Press) - Shares solar cell maker Trina Solar Ltd. fell Tuesday, joining a decline among most other Chinese solar energy companies.
Goldman Sachs analyst Jason Channell, citing "cash flow concerns" in a client note, moved Trina shares to his "Conviction Sell" list from a "Neutral" rating, and slashed his price target to $23 from $38.
Shares of Trina fell $1.15, or 3.8 percent, to $29.49 in morning trading.
Some of Trina's problems afflict much of the Chinese solar sector, he said.
"We believe the industry faces growing concerns over free cash flow generation, due to rising (capital expenditure) requirements, raw material prepayments and a tougher equity funding environment," Channell wrote.
Elsewhere in the sector, Suntech Power Holdings Co. Ltd. fell $2.01, or 5.4 percent, to $35.45; Solarfun Power Holdings Co. Ltd. lost $1.18, or 6.7 percent, to $16.32 and Canadian Solar Inc. gave up $2.06, or 5.1 percent, to $38.13.
China Sunergy Co. Ltd. lost 52 cents, or 6.3 percent, to $7.75; and Yingli Green Energy Holding Co. Ltd. fell 88 cents, or 5.5 percent, to $15.04. Top of page
Goldman Sachs analyst Jason Channell, citing "cash flow concerns" in a client note, moved Trina shares to his "Conviction Sell" list from a "Neutral" rating, and slashed his price target to $23 from $38.
Shares of Trina fell $1.15, or 3.8 percent, to $29.49 in morning trading.
Some of Trina's problems afflict much of the Chinese solar sector, he said.
"We believe the industry faces growing concerns over free cash flow generation, due to rising (capital expenditure) requirements, raw material prepayments and a tougher equity funding environment," Channell wrote.
Elsewhere in the sector, Suntech Power Holdings Co. Ltd. fell $2.01, or 5.4 percent, to $35.45; Solarfun Power Holdings Co. Ltd. lost $1.18, or 6.7 percent, to $16.32 and Canadian Solar Inc. gave up $2.06, or 5.1 percent, to $38.13.
China Sunergy Co. Ltd. lost 52 cents, or 6.3 percent, to $7.75; and Yingli Green Energy Holding Co. Ltd. fell 88 cents, or 5.5 percent, to $15.04. Top of page
Proposed Solar Plant Crucial To Meeting State Mandate
An Arizona startup company yesterday asked government regulators for approval to build a massive solar energy power plant that proponents say is crucial to San Diego Gas & Electric's proposed Sunrise Powerlink.
The project planned by Stirling Energy Systems of Phoenix calls for erecting 30,000 mirrored dishes, each 38 feet tall and 40 feet wide, in the desert near El Centro. It would convert solar energy into electricity to power 500,000 San Diego homes.
Stirling's proposal has become a crucial part of SDG&E's plans to comply with a state mandate that requires the utility to provide 20 percent of its electricity from renewable power sources by 2010.
The solar project represents roughly 44 percent of SDG&E's goals for renewable power sources, according to the 2,600-page application Stirling filed yesterday with the California Energy Commission.
SDG&E has cited the solar energy facility proposed by Stirling as a key reason for building the $1.5 billion Sunrise Powerlink. The 150-mile route preferred by SDG&E would cross Anza-Borrego Desert State Park and has triggered intense opposition...read the rest
The project planned by Stirling Energy Systems of Phoenix calls for erecting 30,000 mirrored dishes, each 38 feet tall and 40 feet wide, in the desert near El Centro. It would convert solar energy into electricity to power 500,000 San Diego homes.
Stirling's proposal has become a crucial part of SDG&E's plans to comply with a state mandate that requires the utility to provide 20 percent of its electricity from renewable power sources by 2010.
The solar project represents roughly 44 percent of SDG&E's goals for renewable power sources, according to the 2,600-page application Stirling filed yesterday with the California Energy Commission.
SDG&E has cited the solar energy facility proposed by Stirling as a key reason for building the $1.5 billion Sunrise Powerlink. The 150-mile route preferred by SDG&E would cross Anza-Borrego Desert State Park and has triggered intense opposition...read the rest
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)