By Dan Beyers
Monday, May 31, 2010
SunEdison, a Beltsville firm that develops solar energy plants around the world, is teaming with one of the industry's largest private-equity companies in a joint venture that could generate up to $1.5 billion in new projects.
The deal with First Reserve comes as the price of manufacturing photovoltaic cells has dropped sharply in the past 18 months, making new projects much more affordable. At the same time, a growing number of governments around the world are requiring utilities to generate more power from renewable sources -- helping to kick up demand for solar.
Rhone Resch, president and chief executive of the Solar Energy Industries Association, said the deal could be a harbinger of what's to come in the industry.
"The biggest challenge we have faced in recent years is project financing," Resch said. "This starts to free up capital and allow the industry to begin to scale up."
With 350 projects built or underway, SunEdison is already one of the world's largest developers of solar energy projects. The company has a healthy backlog of plants going through the permitting process and waiting for funding.
SunEdison specializes in developing projects in areas near existing portions of the electrical grid in order to avoid large transmission costs. Its plants range from big, utility-scale operations to smaller rooftop systems feeding power to everything from Kohl's retail stores to Montgomery County school buildings. Any excess is typically sold back to utilities.
SunEdison employs about 100 people at its Beltsville offices. Last November, the company was bought by MEMC, a St. Peters, Mo.,-based manufacturer that sells silicon wafers to the semiconduc"Our model has not changed," said SunEdison President Carlos Domenech. The joint venture "serves as an accelerator."SunEdison and First Reserve have agreed to put $167 million into their new venture, which they say should be enough to attract additional debt financing to fund as much as $825 million in new projects. First Reserve may raise an additional $150 million of equity, which can be leveraged to bring the total amount of projects funded to $1.5 billion, the companies said.
"We're looking for a way to invest in solar projects and a way to do it on an economical scale," said Mark Florian, managing director of First Reserve Energy Infrastructure.
First Reserve has $20 billion under management and invests exclusively in energy projects. It has offices in Houston, London and Greenwich, Conn.
Demand for solar power is projected to grow. At least 24 states have adopted rules requiring utilities to generate power from renewable sources, and federal climate legislation contemplates a national standard. Maryland and D.C. have adopted portfolio standards, as they are known, and Virginia has established nonbinding goals, according to an Energy Department summary.
In addition, the federal government has adopted tax credits, grants and loan guarantee programs to create incentives for new solar projects.
The cost of manufacturing solar cells has fallen 40 percent in less than two years, which many attribute in part to a decision by several countries to curb incentives. Spain, in particular, moved to cap the size of its market, shrinking the opportunities there by roughly 75 percent, Resch said. Many manufacturers that ramped up production in anticipation of new orders suddenly found themselves with a glut of supply.
Monday, May 31, 2010
Sunday, May 30, 2010
Solar Energy Illinois
The Energy Information Administration released new data yesterday showing that natural gas production in the U.S. reached an all-time historical monthly high in March of 2.313 trillion cubic feet, breaking the previous record of 2.28 trillion cubic feet set in March of last year by almost 33 billion cubic feet (see graph).
As I have reported previously, the U.S. is now the world’s largest producer of natural gas, having surpassed Russia’s production last year to become the new “Saudi Arabia of natural gas.” It’s all because of a breakthrough in drilling technology, involving the use of three-dimensional seismic imaging and hydraulic fracturing of shale rock, so that huge amounts of natural gas are being produced in New York, Pennsylvania, Texas, Louisiana and other states. In 2000, shale gas accounted for only about 1% of our natural gas supply, but now about 20% of gas comes from advanced shale drilling, and has helped boost production to record high levels.
The abundance of natural gas in the U.S. was completely unexpected as recently as seven years ago when Alan Greenspan was worried in 2003 that shortages of natural gas would hurt the U.S. economy. We’re in a new age of natural gas, and it’s going to be a real game-changer.
As I have reported previously, the U.S. is now the world’s largest producer of natural gas, having surpassed Russia’s production last year to become the new “Saudi Arabia of natural gas.” It’s all because of a breakthrough in drilling technology, involving the use of three-dimensional seismic imaging and hydraulic fracturing of shale rock, so that huge amounts of natural gas are being produced in New York, Pennsylvania, Texas, Louisiana and other states. In 2000, shale gas accounted for only about 1% of our natural gas supply, but now about 20% of gas comes from advanced shale drilling, and has helped boost production to record high levels.
The abundance of natural gas in the U.S. was completely unexpected as recently as seven years ago when Alan Greenspan was worried in 2003 that shortages of natural gas would hurt the U.S. economy. We’re in a new age of natural gas, and it’s going to be a real game-changer.
Saturday, May 29, 2010
Jobs Created in Arizona Solar Industry with Washington Money
Phoenix Business Journal
WASHINGTON -- Despite a weak economy, U.S. solar power companies increased their revenue by 36 percent and added 17,000 jobs last year.
A major reason for these gains was the grants and tax breaks included in the economic stimulus bill, according to the Solar Energy Industries Association. Extending this government assistance could produce an additional 200,000 jobs in the solar industry and supporting businesses, according to a study conducted for the association.
The stimulus breaks for the solar industry got off to a slow start, according to SEIA, but by February 2010 more than 46 megawatts of solar capacity had been deployed with the help of cash grants that the U.S. Treasury Department offered in lieu of a commercial tax credit.
As of February, 182 solar projects had received Treasury grants totaling $81 million. This stimulus-funded program, which significantly lowers transaction costs for solar projects, is scheduled to end in December.
Extending the Treasury Grant Program for two more years would increase cumulative U.S. investment in solar electric technologies by $21 billion and generate an additional 67,000 jobs in 2015, according to a study conducted for SEIA by EuPD Research.
The stimulus bill also created an investment tax credit for manufacturers of equipment that make renewable energy components. In January, the U.S. Department of Energy awarded $2.3 billion of these tax credits to 183 projects, 60 of which were factories that supply the solar industry.
The funding allocation for this program has been exhausted, however. Allowing solar manufacturing expenditures to be claimed under a separate existing investment tax credit would increase U.S. investment in solar technologies by $22 billion and add 158,000 jobs in 2016, according to the EuPD Research study.
“During the last year, the solar industry has been one of the bright spots in our economy,” said SEIA President and CEO Rhone Resch. “It’s time for Congress to extend the programs that have given new opportunity for Americans in the solar industry.”
Stimulus projects help 29 states add construction jobs in April
Stimulus-funded projects and increased demand for single-family homes led to gains in construction employment in 29 states in April, according to Associated General Contractors of America.
All but four states, however, have fewer construction jobs than they had a year ago.
“A gradual turnaround appears to be taking hold after years of construction employment declines,” said Ken Simonson, the trade association’s chief economist. “As more stimulus projects get under way and single-family housing picks up, we are likely to see the number of states with year-over-year increases grow.”
Commercial construction remains depressed, however, because of high vacancy rates. Plus, transportation and infrastructure projects not funded by the stimulus bill face an uncertain future because of delays in Congress and budget shortfalls at state and local governments.
“Construction employment won’t return to pre-downturn levels for many months,” Simonson said.
Anirban Basu, chief economist at Associated Builders and Contractors, also sees some signs of improvement, but he questions whether these gains are sustainable. ABC’s Construction Backlog Indicator, which measures the amount of construction work under contract that will be completed in the future, rose 4.5 percent during the first quarter.
“The fact that the CBI is on the rise illustrates that the improvements recently seen in various other indicators, including construction spending, will continue through much of the balance of 2010,” Basu said. “It remains too soon to tell whether the current momentum will continue through 2011.”
Read more: Recovery report: Stimulus helps solar industry add 17,000 jobs - Phoenix Business Journal
WASHINGTON -- Despite a weak economy, U.S. solar power companies increased their revenue by 36 percent and added 17,000 jobs last year.
A major reason for these gains was the grants and tax breaks included in the economic stimulus bill, according to the Solar Energy Industries Association. Extending this government assistance could produce an additional 200,000 jobs in the solar industry and supporting businesses, according to a study conducted for the association.
The stimulus breaks for the solar industry got off to a slow start, according to SEIA, but by February 2010 more than 46 megawatts of solar capacity had been deployed with the help of cash grants that the U.S. Treasury Department offered in lieu of a commercial tax credit.
As of February, 182 solar projects had received Treasury grants totaling $81 million. This stimulus-funded program, which significantly lowers transaction costs for solar projects, is scheduled to end in December.
Extending the Treasury Grant Program for two more years would increase cumulative U.S. investment in solar electric technologies by $21 billion and generate an additional 67,000 jobs in 2015, according to a study conducted for SEIA by EuPD Research.
The stimulus bill also created an investment tax credit for manufacturers of equipment that make renewable energy components. In January, the U.S. Department of Energy awarded $2.3 billion of these tax credits to 183 projects, 60 of which were factories that supply the solar industry.
The funding allocation for this program has been exhausted, however. Allowing solar manufacturing expenditures to be claimed under a separate existing investment tax credit would increase U.S. investment in solar technologies by $22 billion and add 158,000 jobs in 2016, according to the EuPD Research study.
“During the last year, the solar industry has been one of the bright spots in our economy,” said SEIA President and CEO Rhone Resch. “It’s time for Congress to extend the programs that have given new opportunity for Americans in the solar industry.”
Stimulus projects help 29 states add construction jobs in April
Stimulus-funded projects and increased demand for single-family homes led to gains in construction employment in 29 states in April, according to Associated General Contractors of America.
All but four states, however, have fewer construction jobs than they had a year ago.
“A gradual turnaround appears to be taking hold after years of construction employment declines,” said Ken Simonson, the trade association’s chief economist. “As more stimulus projects get under way and single-family housing picks up, we are likely to see the number of states with year-over-year increases grow.”
Commercial construction remains depressed, however, because of high vacancy rates. Plus, transportation and infrastructure projects not funded by the stimulus bill face an uncertain future because of delays in Congress and budget shortfalls at state and local governments.
“Construction employment won’t return to pre-downturn levels for many months,” Simonson said.
Anirban Basu, chief economist at Associated Builders and Contractors, also sees some signs of improvement, but he questions whether these gains are sustainable. ABC’s Construction Backlog Indicator, which measures the amount of construction work under contract that will be completed in the future, rose 4.5 percent during the first quarter.
“The fact that the CBI is on the rise illustrates that the improvements recently seen in various other indicators, including construction spending, will continue through much of the balance of 2010,” Basu said. “It remains too soon to tell whether the current momentum will continue through 2011.”
Read more: Recovery report: Stimulus helps solar industry add 17,000 jobs - Phoenix Business Journal
Friday, May 28, 2010
Solar Energy Research in China Spawns Deal
BEIJING
Applied Materials and China Energy Conservation and Environmental Protection Group said Wednesday that they have agreed to explore projects for accelerating the development and deployment of solar photovoltaic technology.
The nonbinding agreement forms a framework for the two to work together to further China Energy's solar strategy.
China Energy plans to build a five-megawatt utility-scale solar power plant in inner Mongolia using silicon-based thin film solar modules for the first time.
ENN Solar Energy has won the bid to supply the modules.
The announcements were made during the U.S.-China Renewable Energy Forum held in Beijing.
Applied Materials and China Energy Conservation and Environmental Protection Group said Wednesday that they have agreed to explore projects for accelerating the development and deployment of solar photovoltaic technology.
The nonbinding agreement forms a framework for the two to work together to further China Energy's solar strategy.
China Energy plans to build a five-megawatt utility-scale solar power plant in inner Mongolia using silicon-based thin film solar modules for the first time.
ENN Solar Energy has won the bid to supply the modules.
The announcements were made during the U.S.-China Renewable Energy Forum held in Beijing.
Thursday, May 27, 2010
Obama Talks in Fremont about BP and the Gulf
Obama pointed to the "heartbreaking" oil spill disaster in the Gulf of Mexico as underscoring the urgent need for alternative fuel sources to feed U.S. energy needs during a visit to a Bay Area solar energy plant Wednesday.
Obama called Solyndra Inc.'s solar panel manufacturing facility in Fremont and its workers "a testament to American ingenuity and dynamism."
Notable for a president who has proposed expanding offshore drilling, Obama said that the kind of deepwater drilling used by the rig that exploded five weeks ago in the Gulf is risky and costly. He didn't say he opposed the method but noted the danger in having to go down a mile to hit seabed and then drill another mile to find oil.
"With the increased risks, the increased costs — it gives you a sense of where we're going," he said. "We're not going to be able to sustain this kind of fossil fuel use. This planet can't sustain it."
Facing increased skepticism over the government's handling of the devastating spill, Obama said his administration won't rest until the well that's leaking millions of gallons of oil is shut and all the damage repaired.
But Obama warned that it could be months before the leak is fully contained, and said it's no certainty that the "top kill" procedure being attempted Wednesday to cap the well would work better than previous efforts.
"If it's successful — and there's no guarantees — it should greatly reduce or eliminate the flow of oil," Obama said. "There are other approaches that may be viable."
Obama was scheduled to travel to Louisiana Friday to assess the spill, which has confounded experts in the government and at BP, the oil company that owns the lease.
The seemingly unstoppable gusher is fouling marshes, wildlife and beaches. Beyond the environmental catastrophe, it is posing political problems for his administration.
The White House is being criticized even by Democrats for not acting more aggressively in the spill. The administration argues that government officials aren't just watching from the sidelines, while acknowledging there's only so much the government can do directly. Obama could suffer politically if his administration is seen as failing to stay on top of the problem or not working hard to find a solution.
On Thursday, Obama is expected to propose tougher oversight of rig inspections and drilling permits when Interior Secretary Ken Salazar delivers the results of a 30-day review of offshore drilling safety.
Obama said that his administration is "going to bring every resource necessary" to the task of plugging the leak.
"Our thoughts and prayers are very much with the people on the Gulf Coast," the president said.
Speaking at the Solyndra plant in Fremont, Obama said that moving to an energy strategy more dependent on renewable sources of fuel would create jobs and secure America's economic future.
The president has long said renewable sources of energy, such as wind and solar, will play a vital role in the nation's future. But he has also moved to expand offshore drilling, recognizing that the U.S. dependence on oil will continue for many years, and the political reality that more drilling could help him win Republican support for a broad-ranging energy bill.
Announced in March, the offshore expansion allows drilling from Delaware to central Florida, plus the northern waters of Alaska. Exploration could begin 50 miles off the coast of Virginia by 2012. He also wants Congress to lift a drilling ban in the oil-rich eastern Gulf, 125 miles from Florida beaches.
The spill has called those plans into question. The White House has said no new drilling will occur until the causes of the accident are thoroughly examined.
Obama toured and spoke at Solyndra during a two-day visit to the Bay Area. His remarks about the oil spill were just a small part of a speech focused on the benefits of expanding the nation's clean energy sector. He is asking Congress for $9 billion in loan guarantees for renewable energy projects, a request that would be tacked onto a multibillion-dollar spending bill for Afghanistan and other programs.
The White House said Solyndra is one of the most successful investments made as part of the president's $826 billion economic stimulus. The company received a $535 million loan guarantee from the U.S. Energy Department last year to help build a new manufacturing plant, a project that now employs 1,000 workers.
"I try to visit places like this about once a week," Obama said. The president said he enjoys talking to workers who are "doing the extraordinary work of building up America."
"California was hit as hard as any state by this whole mortgage crisis and the economic storms that followed," Obama said. "Even this high-tech corridor wasn't immune."
He noted the recent shutdown of the New United Motor Manufacturing Inc. plant in Fremont.
"The closure of the NUMMI plant was devastating to this community and thousands of jobs were lost ... but thanks to loans through the Department of Energy, which helped provide Tesla Motors with the financial wherewithal to expand, that plant is soon to reopen," Obama said.
Tesla Motors announced last week that it would partner with Toyota to produce electric cars at the NUMMI facility.
"Once again it will be a symbol of promise ... an example of what's positive here in America," Obama said.
Meanwhile, more than 100 protesters gathered outside the Solyndra facility, including about 15 Greenpeace activists who held banners that read "Ban Arctic Drilling."
Greenpeace climate campaigner Gabe Wisniewski said he thinks Obama saw the protesters when his motorcade passed by. Greenpeace wants the Obama administration to call off plans to drill for oil in Alaska this sumer.
Camille Llanes-Fontanilla, the director of development and communications for Kidango, a Fremont child care company, carried a sign saying "Support Early Childcare."
Llanes-Fontanilla, who was accompanied by about 20 colleagues, said she was protesting Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger's plans to cut child care funding, but also wanted to thank Obama for his support of early childhood education.
She said that if child care funding is cut, Kidango, which has 38 facilities throughout the Bay Area, might have to close, which would affect 3,000 families who use its services and leave 450 employees out of work.
David Manzo, of San Jose, carried a sign that said "Small Business Bailout Please (Only Need a Few Thousand Dollars)."
Manzo carried a "Barack in the Box" toy, which features the president jumping out of a box. He said he had gotten Hillary Clinton to sign a similar box when she ran for president two years ago, and he's hoping to get the president to sign the new box but hasn't been successful so far.
Another group protested U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement policies, carrying signs that said "ICE Have Mercy" and "ICE Show Justice."
In addition, there were some "tea party" protesters and a group supporting Republican senatorial candidate Chuck DeVore.
The Solyndra visit comes a day after a series of fundraisers for Democratic U.S. Sen. Barbara Boxer in San Francisco. Obama stayed at the Marriott Marquis on Fourth and Mission streets overnight, leaving to Fremont Wednesday morning aboard the Marine One helicopter departing from San Francisco's Marina Green.
(© CBS Broadcasting Inc. All Rights Reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed. The Associated Press and Bay City News contributed to this report.)
Obama called Solyndra Inc.'s solar panel manufacturing facility in Fremont and its workers "a testament to American ingenuity and dynamism."
Notable for a president who has proposed expanding offshore drilling, Obama said that the kind of deepwater drilling used by the rig that exploded five weeks ago in the Gulf is risky and costly. He didn't say he opposed the method but noted the danger in having to go down a mile to hit seabed and then drill another mile to find oil.
"With the increased risks, the increased costs — it gives you a sense of where we're going," he said. "We're not going to be able to sustain this kind of fossil fuel use. This planet can't sustain it."
Facing increased skepticism over the government's handling of the devastating spill, Obama said his administration won't rest until the well that's leaking millions of gallons of oil is shut and all the damage repaired.
But Obama warned that it could be months before the leak is fully contained, and said it's no certainty that the "top kill" procedure being attempted Wednesday to cap the well would work better than previous efforts.
"If it's successful — and there's no guarantees — it should greatly reduce or eliminate the flow of oil," Obama said. "There are other approaches that may be viable."
Obama was scheduled to travel to Louisiana Friday to assess the spill, which has confounded experts in the government and at BP, the oil company that owns the lease.
The seemingly unstoppable gusher is fouling marshes, wildlife and beaches. Beyond the environmental catastrophe, it is posing political problems for his administration.
The White House is being criticized even by Democrats for not acting more aggressively in the spill. The administration argues that government officials aren't just watching from the sidelines, while acknowledging there's only so much the government can do directly. Obama could suffer politically if his administration is seen as failing to stay on top of the problem or not working hard to find a solution.
On Thursday, Obama is expected to propose tougher oversight of rig inspections and drilling permits when Interior Secretary Ken Salazar delivers the results of a 30-day review of offshore drilling safety.
Obama said that his administration is "going to bring every resource necessary" to the task of plugging the leak.
"Our thoughts and prayers are very much with the people on the Gulf Coast," the president said.
Speaking at the Solyndra plant in Fremont, Obama said that moving to an energy strategy more dependent on renewable sources of fuel would create jobs and secure America's economic future.
The president has long said renewable sources of energy, such as wind and solar, will play a vital role in the nation's future. But he has also moved to expand offshore drilling, recognizing that the U.S. dependence on oil will continue for many years, and the political reality that more drilling could help him win Republican support for a broad-ranging energy bill.
Announced in March, the offshore expansion allows drilling from Delaware to central Florida, plus the northern waters of Alaska. Exploration could begin 50 miles off the coast of Virginia by 2012. He also wants Congress to lift a drilling ban in the oil-rich eastern Gulf, 125 miles from Florida beaches.
The spill has called those plans into question. The White House has said no new drilling will occur until the causes of the accident are thoroughly examined.
Obama toured and spoke at Solyndra during a two-day visit to the Bay Area. His remarks about the oil spill were just a small part of a speech focused on the benefits of expanding the nation's clean energy sector. He is asking Congress for $9 billion in loan guarantees for renewable energy projects, a request that would be tacked onto a multibillion-dollar spending bill for Afghanistan and other programs.
The White House said Solyndra is one of the most successful investments made as part of the president's $826 billion economic stimulus. The company received a $535 million loan guarantee from the U.S. Energy Department last year to help build a new manufacturing plant, a project that now employs 1,000 workers.
"I try to visit places like this about once a week," Obama said. The president said he enjoys talking to workers who are "doing the extraordinary work of building up America."
"California was hit as hard as any state by this whole mortgage crisis and the economic storms that followed," Obama said. "Even this high-tech corridor wasn't immune."
He noted the recent shutdown of the New United Motor Manufacturing Inc. plant in Fremont.
"The closure of the NUMMI plant was devastating to this community and thousands of jobs were lost ... but thanks to loans through the Department of Energy, which helped provide Tesla Motors with the financial wherewithal to expand, that plant is soon to reopen," Obama said.
Tesla Motors announced last week that it would partner with Toyota to produce electric cars at the NUMMI facility.
"Once again it will be a symbol of promise ... an example of what's positive here in America," Obama said.
Meanwhile, more than 100 protesters gathered outside the Solyndra facility, including about 15 Greenpeace activists who held banners that read "Ban Arctic Drilling."
Greenpeace climate campaigner Gabe Wisniewski said he thinks Obama saw the protesters when his motorcade passed by. Greenpeace wants the Obama administration to call off plans to drill for oil in Alaska this sumer.
Camille Llanes-Fontanilla, the director of development and communications for Kidango, a Fremont child care company, carried a sign saying "Support Early Childcare."
Llanes-Fontanilla, who was accompanied by about 20 colleagues, said she was protesting Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger's plans to cut child care funding, but also wanted to thank Obama for his support of early childhood education.
She said that if child care funding is cut, Kidango, which has 38 facilities throughout the Bay Area, might have to close, which would affect 3,000 families who use its services and leave 450 employees out of work.
David Manzo, of San Jose, carried a sign that said "Small Business Bailout Please (Only Need a Few Thousand Dollars)."
Manzo carried a "Barack in the Box" toy, which features the president jumping out of a box. He said he had gotten Hillary Clinton to sign a similar box when she ran for president two years ago, and he's hoping to get the president to sign the new box but hasn't been successful so far.
Another group protested U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement policies, carrying signs that said "ICE Have Mercy" and "ICE Show Justice."
In addition, there were some "tea party" protesters and a group supporting Republican senatorial candidate Chuck DeVore.
The Solyndra visit comes a day after a series of fundraisers for Democratic U.S. Sen. Barbara Boxer in San Francisco. Obama stayed at the Marriott Marquis on Fourth and Mission streets overnight, leaving to Fremont Wednesday morning aboard the Marine One helicopter departing from San Francisco's Marina Green.
(© CBS Broadcasting Inc. All Rights Reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed. The Associated Press and Bay City News contributed to this report.)
Wednesday, May 26, 2010
Wind and Solar Company on the Pink Sheets
TORONTO, May 25, 2010 (MARKETWIRE via COMTEX) -- Atlantic Wind and Solar Inc. (PINKSHEETS: AWSL) is pleased to provide the following summary confirming its progress and strategic goals for the development of photovoltaic (PV) solar energy parks in 2010-2011.
Since its inception, AWSL focused on a singular corporate goal: To establish itself as a significant player in the Renewable Energy (RE) industry through Solar and/or Wind Power, thus opening up avenues for strong corporate growth in what management regards as the true Growth Industry of the 21st Century.
Atlantic's new CEO Mr. Pierre Cousin comments, "Atlantic Wind and Solar has the right fundamentals to support its rapid expansion and the achievement of its strategic goals. We have a team of experts motivated to make the company successful; a strong pipeline with great relationships with future customers; strong partnerships with financial institutions, investors, real estate companies, landlords, and technology providers; a superior value proposition delivering far less stress to commercial building rooftops yet with the capability to deliver the absolute highest yields of energy known in the industry; and finally, last but not least, a company immersed in what is being regarded as the fastest growing industry in the world ."
Under the terms of the Ontario Feed In Tariff (FIT) program, Atlantic will finance, build, own, operate and maintain PV energy systems hosted on the roofs of commercial buildings across the province and the electrical power generated by the systems will be sold directly into the grid to the Ontario Power Authority (OPA) for 71.3 cents per kilowatt hour, for a contracted period of no less than 20 years.
Pierre Cousin further commented: "In terms of operational excellence, after changing engineers and integrators, I am pleased to see that Atlantic has also made some major changes in the overall design of our structurally tied systems, which is expected to save the company millions of dollars in future operating and construction costs. The Company has also been able to streamline its rooftop qualifying process while greatly reducing the overall initial costs associated with getting to final lease agreement stages with landlords."
Atlantic Wind and Solar uses a very unique process to qualify rooftops for their solar energy systems. In addition to its overall superior system design, the company utilizes some of the best commercial real estate brokers, energy lawyers, structural engineers and insurance agents available, in a consorted group effort to enable the company to become a long term leader in the development of utility scale, renewable energy power generation projects worldwide.
Cousin added: "But to build a best in class operation driving significant profitable growth, we will have to go one step further: Reinforce our customer intimacy in proving the superiority of our solutions; Measure the key components of our business model to identify our gaps and areas of progress; Act quickly but invest wisely to maximize our shareholder value; Expand our skill sets and partnerships to successfully penetrate new global markets."
While experiencing a great rate of growth in Ontario, the company plans to take its business model abroad, with the expectations of entering into other global renewable energy markets like India, U.K., Germany and the U.S.
About Atlantic Wind & Solar Inc:
Through focused management, strong R&D, state-of-the-art proprietary technology, exclusive licenses, and joint ventures, Atlantic Wind & Solar Inc. is poised for rapid growth at the forefront of the massive global shift towards environmentally friendly, economical Renewable Energy. The Company is working with parties in the Real Estate and Property Management sectors in Ontario and abroad to secure rooftop leases suitable for AWSL's photovoltaic (PV) renewable energy system.
Sales and Marketing Contacts
Property owners and managers with unobstructed commercial rooftops of 30,000 s/f or bigger in the Province of Ontario, Canada, and for which they are interested in possibly leasing to AWSL, are invited to contact Mr. Charles Mazzacato +1 800 891 1657 ext. 230.
All other Renewable Energy system enquiries are asked to phone +1 416 900-0380 or email info@atlanticwindandsolar.com
For further corporate information and/or to subscribe for regular news updates from Atlantic Wind & Solar, please visit: www.atlanticwindandsolar.com
Disclaimer:
Shareholders and investors are strongly cautioned against placing undue reliance on information set forth in these communications in making any investment decisions concerning our securities.The matters set forth in this press release are forward-looking statements within the meaning of the "safe harbor" provisions of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. These forward-looking statements are subject to risks and uncertainties that may cause actual results to differ materially. These risks are detailed from time to time in the Company's periodic reports filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission including the company's Annual Report, Quarterly Reports and other periodic filings. These forward-looking statements speak only as of the date hereof. The Company disclaims any intent or obligation to update these forward-looking statements.
Since its inception, AWSL focused on a singular corporate goal: To establish itself as a significant player in the Renewable Energy (RE) industry through Solar and/or Wind Power, thus opening up avenues for strong corporate growth in what management regards as the true Growth Industry of the 21st Century.
Atlantic's new CEO Mr. Pierre Cousin comments, "Atlantic Wind and Solar has the right fundamentals to support its rapid expansion and the achievement of its strategic goals. We have a team of experts motivated to make the company successful; a strong pipeline with great relationships with future customers; strong partnerships with financial institutions, investors, real estate companies, landlords, and technology providers; a superior value proposition delivering far less stress to commercial building rooftops yet with the capability to deliver the absolute highest yields of energy known in the industry; and finally, last but not least, a company immersed in what is being regarded as the fastest growing industry in the world ."
Under the terms of the Ontario Feed In Tariff (FIT) program, Atlantic will finance, build, own, operate and maintain PV energy systems hosted on the roofs of commercial buildings across the province and the electrical power generated by the systems will be sold directly into the grid to the Ontario Power Authority (OPA) for 71.3 cents per kilowatt hour, for a contracted period of no less than 20 years.
Pierre Cousin further commented: "In terms of operational excellence, after changing engineers and integrators, I am pleased to see that Atlantic has also made some major changes in the overall design of our structurally tied systems, which is expected to save the company millions of dollars in future operating and construction costs. The Company has also been able to streamline its rooftop qualifying process while greatly reducing the overall initial costs associated with getting to final lease agreement stages with landlords."
Atlantic Wind and Solar uses a very unique process to qualify rooftops for their solar energy systems. In addition to its overall superior system design, the company utilizes some of the best commercial real estate brokers, energy lawyers, structural engineers and insurance agents available, in a consorted group effort to enable the company to become a long term leader in the development of utility scale, renewable energy power generation projects worldwide.
Cousin added: "But to build a best in class operation driving significant profitable growth, we will have to go one step further: Reinforce our customer intimacy in proving the superiority of our solutions; Measure the key components of our business model to identify our gaps and areas of progress; Act quickly but invest wisely to maximize our shareholder value; Expand our skill sets and partnerships to successfully penetrate new global markets."
While experiencing a great rate of growth in Ontario, the company plans to take its business model abroad, with the expectations of entering into other global renewable energy markets like India, U.K., Germany and the U.S.
About Atlantic Wind & Solar Inc:
Through focused management, strong R&D, state-of-the-art proprietary technology, exclusive licenses, and joint ventures, Atlantic Wind & Solar Inc. is poised for rapid growth at the forefront of the massive global shift towards environmentally friendly, economical Renewable Energy. The Company is working with parties in the Real Estate and Property Management sectors in Ontario and abroad to secure rooftop leases suitable for AWSL's photovoltaic (PV) renewable energy system.
Sales and Marketing Contacts
Property owners and managers with unobstructed commercial rooftops of 30,000 s/f or bigger in the Province of Ontario, Canada, and for which they are interested in possibly leasing to AWSL, are invited to contact Mr. Charles Mazzacato +1 800 891 1657 ext. 230.
All other Renewable Energy system enquiries are asked to phone +1 416 900-0380 or email info@atlanticwindandsolar.com
For further corporate information and/or to subscribe for regular news updates from Atlantic Wind & Solar, please visit: www.atlanticwindandsolar.com
Disclaimer:
Shareholders and investors are strongly cautioned against placing undue reliance on information set forth in these communications in making any investment decisions concerning our securities.The matters set forth in this press release are forward-looking statements within the meaning of the "safe harbor" provisions of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. These forward-looking statements are subject to risks and uncertainties that may cause actual results to differ materially. These risks are detailed from time to time in the Company's periodic reports filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission including the company's Annual Report, Quarterly Reports and other periodic filings. These forward-looking statements speak only as of the date hereof. The Company disclaims any intent or obligation to update these forward-looking statements.
Tuesday, May 25, 2010
ReStore Enegy Systems Going to Wind Trade Show
MILTON, Ga., May 24, 2010 (GlobeNewswire via COMTEX) -- ReStore Energy Systems, a new division of Exide Technologies (XIDE 4.30, -0.08, -1.83%) (www.exide.com), a global leader in stored electrical-energy solutions, will make its first market appearance at the American Wind Energy Association's WINDPOWER(R) Conference and Exhibition.
Dedicated to the development and pursuit of new markets for renewable energy storage and high-performance, large-capacity lithium-ion battery applications, ReStore Energy Systems will provide attendees with real examples of how its solutions already are being used around the world to leverage the energy generated from renewable sources.
"As energy consumption and the shift from traditional fuel to cleaner sources continues to increase, it is more important than ever to find reliable ways to capitalize on wind and solar energy," said Gary Reinert, Vice President and General Manager for ReStore Energy Systems. "We believe cost-effective energy storage is a key to widespread implementation of these emerging technologies, and with the lead-acid and lithium-ion storage capabilities of ReStore Energy Systems, customers can achieve smoother integration of their renewable energy sources into the electricity grid."
Customer collaboration is an important focus of the new organization. "We believe the opportunities for collaboration with customers on problem solving and innovation are extensive as we work together to meet exact energy storage specifications and design optimal, high-performance solutions," said David Starkweather, Director of Marketing for ReStore Energy Systems. "Customers benefit from proven capabilities in application engineering, superior products and unparalleled customer service."
The division will take advantage of Exide's extensive research and development efforts -- as well as proven technologies in lead-acid energy storage and lithium-ion technology -- to develop application-specific solutions for high-growth markets. In North America and Europe, these markets include grid-connected wind and solar farms, while off-grid solar applications will be critical in emerging markets such as Asia.
While the solar and wind markets may look to the advanced lead-acid chemistries such as those offered by ReStore Energy Systems, industrial applications with space constraints -- or those requiring fast discharge and recharge times -- can incorporate the Exide Onyx(TM) lightweight lithium-ion energy storage solutions.
AWEA is scheduled for May 23-26, 2010, in Dallas, Texas. ReStore Energy Systems will be exhibiting in booth 6222.
View the social media release at http://pitch.pe/65650.
About ReStore Energy Systems
ReStore Energy Systems, a division of Exide Technologies, is a developer and manufacturer of industry-leading, renewable energy storage solutions and high-performance, large-capacity lithium ion energy systems. The division's expertise lies in large-scale storage for grid-connected renewable energy; off-grid renewable power generation and storage; and new industrial applications for lithium ion batteries. Further information about ReStore Energy Systems is available at www.restoreenergysystems.com.
About Exide Technologies
Exide Technologies, with operations in more than 80 countries, is one of the world's largest producers and recyclers of lead-acid batteries. The Company's four global business groups -- Transportation Americas, Transportation Europe and Rest of World, Industrial Energy Americas and Industrial Energy Europe and Rest of World -- provide a comprehensive range of stored electrical energy products and services for industrial and transportation applications.
Transportation markets include original-equipment and aftermarket automotive, heavy-duty truck, agricultural and marine applications, and new technologies for hybrid vehicles and automotive applications. Industrial markets include network power applications such as telecommunications systems, electric utilities, railroads, photovoltaic (solar-power related) and uninterruptible power supply (UPS), and motive-power applications including lift trucks, mining and other commercial vehicles.
Further information about Exide, including its financial results, are available at www.exide.com.
This news release was distributed by GlobeNewswire, www.globenewswire.com
SOURCE: ReStore Energy Systems
Dedicated to the development and pursuit of new markets for renewable energy storage and high-performance, large-capacity lithium-ion battery applications, ReStore Energy Systems will provide attendees with real examples of how its solutions already are being used around the world to leverage the energy generated from renewable sources.
"As energy consumption and the shift from traditional fuel to cleaner sources continues to increase, it is more important than ever to find reliable ways to capitalize on wind and solar energy," said Gary Reinert, Vice President and General Manager for ReStore Energy Systems. "We believe cost-effective energy storage is a key to widespread implementation of these emerging technologies, and with the lead-acid and lithium-ion storage capabilities of ReStore Energy Systems, customers can achieve smoother integration of their renewable energy sources into the electricity grid."
Customer collaboration is an important focus of the new organization. "We believe the opportunities for collaboration with customers on problem solving and innovation are extensive as we work together to meet exact energy storage specifications and design optimal, high-performance solutions," said David Starkweather, Director of Marketing for ReStore Energy Systems. "Customers benefit from proven capabilities in application engineering, superior products and unparalleled customer service."
The division will take advantage of Exide's extensive research and development efforts -- as well as proven technologies in lead-acid energy storage and lithium-ion technology -- to develop application-specific solutions for high-growth markets. In North America and Europe, these markets include grid-connected wind and solar farms, while off-grid solar applications will be critical in emerging markets such as Asia.
While the solar and wind markets may look to the advanced lead-acid chemistries such as those offered by ReStore Energy Systems, industrial applications with space constraints -- or those requiring fast discharge and recharge times -- can incorporate the Exide Onyx(TM) lightweight lithium-ion energy storage solutions.
AWEA is scheduled for May 23-26, 2010, in Dallas, Texas. ReStore Energy Systems will be exhibiting in booth 6222.
View the social media release at http://pitch.pe/65650.
About ReStore Energy Systems
ReStore Energy Systems, a division of Exide Technologies, is a developer and manufacturer of industry-leading, renewable energy storage solutions and high-performance, large-capacity lithium ion energy systems. The division's expertise lies in large-scale storage for grid-connected renewable energy; off-grid renewable power generation and storage; and new industrial applications for lithium ion batteries. Further information about ReStore Energy Systems is available at www.restoreenergysystems.com.
About Exide Technologies
Exide Technologies, with operations in more than 80 countries, is one of the world's largest producers and recyclers of lead-acid batteries. The Company's four global business groups -- Transportation Americas, Transportation Europe and Rest of World, Industrial Energy Americas and Industrial Energy Europe and Rest of World -- provide a comprehensive range of stored electrical energy products and services for industrial and transportation applications.
Transportation markets include original-equipment and aftermarket automotive, heavy-duty truck, agricultural and marine applications, and new technologies for hybrid vehicles and automotive applications. Industrial markets include network power applications such as telecommunications systems, electric utilities, railroads, photovoltaic (solar-power related) and uninterruptible power supply (UPS), and motive-power applications including lift trucks, mining and other commercial vehicles.
Further information about Exide, including its financial results, are available at www.exide.com.
This news release was distributed by GlobeNewswire, www.globenewswire.com
SOURCE: ReStore Energy Systems
Monday, May 24, 2010
Obama to Fremont for Solar Preview
tcwdcpvslc
Posted: 05/21/2010 01:12:10 PM PDT
SAN FRANCISCO—President Barack Obama plans to visit a solar company in Fremont when he comes to the San Francisco Bay area for a fundraising trip next week.
White House Press Secretary Robert Gibbs said Friday that Obama is scheduled to tour Solyndra Inc.'s solar panel manufacturing plant Wednesday and speak to workers about jobs and the economy.
The president plans to headline fundraising events in San Francisco for Democratic Sen. Barbara Boxer and the Democratic Senatorial Campaign Committee.
Obama headlined three fundraisers for the three-term senator in Los Angeles in April.
Boxer's opponent will be decided in a June 8 GOP primary that pits former Hewlett-Packard chief executive Carly Fiorina against former Rep. Tom Campbell and California Assemblyman Chuck DeVore.
Posted: 05/21/2010 01:12:10 PM PDT
SAN FRANCISCO—President Barack Obama plans to visit a solar company in Fremont when he comes to the San Francisco Bay area for a fundraising trip next week.
White House Press Secretary Robert Gibbs said Friday that Obama is scheduled to tour Solyndra Inc.'s solar panel manufacturing plant Wednesday and speak to workers about jobs and the economy.
The president plans to headline fundraising events in San Francisco for Democratic Sen. Barbara Boxer and the Democratic Senatorial Campaign Committee.
Obama headlined three fundraisers for the three-term senator in Los Angeles in April.
Boxer's opponent will be decided in a June 8 GOP primary that pits former Hewlett-Packard chief executive Carly Fiorina against former Rep. Tom Campbell and California Assemblyman Chuck DeVore.
Sunday, May 23, 2010
US Company & China Solar to JV
TIANJIN, China and AUBURN HILLS, Mich., May 21, 2010 (GlobeNewswire via COMTEX) -- United Solar Ovonic today announced that the company is honored to host the United States Secretary of Commerce, the Honorable Gary Locke, at the company's Joint Venture facility in Tianjin, China.
The JV entity, United Solar Ovonic Jinneng Ltd. (USOJN), operates a state-of-the-art solar manufacturing facility in the Hua Yuan Hi Tech Industrial Park in Tianjin. The facility manufactures thin-film solar laminates that convert sunlight to energy, and has 15 MW of nameplate capacity with enough space to expand to 60 MW. USOJN is well placed to take advantage of the growing demand for renewable energy in China as reflected in the country's aggressive goals for increased renewable energy.
"We are honored that Secretary Locke will visit our facility as part of the Obama Administration's first cabinet level trade mission," said Mark Morelli CEO of Energy Conversion Devices, Inc. (ENER 5.54, -0.03, -0.54%) , United Solar's parent company. "Support from Secretary Locke and the Department of Commerce has been instrumental in introducing our products and technology in China."
"Having visited United Solar's Michigan manufacturing facilities, I know that they are on the cutting edge of clean energy technology," Secretary Locke said. "This joint venture is a combination of U.S. and Chinese ingenuity that uses new technologies, creates jobs in both countries, and reduces our carbon footprint."
During Secretary Locke's visit, United Solar Ovonic entered into an agreement with NYKE Solar Integrators, a Chinese solar integrator, for the sale of 500 KW of UNI-SOLAR(R) PV laminates for installation on NYKE's Solar Technology Demonstration Center and manufacturing facility as a demonstration project. The project is scheduled for completion in mid-July, 2010. Upon the successful completion of the demonstration project, the companies expect to work together on additional projects.
United Solar's unique lightweight, flexible laminates offer excellent low light sensitivity and superior kWh/kWp production, and are very well suited to the Chinese market. USOJN will import solar cells from United Solar's sister plants in Michigan and assemble them into 5.2 meter long 144 kWp flexible solar laminates at the Tianjin facility. The facility's 15 MW output will fill the needs of the Chinese market only; no products will be exported. At full capacity, the facility will produce enough solar power annually to eliminate 19,320 metric tons of carbon equivalent emissions in China while creating green jobs in Michigan and Tianjin. This is truly a win-win situation for both the US and China.
About United Solar Ovonic
United Solar Ovonic, building on technology invented and pioneered by ECD, is the world leader in thin-film amorphous photovoltaics. Because of characteristics unique to the United Solar Ovonic solar cell technology, such as lightweight, ruggedness and flexibility, it is an ideal building-integrated photovoltaic roofing systems for residential, commercial and industrial customers.
ECD holds the basic patents covering the continuous roll-to-roll manufacturing of thin-film amorphous-silicon alloy multi-junction solar cells and related products. More info is available at www.uni-solar.com.
This release contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Safe Harbor Provisions of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Forward-looking statements include statements concerning our plans, objectives, goals, strategies, future events, future net sales or performance, capital expenditures, financing needs, plans or intentions relating to expansions, business trends and other information that is not historical information. All forward-looking statements are based upon information available to us on the date of this release and are subject to risks, uncertainties and other factors, many of which are outside of our control, that could cause actual results to differ materially from the results discussed in the forward-looking statements. Risks that could cause such results to differ include: our ability to achieve sustainable profitability; our ability to maintain our customer relationships; our ability to expand our manufacturing capacity in a timely and cost-effective manner; the worldwide demand for electricity and the market for solar energy; the supply and price of components and raw materials for our products; and the resolution of pending legal disputes. The risk factors identified in the ECD filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission, including the company's most recent Annual Report on Form 10-K and most recent Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q, could impact any forward-looking statements contained in this release.
This news release was distributed by GlobeNewswire, www.globenewswire.com
SOURCE: Energy Conversion Devices, Inc.
CONTACT: ECD / United Solar Ovonic
Media Contact:
Mark Trinske, Vice President Investor Relations and
Communications
+001-248-299-6063
The JV entity, United Solar Ovonic Jinneng Ltd. (USOJN), operates a state-of-the-art solar manufacturing facility in the Hua Yuan Hi Tech Industrial Park in Tianjin. The facility manufactures thin-film solar laminates that convert sunlight to energy, and has 15 MW of nameplate capacity with enough space to expand to 60 MW. USOJN is well placed to take advantage of the growing demand for renewable energy in China as reflected in the country's aggressive goals for increased renewable energy.
"We are honored that Secretary Locke will visit our facility as part of the Obama Administration's first cabinet level trade mission," said Mark Morelli CEO of Energy Conversion Devices, Inc. (ENER 5.54, -0.03, -0.54%) , United Solar's parent company. "Support from Secretary Locke and the Department of Commerce has been instrumental in introducing our products and technology in China."
"Having visited United Solar's Michigan manufacturing facilities, I know that they are on the cutting edge of clean energy technology," Secretary Locke said. "This joint venture is a combination of U.S. and Chinese ingenuity that uses new technologies, creates jobs in both countries, and reduces our carbon footprint."
During Secretary Locke's visit, United Solar Ovonic entered into an agreement with NYKE Solar Integrators, a Chinese solar integrator, for the sale of 500 KW of UNI-SOLAR(R) PV laminates for installation on NYKE's Solar Technology Demonstration Center and manufacturing facility as a demonstration project. The project is scheduled for completion in mid-July, 2010. Upon the successful completion of the demonstration project, the companies expect to work together on additional projects.
United Solar's unique lightweight, flexible laminates offer excellent low light sensitivity and superior kWh/kWp production, and are very well suited to the Chinese market. USOJN will import solar cells from United Solar's sister plants in Michigan and assemble them into 5.2 meter long 144 kWp flexible solar laminates at the Tianjin facility. The facility's 15 MW output will fill the needs of the Chinese market only; no products will be exported. At full capacity, the facility will produce enough solar power annually to eliminate 19,320 metric tons of carbon equivalent emissions in China while creating green jobs in Michigan and Tianjin. This is truly a win-win situation for both the US and China.
About United Solar Ovonic
United Solar Ovonic, building on technology invented and pioneered by ECD, is the world leader in thin-film amorphous photovoltaics. Because of characteristics unique to the United Solar Ovonic solar cell technology, such as lightweight, ruggedness and flexibility, it is an ideal building-integrated photovoltaic roofing systems for residential, commercial and industrial customers.
ECD holds the basic patents covering the continuous roll-to-roll manufacturing of thin-film amorphous-silicon alloy multi-junction solar cells and related products. More info is available at www.uni-solar.com.
This release contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Safe Harbor Provisions of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Forward-looking statements include statements concerning our plans, objectives, goals, strategies, future events, future net sales or performance, capital expenditures, financing needs, plans or intentions relating to expansions, business trends and other information that is not historical information. All forward-looking statements are based upon information available to us on the date of this release and are subject to risks, uncertainties and other factors, many of which are outside of our control, that could cause actual results to differ materially from the results discussed in the forward-looking statements. Risks that could cause such results to differ include: our ability to achieve sustainable profitability; our ability to maintain our customer relationships; our ability to expand our manufacturing capacity in a timely and cost-effective manner; the worldwide demand for electricity and the market for solar energy; the supply and price of components and raw materials for our products; and the resolution of pending legal disputes. The risk factors identified in the ECD filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission, including the company's most recent Annual Report on Form 10-K and most recent Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q, could impact any forward-looking statements contained in this release.
This news release was distributed by GlobeNewswire, www.globenewswire.com
SOURCE: Energy Conversion Devices, Inc.
CONTACT: ECD / United Solar Ovonic
Media Contact:
Mark Trinske, Vice President Investor Relations and
Communications
+001-248-299-6063
Saturday, May 22, 2010
2 Companies Commit to Solar Energy Developments
BELTSVILLE, Md., May 21, 2010 /PRNewswire via COMTEX/ -- SunEdison, North America's largest solar energy services provider and a subsidiary of MEMC Electronic Materials (WFR 11.09, +0.08, +0.73%) , today announced an agreement with Weingarten Realty Investors (WRI 20.44, +0.55, +2.77%) , a real estate investment trust, for the deployment of up to 10 MW of PV solar power plants in Arizona and New Mexico. By leasing space on Weingarten's underused rooftops SunEdison will install and operate solar energy systems that will allow Weingarten to convert underused roof space into a source of new revenue. Once a system is operational, Weingarten Realty Investors will purchase the energy for common areas, and/or allow their tenants to realize energy savings by choosing to purchase power generated through the program at or below average retail energy rates.
"This program with SunEdison will provide Weingarten and its tenants with predictable energy costs," said Bill Goeke, Senior Vice President, Property Management of Weingarten Realty Investors. "SunEdison brings proven expertise in structuring, financing and operating large-scale solar projects. Having green buildings is obviously good for the environment, and we expect the rooftop PV systems to become a significant amenity we will use in marketing our properties."
"Weingarten Realty Investors understands how to think creatively about deal structure and tenant amenities," said Brian Jacolick, General Manager, Americas for SunEdison. "This agreement delivers on that thinking in a way that will reduce electricity costs and enhance property values. We look forward to a long, productive partnership."
SunEdison and Weingarten are currently investigating additional deployment opportunities in other regions of the United States.
About Weingarten Realty Investors
Weingarten Realty Investors (WRI 20.44, +0.55, +2.77%) is a commercial real estate owner, manager and developer. At March 31, 2010, the company owned or operated under long-term leases, either directly or through its interest in real estate joint ventures or partnerships, a total of 376 developed income-producing properties and 10 properties under various stages of construction and development. The total number of properties includes 307 neighborhood and community shopping centers located in 22 states spanning the country from coast to coast. The company also owns 76 industrial projects located in California, Florida, Georgia, Tennessee, Texas and Virginia and three other operating properties located in Arizona and Texas. At March 31, 2010, the Company's portfolio of properties was approximately 70.1 million square feet. To learn more about the Company's operations and growth strategies, please visit www.weingarten.com.
About SunEdison
SunEdison is North America's largest solar energy services provider. The company finances, installs and operates distributed power plants using proven photovoltaic technologies, delivering fully managed, predictably priced solar energy services for its commercial, government and utility customers. For more information about SunEdison, please visit www.sunedison.com.
About MEMC
MEMC is a global leader in the manufacture and sale of wafers and related intermediate products to the semiconductor and solar industries. MEMC has been a pioneer in the design and development of wafer technologies over the past 50 years. With R&D and manufacturing facilities in the U.S., Europe and Asia, MEMC enables the next generation of high performance semiconductor devices and solar cells. With the acquisition of SunEdison, MEMC is now a developer of solar power projects and North America's largest solar energy services provider. MEMC's common stock is listed on the New York Stock Exchange under the symbol "WFR" and is included in the S&P 500 Index. For more information about MEMC, please visit www.memc.com.
"This program with SunEdison will provide Weingarten and its tenants with predictable energy costs," said Bill Goeke, Senior Vice President, Property Management of Weingarten Realty Investors. "SunEdison brings proven expertise in structuring, financing and operating large-scale solar projects. Having green buildings is obviously good for the environment, and we expect the rooftop PV systems to become a significant amenity we will use in marketing our properties."
"Weingarten Realty Investors understands how to think creatively about deal structure and tenant amenities," said Brian Jacolick, General Manager, Americas for SunEdison. "This agreement delivers on that thinking in a way that will reduce electricity costs and enhance property values. We look forward to a long, productive partnership."
SunEdison and Weingarten are currently investigating additional deployment opportunities in other regions of the United States.
About Weingarten Realty Investors
Weingarten Realty Investors (WRI 20.44, +0.55, +2.77%) is a commercial real estate owner, manager and developer. At March 31, 2010, the company owned or operated under long-term leases, either directly or through its interest in real estate joint ventures or partnerships, a total of 376 developed income-producing properties and 10 properties under various stages of construction and development. The total number of properties includes 307 neighborhood and community shopping centers located in 22 states spanning the country from coast to coast. The company also owns 76 industrial projects located in California, Florida, Georgia, Tennessee, Texas and Virginia and three other operating properties located in Arizona and Texas. At March 31, 2010, the Company's portfolio of properties was approximately 70.1 million square feet. To learn more about the Company's operations and growth strategies, please visit www.weingarten.com.
About SunEdison
SunEdison is North America's largest solar energy services provider. The company finances, installs and operates distributed power plants using proven photovoltaic technologies, delivering fully managed, predictably priced solar energy services for its commercial, government and utility customers. For more information about SunEdison, please visit www.sunedison.com.
About MEMC
MEMC is a global leader in the manufacture and sale of wafers and related intermediate products to the semiconductor and solar industries. MEMC has been a pioneer in the design and development of wafer technologies over the past 50 years. With R&D and manufacturing facilities in the U.S., Europe and Asia, MEMC enables the next generation of high performance semiconductor devices and solar cells. With the acquisition of SunEdison, MEMC is now a developer of solar power projects and North America's largest solar energy services provider. MEMC's common stock is listed on the New York Stock Exchange under the symbol "WFR" and is included in the S&P 500 Index. For more information about MEMC, please visit www.memc.com.
Friday, May 21, 2010
Solar Bright Raising Money
Solar power co BrightSource Energy raises $150m
Among the investors in this round is Alstom, which lost out to Siemens in its bid to buy Israel's Solel.
Merav Ankori20 May 10 18:54
BrightSource Energy, parent company of BrightSource Industries (Israel) (formerly Luz II) has raised $150 million in a fourth fund raising round.
BrightSource Energy was founded in Pctober 2006. It builds solar thermal power plants, and currently has contracts to build plants with a combined output of 2,610 megawatts in the US.
Among the investors in this round is Alstom, which lost out to Siemens in its bid to buy Israel's Solel.
Merav Ankori20 May 10 18:54
BrightSource Energy, parent company of BrightSource Industries (Israel) (formerly Luz II) has raised $150 million in a fourth fund raising round.
BrightSource Energy was founded in Pctober 2006. It builds solar thermal power plants, and currently has contracts to build plants with a combined output of 2,610 megawatts in the US.
Thursday, May 20, 2010
Solar Energy Training for Women
Solar Energy International offers solar training for women, taught by women
By April E. Clark
Paonia, CO USA
This summer, Solar Energy International offers two workshops geared to women seeking solar training.Solar Energy International (SEI) a non-profit leader in renewable energy and sustainable building technologies since 1991, is proud to announce its 14th year of solar electric (PV) training for women. As the solar electric industry grows, it is a prime time for women to enter the solar PV field. These extremely popular workshops have been well-attended by women from all over the world looking to gain technical knowledge on how to design and install code compliant solar electric systems. The classes are taught by leading women in the field and are designed to empower and encourage women to explore the industry.
Many women have little hands-on electrical experience and are wary of attending a co-ed course with men who have grown up using power tools. Even women with hands-on experience already working in technical fields find it helpful and rewarding to network with other women interested in and/or working in renewable energy.
This summer, SEI offers two workshops geared to women seeking solar training:
PV101/201L: Solar Electric Fundamentals and Grid-Direct Design with Lab Week - Women's
June 7-18, Paonia, CO
This course will provide an overview of the three basic PV system applications, primarily focusing on grid-direct systems. The goal of the course is to create a fundamental understanding of the core concepts necessary to work with all PV systems, including: system components, site analysis, PV module criteria, mounting solutions, safety, and commissioning. The course will also cover the basics of sizing a residential grid-direct system, wire sizing, overcurrent protection.
http://www.solarenergy.org/workshop/solar-electric-fundamentals-and-grid-direct-design-lab-week-womens-training?wid=808
PV202: Grid-Direct Solar Electric Systems and Code Criteria - Women's
Aug 30-Sep 3, Minneapolis, MN
Apply the National Electrical Code (NEC) to residential and commercial grid-direct solar electric systems to ensure safe, code-compliant design and installation.
http://www.solarenergy.org/workshop/grid-direct-solar-electric-systems-and-code-criteria-womens-training?wid=915
For more information on SEI, and to register online, please contact SEI at (970) 963-8855 or visit:
http://www.solarenergy.org/workshop-categories/womens-workshops
Scholarships available for these courses by calling (970) 963-8855.
By April E. Clark
Paonia, CO USA
This summer, Solar Energy International offers two workshops geared to women seeking solar training.Solar Energy International (SEI) a non-profit leader in renewable energy and sustainable building technologies since 1991, is proud to announce its 14th year of solar electric (PV) training for women. As the solar electric industry grows, it is a prime time for women to enter the solar PV field. These extremely popular workshops have been well-attended by women from all over the world looking to gain technical knowledge on how to design and install code compliant solar electric systems. The classes are taught by leading women in the field and are designed to empower and encourage women to explore the industry.
Many women have little hands-on electrical experience and are wary of attending a co-ed course with men who have grown up using power tools. Even women with hands-on experience already working in technical fields find it helpful and rewarding to network with other women interested in and/or working in renewable energy.
This summer, SEI offers two workshops geared to women seeking solar training:
PV101/201L: Solar Electric Fundamentals and Grid-Direct Design with Lab Week - Women's
June 7-18, Paonia, CO
This course will provide an overview of the three basic PV system applications, primarily focusing on grid-direct systems. The goal of the course is to create a fundamental understanding of the core concepts necessary to work with all PV systems, including: system components, site analysis, PV module criteria, mounting solutions, safety, and commissioning. The course will also cover the basics of sizing a residential grid-direct system, wire sizing, overcurrent protection.
http://www.solarenergy.org/workshop/solar-electric-fundamentals-and-grid-direct-design-lab-week-womens-training?wid=808
PV202: Grid-Direct Solar Electric Systems and Code Criteria - Women's
Aug 30-Sep 3, Minneapolis, MN
Apply the National Electrical Code (NEC) to residential and commercial grid-direct solar electric systems to ensure safe, code-compliant design and installation.
http://www.solarenergy.org/workshop/grid-direct-solar-electric-systems-and-code-criteria-womens-training?wid=915
For more information on SEI, and to register online, please contact SEI at (970) 963-8855 or visit:
http://www.solarenergy.org/workshop-categories/womens-workshops
Scholarships available for these courses by calling (970) 963-8855.
Wednesday, May 19, 2010
Mitsubishi Electric Pilot Project
(AFP) – 1 day ago
TOKYO — Mitsubishi Electric launched Monday a "smart grid" pilot project that aims to boost the stability of electricity supplied from weather-dependent sources such as solar and wind power.
The Japanese giant said it would invest seven billion yen (76 million dollars) by March 2012 in facilities in its domestic production centres to test how to maintain stable power from fluctuating renewable energies.
"The project will contribute to the company?s efforts to support the adoption of sustainable power supplies worldwide," said the company, one of Japan's leading solar panel makers.
Mitsubishi Electric said it aims to market smart grid products and systems soon in Japan and in Europe, China, India, North America and Southeast Asia.
Smart grids are seen as key systems for both advanced and emerging nations to cut their carbon emissions by improving renewable electric-system reliability, security and efficiency.
US President Barack Obama has unveiled a 3.4-billion-dollar bid to launch a new era of sustainable energy consumption, aiming at building a nationwide smart grid to cut costs and improve the creaking system's reliability.
"Smart grid technologies will help to integrate in the power system a large amount of renewable sources without negative effects on the stability and reliability," the company said.
Mitsubishi Electric said it would build experimental facilities at its three Japanese production sites, which would be connected by a wide-area communication network and be remotely monitored.
These would include panels to collect solar energy, a large rechargeable battery for transmission, an electric vehicle charging station, a power system simulator and other related equipment, the company said.
"The total system will be used to demonstrate the benefit of smart grid technologies in each sector of the electricity industry," it said.
"Our strength is that almost all of the products and technological know-how we will use for this experiment are our own," company president Kenichiro Yamanishi said at a Tokyo press conference.
Copyright © 2010 AFP. All rights reserved. More »
TOKYO — Mitsubishi Electric launched Monday a "smart grid" pilot project that aims to boost the stability of electricity supplied from weather-dependent sources such as solar and wind power.
The Japanese giant said it would invest seven billion yen (76 million dollars) by March 2012 in facilities in its domestic production centres to test how to maintain stable power from fluctuating renewable energies.
"The project will contribute to the company?s efforts to support the adoption of sustainable power supplies worldwide," said the company, one of Japan's leading solar panel makers.
Mitsubishi Electric said it aims to market smart grid products and systems soon in Japan and in Europe, China, India, North America and Southeast Asia.
Smart grids are seen as key systems for both advanced and emerging nations to cut their carbon emissions by improving renewable electric-system reliability, security and efficiency.
US President Barack Obama has unveiled a 3.4-billion-dollar bid to launch a new era of sustainable energy consumption, aiming at building a nationwide smart grid to cut costs and improve the creaking system's reliability.
"Smart grid technologies will help to integrate in the power system a large amount of renewable sources without negative effects on the stability and reliability," the company said.
Mitsubishi Electric said it would build experimental facilities at its three Japanese production sites, which would be connected by a wide-area communication network and be remotely monitored.
These would include panels to collect solar energy, a large rechargeable battery for transmission, an electric vehicle charging station, a power system simulator and other related equipment, the company said.
"The total system will be used to demonstrate the benefit of smart grid technologies in each sector of the electricity industry," it said.
"Our strength is that almost all of the products and technological know-how we will use for this experiment are our own," company president Kenichiro Yamanishi said at a Tokyo press conference.
Copyright © 2010 AFP. All rights reserved. More »
Tuesday, May 18, 2010
Green Job Hiring is Disappointment at Sunset Reservoir
By William Chadwick
May 17, 2010
When San Francisco’s Sunset Reservoir solar project is completed later this year it will be one of the largest solar installations of its kind in the country. The project, a 5-megawatt sea of 25,000 solar panels in San Francisco’s Sunset District, was approved in June after a revised commitment from the developer, Recurrent Energy, to hire no less than 21 workers from San Francisco’s most economically disadvantaged communities; 30 percent of the project’s workforce.
However, with the number of workers from this demographic firmly stuck at 7 (with some of those employed feeling marginalized), and media reports claiming that an increasing share of work for the electricians’ union, Local 6, has blocked opportunities for low-income San Franciscans in the laborers’ union, Local 261, Supervisor Eric Mar called a hearing last week to investigate the status of the hiring practices at the Reservoir.
The importance of an increased investment in renewable energy accompanied with the promise of green jobs opportunities for qualified economically disadvantaged people from targeted communities, originally earned support from Supervisor Mar as well as a host of national and local environmental groups, including Green for All, the Sierra Club, and the Ella Baker Center for Human Rights.
Mar’s decision to oppose his colleagues on the Board of Supervisors who were asking for more time to assess the Recurrent Energy bid properly and see if it really was the best deal for taxpayers, led some to question his political nous. But there was a lot of pressure from non-governmental groups to push the deal through, and quickly. (It turns out that construction only began in March, meaning that there was time to further improve the terms of deal for the city as well as tie off any loose ends in workforce hiring provisions).
May 17, 2010
When San Francisco’s Sunset Reservoir solar project is completed later this year it will be one of the largest solar installations of its kind in the country. The project, a 5-megawatt sea of 25,000 solar panels in San Francisco’s Sunset District, was approved in June after a revised commitment from the developer, Recurrent Energy, to hire no less than 21 workers from San Francisco’s most economically disadvantaged communities; 30 percent of the project’s workforce.
However, with the number of workers from this demographic firmly stuck at 7 (with some of those employed feeling marginalized), and media reports claiming that an increasing share of work for the electricians’ union, Local 6, has blocked opportunities for low-income San Franciscans in the laborers’ union, Local 261, Supervisor Eric Mar called a hearing last week to investigate the status of the hiring practices at the Reservoir.
The importance of an increased investment in renewable energy accompanied with the promise of green jobs opportunities for qualified economically disadvantaged people from targeted communities, originally earned support from Supervisor Mar as well as a host of national and local environmental groups, including Green for All, the Sierra Club, and the Ella Baker Center for Human Rights.
Mar’s decision to oppose his colleagues on the Board of Supervisors who were asking for more time to assess the Recurrent Energy bid properly and see if it really was the best deal for taxpayers, led some to question his political nous. But there was a lot of pressure from non-governmental groups to push the deal through, and quickly. (It turns out that construction only began in March, meaning that there was time to further improve the terms of deal for the city as well as tie off any loose ends in workforce hiring provisions).
Monday, May 17, 2010
Ohio Solar Energy for Electricians
Sunday, May 16, 2010 2:59 AM
BY JOE HALLETT AND DAN GEARINO
Green energy is already here, with numerous companies big and small making names for themselves. Here's a look at a sampling of Ohio's clean-energy innovators:
Sunpower Inc.
An earthly power source for the vehicles that traverse outer space emanates from an old brick factory on Mill Street in Athens.
William T. Beale continues to adapt and perfect the Stirling engine for future energy-efficient uses in the home after already using it to cool vehicles such as satellites.
Looking around the factory on a visit late last year, Gov. Ted Strickland marveled "that something being developed and created here is going to be used by NASA in outer space." Pausing, Strickland contemplated the "why here" question.
"What about MIT? What about Harvard or Stanford? Why is this research happening here at Ohio University?"
Stroking the scruffy beard beneath his wire-rimmed glasses and ragged baseball cap, Beale didn't need to think before answering.
"Every 20 people who come around here say, 'What the hell are you doing in Athens, Ohio?' I say, 'Man, I was raised here.'"
At age 32, Beale arrived on the OU campus in 1960 to teach mechanical engineering. He began experimenting with an old invention: In 1816, Robert Stirling, a Scottish minister, founded the concept of an engine powered by external heat rather than internal combustion. After borrowing $20,000 from his mother-in-law in 1974, Beale left the university to start his own company, Sunpower Inc., and take Stirling's invention to then-unforeseen heights.
He invented the free-piston Stirling engine and, over the past 36 years, Sunpower has received 48 American patents and 111 international ones for generators capable of taking any source of heat - solar, landfill gas, biomass, fossil fuel, or nuclear - and converting it to electricity. Sunpower has become a world leader in energy-efficient, environmentally friendly machines for power generation and cooling. The company expects to more than double its 73-employee work force.
Along with powering and cooling space vehicles and appliances, Beale sees Sunpower's engines eventually being mass-produced in Ohio factories, with capabilities such as moving solar energy from the nation's Southwestern deserts to Ohio. At 83 , he can be found most days in a cluttered lab of the Mill Street building, working with younger engineers and students.
"This is what I do instead of play golf."
Xunlight Corp.
Twenty-five years after leaving China to study at the University of Chicago, Xunming Deng and Liwei Xu are scraping the rust off Toledo's economy and repainting it green.
The husband-and-wife team - he's a physicist, she's a chemist - have transferred their lab research at the University of Toledo to the production of solar panels in an old factory on Nebraska Avenue that employs 100 in a green-energy venture called Xunlight Corp.
The company has patented the process and machinery to make a thin-film solar panel flexible enough to be rolled onto or integrated into a building's roof, transferring captured sunlight into electricity for home heating and cooling.
Along with First Solar in Perrysburg, the world's largest manufacturing facility of thin-film photovoltaic solar panels, and a University of Toledo incubator that connects research with business development, Xunlight has helped to cast the Toledo area as a national hub for solar-energy innovation.
"The fact that we might not be in a great solar zone in Ohio to use it to generate electricity doesn't negate the fact that we're a great state for the development of solar technologies and selling those technologies elsewhere," said Simon J. Tripp, senior director of Battelle's technology development consulting unit.
Indeed, Deng and Xu found the University of Toledo's business and technology incubation center hospitable for transferring their science into a commercially viable alternative energy product.
"It's important to get scientists and entrepreneurs in one place where they can bounce things off of each other," said Diane M. Miller, assistant director of the incubation center.
At its 122,000-square-foot factory, Xunlight's unique roll-to-roll photovoltaic manufacturing process coats thin sheets of stainless steel with silicon film that captures sunlight. The plant has the annual capacity to make panels that generate 25 megawatts of electricity enough for 5,000 homes.
Xunlight would not exist without taxpayer help, including a $5 million grant and $7 million loan from the state. It also has received $42.5million from venture capital funds. Xu, one of about 20 Xunlight employees with doctoral degrees, said the company has yet to turn a profit, "but hopefully this year."
BY JOE HALLETT AND DAN GEARINO
Green energy is already here, with numerous companies big and small making names for themselves. Here's a look at a sampling of Ohio's clean-energy innovators:
Sunpower Inc.
An earthly power source for the vehicles that traverse outer space emanates from an old brick factory on Mill Street in Athens.
William T. Beale continues to adapt and perfect the Stirling engine for future energy-efficient uses in the home after already using it to cool vehicles such as satellites.
Looking around the factory on a visit late last year, Gov. Ted Strickland marveled "that something being developed and created here is going to be used by NASA in outer space." Pausing, Strickland contemplated the "why here" question.
"What about MIT? What about Harvard or Stanford? Why is this research happening here at Ohio University?"
Stroking the scruffy beard beneath his wire-rimmed glasses and ragged baseball cap, Beale didn't need to think before answering.
"Every 20 people who come around here say, 'What the hell are you doing in Athens, Ohio?' I say, 'Man, I was raised here.'"
At age 32, Beale arrived on the OU campus in 1960 to teach mechanical engineering. He began experimenting with an old invention: In 1816, Robert Stirling, a Scottish minister, founded the concept of an engine powered by external heat rather than internal combustion. After borrowing $20,000 from his mother-in-law in 1974, Beale left the university to start his own company, Sunpower Inc., and take Stirling's invention to then-unforeseen heights.
He invented the free-piston Stirling engine and, over the past 36 years, Sunpower has received 48 American patents and 111 international ones for generators capable of taking any source of heat - solar, landfill gas, biomass, fossil fuel, or nuclear - and converting it to electricity. Sunpower has become a world leader in energy-efficient, environmentally friendly machines for power generation and cooling. The company expects to more than double its 73-employee work force.
Along with powering and cooling space vehicles and appliances, Beale sees Sunpower's engines eventually being mass-produced in Ohio factories, with capabilities such as moving solar energy from the nation's Southwestern deserts to Ohio. At 83 , he can be found most days in a cluttered lab of the Mill Street building, working with younger engineers and students.
"This is what I do instead of play golf."
Xunlight Corp.
Twenty-five years after leaving China to study at the University of Chicago, Xunming Deng and Liwei Xu are scraping the rust off Toledo's economy and repainting it green.
The husband-and-wife team - he's a physicist, she's a chemist - have transferred their lab research at the University of Toledo to the production of solar panels in an old factory on Nebraska Avenue that employs 100 in a green-energy venture called Xunlight Corp.
The company has patented the process and machinery to make a thin-film solar panel flexible enough to be rolled onto or integrated into a building's roof, transferring captured sunlight into electricity for home heating and cooling.
Along with First Solar in Perrysburg, the world's largest manufacturing facility of thin-film photovoltaic solar panels, and a University of Toledo incubator that connects research with business development, Xunlight has helped to cast the Toledo area as a national hub for solar-energy innovation.
"The fact that we might not be in a great solar zone in Ohio to use it to generate electricity doesn't negate the fact that we're a great state for the development of solar technologies and selling those technologies elsewhere," said Simon J. Tripp, senior director of Battelle's technology development consulting unit.
Indeed, Deng and Xu found the University of Toledo's business and technology incubation center hospitable for transferring their science into a commercially viable alternative energy product.
"It's important to get scientists and entrepreneurs in one place where they can bounce things off of each other," said Diane M. Miller, assistant director of the incubation center.
At its 122,000-square-foot factory, Xunlight's unique roll-to-roll photovoltaic manufacturing process coats thin sheets of stainless steel with silicon film that captures sunlight. The plant has the annual capacity to make panels that generate 25 megawatts of electricity enough for 5,000 homes.
Xunlight would not exist without taxpayer help, including a $5 million grant and $7 million loan from the state. It also has received $42.5million from venture capital funds. Xu, one of about 20 Xunlight employees with doctoral degrees, said the company has yet to turn a profit, "but hopefully this year."
Sunday, May 16, 2010
Solar Trends from IEA
http://beforeitsnews.com/news/44/572/Solar_Energy_Could_Provide_25_of_World_Electricity.html
The International Energy Agency (IEA) presented two new analyses in Valencia, Spain this week, a Solar Photovoltaic Energy Technology Roadmap and a Concentrating Solar Power Technology Roadmap. 1bog reports.
A key long-term finding from these analyses is that 20-25% of global electricity production could be from solar electricity by 2050.
We’re curious: how does the US fit into that, and how much of this will be residential solar?
Together, IEA found that photovoltaic solar (aka ‘solar PV‘) and concentrating solar power could create 9,000 Terawatt hours of electricity in 2050, with solar PV providing approximately half of that.
As of 2008, IEA reported that the US had 1.2 Gigawatts of installed solar PV. Although the total amount has been rising over the years, the US’ percentage of the world total has declined, from 18% in 2000 to 13% in 2004 to 8% in 2008. Germany and Spain, with strong world-leading solar policies, have grown at a much faster rate. Nonetheless, recent analyses by the Solar Energies Industry Association (SEIA) in its 2009 US Solar Industry Year in Review show a steep rise in installed capacity in 2009 and a lot in the pipeline (indiciating that this steep rise may continue for awhile).
The average cost of solar PV has dropped significantly and combined with innovative group buying programs like 1BOG offers and government incentives, many more people are putting solar panels on their houses and businesses.
Prices for solar PV modules dropped 40% since mid-2008 and average installed capacity cost fell approximately 10% from 2008-2009 (see graph below).
Largely as a result of this, installed solar capacity at the end of 2009 rose to 2.1 Gigawatts in the US according to SEIA.
The European Photovoltaic Industry Association (EPIA) also recently reported that “The U.S. [PV electricity] market finally took off significantly with around 477 MW installed in 2009 and appears as a potential leading market for the coming years.”
Environment America has reported that 35-40% of homes nationwide could have PV installed on them. With 13% of utilities believing that centralized electric generation will be obsolete by 2050 and rooftop solar installations growing faster than utility-scale solar, this may not be a fairytale dream but an actual possibility.
There are a lot of incentives out there and people are finally doing it. Want to join the solar wave? Look into putting solar on your home or business today.
Government’s Role
Of course, as Environment America reported a couple months ago when they predicted that 10% or more of total electricity consumption in the US could come from solar energy by 2020, clear policies to support solar energy need to be implemented soon in order to achieve these levels. Progressive policies need to be implemented to make sure solar achieves grid parity and becomes competitive with other forms of electricity.
“This decade is crucial for effective policies to enable the development of solar electricity,” IEA Executive Director Nobuo Tanaka said. “Long-term oriented, predictable solar-specific incentives are needed to sustain early deployment and bring both technologies to competitiveness in the most suitable locations and times.”
The International Energy Agency (IEA) presented two new analyses in Valencia, Spain this week, a Solar Photovoltaic Energy Technology Roadmap and a Concentrating Solar Power Technology Roadmap. 1bog reports.
A key long-term finding from these analyses is that 20-25% of global electricity production could be from solar electricity by 2050.
We’re curious: how does the US fit into that, and how much of this will be residential solar?
Together, IEA found that photovoltaic solar (aka ‘solar PV‘) and concentrating solar power could create 9,000 Terawatt hours of electricity in 2050, with solar PV providing approximately half of that.
As of 2008, IEA reported that the US had 1.2 Gigawatts of installed solar PV. Although the total amount has been rising over the years, the US’ percentage of the world total has declined, from 18% in 2000 to 13% in 2004 to 8% in 2008. Germany and Spain, with strong world-leading solar policies, have grown at a much faster rate. Nonetheless, recent analyses by the Solar Energies Industry Association (SEIA) in its 2009 US Solar Industry Year in Review show a steep rise in installed capacity in 2009 and a lot in the pipeline (indiciating that this steep rise may continue for awhile).
The average cost of solar PV has dropped significantly and combined with innovative group buying programs like 1BOG offers and government incentives, many more people are putting solar panels on their houses and businesses.
Prices for solar PV modules dropped 40% since mid-2008 and average installed capacity cost fell approximately 10% from 2008-2009 (see graph below).
Largely as a result of this, installed solar capacity at the end of 2009 rose to 2.1 Gigawatts in the US according to SEIA.
The European Photovoltaic Industry Association (EPIA) also recently reported that “The U.S. [PV electricity] market finally took off significantly with around 477 MW installed in 2009 and appears as a potential leading market for the coming years.”
Environment America has reported that 35-40% of homes nationwide could have PV installed on them. With 13% of utilities believing that centralized electric generation will be obsolete by 2050 and rooftop solar installations growing faster than utility-scale solar, this may not be a fairytale dream but an actual possibility.
There are a lot of incentives out there and people are finally doing it. Want to join the solar wave? Look into putting solar on your home or business today.
Government’s Role
Of course, as Environment America reported a couple months ago when they predicted that 10% or more of total electricity consumption in the US could come from solar energy by 2020, clear policies to support solar energy need to be implemented soon in order to achieve these levels. Progressive policies need to be implemented to make sure solar achieves grid parity and becomes competitive with other forms of electricity.
“This decade is crucial for effective policies to enable the development of solar electricity,” IEA Executive Director Nobuo Tanaka said. “Long-term oriented, predictable solar-specific incentives are needed to sustain early deployment and bring both technologies to competitiveness in the most suitable locations and times.”
Saturday, May 15, 2010
Solar Power and Electrician Connection
A Catholic parish school in Rye, New York, has switched on its new 24.6-kilowatt solar energy system.
The array was designed and installed by Port Chester-based firm Mercury Solar Systems, which also helped the school secure a grant from the New York State Energy Research & Development Authority.
The system comprises 123 solar panels and three inverters, and should provide 30% of the school’s electricity.
Californian all-electric car company CODA Automotive has appointed David Funston as its new Vice President for fleet and commercial sales. Mr Funston is charged with marketing the all-electric CODA sedan to commercial fleet customers including institutions, corporations and municipalities. The new VP has two decades of experience in fleet sales and distribution, founding the fleet sales and remarketing consultancy Funston Fleet Services in 2002.
Solar training firm Ontility and Phillips Community College in Arkansas are offering an entry-level solar design and installation course on June 14-18. The college campus at Stuttgart, AR, will provide a 40-hour program providing students with basic knowledge of solar photovoltaic components, design, estimation, construction, safety and national code and local inspection requirements. The five-day course will qualify those who complete it to sit for the NABCEP PV entry-level exam. Tuition for the training is $1,395.
The array was designed and installed by Port Chester-based firm Mercury Solar Systems, which also helped the school secure a grant from the New York State Energy Research & Development Authority.
The system comprises 123 solar panels and three inverters, and should provide 30% of the school’s electricity.
Californian all-electric car company CODA Automotive has appointed David Funston as its new Vice President for fleet and commercial sales. Mr Funston is charged with marketing the all-electric CODA sedan to commercial fleet customers including institutions, corporations and municipalities. The new VP has two decades of experience in fleet sales and distribution, founding the fleet sales and remarketing consultancy Funston Fleet Services in 2002.
Solar training firm Ontility and Phillips Community College in Arkansas are offering an entry-level solar design and installation course on June 14-18. The college campus at Stuttgart, AR, will provide a 40-hour program providing students with basic knowledge of solar photovoltaic components, design, estimation, construction, safety and national code and local inspection requirements. The five-day course will qualify those who complete it to sit for the NABCEP PV entry-level exam. Tuition for the training is $1,395.
Wednesday, May 12, 2010
Solar News from Spain
11 May 2010: The International Energy Agency (IEA) has released two Roadmaps on Concentrated Solar Power (CSP) and Photovoltaic (PV) electricity production during the Mediterranean Solar Plan Conference taking place in Valencia, Spain, from 11-12 May 2010. In introducing the roadmaps, IEA Executive Director Nobuo Tanaka underscored that solar energy could represent 20-25% of global electricity production and reduce carbon dioxide emissions by six billion tons per year by 2050.
Tanaka also emphasized that these two solar technologies are more companions than competitors. These two Technology Roadmaps are part of a series that will cover a total of 19 energy technologies divided between supply and demand side applications. Their aim is to enable energy technology development to quickly gain momentum in order to confront global sustainability and energy security challenges. Each Roadmap addresses technical, legal, policy, economic and organizational aspects of advancing development of these respective technologies.
The Solar PV Roadmap emphasizes that this technology is already reliable and commercially viable, and needs to be backed up with long-term policy support structures to ensure its broad implementation. If handled appropriately, the report finds that PV holds the potential to achieve competitive parity with other forms of electricity generation by 2020 and provide 11% of global electricity production by 2050. As this occurs however, energy storage and management are foreseen to become more and more of a challenge for future research and development.
In comparison to PV, CSP is more restricted geographically in its implementation but faces fewer energy storage challenges due to thermal retention in the collectors. The Roadmap envisages North America as the largest consumer and producer of CSP in the future, followed by Africa, India and the Middle East. One of the main challenges is and will be the typical distance between areas of production and consumption. In addition, because CSP is less developed than PV technologies, CSP will likely only be cost competitive around 2030. Recommendations are also formulated in terms of the need for long-term, reliable policy and support structures. [IEA Press Release] [Concentrated Solar Power Roadmap] [Concentrated Solar Power Brochure] [Photovoltaic Roadmap] [Photovoltaic Brochure] [Conference Website]
Tanaka also emphasized that these two solar technologies are more companions than competitors. These two Technology Roadmaps are part of a series that will cover a total of 19 energy technologies divided between supply and demand side applications. Their aim is to enable energy technology development to quickly gain momentum in order to confront global sustainability and energy security challenges. Each Roadmap addresses technical, legal, policy, economic and organizational aspects of advancing development of these respective technologies.
The Solar PV Roadmap emphasizes that this technology is already reliable and commercially viable, and needs to be backed up with long-term policy support structures to ensure its broad implementation. If handled appropriately, the report finds that PV holds the potential to achieve competitive parity with other forms of electricity generation by 2020 and provide 11% of global electricity production by 2050. As this occurs however, energy storage and management are foreseen to become more and more of a challenge for future research and development.
In comparison to PV, CSP is more restricted geographically in its implementation but faces fewer energy storage challenges due to thermal retention in the collectors. The Roadmap envisages North America as the largest consumer and producer of CSP in the future, followed by Africa, India and the Middle East. One of the main challenges is and will be the typical distance between areas of production and consumption. In addition, because CSP is less developed than PV technologies, CSP will likely only be cost competitive around 2030. Recommendations are also formulated in terms of the need for long-term, reliable policy and support structures. [IEA Press Release] [Concentrated Solar Power Roadmap] [Concentrated Solar Power Brochure] [Photovoltaic Roadmap] [Photovoltaic Brochure] [Conference Website]
More Money for Solar Energy Companies
Tuesday, May 11, 2010 at 1:10:27 PM - by Nate Lew
The Department of Energy has announced that it will distribute $62 million among various businesses with an eye on furthering concentrating solar power technology.
Concentrated solar power projects are already being developed in some U.S. states, and they also exist in a handful of countries like Spain. The technology uses large numbers of mirrors to concentrate sunlight that is used to heat liquid and drive turbines to create electricity.
"Developing low-cost, renewable energy generation is crucial to meeting our nation’s increasing demands for electricity," said Secretary Chu. "By investing in the development of low-cost solar technologies we can create new jobs and pave the way towards a clean-energy future."
Specifically, the funding will be used to develop improvements in current technologies and components. Another area of research is thermal energy storage. So far, some facilities use molten salt technology to keep turbines running after the sun goes down. With help from these research funds, the government hopes to see the development of systems that can generate energy for up to 18 hours a day.
One issue to keep an eye on in the coming years will be environmental concerns that can surround this form of clean energy. This is because efforts to develop concentrated solar energy in desert areas have run into concern about the amount of water that such systems tend to require.
The Department of Energy has announced that it will distribute $62 million among various businesses with an eye on furthering concentrating solar power technology.
Concentrated solar power projects are already being developed in some U.S. states, and they also exist in a handful of countries like Spain. The technology uses large numbers of mirrors to concentrate sunlight that is used to heat liquid and drive turbines to create electricity.
"Developing low-cost, renewable energy generation is crucial to meeting our nation’s increasing demands for electricity," said Secretary Chu. "By investing in the development of low-cost solar technologies we can create new jobs and pave the way towards a clean-energy future."
Specifically, the funding will be used to develop improvements in current technologies and components. Another area of research is thermal energy storage. So far, some facilities use molten salt technology to keep turbines running after the sun goes down. With help from these research funds, the government hopes to see the development of systems that can generate energy for up to 18 hours a day.
One issue to keep an eye on in the coming years will be environmental concerns that can surround this form of clean energy. This is because efforts to develop concentrated solar energy in desert areas have run into concern about the amount of water that such systems tend to require.
Tuesday, May 11, 2010
Solar Farms in NorthEast Topic of Interest
NEW YORK, May 10, 2010 (BUSINESS WIRE) -- MSGI Security Solutions Inc, (MSGI 0.10, 0.00, 0.00%) today announced a strategic partnership with Connecticut based C Solar LLC to provide the much needed engineering infrastructure support for planned solar farms in the Northeast. This partnership was unveiled on the heels of Energy Bill 493, which was approved by the Senate and the House last week. The new energy bill represents the most significant legislation change for Connecticut since deregulation was approved 12 years ago.
C Solar (http://www.csolarllc.com) is a renewable resources company that has for the past five years specialized in the planning and implementation of photovoltaic systems. MSGI Energy and C Solar are initially planning a series of five solar farms in Connecticut, Massachusetts and New York located on the properties of major academic institutions.
Connecticut pays the highest electrical rates in the Continental United States. Late last week the House and the Senate approved a clean energy bill designed to subsidize solar energy and improve energy efficiency in Connecticut. MSGI Energy and C Solar are already using the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009 to apply for solar farm grants, which are typically paid within 60 days. This new clean energy bill is expected to improve how fast solar facilities will break even financially.
Jeremy Barbera, Chairman and CEO of MSGI stated, "We have been working on the development and implementation of multiple solar facilities before the Federal stimulus grants expire. C Solar represents a team of highly talented professionals that are passionate and deeply committed to a renewable energy platform. They can provide the required infrastructure to move our clean energy agenda forward in the Northeast. The timing couldn't be better as Connecticut is now embarking upon major energy reform that will provide greater financial opportunities for clean energy solutions"
Glen Cucinell, President and CEO of C Solar stated, "I am pleased to be partnering with MSGI -- they have a great track record. C Solar's goal is to provide the best possible solar technologies and solutions to the challenges our state and our country face, by working with Jeremy and his group we will be able to expand our reach significantly in the least amount of time possible. This is a win win for everyone involved"
About MSGI
MSGI Security Solutions, Inc. is a provider of proprietary solutions to commercial and government organizations. MSGI is developing a combination of innovative emerging businesses that commercialize best of breed technology. The Company is based in New York and San Francisco. More information on MSGI is available on the company's website at www.msgisecurity.com.
The information contained in this news release, other than historical information, consists of forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act and Section 21E of the Exchange Act. These statements may involve risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from those described in such statements. Although the Company believes that the expectations reflected in such forward-looking statements are reasonable, it can give no assurance that such expectations will prove to have been correct. Important factors, including general economic conditions, spending levels and other factors could cause actual results to differ materially from the Company's expectations.
SOURCE: MSGI Security Solutions, Inc.
C Solar (http://www.csolarllc.com) is a renewable resources company that has for the past five years specialized in the planning and implementation of photovoltaic systems. MSGI Energy and C Solar are initially planning a series of five solar farms in Connecticut, Massachusetts and New York located on the properties of major academic institutions.
Connecticut pays the highest electrical rates in the Continental United States. Late last week the House and the Senate approved a clean energy bill designed to subsidize solar energy and improve energy efficiency in Connecticut. MSGI Energy and C Solar are already using the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009 to apply for solar farm grants, which are typically paid within 60 days. This new clean energy bill is expected to improve how fast solar facilities will break even financially.
Jeremy Barbera, Chairman and CEO of MSGI stated, "We have been working on the development and implementation of multiple solar facilities before the Federal stimulus grants expire. C Solar represents a team of highly talented professionals that are passionate and deeply committed to a renewable energy platform. They can provide the required infrastructure to move our clean energy agenda forward in the Northeast. The timing couldn't be better as Connecticut is now embarking upon major energy reform that will provide greater financial opportunities for clean energy solutions"
Glen Cucinell, President and CEO of C Solar stated, "I am pleased to be partnering with MSGI -- they have a great track record. C Solar's goal is to provide the best possible solar technologies and solutions to the challenges our state and our country face, by working with Jeremy and his group we will be able to expand our reach significantly in the least amount of time possible. This is a win win for everyone involved"
About MSGI
MSGI Security Solutions, Inc. is a provider of proprietary solutions to commercial and government organizations. MSGI is developing a combination of innovative emerging businesses that commercialize best of breed technology. The Company is based in New York and San Francisco. More information on MSGI is available on the company's website at www.msgisecurity.com.
The information contained in this news release, other than historical information, consists of forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act and Section 21E of the Exchange Act. These statements may involve risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from those described in such statements. Although the Company believes that the expectations reflected in such forward-looking statements are reasonable, it can give no assurance that such expectations will prove to have been correct. Important factors, including general economic conditions, spending levels and other factors could cause actual results to differ materially from the Company's expectations.
SOURCE: MSGI Security Solutions, Inc.
Monday, May 10, 2010
United States Department of Energy Grants for Solar Electricity
By Green Car Congress on 05/08/2010 – 4:05 am PDT
The US Department of Energy has selected 13 projects for investment of up to $62 million over five years to research, develop, and demonstrate Concentrating Solar Power (CSP) systems capable of providing low-cost electrical power.
CSP technologies concentrate the sun’s energy and capture that energy as heat, which then drives an engine or turbine to produce electrical power. CSP plants can include low-cost energy storage, allowing them to provide electricity even when the sun is not shining.The selected projects will seek to improve component and system designs to extend operation to an average of about 18 hours per day, a level of production that would make it possible for these plants to displace traditional coal-burning power plants. The thirteen award selections announced today fall into two areas:
Concentrating Solar Power Systems Studies. Projects awarded under this category will evaluate the feasibility of a complete CSP baseload system and support development of prototype systems for field testing. These selections include:
Abengoa Solar, Inc. – Lakewood, CO – up to $10.6 million. Abengoa Solar will develop a new power tower technology that captures heat in a high-temperature receiver at the top of an elevated tower. The system will focus the sun’s rays to the tower using a 360-degree, surround reflector field on the ground and collect the heat in a salt fluid, which is used to make steam and drive a turbine. The system will also incorporate a thermal storage system to allow it to operate for a period when the sun isn’t shining. The ability to operate at higher temperatures will translate into more energy produced with the same size power plant. Abengoa is currently the only company with a full-scale, operational power tower, and thus proving this technology could help it reach commercial maturity.
eSolar, Inc. – Pasadena, CA – up to $10.8 million. eSolar will design, build, and test a CSP power plant system with fundamentally new components. Instead of one central tower and receiver, the plant will employ multiple, modular towers. Using reflective mirrors, the sun’s radiation will heat a liquid salt within each receiver. A specialized molten salt transport system will then move the high-temperature fluid to a molten-salt steam generator that produces electricity. The system will also feature a thermal storage system. Eventually, this technology could deliver lower-cost solar energy at a utility scale.
Pratt & Whitney Rocketdyne – Canoga Park, CA – up to $10.2 million. Pratt & Whitney Rocketdyne will build on and advance the current solar power tower plant design
The US Department of Energy has selected 13 projects for investment of up to $62 million over five years to research, develop, and demonstrate Concentrating Solar Power (CSP) systems capable of providing low-cost electrical power.
CSP technologies concentrate the sun’s energy and capture that energy as heat, which then drives an engine or turbine to produce electrical power. CSP plants can include low-cost energy storage, allowing them to provide electricity even when the sun is not shining.The selected projects will seek to improve component and system designs to extend operation to an average of about 18 hours per day, a level of production that would make it possible for these plants to displace traditional coal-burning power plants. The thirteen award selections announced today fall into two areas:
Concentrating Solar Power Systems Studies. Projects awarded under this category will evaluate the feasibility of a complete CSP baseload system and support development of prototype systems for field testing. These selections include:
Abengoa Solar, Inc. – Lakewood, CO – up to $10.6 million. Abengoa Solar will develop a new power tower technology that captures heat in a high-temperature receiver at the top of an elevated tower. The system will focus the sun’s rays to the tower using a 360-degree, surround reflector field on the ground and collect the heat in a salt fluid, which is used to make steam and drive a turbine. The system will also incorporate a thermal storage system to allow it to operate for a period when the sun isn’t shining. The ability to operate at higher temperatures will translate into more energy produced with the same size power plant. Abengoa is currently the only company with a full-scale, operational power tower, and thus proving this technology could help it reach commercial maturity.
eSolar, Inc. – Pasadena, CA – up to $10.8 million. eSolar will design, build, and test a CSP power plant system with fundamentally new components. Instead of one central tower and receiver, the plant will employ multiple, modular towers. Using reflective mirrors, the sun’s radiation will heat a liquid salt within each receiver. A specialized molten salt transport system will then move the high-temperature fluid to a molten-salt steam generator that produces electricity. The system will also feature a thermal storage system. Eventually, this technology could deliver lower-cost solar energy at a utility scale.
Pratt & Whitney Rocketdyne – Canoga Park, CA – up to $10.2 million. Pratt & Whitney Rocketdyne will build on and advance the current solar power tower plant design
Saturday, May 8, 2010
Solar Hot Water is Great!
JACKIE MEYERS
A HIGHLANDS electrical contractor is turning to the sun to help people save money and become more energy efficient.
Russell Seymour of Seymour Solar, a family business based in Moss Vale, has spent the past five years specialising in the installation of solar power systems; both those that are connected to the grid, which allow for solar credits on electrical bills, and stand alone systems on properties without access to the grid.
Meanwhile, payment for Renewable Energy Credits (RECs) received for the installation of solar systems and increased payment for grid credits is making the sustainable alternative for power more affordable.
Mr Seymour has been an electrician since 1981 and an electrical contractor since 1991.
He said he became interested in alternative solutions to power more than a decade ago, but had not pursued the career direction of solar power until 2005.
Mr Seymour said he made the move because he saw solar power as an important part of the future.
“I started installing stand alone systems for people that lived in areas that didn’t have access to the grid,” he said.
“These systems stored power in batteries which provided reliable 240 volt power to the property.”
Mr Seymour said he was amazed at the rapid growth in interest for solar power.
However, he said it was not surprising considering the more recent incentives on offer.
“It used to be the case that anyone who was connected to the grid would get about 20 cents for the electricity they generated from their solar power. That was the same price they had to pay for electricity they used,” he said.
“The payment from electricity generated from solar panels and sent to the grid increased to 60 cents earlier this year, but the cost for using electricity remains the same at about 20 cents.
“This means that people who generate solar power from their home and are connected to the grid now have the chance to make money from their system.”
The changes mean that people who invest in the installation of solar panels could pay the system off more quickly and then have the capacity to make an income for several years after.
A HIGHLANDS electrical contractor is turning to the sun to help people save money and become more energy efficient.
Russell Seymour of Seymour Solar, a family business based in Moss Vale, has spent the past five years specialising in the installation of solar power systems; both those that are connected to the grid, which allow for solar credits on electrical bills, and stand alone systems on properties without access to the grid.
Meanwhile, payment for Renewable Energy Credits (RECs) received for the installation of solar systems and increased payment for grid credits is making the sustainable alternative for power more affordable.
Mr Seymour has been an electrician since 1981 and an electrical contractor since 1991.
He said he became interested in alternative solutions to power more than a decade ago, but had not pursued the career direction of solar power until 2005.
Mr Seymour said he made the move because he saw solar power as an important part of the future.
“I started installing stand alone systems for people that lived in areas that didn’t have access to the grid,” he said.
“These systems stored power in batteries which provided reliable 240 volt power to the property.”
Mr Seymour said he was amazed at the rapid growth in interest for solar power.
However, he said it was not surprising considering the more recent incentives on offer.
“It used to be the case that anyone who was connected to the grid would get about 20 cents for the electricity they generated from their solar power. That was the same price they had to pay for electricity they used,” he said.
“The payment from electricity generated from solar panels and sent to the grid increased to 60 cents earlier this year, but the cost for using electricity remains the same at about 20 cents.
“This means that people who generate solar power from their home and are connected to the grid now have the chance to make money from their system.”
The changes mean that people who invest in the installation of solar panels could pay the system off more quickly and then have the capacity to make an income for several years after.
Vermont Electrical Solar
SOUTH BURLINGTON — A Vermont electrician recently earned the renewable energy industry's preeminent certification for solar electric installers.
Matthew Murphy, 28, is now certified by the North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners, an organization that implements voluntary credentialing and certification programs for green energy practitioners. All professionals certified by the board must meet an extensive experience prerequisite then pass an intensive exam developed in accordance with the trade's best practices. There are currently 16 such installers in Vermont.
"My (board) certification, along with the training I received through the IBEW Local 300 electricians' apprenticeship, reassures my customers that our installations of any size are done safely and reliably," Murphy said in a news release.
"By hiring an electrical professional who is NABCEP affiliated and well-versed on the National Electrical Code, the consumer can rest assured they are receiving the quality craftsmanship they need for their solar installation to be performing for 25 years."
Murphy, of Waterbury Center, works in the solar division at South Burlington's Peck Electric, one of the largest energy contractors in the state. He is a member of the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers Local 300 and instructs the union's solar photovoltaic program – Vermont's only year-round training of its kind for electricians. Since late 2008, he has trained nearly 100 electricians in solar technology and is approved to teach by the National Joint Apprenticeship and Training Committee.
"We feel electricians are uniquely qualified to install solar photovoltaic systems," Kip Myrick, a licensed master electrician and part of Peck Electric's ownership team, said in the news release. "Matt's generation will be the key to transitioning Vermont trades people to the green technology future of our state. We are proud to enable our employees to obtain continuing education and certification, which ultimately gives us a competitive edge as more citizens turn to renewable energy."
Under Murphy's leadership, Peck Electric recently completed a 62-kilowatt solar installation at the Montpelier Wastewater Treatment Facility.
Based in South Burlington, the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers Local 300 serves 1,200-plus working Vermonters at some of the state's most successful businesses
Matthew Murphy, 28, is now certified by the North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners, an organization that implements voluntary credentialing and certification programs for green energy practitioners. All professionals certified by the board must meet an extensive experience prerequisite then pass an intensive exam developed in accordance with the trade's best practices. There are currently 16 such installers in Vermont.
"My (board) certification, along with the training I received through the IBEW Local 300 electricians' apprenticeship, reassures my customers that our installations of any size are done safely and reliably," Murphy said in a news release.
"By hiring an electrical professional who is NABCEP affiliated and well-versed on the National Electrical Code, the consumer can rest assured they are receiving the quality craftsmanship they need for their solar installation to be performing for 25 years."
Murphy, of Waterbury Center, works in the solar division at South Burlington's Peck Electric, one of the largest energy contractors in the state. He is a member of the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers Local 300 and instructs the union's solar photovoltaic program – Vermont's only year-round training of its kind for electricians. Since late 2008, he has trained nearly 100 electricians in solar technology and is approved to teach by the National Joint Apprenticeship and Training Committee.
"We feel electricians are uniquely qualified to install solar photovoltaic systems," Kip Myrick, a licensed master electrician and part of Peck Electric's ownership team, said in the news release. "Matt's generation will be the key to transitioning Vermont trades people to the green technology future of our state. We are proud to enable our employees to obtain continuing education and certification, which ultimately gives us a competitive edge as more citizens turn to renewable energy."
Under Murphy's leadership, Peck Electric recently completed a 62-kilowatt solar installation at the Montpelier Wastewater Treatment Facility.
Based in South Burlington, the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers Local 300 serves 1,200-plus working Vermonters at some of the state's most successful businesses
Friday, May 7, 2010
Electrical Generators and Solar Energy
BEVERLY, Mass. & BIEL, Switzerland, May 06, 2010 (BUSINESS WIRE) -- IXYS Corporation (IXYS 8.58, +0.02, +0.23%) and Clare, Inc., a wholly owned subsidiary of IXYS, today announced the release of new low voltage Power MOSFETs in small SOIC packages with a breakdown voltage rating of 30V and a gate threshold voltage of 1V. The optimized low gate voltage turn-on specification is ideal for applications in synchronous rectification as well as high frequency switching and power control for battery powered portable equipment. The CPC3801N single MOSFET and the CPC3851N dual MOSFET have a current rating of 1 Ampere and 80 milliohms of on-resistance.
Targeted applications are low voltage DC to DC converters and synchronous rectification, where MOSFETs can replace rectifier diodes in the output rectification circuit thereby reducing conduction losses. Replacing a diode for rectification (400 millivolts to 600 millivolts of forward voltage drop) with these new FETs reduces the voltage drop to 20 millivolts for a 0.25A load, achieving a 20 times reduction of rectification power losses. The ability of these MOSFETs to be switched at high frequencies like 250KHz, enables the use of smaller inductors, transformers and capacitors in DC/DC converters battery chargers and solar chargers circuits.
The CPC3801N and CPC3851N are also ideal for solar chargers as the isolation rectifier between the solar cells and the battery. These MOSFETs have very low gate threshold voltage and are optimized to be driven by the CPC1822/24 photovoltaic solar cells from Clare, turning the FETs on under ambient light conditions allowing the battery to be charged by light. When there is not sufficient light, the MOSFET will turn off and prevent battery discharge.
"These MOSFETs highlight our commitments to energy harvesting applications, where we developed products that enable higher efficiency solar chargers. By coupling the CPC MOSFETs with our solar gate drivers the CPC1822/24, or as we call them our 'solar bulbs' or 'solar panel chip', and our SolarBits(TM) solar cells, we provide the total solution for solar chargers," commented Dr. Nathan Zommer, CEO of IXYS Corporation.
About Clare and IXYS Corporation
Clare, Inc., a leader in the design and manufacture of solid state relays and high voltage integrated circuits, is a wholly owned subsidiary of IXYS Corporation. IXYS Corporation develops and markets primarily high performance power semiconductor devices that are used in controlling and converting electrical power efficiently in power systems for the telecommunication internet infrastructure, motor drives, medical systems, solar energy, wind energy, electrical generators and transportation. IXYS also serves its markets with a combination of digital and analog integrated circuits, RF power products and power subsystems including application-specific, embedded system-on-chip (SoC) solutions for the industrial and consumer markets manufactured by its wholly owned subsidiary, Zilog, Inc. Additional information about Clare, IXYS and Zilog may be found at www.clare.com, www.ixys.com and www.zilog.com.
Safe Harbor Statement
Any statements contained in this press release that are not statements of historical fact, including the performance, rating, availability, reliability and suitability of products for various applications, may be deemed to be forward-looking statements. There are a number of important factors that could cause the results of IXYS to differ materially from those indicated by these forward-looking statements, including, among others, risks detailed from time to time in the Company's SEC reports, including its Form 10-Q for the quarter ended December 31, 2009. The Company undertakes no obligation to publicly release the results of any revisions to these forward-looking statements.
SOURCE: IXYS Corporation
Targeted applications are low voltage DC to DC converters and synchronous rectification, where MOSFETs can replace rectifier diodes in the output rectification circuit thereby reducing conduction losses. Replacing a diode for rectification (400 millivolts to 600 millivolts of forward voltage drop) with these new FETs reduces the voltage drop to 20 millivolts for a 0.25A load, achieving a 20 times reduction of rectification power losses. The ability of these MOSFETs to be switched at high frequencies like 250KHz, enables the use of smaller inductors, transformers and capacitors in DC/DC converters battery chargers and solar chargers circuits.
The CPC3801N and CPC3851N are also ideal for solar chargers as the isolation rectifier between the solar cells and the battery. These MOSFETs have very low gate threshold voltage and are optimized to be driven by the CPC1822/24 photovoltaic solar cells from Clare, turning the FETs on under ambient light conditions allowing the battery to be charged by light. When there is not sufficient light, the MOSFET will turn off and prevent battery discharge.
"These MOSFETs highlight our commitments to energy harvesting applications, where we developed products that enable higher efficiency solar chargers. By coupling the CPC MOSFETs with our solar gate drivers the CPC1822/24, or as we call them our 'solar bulbs' or 'solar panel chip', and our SolarBits(TM) solar cells, we provide the total solution for solar chargers," commented Dr. Nathan Zommer, CEO of IXYS Corporation.
About Clare and IXYS Corporation
Clare, Inc., a leader in the design and manufacture of solid state relays and high voltage integrated circuits, is a wholly owned subsidiary of IXYS Corporation. IXYS Corporation develops and markets primarily high performance power semiconductor devices that are used in controlling and converting electrical power efficiently in power systems for the telecommunication internet infrastructure, motor drives, medical systems, solar energy, wind energy, electrical generators and transportation. IXYS also serves its markets with a combination of digital and analog integrated circuits, RF power products and power subsystems including application-specific, embedded system-on-chip (SoC) solutions for the industrial and consumer markets manufactured by its wholly owned subsidiary, Zilog, Inc. Additional information about Clare, IXYS and Zilog may be found at www.clare.com, www.ixys.com and www.zilog.com.
Safe Harbor Statement
Any statements contained in this press release that are not statements of historical fact, including the performance, rating, availability, reliability and suitability of products for various applications, may be deemed to be forward-looking statements. There are a number of important factors that could cause the results of IXYS to differ materially from those indicated by these forward-looking statements, including, among others, risks detailed from time to time in the Company's SEC reports, including its Form 10-Q for the quarter ended December 31, 2009. The Company undertakes no obligation to publicly release the results of any revisions to these forward-looking statements.
SOURCE: IXYS Corporation
Thursday, May 6, 2010
Georgia Electrical Students Thinking Solar
By Jenel Few
The future's so bright for Savannah Technical College's student electricians, they're putting up solar panels.
Students have flocked to enroll in Savannah Tech's Photovoltaic Systems Program since President Barack Obama visited the campus in March and praised their renewable energy jobs training effort.
"Solar energy is efficient, it helps the planet and it's the upcoming energy craze," said student Ytinu Jzar. "I want to start my own business."
In 2006, Savannah Tech began offering solar energy installation and repair training as part of its traditional courses for electricians. At first, Savannah Tech instructor Lester Wiggins would teach students to install and repair solar power panels as an added bonus to students who were there only to learn to wire houses. But growing interest in renewable energy prompted Tech to offer the state's first 19 credit hour photovoltaic certification program.
"I teach them to install a 4,000 watt photovoltaic system to a roof so it can be tied in with a homeowner's regular use of the Georgia Power grid," Wiggins said. "Those solar panels will harness energy from the sun, put the power back into the grid and run the meter backward so the homeowner's bills are lowered."
Graduates, who either are electricians or work with a licensed electrician, can install and repair solar energy systems in Georgia. Georgia's only other program opened this year at Lanier Technical College in Hall County. Savannah Tech officials are working to further expand their program so they can offer the national certification through the North American Board of Solar Energy Practitioners.
Currently there are only a few places in the country offering national certification. Once Tech's program is nationally certified, graduates will be qualified to do solar work anywhere in the country.
Potiphar Nkhoma left his home and business in Cape Town, South Africa, to come to Savannah Tech and learn how to reduce reliance upon expensive gas generators in his country.
"I want to know how to be able to build and install the equipment so I can show others," he said. "It is my plan to return home and set up a business. Then, I will begin to work to convince government officials that solar technology is the better way to provide electricity for our country."
As governments seek more sources of clean and renewable energy and offer more grants and rebates for homeowners who make the switch, the demand for certified solar system installers will increase. Currently all the buoys off of Georgia's coast, roadside speed monitoring devices, lighting along highways and trails on Fort Stewart run on solar power, Wiggins said.
"It's a fashion that will not go away," he said.
Although work installing solar panels in Georgia homes and businesses isn't booming yet, all indications are that it will be. Green energy industries are expected to create 26 million jobs nationwide through 2030, including 59,000 in Georgia, according to the Pew Charitable Trust and the American Solar Energy Society.
Savannah Tech Photovoltaic Repair Program graduate Julian Smith started his own business, SolarSmith, because he believes rising power rates in Georgia will soon make electrical power sources too expensive for average citizens.
"We can put in enough solar power that you won't have to worry about electrical rates," Smith said. "My bill was $49 last month."
The future's so bright for Savannah Technical College's student electricians, they're putting up solar panels.
Students have flocked to enroll in Savannah Tech's Photovoltaic Systems Program since President Barack Obama visited the campus in March and praised their renewable energy jobs training effort.
"Solar energy is efficient, it helps the planet and it's the upcoming energy craze," said student Ytinu Jzar. "I want to start my own business."
In 2006, Savannah Tech began offering solar energy installation and repair training as part of its traditional courses for electricians. At first, Savannah Tech instructor Lester Wiggins would teach students to install and repair solar power panels as an added bonus to students who were there only to learn to wire houses. But growing interest in renewable energy prompted Tech to offer the state's first 19 credit hour photovoltaic certification program.
"I teach them to install a 4,000 watt photovoltaic system to a roof so it can be tied in with a homeowner's regular use of the Georgia Power grid," Wiggins said. "Those solar panels will harness energy from the sun, put the power back into the grid and run the meter backward so the homeowner's bills are lowered."
Graduates, who either are electricians or work with a licensed electrician, can install and repair solar energy systems in Georgia. Georgia's only other program opened this year at Lanier Technical College in Hall County. Savannah Tech officials are working to further expand their program so they can offer the national certification through the North American Board of Solar Energy Practitioners.
Currently there are only a few places in the country offering national certification. Once Tech's program is nationally certified, graduates will be qualified to do solar work anywhere in the country.
Potiphar Nkhoma left his home and business in Cape Town, South Africa, to come to Savannah Tech and learn how to reduce reliance upon expensive gas generators in his country.
"I want to know how to be able to build and install the equipment so I can show others," he said. "It is my plan to return home and set up a business. Then, I will begin to work to convince government officials that solar technology is the better way to provide electricity for our country."
As governments seek more sources of clean and renewable energy and offer more grants and rebates for homeowners who make the switch, the demand for certified solar system installers will increase. Currently all the buoys off of Georgia's coast, roadside speed monitoring devices, lighting along highways and trails on Fort Stewart run on solar power, Wiggins said.
"It's a fashion that will not go away," he said.
Although work installing solar panels in Georgia homes and businesses isn't booming yet, all indications are that it will be. Green energy industries are expected to create 26 million jobs nationwide through 2030, including 59,000 in Georgia, according to the Pew Charitable Trust and the American Solar Energy Society.
Savannah Tech Photovoltaic Repair Program graduate Julian Smith started his own business, SolarSmith, because he believes rising power rates in Georgia will soon make electrical power sources too expensive for average citizens.
"We can put in enough solar power that you won't have to worry about electrical rates," Smith said. "My bill was $49 last month."
Wednesday, May 5, 2010
College Professor Likes Solar's Future
Brynn Twait
Professor of Engineering Angus Rockett spoke about the positives and negatives of solar energy during his speech titled “Photovoltaics as Part of a Renewable Energy Economy” Monday at 4 p.m. in the ACES library.
While it’s still an evolving technology, solar energy can already be found in a few places on campus.
The Gable Home, 1900 S. First Street, Champaign, was created by the 2009 Solar Decathlon team and won second place in the U.S. Department of Energy’s Solar Decathlon. The house has 40 solar panels on it.
The house runs almost completely on solar energy, said Patrick Chapman, one of the team’s advisors and professor of electrical and computer engineering. “On average, we generate more power than we use,” he said.
A unique aspect of the house’s technology is that it converts the solar energy directly to electricity, instead of being converted to heat.
Other buildings powered by solar energy include the Business Instructional Facility, which uses solar cells on its roof.
Also, there is a single solar cell module outside Grainger Library. Rockett said solar energy is an expanding industry.
“The industry has been growing about 40 percent a year in recent years,” he said.
While solar cells are expensive right now, they are becoming more affordable.
“Prices are coming down. Prices are low enough now that it make sense for consumers to invest,” Rockett said.
Chapman said this price decrease should make solar energy a more viable option.
“I think that, just in general, as solar energy becomes cheaper, it will become more attractive,” Chapman said.
At 10 percent efficiency, solar energy is more efficient than other renewable sources of energy, including wind energy, Rockett said.
Another benefit is people do not have to go through the power grid because solar cells can be installed on their roofs, he added.
However, rare elements involved in making solar cells make solar energy problematic due to lack of sources, Rockett said.
Also, storage systems are needed in order to preserve the energy.
Curtis Manahan, graduate student, said he found the lecture interesting but did not think the University should install more solar cells.
“I think it (solar energy) has great possibility for growth and widespread use,” he said. “With the current amount of money they’re making, I don’t think it’s worth it to currently invest in it,” he said.
Professor of Engineering Angus Rockett spoke about the positives and negatives of solar energy during his speech titled “Photovoltaics as Part of a Renewable Energy Economy” Monday at 4 p.m. in the ACES library.
While it’s still an evolving technology, solar energy can already be found in a few places on campus.
The Gable Home, 1900 S. First Street, Champaign, was created by the 2009 Solar Decathlon team and won second place in the U.S. Department of Energy’s Solar Decathlon. The house has 40 solar panels on it.
The house runs almost completely on solar energy, said Patrick Chapman, one of the team’s advisors and professor of electrical and computer engineering. “On average, we generate more power than we use,” he said.
A unique aspect of the house’s technology is that it converts the solar energy directly to electricity, instead of being converted to heat.
Other buildings powered by solar energy include the Business Instructional Facility, which uses solar cells on its roof.
Also, there is a single solar cell module outside Grainger Library. Rockett said solar energy is an expanding industry.
“The industry has been growing about 40 percent a year in recent years,” he said.
While solar cells are expensive right now, they are becoming more affordable.
“Prices are coming down. Prices are low enough now that it make sense for consumers to invest,” Rockett said.
Chapman said this price decrease should make solar energy a more viable option.
“I think that, just in general, as solar energy becomes cheaper, it will become more attractive,” Chapman said.
At 10 percent efficiency, solar energy is more efficient than other renewable sources of energy, including wind energy, Rockett said.
Another benefit is people do not have to go through the power grid because solar cells can be installed on their roofs, he added.
However, rare elements involved in making solar cells make solar energy problematic due to lack of sources, Rockett said.
Also, storage systems are needed in order to preserve the energy.
Curtis Manahan, graduate student, said he found the lecture interesting but did not think the University should install more solar cells.
“I think it (solar energy) has great possibility for growth and widespread use,” he said. “With the current amount of money they’re making, I don’t think it’s worth it to currently invest in it,” he said.
Tuesday, May 4, 2010
Crooks Give Electricians Bad Rep in Asia
SINGAPORE : The number of cases of burglars posing as electricians to gain access into flats has been on the rise since 2006, but the trend reversed last year with a decline of 14 cases.
Many of the victims were the elderly.
77-year-old Madam Lee Phong Tee and her 82-year-old husband, who are victims of burglary, are now wary of strangers knocking on their doors.
"He (burglar) turned off my circuit breaker outside, before lying that my circuit breaker has tripped. He had intended to come and steal from me. I opened the door because he said the government sent him to repair the short circuit," said Madam Lee.
The thief made off with S$900 worth of jewellery and S$600 cash which was meant for their daily expenses.
The police have stepped patrols in various estates. - CNA /ls
Many of the victims were the elderly.
77-year-old Madam Lee Phong Tee and her 82-year-old husband, who are victims of burglary, are now wary of strangers knocking on their doors.
"He (burglar) turned off my circuit breaker outside, before lying that my circuit breaker has tripped. He had intended to come and steal from me. I opened the door because he said the government sent him to repair the short circuit," said Madam Lee.
The thief made off with S$900 worth of jewellery and S$600 cash which was meant for their daily expenses.
The police have stepped patrols in various estates. - CNA /ls
Monday, May 3, 2010
Australian Sparkies in Short Supply
Astonishing fact: Australia's coking coal exports to China increased 1,000% between 2008 and 2009. Asian demand for iron ore, oil and gas, uranium, and other minerals from Down Under has surged too. The states of Queensland and Western Australia, dotted with remote mining towns, are booming as a result. Chartered planes fly in and out of Perth every day, ferrying mineworkers by the thousands to these locations, where they work two weeks on, two weeks off.
Perth is expanding its airport just to accommodate the mining companies, which are hiring at a record clip. If demand stays strong—a big if, given the boom and bust cycles of commodities businesses—then Australia's mines will need another 86,000 workers in the next decade, the government figures.
Average mining wages have risen 60% since 2004, says local recruiter Konrad Forrest, to almost $2,000 U.S. dollars a week, better than the average pay in Australia's flourishing financial services industry. In some cases mining wages have doubled in six years, adds Forrest. Because of the two-week rotation, explains Adrian Morris, a mining electrician with 25 years' experience, some miners "actually only work 22 weeks a year for $100,000" ($93,000 U.S.). Of course, adds Morris, "you are actually putting up with a lot of crap, and there is a very real danger you could be killed."
Electricians—the Aussies call them "sparkies"—are the blue-collar workers most in demand in the mines. According to the Hays Resources & Mining Salary Guide and mysalary.com, electricians in the Western Australia mines made between $83,000 and $120,000 (U.S.) in 2009. In contrast, mining electricians in the U.S. made $49,000 to $59,000 in 2008, the latest figures available. A boilermaker—who repairs and installs equipment—made up to $111,000 in Australia. His equivalent in the U.S. made up to $51,000. Similar pay gaps favor Australian mining managers in unskilled workers.
The bottom line: The mining sector's boom soaks up workers. It also has Australia's central bank worried about inflation.
Daniel Petrie is a reporter for Bloomberg News.
Perth is expanding its airport just to accommodate the mining companies, which are hiring at a record clip. If demand stays strong—a big if, given the boom and bust cycles of commodities businesses—then Australia's mines will need another 86,000 workers in the next decade, the government figures.
Average mining wages have risen 60% since 2004, says local recruiter Konrad Forrest, to almost $2,000 U.S. dollars a week, better than the average pay in Australia's flourishing financial services industry. In some cases mining wages have doubled in six years, adds Forrest. Because of the two-week rotation, explains Adrian Morris, a mining electrician with 25 years' experience, some miners "actually only work 22 weeks a year for $100,000" ($93,000 U.S.). Of course, adds Morris, "you are actually putting up with a lot of crap, and there is a very real danger you could be killed."
Electricians—the Aussies call them "sparkies"—are the blue-collar workers most in demand in the mines. According to the Hays Resources & Mining Salary Guide and mysalary.com, electricians in the Western Australia mines made between $83,000 and $120,000 (U.S.) in 2009. In contrast, mining electricians in the U.S. made $49,000 to $59,000 in 2008, the latest figures available. A boilermaker—who repairs and installs equipment—made up to $111,000 in Australia. His equivalent in the U.S. made up to $51,000. Similar pay gaps favor Australian mining managers in unskilled workers.
The bottom line: The mining sector's boom soaks up workers. It also has Australia's central bank worried about inflation.
Daniel Petrie is a reporter for Bloomberg News.
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