8minutenergy Renewables and Saferay Sign 20MW Power Purchase Agreement with Southern California Edison (SCE) for Solar Power
May0
8minutenergy Renewables and Saferay Sign 20MW Power Purchase Agreement with Southern California Edison (SCE) for Solar Power
Folsom, CA (PRWEB) April 01, 2013
8minutenergy Renewables, LLC and saferay, Inc. today announced the signing of a 20-year contract to sell 20 megawatts-ac (26.3MW-dc) of clean, renewable solar energy from their Redcrest Solar Farm project in Kern County, Calif., to Southern California Edison (SCE). The transaction was conducted with 67RK 8ME, LLC, a subsidiary of Folsom, Calif.-based 8minutenergy Renewables, which is the nation’s leading independent solar PV developer, and saferay, an independent solar power producer that performs EPC and owns more than 160MW of solar PV around the world. The two companies have a joint development agreement to develop and build the Redcrest Solar Farm project.
The Redcrest Solar Farm project is a utility-scale solar generation facility sited on 160 acres of low-productivity farmland. Construction is projected to begin in 2014, with the site expected to be operational and delivering renewable energy by mid-2015. This clean solar generation plant will displace the equivalent of approximately 54,000 metric tons of carbon dioxide (CO2) per year, which is equal to the amount that roughly 2.2 million trees would displace annually.
“We are grateful that SCE has awarded this PPA in its competitive RAM process. This is the third PPA in the last 12 months that we’ve secured, for a total capacity of over 325MW,” said Martin Hermann, chief executive officer of 8minutenergy Renewables. “We are pleased that utilities and county, state and local officials have confidence in the ability of 8minutenergy and saferay to deliver on our solar projects. The Redcrest Solar Farm’s annual production of approximately 48 million kilowatt hours (kWhs) of electricity will produce enough renewable solar energy to serve 9,000 households.”
“We are excited that our project with 8minutenergy received a PPA from SCE, and we are very appreciative of the strong local support for this project,” stated Boris Schubert, chief executive officer, saferay, Inc. “With our EPC track record, expertise and partners, saferay is ideally positioned to deliver the Redcrest Solar Farm.”
The Redcrest Solar Farm project will create more than 50 direct and 100 indirect jobs in the area during the construction period. “The Redcrest Solar Farm will generate jobs and contribute to the local economy, while creating renewable energy that will abet SCE’s efforts to help the state meet its 33 percent RPS mandate,” said Tom Buttgenbach, president of 8minutenergy Renewables. “SCE is to be commended for their commitment to the people of Kern County, which had a December 2012 unemployment rate of 13.5%, which is nearly six percentage points above the national average of 7.6%, and nearly four points above the state of California’s 9.7% rate.”
The Redcrest Solar Farm is located in Kern County, Calif. The solar power system for the Redcrest Solar Farm will be comprised of state-of-the-art solar photovoltaic modules, related power electronics, and other components including an advanced tracking system that follows the sun to maximize energy production. The PPA contract is pending approval from the California Public Utilities Commission.
About saferay, Inc.
saferay, headquartered in Berlin, Germany, is a leader in the field of efficient and fast implementation of large-scale photovoltaic power plants. As an independent solar power producer saferay builds and finances PV plants primarily for its own asset base in order to shape future energy concepts in the world’s leading energy markets. The company’s EPC experience includes over 250 MW of installed PV capacity, from which it owns more than 160MW. For more information, visit http://www.saferay.com.
About 8minutenergy Renewables, LLC
8minutenergy develops, finances, engineers, constructs, holds, operates and maintains solar projects. To date, 8minutenergy has closed over $ 1 billion in solar Power Purchase Agreements; been awarded 325MW in PPAs; secured close to 1,000MW in General Interconnection Agreements (GIA); obtained Conditional Use Permits (CUP) for 7,500 acres; and has 15,000 acres under contract. Most recently, 8minutenergy successfully concluded the development of a 260MW solar plant in Imperial Valley, Calif. – Mount Signal Solar – which is now under construction. It represents the first of three phases of an approximately 800MW-dc (600MW-ac) planned solar PV power project – currently the largest in the world.
8minutenergy’s proprietary transmission, land and economic analysis process and tools helps select optimal power plant sites for accelerated permitting with counties and utilities. All 8minutenergy solar projects are located on disturbed, low-value farm land. 8minutenergy strives to ensure that its solar power projects provide low cost, clean renewable energy from the sun with low environmental impacts, particularly when compared with public lands projects on pristine desert wildlands. 8minutenergy has offices in Folsom, Los Angeles, San Francisco, San Diego and El Centro, California. For more information, please call (916) 608-9060, send email to info@8minutenergy.com or visit http://www.8minutenergy.com.
Media Contacts:
8minutenergy Renewables
Kevin Butler
(415) 990-1545
kbutler@8minutenergy.com
http://www.8minutenergy.com
saferay
info@saferay.com
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American Solar Direct Among Top Residential Companies to Watch for in 2013: GTM Research; California-Based Residential Solar Firm Reports Steady Quarterly Growth
May0
American Solar Direct Among Top Residential Companies to Watch for in 2013: GTM Research; California-Based Residential Solar Firm Reports Steady Quarterly Growth
Los Angeles, CA (PRWEB) March 26, 2013
American Solar Direct (ASD) was named as one the top five residential solar installers to watch in 2013 by GTM Research in their article published March 25, 2013.
With residential solar installations up by 62 percent last year and California expected to remain the leading state for solar in 2013, American Solar Direct remains ideally positioned to continue strong growth as an ideal choice for homeowners in the Golden State.
“The story of American Solar Direct is one of a successful business model with demonstrated results,” said CEO Brennan Mulcahy. “As a one-stop solution, we are unique because we do it all in-house: From our superior customer service focus, to our easy financing solutions, to our long-term care and maintenance of the system. Harnessing the sun’s power has never been easier.”
GTM Research, a division of Greentech Media, provides critical and timely market analysis in the form of research reports, data services, advisory services and strategic consulting.
In this week’s article, GTM Research said American Solar Direct is one of the few top-20 installers that has experienced consistent positive quarter-over-quarter growth since it began installing residential systems in 2010. Since it was formed in fall 2009 by leaders in the energy industry, ASD serves residents in southern and northern California from multiple strategic regional service centers.
About American Solar Direct
American Solar Direct is a full-service solar provider, offering affordable solar system leases as well as purchase agreements. American Solar Direct includes design, permitting, installation, and project management services in each flat rate contract. Through its fixed-rate solar lease program, ASD offers homeowners the ability to generate their own clean, renewable power and take control of their electricity prices.
Homeowners interested in solar power may contact ASD at 855-SOLAR55 (or 888-825-1856) to get started with a free, no-obligation in-home analysis. Job candidates may view our current openings at http:// http://www.americansolardirect.com/Careers/Careers.aspx.
For more information, contact media(at)americansolardirect(dot)com.
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The Solar Center Of Woodland Hills Anounces Tax Incentives For Going Solar
Apr0
The Solar Center Of Woodland Hills Anounces Tax Incentives For Going Solar
Los Angeles, CA (PRWEB) March 12, 2013
California’s use of solar energy is skyrocketing. Thanks to lucrative rebates and tax incentives the California Solar Initiative has now funded enough solar power systems to generate 1 gigawatt of electricity – the highest of any state in the country.
Launched in 2007, the $ 2.4 billion California Solar Initiative aims to install enough solar power systems to generate 3 gigawatts of power by 2016. The program is part of California’s Million Solar Roofs Initiative, a $ 3.3 billion package of financial incentives offered by the state to jump start California’s solar industry.
According to Solar Center’s Sergio Bruna – Southern California’s leading provider of integrated and renewable energy products – customers who install solar energy systems can expect to save thousands of dollars on their utility bills in addition to enjoying the rebates and tax breaks provided by the California Solar Initiative.
The rebates offered by the California Solar Initiative decline over time and are now 92 percent lower than they were when the program began. “Consumers should take advantage of this program now!” says Bruna. “Once these rebates are gone, they’re gone. It’s really a no brainer.”
Bruna also recommends that consumers do their research and make sure they contact a reputable solar contractor such as the Solar Center. “There are lots of unscrupulous companies out there trying to take advantage of not only consumers but the government’s programs as well. You need to call a professional company such as Solar Center who has the experience to make sure you get all of the incentives you are entitled to as well top of the line products and professional installation.”
Solar Center offers a way to save thousands on energy costs and to increase your property value without increasing your property tax.
The Solar Center of Woodland Hills, California can be reached at (877) 207-6527.
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Sunmodo Partners with Oregon Department of Energy and Solar Oregon on Lake County Renewable Energy Demonstration Project
Apr0
Sunmodo Partners with Oregon Department of Energy and Solar Oregon on Lake County Renewable Energy Demonstration Project
VANCOUVER, Washington (PRWEB) February 28, 2013
SunModo Corp., a leading racking and mounting solutions provider for solar power systems, announce today that Sunmodo will partner with Oregon Department of Energy and Solar Oregon to provide solar racking equipment for the Lake County Renewable Energy Demonstration Project.
The mobile Renewable Energy Demonstration trailer will include an assortment of interactive educational models and a back drop display. An eye-catching display with graphics of both large and small scale renewable energy systems will highlight some of the recent renewable energy developments in the county and create a space for residents to learn about renewable energy and energy efficiency technologies. A stand-alone solar electric system featuring Sunmodo racking and SolarWorld panels will power a touchscreen mounted to the trailer. Through the touchscreen, visitors will be able to access videos, photos, diagrams of renewable energy systems, and live solar data from a site in Lakeview. “As part of our commitment to make solar more accessible, Sunmodo strives to make a positive difference in the communities and is proud to partner with Oregon Department of Energy and Solar Oregon on this project.” said Tony Liu, President of Sunmodo.
Last fall, Lake County residents from the Renewable Energy Steering Committee formed the idea for a renewable energy demonstration trailer. This spring, the trailer will travel to several Lake County communities with the purpose of heightening adoption of renewable energy use and energy efficiency upgrades, and economically benefiting local communities.
The Renewable Energy Demonstration Trailer is a project of Oregon Department of Energy, and is managed by the non-profit organization Solar Oregon. The project aims to raise level of awareness of available renewable energy and energy efficiency technologies and show affordable applications for homes and businesses. “This project is driven by the passion and hard work of Lake County residents who are working to meet the demand for information and access to their exceptional renewable energy resources,” says Claire Carlson, Solar Oregon Executive Director.
About Sunmodo, Corp.:
SunModo, a Washington based solar panel mounting company, was formed with the mission of providing the best value solar racking and mounting solutions for solar power systems. Founded by highly skilled engineers, SunModo has quickly become known as a high quality provider of cost effective solar mounting products and its products are known for their quality, ease of installation, and affordability. For more information, visit http://www.sunmodo.com
About Solar Oregon:
Solar Oregon is a 501(C)(3) nonprofit organization that provides outreach and education on solar technology and its applications, methods for improving energy efficiency, and ideas for building a carbon-neutral future.
About Oregon Department of Energy:
ODOE’s mission is to reduce the long-term cost of energy for Oregonians.
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Related Renewable Energy Press Releases
Largest Airport Solar Farm Planned in US to Begin Construction March 2013 at Indianapolis International Airport
Mar0
Largest Airport Solar Farm Planned in US to Begin Construction March 2013 at Indianapolis International Airport
Indianapolis, Indiana (PRWEB) February 05, 2013
Construction of the largest planned airport solar farm in North America is set to begin in March 2013 at the entrance to the Indianapolis International Airport (IND). This $ 35-$ 40 million dollar alternative energy project is a significant public-private partnership that includes the Indianapolis Airport Authority (IAA), the City of Indianapolis, and privately held businesses Telamon Corporation, Johnson Melloh Solutions, and the Indianapolis Power & Light Company (IPL). All entities involved are committed to finding a creative solution to increasing sustainability in Indianapolis while helping diversify renewable sources of electric power for Indianapolis business and residential customers.
Upon its completion the 75-acre solar farm, designed and built by two local companies Telamon Corporation and Johnson Melloh Solutions, will have the capacity to produce enough renewable energy to prevent approximately 10,700 tons of carbon dioxide from being released into the environment each year—the equivalent of removing approximately 2,000 cars from the roads of central Indiana.
“Typically alternative energy projects of this size take 18-24 months of planning and development after all agreements have been signed. Our solar farm project is on schedule,” said Eric Tate, Executive Vice President for Telamon’s Energy Solutions division.
IND Solar Farm developers Telamon Corporation and Johnson Melloh Solutions report that the Federal Aviation Administration “FAA” approval has been received and it is anticipated that all other permits will be obtained, including: drainage, structural, electrical and airport work permits.
“Projects of this size require a lot of teamwork, and we are happy to be partnered with true professionals within the IAA and Telamon Corporation,” said Kurt Schneider, Vice President for Johnson Melloh Solutions. “The IAA deserves a lot of credit for their creativity in finding ways to generate new streams of non-airline revenue, innovative development of limited-use land, and for continuing their solid commitment to sustainability. We also commend Indianapolis Power & Light Company for being a leader in securing renewable electric energy alternatives for their customers.”
As operations begin later this year, the IND-based solar farm will comprise more than 41,000 solar panels, annually producing more than 15 million kilowatt hours of electric energy, enough to power more than 1,200 average American homes for a year.
“Both Telamon and Johnson Melloh Solutions are excited to announce the recent developments regarding the IND Solar Farm,” said Albert Chen, President and CEO of Telamon Corporation. “We look forward to continuing our role in the preconstruction, construction, oversight, and commissioning stages of the project as a venture partner.”
Over the next three months, travelers entering IND will see land surveyors working to finalize grid layouts and conducting land-preparation surveys; access road development; fencing; and excavation while final selections for engineering and contracting firms occur.
“Today’s solar power costs are becoming relatively competitive with the energy costs we will see here in the coming years.” said Travis Murphy, Johnson Melloh Solutions’ Director of Marketing. “Solar power does make good economic sense and we are excited by this opportunity to forge new ground in Indiana.”
Construction is planned to start at the end of March 2013. Once concrete is poured, arrays will begin to interconnect into IPL’s airport substation.
“As the first airport in the U.S. to receive LEED® certification for its entire campus, IND is the appropriate home to the largest airport-based solar farm in the country,” said Robert Duncan, executive director for the IAA. “We believe the public-private partnership formed to build and manage this new solar farm is a natural fit to our commitment to both economic and environmental sustainability.”
Additional Indianapolis International Airport facts:
IND’s economic impact in Central Indiana is more than $ 4.5 billion annually, and about 10,000 people work at the airport each day.
IND serves more than 7 million business and leisure travelers each year and averages 141 daily flights to 33 nonstop destinations.
IND is home of the world’s second-largest FedEx Express operation and the nation’s eighth-largest cargo airport.
Timeline of IND Solar Farm construction and deployment:
Project announcement (September 2011)
Pre-development activites (October 2011 – August 2012)
Permitting and approvals (September 2012 – February 2013)
Pre-construction activities (February 2013 – March 2013)
Construction (April – August 2013)
Commissioning
For more information, visit IND Solar Farm’s Web site, Facebook page INDSolarFarm or @INDSolarFarm.
ABOUT TELAMON CORPORATION
Telamon Corporation’s goal is to simplify business. We specialize in solutions for telecommunications, business transactions, energy, assembly, and logistics for medical material. Based in Carmel, Indiana, we operate in ten locations – eight domestic and two international. Telamon, the Greek word for “support”, is uniquely positioned as a minority-owned company. We continuously exceed customer expectations and standards and have been recognized globally through numerous awards and certifications. Using the servant model, at Telamon, your needs are our only priority. For more information, please visit our website at http://www.telamon.com.
ABOUT JOHNSON MELLOH SOLUTIONS
Formed in response to the growing need of an energy services company that can self-perform, Johnson Melloh Solutions focuses on energy conservation services and general contracting for customer classes, ranging from residential renewable energy offerings to energy savings contracting for school systems to large-scale industrial energy plant management and service. JMS develops a holistic evaluation of their customers’ energy infrastructure and then has the wherewithal to implement the ideas. We at JMS stand ready to address all of the energy demands our clients may face. For more information, please visit our website at http://www.johnsonmellohsolutions.com.
ABOUT THE INDIANAPOLIS INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT AUTHORITY
The Indianapolis Airport Authority owns and operates Indiana’s largest airport system. In addition to Indianapolis International Airport, its facilities include the Downtown Heliport, Eagle Creek Airpark, Hendricks County Airport, Indianapolis Regional Airport, and Metropolitan Airport. IND has received several prestigious awards recognizing it as a leader within its class, including annual Airport Service Quality awards for performance excellence by Airports Council International. IND is the first airport in the U.S. to win LEED® certification for an entire terminal campus, and the airport has won recognition for excellent customer service, concessions programs, and art and architecture.
IND’s economic impact in Central Indiana is more than $ 4.5 billion annually, and about 10,000 people work at the airport each day. IND serves more than 7 million business and leisure travelers each year and averages 141 daily flights to 33 nonstop destinations. Home of the world’s second-largest FedEx Express operation and the nation’s eighth-largest cargo airport, IND is committed to becoming the airport system of choice for both passenger and cargo service. For more information, visit IND’s Facebook page Indianapolis International Airport and Twitter page at @INDairport.
INDIANAPOLIS Power & Light Company
Indianapolis Power & Light Company provides retail electric service to more than 470,000 residential, commercial and industrial customers in Indianapolis, as well as portions of other Central Indiana communities surrounding Marion County. During its long history, IPL has supplied its customers with some of the lowest-cost, most reliable power in the country. For more information about the company, please visit http://www.IPLpower.com.
ABOUT BRANDRENEW
Brandrenew, established in 2010 by Cris Dorman, has its corporate headquarters in Indianapolis. Brandrenew is an integrated branding and public relations firm carving out a niche in public relations, branding (rebranding) and special events. The firm was launched to help organizations and companies adhere to a unified brand, to reach their target audiences through various forms of media, and to stage and host turn key special events. For more information about the company, please visit http://www.brandrenew.net.
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Los Angeles Solar Panel Installation Contractor Announces Launch of New Website
Feb0
Los Angeles Solar Panel Installation Contractor Announces Launch of New Website
Los Angeles, California (PRWEB) December 21, 2012
With an abundance of remodeling companies in the Los Angeles area, it can be difficult to distinguish them from one another. SoCal Preferred Builders is aware of this challenge and is determined to go the extra mile for their customers. “Our customers come first,” said Antonio Ramirez, project manager for SoCal Preferred Builders. “Working with the customer to make them comfortable with the process is vital to every project.”
SoCal Preferred Builders is debuting a new website http://www.socalpreferredbuilders.com to share some of their customer centered benefits with residents and businesses in Los Angeles and Orange County.
With everyone watching their spending, SoCal Preferred Builders wants to make it easier for customers to get the remodeling projects they desire by providing financing with zero percent interest. They offer lifetime warranties on as many products as possible and backup all their work with a warranty. All cabinets, wood and solar panels are American made products, in a commitment to help restore the US’s economy. SoCal Preferred Builders, stand by their word. “When a price is established at the onset of a project, it will not change during the process. The same goes for the date of completion,” said Antonio.
The sun is a free, clean and renewable energy source. Solar electric systems utilize the sun’s reliable energy to power homes and businesses. This allows residents to use considerably less electricity from the public utility company which has fluctuating prices due to the rise in fossil fuels. It is clean and reduces environmental pollutants generated by burning coal and gas emissions. “Installing solar panels reduces your electricity bill by over 30%. Our clients have seen their meter run backward,” said Antonio. SoCal Preferred Builders specialize in the installation of solar panels for commercial and residential use. Their team of professional technicians provides the latest technology for maximum efficient solar panels. They work with solar panel manufactures to provide their customers with the best product money can buy. “Not only is our product more efficient, it costs much less, said Antonio “Solar panels are not only for the roof, they can also be installed along the side of a home creating a different aesthetic.” The California Solar Initiative provides a rebate program for those residents and businesses looking to make the switch over to solar energy. So Cal Preferred Builders are skilled in installing solar panels, solar lighting and solar landscape lighting. They take care of all the rebate paperwork and permits required for the job.
For more information about this company please call (855)247-6225, or visit their website http://www.socalpreferredbuilders.com.
About SoCal Preferred Builders
SoCal Preferred Builders are experienced general contractors with an A rating from the Better Business Bureau. They offer outstanding kitchen and bathroom remodeling services, home renovation work and solar energy installations services. Their registered and licensed contractors are professional with a focus on quality results ready to help customers select the right upgrades and changes for their home. With SoCal Preferred Builders, customers know they are getting the highest quality renovations with dependable service. They happily serve Los Angeles, Los Angeles County and Orange County.
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SEIA: National Lab Report Shows Cost of Solar Energy Continues Significant Decline
Jan0
SEIA: National Lab Report Shows Cost of Solar Energy Continues Significant Decline
Washington, DC (PRWEB) November 27, 2012
The average cost of going solar in the U.S. continued to decrease significantly in 2011 and through the first half of 2012, according to a report released today by the Department of Energy’s Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory. Solar advocates noted that these findings are the latest indicator that solar is an important and growing part of America’s new energy economy.
“This report shows just how far solar power has come in the U.S., and how much more we can do. Faced with a recession economy, messy election politics and an entrenched electricity marketplace, solar is quietly defying the odds and reinventing our national energy landscape. It’s really remarkable,” said Adam Browning, Executive Director of the Vote Solar Initiative.
“With solar energy more affordable than ever, more American families and businesses are going solar to meet their electricity and hot water needs,” said Rhone Resch, president and CEO of the Solar Energy Industries Association (SEIA). “Declining costs have driven record growth over the last four years and we expect the solar market to double in 2012 and double again in 2013. This growth proves that smart federal and state energy policies diversify our energy portfolio and grow our economy. With 5,600 companies employing 119,000 Americans, the U.S. solar industry has become an economic engine for America.”
The latest edition of Lawrence Berkeley National Lab’s “Tracking the Sun,” an annual report on solar photovoltaic (PV) costs in the U.S., examined more than 150,000 PV systems installed between 1998 and 2011 and preliminary data from the first half of 2012. Key findings include:
The average installed price of residential and commercial PV systems completed in 2011 range from $ 6.1/W for smaller projects to $ 4.9/W for larger projects, an 11-14% decrease from the year before. Installed prices fell an additional 3-7% in the first half of 2012.
Historically, installed PV prices have declined an average of 5-7% per year from nearly $ 12/W in 1998, with particularly sharp reductions occurring since 2009.
The recent price decline is, in large part, attributable to falling module prices, which fell by $ 2.1/W from 2008 through 2011, and have fallen further still in 2012.
Non-module costs, such as installation labor, marketing, overhead, inverters, and the balance of systems for residential and commercial systems declined by roughly 30% from 1998 to 2011, but have not declined as rapidly as module prices in recent years. Market-building policies that target non-module or “soft” costs represent a significant opportunity for continued price reduction.
“Tracking the Sun gives us more good solar news as we see efficiencies built into labor and permitting practices without sacrificing quality and safety,” said Jane Weissman, executive director, Interstate Renewable Energy Council, Inc. (IREC).”The solar industry has built in safeguards through standard-based performance and competency assessment programs which together lead to consumer confidence and sustainable market growth.”
The price declines found in Tracking the Sun add to a number of recent reports that illustrate:
Rapid Market Growth: PV installations totaled 742 megawatts (MW) in Q2 2012, up 45% over the previous quarter and 116% over Q2 2011. Source: Solar Market Insight report from GTM Research and SEIA.
Strong Job Growth: Solar employs 119,000 Americans across all 50 states. Solar job growth has far outpaced the general economy with 13.2% annual growth over 2011. Source: The National Solar Jobs Census from the Solar Foundation.
Overwhelming Bipartisan Support: 92% of Americans agree that it’s important to use and develop more solar. Source: Hart Research National Solar Survey 2012.
An infographic illustrating the U.S. solar industry’s recent success is available at: http://votesolar.org/2012/11/infographic/
The full Tracking the Sun report is available at: http://emp.lbl.gov/sites/all/files/LBNL-5919e-REPORT.pdf
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About Vote Solar:
Founded in 2002, the Vote Solar Initiative is a grassroots non-profit organization working to combat climate change and foster economic development by bringing solar energy into the mainstream. http://www.votesolar.org
About SEIA:
Established in 1974, the Solar Energy Industries Association® is the national trade association of the U.S. solar energy industry. Through advocacy and education, SEIA® is building a strong solar industry to power America. As the voice of the industry, SEIA works with its 1,100 member companies to make solar a mainstream and significant energy source by expanding markets, removing market barriers strengthening the industry and educating the public on the benefits of solar energy. Visit SEIA online at http://www.seia.org
About IREC:
The Interstate Renewable Energy Council, Inc. (IREC) is a non-profit organization accelerating the use of renewable energy since 1982. IREC’s programs and policies lead to easier, more affordable connection to the utility grid; fair credit for renewable energy produced; best practices for states, municipalities, utilities and industry; and quality assessment for the growing clean energy workforce through the credentialing of trainers and training programs. http://www.irecusa.org
Media contacts:
Vote Solar – Rosalind Jackson, Rosalind(at)votesolar(dot)org, 415-817-5061
SEIA – Jamie Nolan, JNolan(at)SEIA(dot)org, 202-556-2886
IREC –Jane Pulaski, janep(at)irecusa(dot)org
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Vocus, PRWeb, and Publicity Wire are trademarks or registered trademarks of Vocus, Inc. or Vocus PRW Holdings, LLC.
Related Renewable Energy Press Releases
The Solar Foundation’s National Solar Jobs Census 2012 Finds Installers Leading the Way
Jan0
The Solar Foundation’s National Solar Jobs Census 2012 Finds Installers Leading the Way
ALBANY, N.Y. (PRWEB) November 14, 2012
The Solar Foundation (TSF), an independent nonprofit solar education and research organization, today released the full version of its third annual National Solar Jobs Census at the Interstate Renewable Energy Council’s Clean Energy Workforce Education Conference. In early November, TSF announced that the Census found that the U.S. solar industry now employs 119,016 Americans, a figure which represents the addition of 13,872 workers and a 13.2 percent employment growth rate over the previous year. The three year Census series paints a stunning picture of solar job growth. Since 2010, employment in the U.S. solar industry has grown 27 percent – eight times faster than the overall economy during the same period, in which, employment grew by 3.2 percent.
The complete report released today analyzes employment in the subsectors that make up the solar industry. Installation remained the largest subsector in terms of employment and added the most new jobs. Installers now employ 57,177 Americans, a 17.5 percent increase over the revised 2011 figure. Sales and distribution jobs experienced a 23.1 percent increase, now employing 16,005 Americans.
“The National Solar Jobs Census 2012 illustrates that the solar industry, as a whole, is a dependable job creator and that solar employers are confident about growth in 2013,” said Andrea Luecke, TSF Executive Director. “The growth by installers, especially at larger firms, signals that this subsector is heading toward a period of consolidation and maturation on par with other successful industries at this stage of the growth curve.”
“The subsector information presented in the National Solar Jobs Census 2012 is providing the solar industry, policy makers, and the public with a greater understanding of the industry’s employment makeup,” said Philip Jordan, Vice President at BW Research Partnership, which collaborated with TSF and Cornell University on the Census.
Although manufacturing jobs decreased from a revised 2011 figure of 37,941 jobs to 29,742 in 2012, many downstream manufacturers are still reporting growth.
“The solar industry is generating new jobs across the country. This year we have increased our internal workforce from 130 to 150 employees. In addition, growth in products whose manufacturing we outsource has created about 50 manufacturing jobs with our strategic manufacturing partners. We also signed a new lease on September 1 for a second, 40,000-squarefoot building, increasing our manufacturing area by 50 percent,” said Peter Lorenz, President and CEO of Unirac Inc. in Albuquerque, N.M.. “Unirac is on track for 80 percent growth this year. That’s on top of a 100 percent increase in revenue between 2009 and 2011.”
“Other” solar jobs, primarily in research and development and finance, experienced the largest growth rate – 46.1 percent – now collectively employing 8,105 Americans.
“We’ve experienced an increased demand for solar financing, and strong employment growth in the industry naturally follows,” said Gianluca Signorelli, Vice President and Renewable Energy Finance Manager at Rabobank, N.A. “A case in point is our solar finance team, which is growing too.”
Solar employers in all subsectors responded with optimism about future job growth. They expect to grow by 17.2 percent over the next 12 months, representing an addition of 20,000 new jobs.
“Though we have found in the past that employment projections tend to overestimate job growth, the actual growth documented by the Census series has nonetheless been impressive. The fact that such a large proportion of employers anticipate adding jobs despite the difficulties facing the solar industry suggests that solar employment will continue its upward growth trajectory,” added Luecke.
The Solar Foundation and BW Research used an improved version of the Solar Energy Industries Association’s National Solar Database to refine the methods used in the Census and reach more employers. As a result, the solar employment figure for 2011 was revised up from 100,237 to 105,145. As in previous years, the survey examined employment along the solar value chain, including installation, sales and distribution, manufacturing, and other relevant subsectors and includes job numbers and growth rates. The figures in the report were derived from data collected from more than 1,000 solar company survey respondents, yielding a low overall margin of error of +/-1.5 percent. The National Solar Jobs Census 2012 was conducted by The Solar Foundation and BW Research with technical assistance from Cornell University.
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Background Materials:
National Solar Jobs Census 2012: http://thesolarfoundation.org/research/national-solar-jobs-census-2012
EMSI Complete Employment 2012.3: http://www.economicmodeling.com/
About The Solar Foundation:
The Solar Foundation is a national 501(c)(3) nonprofit, non-lobbying organization founded in 1977 that strives to increase the widespread adoption of solar energy through educational outreach, policy research, and market transformation. Read more at TheSolarFoundation.org.
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Largest Array of Solar Panels in Miami Florida Now Covers Sun Electronics Warehouse
Jan0
Largest Array of Solar Panels in Miami Florida Now Covers Sun Electronics Warehouse
Miami, FL (PRWEB) November 11, 2012
The impressive 2,510 square feet of glittering solar panels covering Sun Electronics’ master warehouse at 2001 Northwest 167th St. is the largest solar panel project to date in Miami Florida. The expanse of 156 individually mounted panels produces approximately 30 kilowatts at maximum power.
Sun Electronic’s CEO John Kimball says the vertically mounted panels will act as a unique billboard, providing renewable energy advertising for his business with their commanding view of the Palmetto Expressway. The solar panels also power all of his building’s electricity. It’s only appropriate that a company that has been in the solar panel business for more than 40 years should harness its energy from the sun state’s most abundant resource.
The solar system was installed by GeoSolar Energy Systems, a company owned by Amir Abtahi, professor of mechanical and solar engineering at Florida Atlantic University.
“I wouldn’t normally install panels vertically on a wall, but in this case I made an exception since they function as a billboard,” Abtahi says.
Even though the panels are mounted vertically they still produce plenty of solar power. The solar panels will reach their peak energy output in December when the sun sinks low on the horizon.
Each individual solar panel in the system is only 1.6 inches thick, 37.5 inches wide and 61.8 inches tall. The system is made up of 10 different sub-arrays that combine into five major arrays. These feed electricity into five individual 6,000 watt inverters, used to convert the direct current captured by the sun into alternating current used by ordinary appliances.
The heavy duty aluminum supporting the gigantic array of solar panels is also designed to withstand 200 mile per hour winds. This rating exceeds the 175 mph requirement a solar system is required to meet under the guidelines of the Florida Building Code, according to Abtahi.
Sun Electronics’ new array and new warehouse is a firm indicator that Miami and the sun shine state are embracing the future of clean renewable energy.
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, Vocus PRW Holdings, LLC.
Vocus, PRWeb, and Publicity Wire are trademarks or registered trademarks of Vocus, Inc. or Vocus PRW Holdings, LLC.
Japan Solar Energy Market Analyzed in New Kuick Research Report Now Available at MarketPublishers.com
Oct0
Japan Solar Energy Market Analyzed in New Kuick Research Report Now Available at MarketPublishers.com
London, UK (PRWEB) September 19, 2012
Japan’s current installed solar capacity has reached almost 5 GW, making it the third largest nation in terms of solar power, behind only Germany and Italy but by a large margin. Japan was, in the late 90s and early 2000s, the world leader in solar power but the withdrawal of certain effective policies and shifting focus on nuclear power decreased its solar growth considerably. It has revamped its solar power development and added more than 1 GW of solar installed capacity in 2011, the largest in a single year. Majority of this is grid connected and distributed through the utility companies.
Japan is also the world leader in manufacturing solar cells, modules and other equipment required for solar power generation. This expertise and credibility certainly augments the country’s efforts to become solar dependent and, thus, less reliant on fossil fuel exports or nuclear power.
New market report “Japan Solar Power Sector Analysis” elaborated by Kuick Research has been recently published by Market Publishers Ltd.
Report Details:
Title: Japan Solar Power Sector Analysis
Published: September, 2012
Pages: 70
Price: US$ 800.00
http://marketpublishers.com/report/industry/energy/japan-solar-power-sector-analysis-kuick_research.html
The report offers a comprehensive analysis of Japan’s solar energy market, detailing all the factors responsible for the current high growth of the industry while extrapolating these factors to show that the future of solar in Japan is indeed bright.
Key Topics Covered:
solar power sector overview;
solar power as preferred source for clean energy;
feed in tariff structure;
photovoltaic module manufacturing;
upcoming solar power projects;
factors driving the solar power sector;
future of solar power generation;
policy & regulatory landscape;
PEST analysis;
competitive landscape including profiles of the top players such as Kyocera, Panasonic – Sanyo, Mitsubishi Electric, Suntech Power Japan, Solar Frontier, and Sharp.
Report Contents:
1. Solar Power Sector Overview
1.1 Installed Generation Capacity
1.2 Solar Radiation & Potential
2. Solar Power as Preferred Source for Clean Energy
3. Feed in Tariff Structure
4. Photovoltaic Module Manufacturing
4.1 Production by Type: Single Crystal, Multi-Crystal & Thin Film
4.2 PV Module Consumption in Domestic Markets
4.3 Exports
5. Upcoming Solar Power Projects
5.1 West Holdings to Develop US$ 1.3 Billion of Solar Plant
5.2 200 MW PV Station in Tomakomai by Softbank
5.3 Toshiba to Build Solar Photovoltaic Fields in Minami Soma
5.4 Kagoshima Mega Solar Power Corporation to Operate 70 MW Plant in South Japan
5.5 Mori Trust to Build Solar Plant in Fukushima Prefecture
5.6 JGC Solar Power Plant in Oita Prefecture
5.7 Tahara Solar Wind Project
5.8 bSolar to Build 730 kW Ground Mounted Solar Project
5.9 Inpex Mega Solar Plant in Joetsu
5.10 Renogy plans a 1.2 MW Solar Plant in Saga
6. Factors Driving the Solar Power Sector
6.1 Small PV System Not Regulated Under Factory Location Act
6.2 Negative Public Opinion Regarding Nuclear Power
6.3 Focus on Renewable Energy to Meet Electricity Demand
6.4 Dominance of Domestic Solar Panel Manufacturers
6.5 Investment in Solar Plant & Panel Manufacturing Units
6.6 Declining Module Prices for Residential Segment
7. Future of Solar Power Generation
8. Policy & Regulatory Landscape
8.1 Subsidy for Residential PV Systems
8.2 Promotion of the Use of Non fossil Energy Sources and Effective Use of Fossil Energy Source Materials by Energy Suppliers
8.3 Project for Promoting the Local Introduction of New Energy
8.4 Project for Supporting New Energy Operators
8.5 New Energy and Industrial Technology Development Organization
8.6 Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry
9. PEST Analysis
9.1 Government Focus Towards Solar Power Development
9.2 Feed In Tariff Lead To Economic Advantage
9.3 Solar Power Preferred over Nuclear Energy by Society
9.4 Japanese Companies Dominance in PV Manufacturing Technology
10. Competitive Landscape
10.1 Kyocera
10.2 Panasonic – Sanyo
10.3 Mitsubishi Electric
10.4 Suntech Power Japan
10.5 Solar Frontier
10.6 Sharp
List of Figures
More new market reports by the publisher can be found at Kuick Research page.
©Copyright 1997-
, Vocus PRW Holdings, LLC.
Vocus, PRWeb, and Publicity Wire are trademarks or registered trademarks of Vocus, Inc. or Vocus PRW Holdings, LLC.