Energy & Environmental Security Require Integrated Policy Solutions
Public Policy Must Support Innovation, Competition & Free Trade
WASHINGTON--Jan 8 2009 --National and international energy and environmental security can be achieved through policies that support innovation, competition and free trade, Rex Tillerson, chairman and chief executive officer of Exxon Mobil Corporation (NYSE:XOM), said today.
In a speech to the Woodrow Wilson International Center for Scholars, Tillerson outlined the energy challenge facing America and the world: global energy demand is expected to be 35 percent higher in 2030 than it was in 2005 despite the current economic slowdown, efficiency improvements and growth in alternative energy sources such as wind and solar.
Providing energy to meet that demand, which is driven by economic expansion largely in developing countries, while protecting the environment will require development of all viable sources of energy and multiple technology breakthroughs, he said.
“Meeting our many energy challenges requires a multidimensional approach,” said Tillerson.
“We need to put in place policies that support an integrated set of solutions that help us find new energy supplies, increase energy efficiency, and discover the innovations that can address climate risks in the most effective manner. By combining energy, efficiency and environmental goals, integrated solutions help us develop and deploy new technologies at every point in the energy chain. In this way, we can meet our multiple energy challenges with multiple solutions.”
One example of a policy challenge provided by Tillerson is the current discussion about whether a cap-and-trade system or a carbon tax would be a more effective option for reducing carbon dioxide emissions.
A cap-and-trade system, which allows businesses to trade emissions allowances set by government, has problems with verification and accountability and requires new market infrastructure -- “a Wall Street of emissions brokers” -- as well as a costly and substantial expansion of regulatory and administrative oversight, he said.
“A carbon tax strikes us as a more direct, transparent and effective approach,” said Tillerson. It is easier to apply globally, avoids the establishment of new markets for trading emissions and new regulators to monitor them, can be implemented through the existing tax infrastructure and made revenue neutral to mitigate the impact on the economy.
“It is the most efficient means of reflecting the cost of carbon in all economic decisions -- from investments made by companies to fuel and product choices made by consumers,” said Tillerson.
Tillerson said Americans increasingly understand that there is no single answer to our energy, efficiency and environmental needs, as illustrated by public support and Congressional action in favor of lifting the moratorium on development of the country’s vast offshore oil and natural gas resources.
“Opening up U.S. supplies of oil and natural gas would boost our economy by simultaneously lowering the cost of energy, increasing employment and providing a new source of government revenue,” he said, referencing a recent study’s conclusion that developing areas of the United States that have been kept off limits would generate more than $1.7 trillion in new government revenue and create 160,000 jobs.
CAUTIONARY STATEMENT: This press release includes forward-looking statements. Actual future conditions, including growth in energy demand, energy supply mix, the impact of carbon tax or trading regimes, and the impact of new resource developments could differ materially due to changes in rates of economic growth; the development of new technologies or energy supply sources; future regulatory requirements and political events; demographic changes; and other factors discussed under the heading "Factors Affecting Future Results" in the "Investors" section of our website (http://www.exxonmobil.com/) and in Item 1A of our most recent Form 10-K.
Contacts ExxonMobilAlan Jeffers, 972-444-1107
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Friday, January 09, 2009
Thursday, January 08, 2009
Spire (Nasdaq: SPIR )Enters into Contract with Solaria Energia of Spain for 100MW Production Line
Spire (Nasdaq: SPIR )Enters into Contract with Solaria Energia of Spain for 100MW Production Line
Multiple Solar Cell Assembly and Module Testing Machines to be Provided for 100MW Expansion
BEDFORD, Mass.--Jan 8 2009 --Spire Corporation (Nasdaq: SPIR ), a global solar company providing turnkey solar factories and capital equipment to manufacture photovoltaic (PV) modules worldwide, today announced that it has received its sixth contract from Solaria Energia y Medio Ambiente, S.A. (Solaria Energia) to provide module manufacturing equipment for Solaria Energia’s new facility located in Fuenmayor, Spain. Under the contract, Spire will provide state-of-the-art assembly machines, laminators, and a module simulator, all together capable of processing over 100 megawatts (MW) of PV modules per year.
“We are pleased to continue to work with Solaria on this latest increase in their production. They recognize the need to automate key manufacturing steps to increase their production. Spire has more than eighty assemblers in the field or under contract. Using today’s high efficiency cells, this represents nearly a gigawatt of production capacity. Our system is a workhorse in the industry,” said, Roger G. Little, Chairman and CEO of Spire Corporation.
Mr. Dario Lopez, Deputy General Manager of Solaria Energia, says, “This contract represents an important milestone in our expansion process and it is also an expression of our commitment and confidence in a supplier, as Spire Corporation. Solaria Energia today is one of the biggest module manufacturers in Spain and with this agreement we will be able to strengthen our position not only in Spain but also in global markets.”
About Solaria Energia y Medio Ambiente S.A.
Solaria Energia y Medio Ambiente S.A. designs, manufacturers, supplies and installs photovoltaic and thermal solutions for the utilization of Solar Power. It’s rapid expansion and technological innovation have in a few years made it one of the leading companies in the sector of renewable energies. Solaria Energia is headquartered in Puertollano, Spain with manufacturing plants in Puertollano and Fuenmayor, Spain.
About Spire Corporation
Spire Corporation is a global solar company providing turnkey production lines and capital equipment to manufacture photovoltaic cells and modules worldwide. Spire Semiconductor provides processing technology for Spire’s silicon solar cell manufacturing lines and offers custom gallium arsenide cells for solar concentrator systems. For corporate or product information, contact Spire Corporation, “The Turnkey Solar Factory Company,” at 781-275-6000, or visit www.spirecorp.com.
Certain matters described in this news release may be forward-looking statements subject to risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from those indicated in the forward-looking statements. Such risks and uncertainties include, but are not limited to, the risk of dependence on market growth, competition and dependence on government agencies and other third parties for funding contract research and services, as well as other factors described in the Company's Form 10-K and other periodic reports filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission.
Contacts Spire CorporationRoger G. Little, 781-275-6000Chairman & CEO
Multiple Solar Cell Assembly and Module Testing Machines to be Provided for 100MW Expansion
BEDFORD, Mass.--Jan 8 2009 --Spire Corporation (Nasdaq: SPIR ), a global solar company providing turnkey solar factories and capital equipment to manufacture photovoltaic (PV) modules worldwide, today announced that it has received its sixth contract from Solaria Energia y Medio Ambiente, S.A. (Solaria Energia) to provide module manufacturing equipment for Solaria Energia’s new facility located in Fuenmayor, Spain. Under the contract, Spire will provide state-of-the-art assembly machines, laminators, and a module simulator, all together capable of processing over 100 megawatts (MW) of PV modules per year.
“We are pleased to continue to work with Solaria on this latest increase in their production. They recognize the need to automate key manufacturing steps to increase their production. Spire has more than eighty assemblers in the field or under contract. Using today’s high efficiency cells, this represents nearly a gigawatt of production capacity. Our system is a workhorse in the industry,” said, Roger G. Little, Chairman and CEO of Spire Corporation.
Mr. Dario Lopez, Deputy General Manager of Solaria Energia, says, “This contract represents an important milestone in our expansion process and it is also an expression of our commitment and confidence in a supplier, as Spire Corporation. Solaria Energia today is one of the biggest module manufacturers in Spain and with this agreement we will be able to strengthen our position not only in Spain but also in global markets.”
About Solaria Energia y Medio Ambiente S.A.
Solaria Energia y Medio Ambiente S.A. designs, manufacturers, supplies and installs photovoltaic and thermal solutions for the utilization of Solar Power. It’s rapid expansion and technological innovation have in a few years made it one of the leading companies in the sector of renewable energies. Solaria Energia is headquartered in Puertollano, Spain with manufacturing plants in Puertollano and Fuenmayor, Spain.
About Spire Corporation
Spire Corporation is a global solar company providing turnkey production lines and capital equipment to manufacture photovoltaic cells and modules worldwide. Spire Semiconductor provides processing technology for Spire’s silicon solar cell manufacturing lines and offers custom gallium arsenide cells for solar concentrator systems. For corporate or product information, contact Spire Corporation, “The Turnkey Solar Factory Company,” at 781-275-6000, or visit www.spirecorp.com.
Certain matters described in this news release may be forward-looking statements subject to risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from those indicated in the forward-looking statements. Such risks and uncertainties include, but are not limited to, the risk of dependence on market growth, competition and dependence on government agencies and other third parties for funding contract research and services, as well as other factors described in the Company's Form 10-K and other periodic reports filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission.
Contacts Spire CorporationRoger G. Little, 781-275-6000Chairman & CEO
Wednesday, January 07, 2009
Idaho Governor Signs Pickens Pledge
Idaho Governor Signs Pickens Pledge
Joins More Than 1,350,000 Americans Who Want to Break Our Addiction to Foreign Oil
BOISE, January 7, 2009 – Idaho Governor C.L. “Butch” Otter today signed the pledge to join T. Boone Pickens’ campaign to reduce America’s dependence on foreign oil.
“One of my goals as Governor is to fully utilize Idaho’s resources to increase our own state’s energy supply,” Otter said. “Establishing energy security for this state and this country should be a top priority. While there are some aspects of the Pickens plan I still have concerns about, I am signing this pledge to lend my voice to T. Boone Pickens and others calling for a comprehensive energy plan to end our reliance on foreign oil.”
“Governor Otter recognizes that importing nearly 70% of the oil this country uses every day not only hurts our economy, but is a threat to national security,” Pickens said. “In order to reduce America’s dependence on foreign oil, this country needs a plan. I am proud to have Governor Otter on my side as we call on President-elect Barack Obama and Congress to enact an energy plan within the first 100 days of the new administration.”
============================
The Pickens Pledge reads:
We will no longer stand by and watch as America’s national security and economy become more dependent on the unstable foreign nations that we rely on for nearly 70% of the oil we use each day.
We spend nearly $700 billion every year buying foreign oil, which represents the greatest transfer of wealth in the history of mankind.
The new President and the 111th Congress need to enact an energy plan that reduces our foreign oil dependence by at least 30% within ten years.
This plan must include proven American technology and resources; the development of new energy sources; and the expansion and modernization of the national electrical grid to transport renewable energy to homes and businesses.
Delaying any further means tacit support for continuing America’s addiction to foreign oil.
I join with T. Boone Pickens and his army of supporters in calling for an Energy Independence Plan to be enacted within the first 100 days of the new administration.
Unveiled on July 8, 2008 by T. Boone Pickens, the Pickens Plan is a detailed solution for ending the United States’ growing dependence on foreign oil. Earlier this year, when oil prices reached $140/barrel, America was spending about $700 billion for foreign oil, equaling the greatest transfer of wealth in human history. That figure has decreased some while oil prices have retreated, but the U.S. is still dependent on foreign nations for nearly 70 percent of its oil, representing a continuing national economic and national security threat. The plan calls for investing in power generation from domestic renewable resources such as wind and using our abundant supplies of natural gas as a transportation fuel, replacing more than one-third of our imported oil.
For more information on the Pickens Plan, please visit www.pickensplan.com. More than 1,350,000 people have joined the Pickens Army through the website, which has had over 13,700,000 hits.
Contact: Jay Rosser
214 265 4165
Jay@bpcap.net
Melissa McKay
212 446 1898
press@pickensplan.com
Joins More Than 1,350,000 Americans Who Want to Break Our Addiction to Foreign Oil
BOISE, January 7, 2009 – Idaho Governor C.L. “Butch” Otter today signed the pledge to join T. Boone Pickens’ campaign to reduce America’s dependence on foreign oil.
“One of my goals as Governor is to fully utilize Idaho’s resources to increase our own state’s energy supply,” Otter said. “Establishing energy security for this state and this country should be a top priority. While there are some aspects of the Pickens plan I still have concerns about, I am signing this pledge to lend my voice to T. Boone Pickens and others calling for a comprehensive energy plan to end our reliance on foreign oil.”
“Governor Otter recognizes that importing nearly 70% of the oil this country uses every day not only hurts our economy, but is a threat to national security,” Pickens said. “In order to reduce America’s dependence on foreign oil, this country needs a plan. I am proud to have Governor Otter on my side as we call on President-elect Barack Obama and Congress to enact an energy plan within the first 100 days of the new administration.”
============================
The Pickens Pledge reads:
We will no longer stand by and watch as America’s national security and economy become more dependent on the unstable foreign nations that we rely on for nearly 70% of the oil we use each day.
We spend nearly $700 billion every year buying foreign oil, which represents the greatest transfer of wealth in the history of mankind.
The new President and the 111th Congress need to enact an energy plan that reduces our foreign oil dependence by at least 30% within ten years.
This plan must include proven American technology and resources; the development of new energy sources; and the expansion and modernization of the national electrical grid to transport renewable energy to homes and businesses.
Delaying any further means tacit support for continuing America’s addiction to foreign oil.
I join with T. Boone Pickens and his army of supporters in calling for an Energy Independence Plan to be enacted within the first 100 days of the new administration.
Unveiled on July 8, 2008 by T. Boone Pickens, the Pickens Plan is a detailed solution for ending the United States’ growing dependence on foreign oil. Earlier this year, when oil prices reached $140/barrel, America was spending about $700 billion for foreign oil, equaling the greatest transfer of wealth in human history. That figure has decreased some while oil prices have retreated, but the U.S. is still dependent on foreign nations for nearly 70 percent of its oil, representing a continuing national economic and national security threat. The plan calls for investing in power generation from domestic renewable resources such as wind and using our abundant supplies of natural gas as a transportation fuel, replacing more than one-third of our imported oil.
For more information on the Pickens Plan, please visit www.pickensplan.com. More than 1,350,000 people have joined the Pickens Army through the website, which has had over 13,700,000 hits.
Contact: Jay Rosser
214 265 4165
Jay@bpcap.net
Melissa McKay
212 446 1898
press@pickensplan.com
Tuesday, January 06, 2009
Carbonetworks Launches Corporate Carbon Portal for Enterprise Customers
Carbonetworks Launches Corporate Carbon Portal for Enterprise Customers
Customized Web Portal Demonstrates Corporate Carbon Reduction Efforts
VICTORIA, British Columbia, Jan. 6 2009 -- Carbonetworks today announced the launch of the Corporate Carbon Portal, an online web tool that allows enterprise customers to create a customized web presence demonstrating how they are reducing carbon emissions. Hosted by Carbonetworks, the online web portals are customized for each client to showcase environmental stewardship by publishing their carbon management strategies, reduction activities and other corporate environmental initiatives.
"Through the Corporate Carbon Portal we're providing our customers with the opportunity to demonstrate the tremendous strides they're making in an effort to reduce carbon emissions," said Michael Meehan, president & CEO of Carbonetworks. "Not only does it show our clients' corporate commitment to the environment, it also provides an easy way to communicate to employees, shareholders and customers how the company has taken steps to meet this commitment and how these steps will affect the financial bottom line."
The Corporate Carbon Portal provides a snapshot of carbon reduction initiatives running on the Carbonetworks platform, as well as graphics and charts to illustrate emissions reduction activities in action. The portal page is highly customizable allowing corporations to add branding, links to other environmental projects or partners and even a note from the CEO to discuss the corporate commitment to the environment. The portal can be shared internally or externally and is included in a Carbonetworks subscription, all powered by the Carbonetworks Platform.
The Corporate Carbon Portal helps enterprise customers realize the potential of managing carbon information and data on the network while communicating these efforts to their customers. Content for the Corporate Carbon Portal is pulled directly from Carbonetworks' Emissions Management Platform, which provides in-depth analysis of corporate emissions and reduction strategies.
Carbonetworks' Software-as-a-Service (SaaS) model assesses the corporate carbon footprint, pinpoints emission reduction opportunities and develops robust carbon management strategies that are based on company-specific data. Its network of carbon reduction projects is the only one of its kind, creating a highly diversified carbon investment portfolio for clients.
About Carbonetworks
Carbonetworks is a software platform designed to help organizations participate in global carbon markets, even in countries without carbon regulation. The Carbonetworks Emissions Management Platform allows companies to manage emissions as financial assets or liabilities and connects them to a global network of carbon reductions. Its innovative solutions help private and public sector organizations prepare for entry into emerging global carbon markets by first consolidating clients' carbon inventories and then evaluating alternatives on a financial basis (e.g., carbon trading, offsets or investments) to determine the best course of action for their business. Carbonetworks currently serves hundreds of subscribers in over 30 countries including some of the largest and most active companies and governments in the world.
Customized Web Portal Demonstrates Corporate Carbon Reduction Efforts
VICTORIA, British Columbia, Jan. 6 2009 -- Carbonetworks today announced the launch of the Corporate Carbon Portal, an online web tool that allows enterprise customers to create a customized web presence demonstrating how they are reducing carbon emissions. Hosted by Carbonetworks, the online web portals are customized for each client to showcase environmental stewardship by publishing their carbon management strategies, reduction activities and other corporate environmental initiatives.
"Through the Corporate Carbon Portal we're providing our customers with the opportunity to demonstrate the tremendous strides they're making in an effort to reduce carbon emissions," said Michael Meehan, president & CEO of Carbonetworks. "Not only does it show our clients' corporate commitment to the environment, it also provides an easy way to communicate to employees, shareholders and customers how the company has taken steps to meet this commitment and how these steps will affect the financial bottom line."
The Corporate Carbon Portal provides a snapshot of carbon reduction initiatives running on the Carbonetworks platform, as well as graphics and charts to illustrate emissions reduction activities in action. The portal page is highly customizable allowing corporations to add branding, links to other environmental projects or partners and even a note from the CEO to discuss the corporate commitment to the environment. The portal can be shared internally or externally and is included in a Carbonetworks subscription, all powered by the Carbonetworks Platform.
The Corporate Carbon Portal helps enterprise customers realize the potential of managing carbon information and data on the network while communicating these efforts to their customers. Content for the Corporate Carbon Portal is pulled directly from Carbonetworks' Emissions Management Platform, which provides in-depth analysis of corporate emissions and reduction strategies.
Carbonetworks' Software-as-a-Service (SaaS) model assesses the corporate carbon footprint, pinpoints emission reduction opportunities and develops robust carbon management strategies that are based on company-specific data. Its network of carbon reduction projects is the only one of its kind, creating a highly diversified carbon investment portfolio for clients.
About Carbonetworks
Carbonetworks is a software platform designed to help organizations participate in global carbon markets, even in countries without carbon regulation. The Carbonetworks Emissions Management Platform allows companies to manage emissions as financial assets or liabilities and connects them to a global network of carbon reductions. Its innovative solutions help private and public sector organizations prepare for entry into emerging global carbon markets by first consolidating clients' carbon inventories and then evaluating alternatives on a financial basis (e.g., carbon trading, offsets or investments) to determine the best course of action for their business. Carbonetworks currently serves hundreds of subscribers in over 30 countries including some of the largest and most active companies and governments in the world.
Clean Technology Venture Investment Reaches Record $8.4 Billion in 2008 Despite Credit Crisis and Broadening Recession
Clean Technology Venture Investment Reaches Record $8.4 Billion in 2008 Despite Credit Crisis and Broadening Recession
Even With Diminished 4Q08 Results, Clean Technology Investment Fundamentals Remain Strong
SAN FRANCISCO--January 6 2009 --The Cleantech Group™, founders of the clean technology investment category and providers of leading global market research and other services for the clean technology ecosystem, today announced preliminary 2008 results for clean technology venture investments in North America, Europe, China and India totaling a record $8.4 billion, up 38% from $6.1 billion in 2007. The 2008 total represents the seventh consecutive year of growth in venture investing, widely recognized as a leading indicator of overall investment patterns:
Historical Clean Technology VC Investment By Year – North America, Europe & Israel, China, India 2001 $506,780,774 2002 $883,269,409 2003 $1,258,565,762 2004 $1,398,256,823 2005 $2,077,524,074 2006 $4,520,208,949 2007 $6,087,179,844 2008 (preliminary) $8,414,259,610 Source: Cleantech Group (cleantech.com)
“As expected, clean technology venture investing slowed in 4Q08, but it’s important not to miss the forest for the trees,” said Nicholas Parker, Executive Chairman, Cleantech Group. “In 2008, there was a quantum leap in talent, resources and institutional appetite for clean technologies. Now, more than ever, clean technologies represent the biggest opportunities for job and wealth creation.”
Preliminary results for 4Q08 indicate venture investment commitments worldwide of $1.7 billion across 99 disclosed investments, the smallest quarterly total in 6 quarters. 4Q08 was down 35% from 3Q08, yet down only 4% from 4Q07 despite a much more difficult economy.
The top clean technology sectors in 2008 were solar, biofuels, transportation, and wind. Solar accounted for almost 40% of total clean technology investment dollars in 2008, followed by biofuels at 11%.
“2008 saw solar take a 40% share of clean technology venture investment dollars, led by mega-investment rounds in thin-film solar, concentrated solar thermal and solar service provider companies,” said Brian Fan, Senior Director of Research, Cleantech Group. “Investors also continued to migrate from first-generation ethanol and biodiesel technologies to next-generation biofuels technologies, led by algae and synthetic biology companies. Other sectors with healthy investor interest included smart grid companies, small-scale wind turbines, plastics recycling, green buildings and agriculture technologies.”
Top Venture Capital Clean Technology Sectors in 2008 Technology Sector Amount Invested % of total Solar $3.3 billion 40% Biofuels (including ethanol, biodiesel, synthetic biology, algae) $904 million 11% Transportation (including electric vehicles, advanced batteries, fuel cells) $795 million 9.5% Wind $502 million 6.0% Smart Grid $345 million 4.1% Agriculture $166 million 2.0% Water $148 million 1.8%
Top clean technology funding rounds in 2008 were dominated by US-based solar companies:
Five Largest Clean Technology Rounds in 2008 Company Description Amount Raised NanoSolar (USA) Thin-film solar (CIGS) $300 million Solyndra (USA) Thin-film solar (CIGS) $219 million SoloPower (USA) Thin-film solar (CIGS) $200 million WinWinD Oy (Finland) Wind Turbines $177 million Solar Reserve (USA) Concentrated Solar Thermal $140 million
BY WORLD REGION:
EUROPE AND ISRAEL
European and Israeli companies raised $1.8 billion in 146 disclosed rounds, up 43% from 2007. Europe and Israel accounted for 21% of the global total. The traditionally strong energy generation sector increased its share of total investment to 71% ($1.279 billion) from 56% ($ 703 million) in 2007, with a strong increase in investments in wind ($322.6 million, an increase of 294% from 2007) and solar ($589.3 million, an increase of 64% from 2007) leading the way. Outside of the energy generation sectors, energy efficiency investing led the way, representing 8% ($137.6 million) of the total invested.
The most significant country growth was seen in Germany ($383 million invested, an increase of 217% from 2007) and Israel ($247 million invested, an increase of 224% from 2007), both led by very large solar deals. Germany overtook the UK as the country receiving the most venture capital in 2008, helped significantly by the region’s largest deal of 2008, the $133.7 million investment in Berlin-based solar thin-film manufacturer Sulfurcell Solartechnik. The UK’s decline in total investment ($337.8 million, down 11% from 2007) left it second in the country league table, with Israel moving into third place from sixth in 2007.
CHINA:
In 2008, Chinese cleantech companies raised $430 million in 18 disclosed rounds, up 22% from 2007. China accounted for 5% of the global total.
As expected, 2008 witnessed steady gains in clean technology investment in China. Solar accounted for 60% of the total, reflecting the continuing migration of solar module manufacturing from Europe and the US to China, as well as the opportunity of a large domestic market for solar water heating. Other active sectors include agriculture, lighting, and wind.
The underlying fundamentals driving cleantech investment in China, including government efficiency targets in energy, water and resource utilization, emission reduction targets, government and corporate goals for cleaner supply chains and industrial operations, and corporate social responsibility goals, remain in place.
INDIA:
Indian companies raised $277 million in 14 disclosed rounds, down 20% from 2007. India accounted for 3% of the global total. Although 2008 was down from 2007, new investors including Kleiner Perkins and Garage Technology Ventures, as well as corporate investors such as Applied Materials, entered the India clean technology market.
The clean technology sector in India remains nascent compared to more mature markets such as North America and Europe. Much of the interest has been in addressing the energy shortage challenges faced by the country, therefore, energy generation and infrastructure, with solar and wind deals leading the way, attracted the majority of investment dollars. However, new sectors received capital, such as electronic waste recycling, energy efficiency and water management.
NORTH AMERICA:
In 2008, U.S. companies raised $5.8 billion in 241 disclosed rounds, up 56% from 2007. US companies accounted for 68% of the global total. Canadian companies raised $159 million in 14 disclosed rounds, down 58 percent from 2007.
TOP INVESTORS:
Leading clean technology investors in 2008, as measured by the number of disclosed financing rounds the fund participated in, were:
Full-Year 2008 Top Five Most Active Clean Technology Venture Funds Venture Capital Firm # of rounds Khosla Ventures 21 Kleiner Perkins Caufield & Byers 18 Quercus Trust 16 RockPort Capital Partners 13 Draper Fisher Jurvetson 13 Source: Cleantech Group (cleantech.com)
M&As and IPOs:
For full-year 2008, clean technology M&A totaled an estimated 163 disclosed transactions, totaling $40.4 billion. Top M&A transactions included:
Top 5 Clean Technology M&A Transactions in 2008 Acquiring Company Target Company Amount Type Iberdrola SA Energy East Corp. $4.6 billion Acquisition LBO France Converteam Group SAS $3.1 billion Minority Stake Scottish & Southern Energy Plc. Airtricity Holdings, Ltd. $2.6 billion Acquisition International Power Plc. Trinergy Ltd. $2.5 billion Acquisition Arcapita Honiton Energy Ltd. $2.0 billion Joint Venture Source: Cleantech Group (cleantech.com)
In 2008, clean technology public offerings totaled an estimated $5.1 billion in 16 IPOs.
Top 5 Clean Technology IPOs in 2008 Company IPO Date Amount Raised Exchange EDP Renovaveis, S.A. 6/4/2008 $2.4 billion NYSE Euronext Lisbon American Water Works Company, Inc. 4/23/2008 $1.2 billion NYSE SMA Solar Technology 6/26/2008 $570 million Frankfurt GT Solar, Inc. 7/24/2008 $500 million NASDAQ Energy Recovery, Inc. 7/2/2008 $69 million NASDAQ Source: Cleantech Group (cleantech.com)
The Cleantech Group has issued projections for what the sector may see in 2009. Those predictions are available at http://cleantech.com/about/pressreleases/120408.cfm
Key takeaways reviewed in webinar next week
The Cleantech Group will review key findings of its 4Q08 and full-year 2008 data in a live webinar January 13, 2009 at 11AM EST / 8AM PST / 16:00 GMT, exclusively for members of the Cleantech Group’s Cleantech Network. Members may join the live meeting at http://cleantech.acrobat.com/research/ a few minutes before the event begins, and will need their email address and Cleantech Network password to log in. Members unsure of their passwords can contact Cleantech Group at +1 810-224-4310 x.7151 or can retrieve their password at http://cleantech.com/memberpassword.cfm
Cleantech Forum® XXI San Francisco February 23-25, 2009
Join Cleantech Group’s 21st Cleantech Forum® in San Francisco February 23-25. "Cleantech in 2009: Upside Driver in a Downside Market" will bring together over 800 of the industry's most influential clean technology innovators, investors and policymakers. Visit http://www.cleantech.com/ for information and registration.
About the Cleantech Group, LLC
The Cleantech Group pioneered the clean technology investment category in 2002. Today, it accelerates the development and market adoption of clean technologies globally through membership in the largest global network of investors and companies representing more than $3 trillion in assets. Member investors, growth companies/vendors, enterprises, service providers, and others receive access to capital, investment deal flow, market leading research and data, insight, sales leads, human capital, and promotional opportunities. The Cleantech Group also produces the premier Cleantech Forum events worldwide. Details at http://www.cleantech.com/.
Contacts Cleantech Group, LLCZakiya Johnson, (+1 415) 684-1020 x6610zakiya.johnson@cleantech.comWEB SITE: http://www.cleantech.com/
Even With Diminished 4Q08 Results, Clean Technology Investment Fundamentals Remain Strong
SAN FRANCISCO--January 6 2009 --The Cleantech Group™, founders of the clean technology investment category and providers of leading global market research and other services for the clean technology ecosystem, today announced preliminary 2008 results for clean technology venture investments in North America, Europe, China and India totaling a record $8.4 billion, up 38% from $6.1 billion in 2007. The 2008 total represents the seventh consecutive year of growth in venture investing, widely recognized as a leading indicator of overall investment patterns:
Historical Clean Technology VC Investment By Year – North America, Europe & Israel, China, India 2001 $506,780,774 2002 $883,269,409 2003 $1,258,565,762 2004 $1,398,256,823 2005 $2,077,524,074 2006 $4,520,208,949 2007 $6,087,179,844 2008 (preliminary) $8,414,259,610 Source: Cleantech Group (cleantech.com)
“As expected, clean technology venture investing slowed in 4Q08, but it’s important not to miss the forest for the trees,” said Nicholas Parker, Executive Chairman, Cleantech Group. “In 2008, there was a quantum leap in talent, resources and institutional appetite for clean technologies. Now, more than ever, clean technologies represent the biggest opportunities for job and wealth creation.”
Preliminary results for 4Q08 indicate venture investment commitments worldwide of $1.7 billion across 99 disclosed investments, the smallest quarterly total in 6 quarters. 4Q08 was down 35% from 3Q08, yet down only 4% from 4Q07 despite a much more difficult economy.
The top clean technology sectors in 2008 were solar, biofuels, transportation, and wind. Solar accounted for almost 40% of total clean technology investment dollars in 2008, followed by biofuels at 11%.
“2008 saw solar take a 40% share of clean technology venture investment dollars, led by mega-investment rounds in thin-film solar, concentrated solar thermal and solar service provider companies,” said Brian Fan, Senior Director of Research, Cleantech Group. “Investors also continued to migrate from first-generation ethanol and biodiesel technologies to next-generation biofuels technologies, led by algae and synthetic biology companies. Other sectors with healthy investor interest included smart grid companies, small-scale wind turbines, plastics recycling, green buildings and agriculture technologies.”
Top Venture Capital Clean Technology Sectors in 2008 Technology Sector Amount Invested % of total Solar $3.3 billion 40% Biofuels (including ethanol, biodiesel, synthetic biology, algae) $904 million 11% Transportation (including electric vehicles, advanced batteries, fuel cells) $795 million 9.5% Wind $502 million 6.0% Smart Grid $345 million 4.1% Agriculture $166 million 2.0% Water $148 million 1.8%
Top clean technology funding rounds in 2008 were dominated by US-based solar companies:
Five Largest Clean Technology Rounds in 2008 Company Description Amount Raised NanoSolar (USA) Thin-film solar (CIGS) $300 million Solyndra (USA) Thin-film solar (CIGS) $219 million SoloPower (USA) Thin-film solar (CIGS) $200 million WinWinD Oy (Finland) Wind Turbines $177 million Solar Reserve (USA) Concentrated Solar Thermal $140 million
BY WORLD REGION:
EUROPE AND ISRAEL
European and Israeli companies raised $1.8 billion in 146 disclosed rounds, up 43% from 2007. Europe and Israel accounted for 21% of the global total. The traditionally strong energy generation sector increased its share of total investment to 71% ($1.279 billion) from 56% ($ 703 million) in 2007, with a strong increase in investments in wind ($322.6 million, an increase of 294% from 2007) and solar ($589.3 million, an increase of 64% from 2007) leading the way. Outside of the energy generation sectors, energy efficiency investing led the way, representing 8% ($137.6 million) of the total invested.
The most significant country growth was seen in Germany ($383 million invested, an increase of 217% from 2007) and Israel ($247 million invested, an increase of 224% from 2007), both led by very large solar deals. Germany overtook the UK as the country receiving the most venture capital in 2008, helped significantly by the region’s largest deal of 2008, the $133.7 million investment in Berlin-based solar thin-film manufacturer Sulfurcell Solartechnik. The UK’s decline in total investment ($337.8 million, down 11% from 2007) left it second in the country league table, with Israel moving into third place from sixth in 2007.
CHINA:
In 2008, Chinese cleantech companies raised $430 million in 18 disclosed rounds, up 22% from 2007. China accounted for 5% of the global total.
As expected, 2008 witnessed steady gains in clean technology investment in China. Solar accounted for 60% of the total, reflecting the continuing migration of solar module manufacturing from Europe and the US to China, as well as the opportunity of a large domestic market for solar water heating. Other active sectors include agriculture, lighting, and wind.
The underlying fundamentals driving cleantech investment in China, including government efficiency targets in energy, water and resource utilization, emission reduction targets, government and corporate goals for cleaner supply chains and industrial operations, and corporate social responsibility goals, remain in place.
INDIA:
Indian companies raised $277 million in 14 disclosed rounds, down 20% from 2007. India accounted for 3% of the global total. Although 2008 was down from 2007, new investors including Kleiner Perkins and Garage Technology Ventures, as well as corporate investors such as Applied Materials, entered the India clean technology market.
The clean technology sector in India remains nascent compared to more mature markets such as North America and Europe. Much of the interest has been in addressing the energy shortage challenges faced by the country, therefore, energy generation and infrastructure, with solar and wind deals leading the way, attracted the majority of investment dollars. However, new sectors received capital, such as electronic waste recycling, energy efficiency and water management.
NORTH AMERICA:
In 2008, U.S. companies raised $5.8 billion in 241 disclosed rounds, up 56% from 2007. US companies accounted for 68% of the global total. Canadian companies raised $159 million in 14 disclosed rounds, down 58 percent from 2007.
TOP INVESTORS:
Leading clean technology investors in 2008, as measured by the number of disclosed financing rounds the fund participated in, were:
Full-Year 2008 Top Five Most Active Clean Technology Venture Funds Venture Capital Firm # of rounds Khosla Ventures 21 Kleiner Perkins Caufield & Byers 18 Quercus Trust 16 RockPort Capital Partners 13 Draper Fisher Jurvetson 13 Source: Cleantech Group (cleantech.com)
M&As and IPOs:
For full-year 2008, clean technology M&A totaled an estimated 163 disclosed transactions, totaling $40.4 billion. Top M&A transactions included:
Top 5 Clean Technology M&A Transactions in 2008 Acquiring Company Target Company Amount Type Iberdrola SA Energy East Corp. $4.6 billion Acquisition LBO France Converteam Group SAS $3.1 billion Minority Stake Scottish & Southern Energy Plc. Airtricity Holdings, Ltd. $2.6 billion Acquisition International Power Plc. Trinergy Ltd. $2.5 billion Acquisition Arcapita Honiton Energy Ltd. $2.0 billion Joint Venture Source: Cleantech Group (cleantech.com)
In 2008, clean technology public offerings totaled an estimated $5.1 billion in 16 IPOs.
Top 5 Clean Technology IPOs in 2008 Company IPO Date Amount Raised Exchange EDP Renovaveis, S.A. 6/4/2008 $2.4 billion NYSE Euronext Lisbon American Water Works Company, Inc. 4/23/2008 $1.2 billion NYSE SMA Solar Technology 6/26/2008 $570 million Frankfurt GT Solar, Inc. 7/24/2008 $500 million NASDAQ Energy Recovery, Inc. 7/2/2008 $69 million NASDAQ Source: Cleantech Group (cleantech.com)
The Cleantech Group has issued projections for what the sector may see in 2009. Those predictions are available at http://cleantech.com/about/pressreleases/120408.cfm
Key takeaways reviewed in webinar next week
The Cleantech Group will review key findings of its 4Q08 and full-year 2008 data in a live webinar January 13, 2009 at 11AM EST / 8AM PST / 16:00 GMT, exclusively for members of the Cleantech Group’s Cleantech Network. Members may join the live meeting at http://cleantech.acrobat.com/research/ a few minutes before the event begins, and will need their email address and Cleantech Network password to log in. Members unsure of their passwords can contact Cleantech Group at +1 810-224-4310 x.7151 or can retrieve their password at http://cleantech.com/memberpassword.cfm
Cleantech Forum® XXI San Francisco February 23-25, 2009
Join Cleantech Group’s 21st Cleantech Forum® in San Francisco February 23-25. "Cleantech in 2009: Upside Driver in a Downside Market" will bring together over 800 of the industry's most influential clean technology innovators, investors and policymakers. Visit http://www.cleantech.com/ for information and registration.
About the Cleantech Group, LLC
The Cleantech Group pioneered the clean technology investment category in 2002. Today, it accelerates the development and market adoption of clean technologies globally through membership in the largest global network of investors and companies representing more than $3 trillion in assets. Member investors, growth companies/vendors, enterprises, service providers, and others receive access to capital, investment deal flow, market leading research and data, insight, sales leads, human capital, and promotional opportunities. The Cleantech Group also produces the premier Cleantech Forum events worldwide. Details at http://www.cleantech.com/.
Contacts Cleantech Group, LLCZakiya Johnson, (+1 415) 684-1020 x6610zakiya.johnson@cleantech.comWEB SITE: http://www.cleantech.com/
Thin Film Technologies Changing the Solar PV Business
Thin Film Technologies Changing the Solar PV Business
Solar Stocks: First Solar, Inc.(NasdaqGS: FSLR),Energy Conversion Devices, Inc.( United Solar Ovonics) (NasdaqGS: ENER) , XsunX (OTCBB:XSNX), SolarWorld (SRWRF.PK), Sanyo Electric (SANYY.PK)
POINT ROBERTS, WA, January 6, 2009- Green Investor at Investorideas.com
http://www.investorideas.com/gi/ reports on Thin Film Technologies Changing the Solar PV Business.
By Paulo Nery
The solar photovoltaic (PV) industry is clearly in a rapid growth phase. The worldwide industry size was recently estimated at $50 billion. Over the past few years, production capacity is thought to have grown at an average of 48% each year and cumulative global production is now at 12.4 Giga Watts (GW). It is also an industry on the brink of change. New technologies are emerging that seem certain have an impact on the entire shape of the PV industry.
Since they were first developed in the 50’s there have been no major changes to the basic crystalline silicon solar cell. But significant improvements are now taking place with several competing innovations vying for position. Crystalline silicon cells, which come in mono and poly crystalline forms, are now being referred to as “first generation” PV. These mature technologies have experienced dramatic growth in volumes. But with shortages of silicon and high prices affecting finished costs, the volumes are dropping. If silicon prices drop further we could yet see more competitive prices for these solar PV modules. But there’s only so much that prices can drop with that technology.
Second generation PV, or thin film technology, holds out the real promise of more price competitive systems because they can be manufactured with dramatically less material, shorter supply chains and cheaper, faster processes. Thin film is still a nascent industry and competition between players is much more about intellectual property and access to capital than the manufacturing efficiencies that drive the first generation PV makers. So there are lower prices from improved efficiency to be anticipated still.
There are three main approaches to thin film technologies based on different materials that can be used for the semi-conductor of a PV cell. The first to be established was amorphous silicon pioneered by United Solar Ovonics (NasdaqGS: ENER) which sells under the brand Uni-Solar. This technique, now used by a few dozen manufacturers around the world, relies on a small amount of amorphous silicon alloy and accounts for about 60% of the thin film PV made today. These systems have been sold for several years as building-integrated PV offering the advantage of nearly undetectable systems on rooftops for both commercial and residential buildings. United Solar sales amounted to 73 megawatts in 2008 and their sales pipeline has $1.8 billion. Their production capacity is currently at 118 Mega Watts (MW) with planned growth to 1 GW by 2012.
XsunX, (XSNX.OB) is also manufacturing thin-film modules using amorphous silicon and has taken aim at utility scale and grid-tied commercial installations. XsunX has developed proprietary techniques that have enabled it to achieve outstanding efficiency levels for amorphous silicon. The company plans to have production capacity of 25 MW in 2009 and is aiming for 100 MW in a few years. It has also recently contracted to supply 15 MW of its solar modules, worth over $37 million, over 2 years. XsunX and United Solar Ovonics are the only listed companies that are real investment plays on silicon based thin-film technology. Yes, Canon, Sharp and even Mitsubishi are in the game, but those companies are diversified into so many other products that investing in them wouldn’t be a play on solar. Other companies manufacturing amorphous silicon thin film include Auria Solar in Taiwan, EPV in New Jersey, Free Energy Europe in France, Heliodomi in Greece, Polar PV in China, Shenzhen Topray in China, Sinonar in Taiwan, TerraSolar in New York and VHF-Technologies in Switzerland.
The next approach to thin film uses cadmium telluride (CdTe) as the semi-conductor material. While CdTe modules are cheaper and faster to produce, so far they are much less efficient at around 10%. For utility scale installations, that seems not to be a critical factor however. The leader in this field is First Solar (FSLR) with over 1 gigawatt of production capacity, over 600 megawatts shipped so far, and over 3.8 gigawatts of contracted sales, worth $6.3 billion through 2013. According to their annual report, First Solar’s gross margins are 56%, which is twice that of most of their competitors’ costs. And they claim their cost per Watt to be $1.29, half to a third of their competitors. First Solar’s objective, though, is to be at $0.65-0.70 per Watt by 2012. After a tremendous run through 2007 up to May of 2008, when the stock went from about 28 to over 300, it tumbled to 85 for a brief while in November of 2008 only to rebound recently to around 130. One of the other CdTe developments was an Ohio company, Solar Fields, which was bought last year by Q-Cells, a German company. Ava Solar, in Colorado, has recently secured $104 million in funding and plans to large scale manufacturing in 2009.
Another group of companies is manufacturing cells with Copper Indium Gallium Di-Selenide (CIGS) as the semi-conductor. These include ICP Solar in Quebec, Solyndra in California, Global Solar in Arizona, MiaSole in California, Heliovolt in Texas, TerraSolar in New York and Nanosolar in California. All of these companies remain private. One of the biggest efforts currently is coming from Honda, who is a major player in crystalline silicon cells. CIGS systems have demonstrated efficiencies that approach 20%, which is significantly higher that CdTe modules and close to the efficiency of crystalline silicon modules. However, to date at least, the manufacturing processes are less tolerant to change.
All of the thin-film technologies have the advantage of requiring much less semiconductor material. It can be less than 1 percent of silicone used in crystalline cells. And they can be manufactured using high-speed techniques such as roll-to-roll printing. Their disadvantage is their lower efficiency. Even so, many new manufacturers in each three types are coming online every month.
Third-generation PV technologies includes approaches such as dye-sensitized solar cells, quantum dots, nano-antennaes, nanomodified materials and organic cells. These all offer the promise of higher efficiencies and lower costs than even second generation technology. But none is yet clearly established as a leader, and none of these technologies is yet available as an exchange traded investment.
Both second and third generation solar technology companies are highly concentrated in the US. So some observers have concluded that there will be a shift back to the US of the solar cell manufacturing that went to Asia. However, as the companies in this sector scale up their operations they’ll be tempted to manufacture where prices are lower to keep their costs down. But it’s by no means clear since as fast as companies shift manufacturing to Asia, overseas companies are building facilities in the US. For instance, SolarWorld (SRWRF.PK) from Germany has opened what they say is the US’s largest solar cell factory in Hillsboro, OR. Meantime, Sanyo Electric (SANYY.PK) from Japan is building a factory in Salem, OR.
Thomas Friedman, author of “Hot, Flat and Crowded”, has said that energy technology is the industrial sector where global leadership will be established in the next several years. With the rush of new innovation taking place in advanced solar technologies in the US, there’s still a chance that the US can claim that leadership position. But the game is still wide open.
Paulo J. Nery
Disclaimer: Nothing in the above article in no way constitutes a recommendation to buy or invest in these or any other stocks. You should always seek professional financial advice when planning your investments or trading in the stock markets.
Featured Showcase Solar Stock:
XsunX Inc. : (OTCBB: XSNX) and (OTCBB:XSNXE) Based in Aliso Viejo, Calif., XsunX is developing amorphous silicon thin film photovoltaic (TFPV) solar cell manufacturing processes to produce TFPV solar modules. To deliver its products the Company has begun to build a multi- megawatt TFPV solar module production facility in the United States to meet the growing demand for solar cell products used in large scale commercial projects, utility power fields, and other on-grid applications. Employing a phased roll out of production capacity, it plans to grow manufacturing capacities to over 100 megawatts by 2010. More info on XsunX, Inc. can be found on our media profile at: http://www.investorideas.com/co/xsnx/default.asp or http://www.xsunx.com/
Renewable Energy Stocks Directory:
Gain Exclusive Insight on Leading Sectors, Global Trends, and Insider Trading Ideas, News, Articles and Investor Ideas Members only Restricted Content including the complete renewable energy stocks directory. Learn more: http://www.investorideas.com/membership/
About Our Green Investor Portals:
http://www.RenewableEnergyStocks.com is one of several green investor portals within Investorideas.com and provides investors with stock news, exclusive articles and financial columnists, audio interviews, investor conferences, Blogs, and a directory of stocks.
Disclaimer: Paulo Nery is an independent columnist for Green Investor at Investorideas.com .Paulo J. Nery writes about green business, green investing and green lifestyle. www.InvestorIdeas.com/About/Disclaimer.asp.
Disclaimer: Our sites do not make recommendations. Nothing on our sites should be construed as an offer or solicitation to buy or sell products or securities. We attempt to research thoroughly, but we offer no guarantees as to the accuracy of information presented. All Information relating to featured companies is sourced from public documents and/ or the company and is not the opinion of our web sites. This site is currently compensated by featured companies, news submissions and online advertising. Disclosure: www.InvestorIdeas.com/About/Disclaimer.asp
Compensation disclosure for XSNX:http://www.investorideas.com/About/News/Clientspecifics.asp
Solar Stocks: First Solar, Inc.(NasdaqGS: FSLR),Energy Conversion Devices, Inc.( United Solar Ovonics) (NasdaqGS: ENER) , XsunX (OTCBB:XSNX), SolarWorld (SRWRF.PK), Sanyo Electric (SANYY.PK)
POINT ROBERTS, WA, January 6, 2009- Green Investor at Investorideas.com
http://www.investorideas.com/gi/ reports on Thin Film Technologies Changing the Solar PV Business.
By Paulo Nery
The solar photovoltaic (PV) industry is clearly in a rapid growth phase. The worldwide industry size was recently estimated at $50 billion. Over the past few years, production capacity is thought to have grown at an average of 48% each year and cumulative global production is now at 12.4 Giga Watts (GW). It is also an industry on the brink of change. New technologies are emerging that seem certain have an impact on the entire shape of the PV industry.
Since they were first developed in the 50’s there have been no major changes to the basic crystalline silicon solar cell. But significant improvements are now taking place with several competing innovations vying for position. Crystalline silicon cells, which come in mono and poly crystalline forms, are now being referred to as “first generation” PV. These mature technologies have experienced dramatic growth in volumes. But with shortages of silicon and high prices affecting finished costs, the volumes are dropping. If silicon prices drop further we could yet see more competitive prices for these solar PV modules. But there’s only so much that prices can drop with that technology.
Second generation PV, or thin film technology, holds out the real promise of more price competitive systems because they can be manufactured with dramatically less material, shorter supply chains and cheaper, faster processes. Thin film is still a nascent industry and competition between players is much more about intellectual property and access to capital than the manufacturing efficiencies that drive the first generation PV makers. So there are lower prices from improved efficiency to be anticipated still.
There are three main approaches to thin film technologies based on different materials that can be used for the semi-conductor of a PV cell. The first to be established was amorphous silicon pioneered by United Solar Ovonics (NasdaqGS: ENER) which sells under the brand Uni-Solar. This technique, now used by a few dozen manufacturers around the world, relies on a small amount of amorphous silicon alloy and accounts for about 60% of the thin film PV made today. These systems have been sold for several years as building-integrated PV offering the advantage of nearly undetectable systems on rooftops for both commercial and residential buildings. United Solar sales amounted to 73 megawatts in 2008 and their sales pipeline has $1.8 billion. Their production capacity is currently at 118 Mega Watts (MW) with planned growth to 1 GW by 2012.
XsunX, (XSNX.OB) is also manufacturing thin-film modules using amorphous silicon and has taken aim at utility scale and grid-tied commercial installations. XsunX has developed proprietary techniques that have enabled it to achieve outstanding efficiency levels for amorphous silicon. The company plans to have production capacity of 25 MW in 2009 and is aiming for 100 MW in a few years. It has also recently contracted to supply 15 MW of its solar modules, worth over $37 million, over 2 years. XsunX and United Solar Ovonics are the only listed companies that are real investment plays on silicon based thin-film technology. Yes, Canon, Sharp and even Mitsubishi are in the game, but those companies are diversified into so many other products that investing in them wouldn’t be a play on solar. Other companies manufacturing amorphous silicon thin film include Auria Solar in Taiwan, EPV in New Jersey, Free Energy Europe in France, Heliodomi in Greece, Polar PV in China, Shenzhen Topray in China, Sinonar in Taiwan, TerraSolar in New York and VHF-Technologies in Switzerland.
The next approach to thin film uses cadmium telluride (CdTe) as the semi-conductor material. While CdTe modules are cheaper and faster to produce, so far they are much less efficient at around 10%. For utility scale installations, that seems not to be a critical factor however. The leader in this field is First Solar (FSLR) with over 1 gigawatt of production capacity, over 600 megawatts shipped so far, and over 3.8 gigawatts of contracted sales, worth $6.3 billion through 2013. According to their annual report, First Solar’s gross margins are 56%, which is twice that of most of their competitors’ costs. And they claim their cost per Watt to be $1.29, half to a third of their competitors. First Solar’s objective, though, is to be at $0.65-0.70 per Watt by 2012. After a tremendous run through 2007 up to May of 2008, when the stock went from about 28 to over 300, it tumbled to 85 for a brief while in November of 2008 only to rebound recently to around 130. One of the other CdTe developments was an Ohio company, Solar Fields, which was bought last year by Q-Cells, a German company. Ava Solar, in Colorado, has recently secured $104 million in funding and plans to large scale manufacturing in 2009.
Another group of companies is manufacturing cells with Copper Indium Gallium Di-Selenide (CIGS) as the semi-conductor. These include ICP Solar in Quebec, Solyndra in California, Global Solar in Arizona, MiaSole in California, Heliovolt in Texas, TerraSolar in New York and Nanosolar in California. All of these companies remain private. One of the biggest efforts currently is coming from Honda, who is a major player in crystalline silicon cells. CIGS systems have demonstrated efficiencies that approach 20%, which is significantly higher that CdTe modules and close to the efficiency of crystalline silicon modules. However, to date at least, the manufacturing processes are less tolerant to change.
All of the thin-film technologies have the advantage of requiring much less semiconductor material. It can be less than 1 percent of silicone used in crystalline cells. And they can be manufactured using high-speed techniques such as roll-to-roll printing. Their disadvantage is their lower efficiency. Even so, many new manufacturers in each three types are coming online every month.
Third-generation PV technologies includes approaches such as dye-sensitized solar cells, quantum dots, nano-antennaes, nanomodified materials and organic cells. These all offer the promise of higher efficiencies and lower costs than even second generation technology. But none is yet clearly established as a leader, and none of these technologies is yet available as an exchange traded investment.
Both second and third generation solar technology companies are highly concentrated in the US. So some observers have concluded that there will be a shift back to the US of the solar cell manufacturing that went to Asia. However, as the companies in this sector scale up their operations they’ll be tempted to manufacture where prices are lower to keep their costs down. But it’s by no means clear since as fast as companies shift manufacturing to Asia, overseas companies are building facilities in the US. For instance, SolarWorld (SRWRF.PK) from Germany has opened what they say is the US’s largest solar cell factory in Hillsboro, OR. Meantime, Sanyo Electric (SANYY.PK) from Japan is building a factory in Salem, OR.
Thomas Friedman, author of “Hot, Flat and Crowded”, has said that energy technology is the industrial sector where global leadership will be established in the next several years. With the rush of new innovation taking place in advanced solar technologies in the US, there’s still a chance that the US can claim that leadership position. But the game is still wide open.
Paulo J. Nery
Disclaimer: Nothing in the above article in no way constitutes a recommendation to buy or invest in these or any other stocks. You should always seek professional financial advice when planning your investments or trading in the stock markets.
Featured Showcase Solar Stock:
XsunX Inc. : (OTCBB: XSNX) and (OTCBB:XSNXE) Based in Aliso Viejo, Calif., XsunX is developing amorphous silicon thin film photovoltaic (TFPV) solar cell manufacturing processes to produce TFPV solar modules. To deliver its products the Company has begun to build a multi- megawatt TFPV solar module production facility in the United States to meet the growing demand for solar cell products used in large scale commercial projects, utility power fields, and other on-grid applications. Employing a phased roll out of production capacity, it plans to grow manufacturing capacities to over 100 megawatts by 2010. More info on XsunX, Inc. can be found on our media profile at: http://www.investorideas.com/co/xsnx/default.asp or http://www.xsunx.com/
Renewable Energy Stocks Directory:
Gain Exclusive Insight on Leading Sectors, Global Trends, and Insider Trading Ideas, News, Articles and Investor Ideas Members only Restricted Content including the complete renewable energy stocks directory. Learn more: http://www.investorideas.com/membership/
About Our Green Investor Portals:
http://www.RenewableEnergyStocks.com is one of several green investor portals within Investorideas.com and provides investors with stock news, exclusive articles and financial columnists, audio interviews, investor conferences, Blogs, and a directory of stocks.
Disclaimer: Paulo Nery is an independent columnist for Green Investor at Investorideas.com .Paulo J. Nery writes about green business, green investing and green lifestyle. www.InvestorIdeas.com/About/Disclaimer.asp.
Disclaimer: Our sites do not make recommendations. Nothing on our sites should be construed as an offer or solicitation to buy or sell products or securities. We attempt to research thoroughly, but we offer no guarantees as to the accuracy of information presented. All Information relating to featured companies is sourced from public documents and/ or the company and is not the opinion of our web sites. This site is currently compensated by featured companies, news submissions and online advertising. Disclosure: www.InvestorIdeas.com/About/Disclaimer.asp
Compensation disclosure for XSNX:http://www.investorideas.com/About/News/Clientspecifics.asp
Monday, January 05, 2009
CTDC to Build 30MW On-Grid Solar Power Station in Qaidam Basin
CTDC to Build 30MW On-Grid Solar Power Station in Qaidam Basin
HONG KONG, Jan. 2, 2009 -- China Technology Development Group Corporation (NasdaqCM:CTDC - News) (``CTDC'' or ``the Company''), a provider of solar energy products and solutions in China focusing on a-Si thin film technology, announced that the Company and Qinghai New Energy Group Co., Ltd (``QNE'') have signed an agreement with local government of Qinghai Haixi Mongolian-Tibetan Autonomous Region to build a 30MW on-grid solar power station in Qaidam Basin of northwestern China. The signing ceremony was held at Xining, the capital city of Qinghai Province, and many important government leaders, including Mr. Luo Yulin, Vice Governor of Qinghai Province and Mayor of Xining, attended the event.
Under the agreement, CTDC and QNE will design, construct and manage the solar power station. The local government of Haixi Region will provide strong support to CTDC and QNE, such as helping them obtain various local and central government-backed incentives and providing land.
The installed power-generating capacity of the first phase of Qaidam solar power station came to 30 MW and the total long-term objective of the project came up to 1GW. The Qaidam solar power station, the first of its kind in China to integrate crystalline silicon and thin-film solar modules, will be the largest on-grid solar power station in China after full completion. CTDC and QNE will begin construction of the project in 2009 with initial investment of US$150 million.
With ample sunshine, vast desert landmass and broad power grids, Qaidam Basin is generally regarded as one of the optimal locations in China to build a large scale on-grid solar power plant. In 2005, Chinese government approved to establish Qinghai's Qaidam as a special Economic Experimental Zone to develop circular economy and renewable energy projects. Qaidam Circular Economic Experimental Zone is the biggest circular economic experimental zone in China, covering an area of 256,000 square kilometers.
``The ambitious plan to build such a large scale solar power plant is a significant step for Qinghai Province to develop and deploy solar energy by taking full advantage of our abundance in solar and desert resources of Qaidam Basin,'' commented by Mr. Luo Yulin, Vice Governor of Qinhas Province and Mayor of Xining. ``It also reflects the commitment by our government to meet the challenges posed by climate change with reliable and renewable energy.''
``With the recognition and commitment of the Chinese government to developing renewable energy technology, we expect that the domestic solar energy and application market will expand rapidly in the near future,'' commented by Mr. Alan Li, Chairman and CEO of CTDC. ``The signing of the Qaidam solar power plant project is another great milestone for CTDC management and shareholders. CTDC, along with our great partner QNE, will apply our combined experience and technology to ensure the successful launch of our initial 30MW project in 2009.''
About CTDC:
CTDC is a provider of solar energy products and solutions in China focusing on a-Si thin-film technology. CTDC's ultimate principal shareholder is China Merchants Group (http://www.cmhk.com), one of the biggest state-owned conglomerates in China.
For more information, please visit our website at http://www.chinactdc.com
About QNE:
Qinghai New Energy (Group) Co., Ltd, which is one of the earliest solar PV technology research organizations in China, was established in 1983. Simultaneously obtaining Designing Qualification of New Energy Power Generation Engineering and Qualification of Construction and Installation, Qinghai New Energy is capable and qualified to undertake the engineering construction of national key projects, to carry out international cooperation as well as national key scientific and research projects.
For more information, please visit the website at http://www.qssolar.com
Forward-Looking Statement Disclosure:
It should be noted that certain statements herein which are not historical facts, including, without limitation, those regarding: A) the timing of product, service and solution deliveries; B) our ability to develop, implement and commercialize new products, services, solutions and technologies; C) expectations regarding market growth, developments and structural changes; D) expectations regarding our product volume growth, market share, prices and margins; E) expectations and targets for our results of operations; F) the outcome of pending and threatened litigation; G) expectations regarding the successful completion of contemplated acquisitions on a timely basis and our ability to achieve the set targets upon the completion of such acquisitions; and H) statements preceded by ``believe,'' ``expect,'' ``anticipate,'' ``foresee,'' ``target,'' ``estimate,'' ``designed,'' ``plans,'' ``will'' or similar expressions are forward-looking statements. These statements are based on management's best assumptions and beliefs in light of the information currently available to it. Because they involve risks and uncertainties, actual results may differ materially from the results that we currently expect. Factors that could cause these differences include the risk factors specified on our annual report on Form 20-F for the year ended December 31, 2007 under ``Item 3.D Risk Factors.'' Other unknown or unpredictable factors or underlying assumptions subsequently proving to be incorrect could cause actual results to differ materially from those in the forward-looking statements. The Company does not undertake any obligation to update publicly or revise forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except to the extent legally required.
Contact: China Technology Development Group Corporation
PR/IR Department
Selina Xing
+852 3112 8461
ir@chinactdc.com
HONG KONG, Jan. 2, 2009 -- China Technology Development Group Corporation (NasdaqCM:CTDC - News) (``CTDC'' or ``the Company''), a provider of solar energy products and solutions in China focusing on a-Si thin film technology, announced that the Company and Qinghai New Energy Group Co., Ltd (``QNE'') have signed an agreement with local government of Qinghai Haixi Mongolian-Tibetan Autonomous Region to build a 30MW on-grid solar power station in Qaidam Basin of northwestern China. The signing ceremony was held at Xining, the capital city of Qinghai Province, and many important government leaders, including Mr. Luo Yulin, Vice Governor of Qinghai Province and Mayor of Xining, attended the event.
Under the agreement, CTDC and QNE will design, construct and manage the solar power station. The local government of Haixi Region will provide strong support to CTDC and QNE, such as helping them obtain various local and central government-backed incentives and providing land.
The installed power-generating capacity of the first phase of Qaidam solar power station came to 30 MW and the total long-term objective of the project came up to 1GW. The Qaidam solar power station, the first of its kind in China to integrate crystalline silicon and thin-film solar modules, will be the largest on-grid solar power station in China after full completion. CTDC and QNE will begin construction of the project in 2009 with initial investment of US$150 million.
With ample sunshine, vast desert landmass and broad power grids, Qaidam Basin is generally regarded as one of the optimal locations in China to build a large scale on-grid solar power plant. In 2005, Chinese government approved to establish Qinghai's Qaidam as a special Economic Experimental Zone to develop circular economy and renewable energy projects. Qaidam Circular Economic Experimental Zone is the biggest circular economic experimental zone in China, covering an area of 256,000 square kilometers.
``The ambitious plan to build such a large scale solar power plant is a significant step for Qinghai Province to develop and deploy solar energy by taking full advantage of our abundance in solar and desert resources of Qaidam Basin,'' commented by Mr. Luo Yulin, Vice Governor of Qinhas Province and Mayor of Xining. ``It also reflects the commitment by our government to meet the challenges posed by climate change with reliable and renewable energy.''
``With the recognition and commitment of the Chinese government to developing renewable energy technology, we expect that the domestic solar energy and application market will expand rapidly in the near future,'' commented by Mr. Alan Li, Chairman and CEO of CTDC. ``The signing of the Qaidam solar power plant project is another great milestone for CTDC management and shareholders. CTDC, along with our great partner QNE, will apply our combined experience and technology to ensure the successful launch of our initial 30MW project in 2009.''
About CTDC:
CTDC is a provider of solar energy products and solutions in China focusing on a-Si thin-film technology. CTDC's ultimate principal shareholder is China Merchants Group (http://www.cmhk.com), one of the biggest state-owned conglomerates in China.
For more information, please visit our website at http://www.chinactdc.com
About QNE:
Qinghai New Energy (Group) Co., Ltd, which is one of the earliest solar PV technology research organizations in China, was established in 1983. Simultaneously obtaining Designing Qualification of New Energy Power Generation Engineering and Qualification of Construction and Installation, Qinghai New Energy is capable and qualified to undertake the engineering construction of national key projects, to carry out international cooperation as well as national key scientific and research projects.
For more information, please visit the website at http://www.qssolar.com
Forward-Looking Statement Disclosure:
It should be noted that certain statements herein which are not historical facts, including, without limitation, those regarding: A) the timing of product, service and solution deliveries; B) our ability to develop, implement and commercialize new products, services, solutions and technologies; C) expectations regarding market growth, developments and structural changes; D) expectations regarding our product volume growth, market share, prices and margins; E) expectations and targets for our results of operations; F) the outcome of pending and threatened litigation; G) expectations regarding the successful completion of contemplated acquisitions on a timely basis and our ability to achieve the set targets upon the completion of such acquisitions; and H) statements preceded by ``believe,'' ``expect,'' ``anticipate,'' ``foresee,'' ``target,'' ``estimate,'' ``designed,'' ``plans,'' ``will'' or similar expressions are forward-looking statements. These statements are based on management's best assumptions and beliefs in light of the information currently available to it. Because they involve risks and uncertainties, actual results may differ materially from the results that we currently expect. Factors that could cause these differences include the risk factors specified on our annual report on Form 20-F for the year ended December 31, 2007 under ``Item 3.D Risk Factors.'' Other unknown or unpredictable factors or underlying assumptions subsequently proving to be incorrect could cause actual results to differ materially from those in the forward-looking statements. The Company does not undertake any obligation to update publicly or revise forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except to the extent legally required.
Contact: China Technology Development Group Corporation
PR/IR Department
Selina Xing
+852 3112 8461
ir@chinactdc.com
WorldWater & Solar Technologies (OTCBB:WWAT) Completes Solar Installation at Valley Center Municipal Water District
WorldWater & Solar Technologies Completes Solar Installation at Valley Center Municipal Water District
EWING, N.J.--Jan 5 2009 --WorldWater & Solar Technologies Corp. (OTC BB: WWAT.OB - News), developer and marketer of proprietary high-horsepower solar systems, today announced that it has completed installation of a 1.1 MW solar power system for the Valley Center Municipal Water District (VCMWD) of Valley Center, California. The system, which was financed and will be owned, operated, and maintained by Solar Power Partners, Inc. (SPP) of Mill Valley, California, will provide 2.1 million kWh per year of electricity for the district, offsetting up to 20% of the electricity required by their largest pumping station. The project was developed using a solar Power Purchase Agreement, which required no cash outlay from VCMWD, who will purchase the generated power from SPP for the twenty-five year life of the agreement.
“I am pleased to announce the successful completion of our flat-plate solar installation at Valley Center, on schedule and to the client’s specifications,” said Frank Smith, CEO, WorldWater and Solar Technologies. “This is another example of our ability to deliver ‘best in class’ solar technology to large commercial clients, as we did for Denver International Airport and Fresno Yosemite International Airport. The experience gained from these installations will serve us well as we look to bring our ENTECH CPV and CPVT modules to the market this year.”
“Solar Power Partners is proud to partner with WorldWater and Valley Center on this exciting solar solution. This facility is a wonderful example of what can be accomplished when water districts adopt solar and support renewable energy,” said Alexander v. Welczeck, President and CEO of Solar Power Partners.
“After almost three years of negotiating, planning, and implementation, it is very rewarding to finally see this 'double green' project come to life,” says Gary Arant, General Manager, Valley Center Municipal Water District. “This will provide long-term financial benefits for our agency and community, as well as a reduced carbon production environment - thus double green.”
Additional partners on this project included Sharp Solar, which supplied the panels for the project, and Xantrex Technology Inc., a subsidiary of Schneider Electric, which provided the inverters.
About WorldWater & Solar Technologies Corp. and ENTECH:
WorldWater & Solar Technologies Corp. is a full-service, solutions-driven solar electric engineering and design company offering unique, high-powered and patented solar technology. ENTECH, Inc., a subsidiary of WorldWater, is a high-technology solar energy company specializing in patented solar concentrating and CPVT (Concentrating Photovoltaic Thermal) systems. ENTECH’s systems can produce electrical output, a combination of electricity and thermal energy or thermal energy alone. Commercial applications vary in size from one kilowatt remote power units to large, multi-megawatt utility power plants. For more information, visit www.worldwater.com or www.entechsolar.com.
About Solar Power Partners, Inc.:
Solar Power Partners, Inc. (SPP) is a California-based renewable energy company that is leading the way in streamlining the adoption of clean solar energy by businesses, institutions and municipalities throughout the United States. Combining the financing strength of solar Power Purchase Agreements (PPAs) with the expertise and best practices of top solar and building industry professionals, SPP gives building owners a clear path to achieving energy independence with predictable electrical rates and without the risks or costs of owning and maintaining solar facilities. For more information please see www.solarpowerpartners.com.
About Valley Center Municipal Water District:
Valley Center Water District is a public water agency located in north central San Diego County, serving a 100 square mile rural agricultural community with 42 reservoirs, over 300 miles of pipe and 26 electric and natural gas powered pumping stations. It is one of the top 20 power purchasers in the San Diego Gas and Electric Service area and is a recognized leader in the areas of energy efficiency and alternative power development.
Contact:WorldWater & Solar Technologies Corp.Press:Amy Copeman, 609-818-0700 ext. 58acopeman@worldwater.comorInvestor Relations:Chris Witty, 646-438-9385cwitty@darrowir.comorSolar Power Partners, Inc.Sierra Fong, 415-389-8981 x 719sfong@solarpowerpartners.comorValley Center Water DistrictGary Arant, 760-749-1603, ext. 215garant@valleycenterwater.org
Source: WorldWater & Solar Technologies Corp.
EWING, N.J.--Jan 5 2009 --WorldWater & Solar Technologies Corp. (OTC BB: WWAT.OB - News), developer and marketer of proprietary high-horsepower solar systems, today announced that it has completed installation of a 1.1 MW solar power system for the Valley Center Municipal Water District (VCMWD) of Valley Center, California. The system, which was financed and will be owned, operated, and maintained by Solar Power Partners, Inc. (SPP) of Mill Valley, California, will provide 2.1 million kWh per year of electricity for the district, offsetting up to 20% of the electricity required by their largest pumping station. The project was developed using a solar Power Purchase Agreement, which required no cash outlay from VCMWD, who will purchase the generated power from SPP for the twenty-five year life of the agreement.
“I am pleased to announce the successful completion of our flat-plate solar installation at Valley Center, on schedule and to the client’s specifications,” said Frank Smith, CEO, WorldWater and Solar Technologies. “This is another example of our ability to deliver ‘best in class’ solar technology to large commercial clients, as we did for Denver International Airport and Fresno Yosemite International Airport. The experience gained from these installations will serve us well as we look to bring our ENTECH CPV and CPVT modules to the market this year.”
“Solar Power Partners is proud to partner with WorldWater and Valley Center on this exciting solar solution. This facility is a wonderful example of what can be accomplished when water districts adopt solar and support renewable energy,” said Alexander v. Welczeck, President and CEO of Solar Power Partners.
“After almost three years of negotiating, planning, and implementation, it is very rewarding to finally see this 'double green' project come to life,” says Gary Arant, General Manager, Valley Center Municipal Water District. “This will provide long-term financial benefits for our agency and community, as well as a reduced carbon production environment - thus double green.”
Additional partners on this project included Sharp Solar, which supplied the panels for the project, and Xantrex Technology Inc., a subsidiary of Schneider Electric, which provided the inverters.
About WorldWater & Solar Technologies Corp. and ENTECH:
WorldWater & Solar Technologies Corp. is a full-service, solutions-driven solar electric engineering and design company offering unique, high-powered and patented solar technology. ENTECH, Inc., a subsidiary of WorldWater, is a high-technology solar energy company specializing in patented solar concentrating and CPVT (Concentrating Photovoltaic Thermal) systems. ENTECH’s systems can produce electrical output, a combination of electricity and thermal energy or thermal energy alone. Commercial applications vary in size from one kilowatt remote power units to large, multi-megawatt utility power plants. For more information, visit www.worldwater.com or www.entechsolar.com.
About Solar Power Partners, Inc.:
Solar Power Partners, Inc. (SPP) is a California-based renewable energy company that is leading the way in streamlining the adoption of clean solar energy by businesses, institutions and municipalities throughout the United States. Combining the financing strength of solar Power Purchase Agreements (PPAs) with the expertise and best practices of top solar and building industry professionals, SPP gives building owners a clear path to achieving energy independence with predictable electrical rates and without the risks or costs of owning and maintaining solar facilities. For more information please see www.solarpowerpartners.com.
About Valley Center Municipal Water District:
Valley Center Water District is a public water agency located in north central San Diego County, serving a 100 square mile rural agricultural community with 42 reservoirs, over 300 miles of pipe and 26 electric and natural gas powered pumping stations. It is one of the top 20 power purchasers in the San Diego Gas and Electric Service area and is a recognized leader in the areas of energy efficiency and alternative power development.
Contact:WorldWater & Solar Technologies Corp.Press:Amy Copeman, 609-818-0700 ext. 58acopeman@worldwater.comorInvestor Relations:Chris Witty, 646-438-9385cwitty@darrowir.comorSolar Power Partners, Inc.Sierra Fong, 415-389-8981 x 719sfong@solarpowerpartners.comorValley Center Water DistrictGary Arant, 760-749-1603, ext. 215garant@valleycenterwater.org
Source: WorldWater & Solar Technologies Corp.
Monday, December 29, 2008
Be ready for Investing in 2009 with Water Stocks Directory, Renewable Energy Stocks Directory
Be ready for Investing in 2009 with Water Stocks Directory, Renewable Energy Stocks Directory
POINT ROBERTS, Wash., Delta B.C., December 29, 2008 - www.InvestorIdeas.com, one of the first online investor resources providing in-depth information on renewable energy, greentech and water, provides independent investors access to research tools for making investment decisions moving into 2009 with a new Obama administration.
With Obama’s mandate for renewable energy and infrastructure spending and job creation, investors researching the sectors can use the stock directories and resources at Investorideas.com to make their investment decisions.
Investors in Biotech are also anticipating an upbeat year in the sector in 2009. Investor Ideas has just added the updated Biotech Stocks Directory to the growing list of tools and resources for members.
Investorideas.com has upgraded memberships to include access to restricted content at the Water Stocks Directory, Renewable Energy Stocks Directory and the most recent addition; the Biotech Stocks Directory.
Investor Ideas research tools empower independent investors to facilitate their own research. The
Stock directories are also a useful tool for brokers, institutions and funds in the relative sectors.
The water stocks directory is part of the content at the Water-stocks.com portal at Investorideas.com that also features the Investing in Water Podcast.
Water stocks directory: http://www.investorideas.com/Water-Stocks/Stock_List.asp
The complete renewable energy stocks directory is now members only access page.
The directory features stocks listed on the TSX, OTC, NASDAQ, NYSE, AMEX, ASX, AIM markets and other leading exchanges. The directory includes info and links on Alternative Energy Funds, Biogas and Ethanol Stocks, Energy Efficiency Stocks, Flywheel Stocks, Fuel Cell Stocks, Geothermal Stocks, Hydrogen Production, Micro Turbine Stocks, Solar Stocks, Green Transportation, Wind Power and Wind Energy Stocks and recently added Green Infrastructure Stocks.
Renewableenergystocks.com is one of several green investor portals within Investorideas.com and provides investors with stock news, exclusive articles and financial columnists, audio interviews, investor conferences and a directory of stocks within the renewable energy sector.
Subscribe to the Renewable Energy and GreenTech Business and Stock News RSS Feed:
http://www.investorideas.com/RSS/feeds/RES.xml
“The Insiders Corner “http://www.investorideas.com/insiderscorner/ By Michael Brush is also an Investorideas.com members only feature. Michael Brush writes a weekly market column for MSN Money. Mr. Brush has also covered business and investing for the New York Times, Money magazine and the Economist Group.
Become an Investorideas.com Member
With markets and investor sentiment changing daily- it is more important than ever to stay on top of key trends! Gain Exclusive Insight on Leading Sectors, Global Trends, and Insider Trading Ideas, News, Articles and Investor Ideas Members only Restricted Content.
Become an InvestorIdeas.com -Learn more: - click here http://www.investorideas.com/membership/
About InvestorIdeas.com:
"One of the first online investor resources providing in-depth information on renewable energy, greentech and water sectors." InvestorIdeas.com is a leading global investor and industry research resource portal specialized in sector investing covering over thirty industry sectors and global markets including China, India, Middle East and Australia.
Disclaimer: Our sites do not make recommendations. Nothing on our sites should be construed as an offer or solicitation to buy or sell products or securities. We attempt to research thoroughly, but we offer no guarantees as to the accuracy of information presented. All Information relating to featured companies is sourced from public documents and/ or the company and is not the opinion of our web sites. This site is currently compensated by featured companies, news submissions and online advertising. www.InvestorIdeas.com/About/Disclaimer.asp
For Additional Information:
Dawn Van Zant: 800-665-0411 - dvanzant@investorideas.com
Source – Investorideas.com
POINT ROBERTS, Wash., Delta B.C., December 29, 2008 - www.InvestorIdeas.com, one of the first online investor resources providing in-depth information on renewable energy, greentech and water, provides independent investors access to research tools for making investment decisions moving into 2009 with a new Obama administration.
With Obama’s mandate for renewable energy and infrastructure spending and job creation, investors researching the sectors can use the stock directories and resources at Investorideas.com to make their investment decisions.
Investors in Biotech are also anticipating an upbeat year in the sector in 2009. Investor Ideas has just added the updated Biotech Stocks Directory to the growing list of tools and resources for members.
Investorideas.com has upgraded memberships to include access to restricted content at the Water Stocks Directory, Renewable Energy Stocks Directory and the most recent addition; the Biotech Stocks Directory.
Investor Ideas research tools empower independent investors to facilitate their own research. The
Stock directories are also a useful tool for brokers, institutions and funds in the relative sectors.
The water stocks directory is part of the content at the Water-stocks.com portal at Investorideas.com that also features the Investing in Water Podcast.
Water stocks directory: http://www.investorideas.com/Water-Stocks/Stock_List.asp
The complete renewable energy stocks directory is now members only access page.
The directory features stocks listed on the TSX, OTC, NASDAQ, NYSE, AMEX, ASX, AIM markets and other leading exchanges. The directory includes info and links on Alternative Energy Funds, Biogas and Ethanol Stocks, Energy Efficiency Stocks, Flywheel Stocks, Fuel Cell Stocks, Geothermal Stocks, Hydrogen Production, Micro Turbine Stocks, Solar Stocks, Green Transportation, Wind Power and Wind Energy Stocks and recently added Green Infrastructure Stocks.
Renewableenergystocks.com is one of several green investor portals within Investorideas.com and provides investors with stock news, exclusive articles and financial columnists, audio interviews, investor conferences and a directory of stocks within the renewable energy sector.
Subscribe to the Renewable Energy and GreenTech Business and Stock News RSS Feed:
http://www.investorideas.com/RSS/feeds/RES.xml
“The Insiders Corner “http://www.investorideas.com/insiderscorner/ By Michael Brush is also an Investorideas.com members only feature. Michael Brush writes a weekly market column for MSN Money. Mr. Brush has also covered business and investing for the New York Times, Money magazine and the Economist Group.
Become an Investorideas.com Member
With markets and investor sentiment changing daily- it is more important than ever to stay on top of key trends! Gain Exclusive Insight on Leading Sectors, Global Trends, and Insider Trading Ideas, News, Articles and Investor Ideas Members only Restricted Content.
Become an InvestorIdeas.com -Learn more: - click here http://www.investorideas.com/membership/
About InvestorIdeas.com:
"One of the first online investor resources providing in-depth information on renewable energy, greentech and water sectors." InvestorIdeas.com is a leading global investor and industry research resource portal specialized in sector investing covering over thirty industry sectors and global markets including China, India, Middle East and Australia.
Disclaimer: Our sites do not make recommendations. Nothing on our sites should be construed as an offer or solicitation to buy or sell products or securities. We attempt to research thoroughly, but we offer no guarantees as to the accuracy of information presented. All Information relating to featured companies is sourced from public documents and/ or the company and is not the opinion of our web sites. This site is currently compensated by featured companies, news submissions and online advertising. www.InvestorIdeas.com/About/Disclaimer.asp
For Additional Information:
Dawn Van Zant: 800-665-0411 - dvanzant@investorideas.com
Source – Investorideas.com
American Wind Energy Association (AWEA): Wind Power Trends to Watch for in 2009
American Wind Energy Association (AWEA): Wind Power Trends to Watch for in 2009
WASHINGTON--Dec 29 2008 --As the wind industry closes out another banner year, the American Wind Energy Association (AWEA) is looking ahead to further progress in 2009. Although the industry is buffeted by the financial crisis and economic downturn, it is also buoyed by a strong strategic position and the prospect of strong policy support from Congress and the new President. Here are some wind energy projections for the New Year:
“The world’s largest operating wind power project” will be a hotly contested designation this year: At least one new project may soon surpass FPL Energy’s 736-megawatt (MW) Horse Hollow wind farm, which has been the world’s largest for three years running. One project under expansion, by E.ON Climate & Renewables (EC&R) North America, and currently scheduled to go online in mid-2009, would have a total capacity of 781.5 megawatts (MW) when it is completed. The Horse Hollow Wind Energy Center, located in Taylor and Nolan counties, Texas, claimed the title in 2006. “The Horse Hollow Wind Energy Center is an important new source of clean, renewable power for the region that also provides significant economic benefits to the area in the form of taxes, new jobs, lease payments to landowners, and the purchase of local goods and services,” said FPL Energy President Jim Robo at the time of its commissioning. Gigawatt-size projects (in the thousands of megawatts) like the ones proposed by T. Boone Pickens and Shell Wind Energy are also in the pipeline but will take several years to be built.
Wind power: second-largest source of new U.S. power generating capacity for 5th year in a row? Wind is now a mainstream option for new power generation, second only to natural gas plants in new capacity built from 2005 through 2007, and probably again in 2008, pending year-end figures. Measured by market share, wind provided 35% of all new generation added in the U.S. in 2007. And with 7,500 MW of new capacity expected when 2008 figures are released, wind is likely to contribute at least 35% of new capacity added this year. This is one more indicator that wind power is abundant, affordable and available now to contribute a growing portion of our national electricity supply.
Hopes run high for greater federal policy stability: President-elect Obama has outlined a range of policies that would encourage investments in wind and renewables, and these policies are expected to be on the table for serious discussion and possible early action in 2009. The policies would signal a welcome shift for renewable energy technologies, whose deployment has been hampered by the absence of long-term policy stability. New policies include: adjusting the federal production tax credit (PTC) to make it more effective in the midst of the current economic downturn and extending it for a longer term (it expires at the end of 2009);
establishing a national renewable electricity standard (RES) with a target of generating at least 25% of the nation’s electricity from renewables by 2025, and a near-term target of 10% by 2012 (a Washington Post poll in early December found that 84% of Americans support such a standard); legislation and initiatives to develop a high-voltage interstate transmission “highway” for renewable energy; and strong national climate change legislation.
For a full list and description of the policies, see http://www.newwindagenda.org/.
States will focus on RES, transmission for renewables: Expect one or more states to implement (Indiana) or strengthen (Wisconsin and New York) their Renewable Electricity Standards (RES), bringing the number of states with an RES from 28 to perhaps 30. Look also for some states, including some without an RES (Oklahoma, Kansas, Nebraska) to develop a process to facilitate investment in transmission for electricity generated using renewables. Texas, Colorado, Minnesota, and California have already shown the way with pro-active transmission policies for renewable energy. “Baseload/peaking” is “out” and “smart mix” is “in”: The electric industry faces dramatic transformations as it wrestles with the challenges of the 21st century. The old paradigm that assumed “baseload” power plants were necessary is being replaced by a new paradigm where both demand and supply are managed in tandem, and electricity is supplied by a smart, clean mix including a high level of renewable and flexible technologies. Under its 20% wind by 2030 scenario (http://www.20percentwind.org/), the U.S. Department of Energy found that 20% wind would likely reduce the need for new coal and leave the level of nuclear power unchanged.
More community wind projects in 2009: The fast-growing wind power market is also opening up opportunities for community wind, which are projects owned by farmers, ranchers or other local investors or public entities. Look for more community wind proposals in 2009, and more AWEA education and outreach on the topic over the course of the year.
AWEA business membership will surge past 2,000 by mid-year: More companies see opportunities in the wind energy industry, and the expanding AWEA business membership roll is a measure of that interest. AWEA business membership increased from 200 in 2000, to more than 600 in 2005, and has soared over the 1,800 mark in 2008. If the trend continues, the roll of AWEA member companies could pass 2,000 by mid-2009. Most of the new members are companies in the wind power supply chain. Industry will finalize guidelines for wind turbine O&M: When an industry becomes mainstream, it needs to put in place a variety of standards and guidelines, and wind power is no exception. AWEA and the wind power industry are working with the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) to develop safety guidelines for wind turbine technicians and O&M workers at utility-scale wind projects. AWEA will be presenting educational webinars to OSHA personnel in early 2009. AWEA expects to finalize standards for small wind turbines: Standards for small wind turbines will help ensure qualification for the new small wind turbine federal investment credit that is now available for homeowners and small businesses investing in a small wind system. Manufacturing standards have long been in place for utility-scale wind turbines and continue to evolve with the technology.
Larger incentive for small wind? Homeowners, farmers, and small-business owners now benefit from a federal incentive enacted in late 2008 for the purchase of small wind systems. However, this credit is capped. Owners of small wind systems with 100 kilowatts (kW) of capacity and less can receive a credit for 30% of the total installed cost of the system, not to exceed $4,000. For turbines used for homes, the credit is additionally limited to the lesser of $4,000 or $1,000 per kW of capacity. Look for an effort to remove this limitation, so that consumers can benefit from a credit of a full 30% of the total cost of a small wind turbine purchased for an individual home or business.
Denise Bode takes the helm at AWEA: Denise Bode steps in as the new CEO for the American Wind Energy Association on January 5, succeeding Randall Swisher, who retired in 2008 after leading the association and industry for 19 years. Bode takes over at an exceptional time for the industry. Also new is AWEA’s logo at the top of this page. The logo has been updated to reflect the new era for wind energy in the U.S.
AWEA is the national trade association of America’s wind industry, with more than 1,800 member companies, including global leaders in wind power and energy development, wind turbine manufacturing, component and service suppliers, and the world’s largest wind power trade show. AWEA is the voice of wind energy in the U.S. promoting renewable energy to power a cleaner, stronger America. More information on wind energy is available at the AWEA Web site: http://www.awea.org/.
Contacts For AWEAShawna Seldon, 917-971-7852
WASHINGTON--Dec 29 2008 --As the wind industry closes out another banner year, the American Wind Energy Association (AWEA) is looking ahead to further progress in 2009. Although the industry is buffeted by the financial crisis and economic downturn, it is also buoyed by a strong strategic position and the prospect of strong policy support from Congress and the new President. Here are some wind energy projections for the New Year:
“The world’s largest operating wind power project” will be a hotly contested designation this year: At least one new project may soon surpass FPL Energy’s 736-megawatt (MW) Horse Hollow wind farm, which has been the world’s largest for three years running. One project under expansion, by E.ON Climate & Renewables (EC&R) North America, and currently scheduled to go online in mid-2009, would have a total capacity of 781.5 megawatts (MW) when it is completed. The Horse Hollow Wind Energy Center, located in Taylor and Nolan counties, Texas, claimed the title in 2006. “The Horse Hollow Wind Energy Center is an important new source of clean, renewable power for the region that also provides significant economic benefits to the area in the form of taxes, new jobs, lease payments to landowners, and the purchase of local goods and services,” said FPL Energy President Jim Robo at the time of its commissioning. Gigawatt-size projects (in the thousands of megawatts) like the ones proposed by T. Boone Pickens and Shell Wind Energy are also in the pipeline but will take several years to be built.
Wind power: second-largest source of new U.S. power generating capacity for 5th year in a row? Wind is now a mainstream option for new power generation, second only to natural gas plants in new capacity built from 2005 through 2007, and probably again in 2008, pending year-end figures. Measured by market share, wind provided 35% of all new generation added in the U.S. in 2007. And with 7,500 MW of new capacity expected when 2008 figures are released, wind is likely to contribute at least 35% of new capacity added this year. This is one more indicator that wind power is abundant, affordable and available now to contribute a growing portion of our national electricity supply.
Hopes run high for greater federal policy stability: President-elect Obama has outlined a range of policies that would encourage investments in wind and renewables, and these policies are expected to be on the table for serious discussion and possible early action in 2009. The policies would signal a welcome shift for renewable energy technologies, whose deployment has been hampered by the absence of long-term policy stability. New policies include: adjusting the federal production tax credit (PTC) to make it more effective in the midst of the current economic downturn and extending it for a longer term (it expires at the end of 2009);
establishing a national renewable electricity standard (RES) with a target of generating at least 25% of the nation’s electricity from renewables by 2025, and a near-term target of 10% by 2012 (a Washington Post poll in early December found that 84% of Americans support such a standard); legislation and initiatives to develop a high-voltage interstate transmission “highway” for renewable energy; and strong national climate change legislation.
For a full list and description of the policies, see http://www.newwindagenda.org/.
States will focus on RES, transmission for renewables: Expect one or more states to implement (Indiana) or strengthen (Wisconsin and New York) their Renewable Electricity Standards (RES), bringing the number of states with an RES from 28 to perhaps 30. Look also for some states, including some without an RES (Oklahoma, Kansas, Nebraska) to develop a process to facilitate investment in transmission for electricity generated using renewables. Texas, Colorado, Minnesota, and California have already shown the way with pro-active transmission policies for renewable energy. “Baseload/peaking” is “out” and “smart mix” is “in”: The electric industry faces dramatic transformations as it wrestles with the challenges of the 21st century. The old paradigm that assumed “baseload” power plants were necessary is being replaced by a new paradigm where both demand and supply are managed in tandem, and electricity is supplied by a smart, clean mix including a high level of renewable and flexible technologies. Under its 20% wind by 2030 scenario (http://www.20percentwind.org/), the U.S. Department of Energy found that 20% wind would likely reduce the need for new coal and leave the level of nuclear power unchanged.
More community wind projects in 2009: The fast-growing wind power market is also opening up opportunities for community wind, which are projects owned by farmers, ranchers or other local investors or public entities. Look for more community wind proposals in 2009, and more AWEA education and outreach on the topic over the course of the year.
AWEA business membership will surge past 2,000 by mid-year: More companies see opportunities in the wind energy industry, and the expanding AWEA business membership roll is a measure of that interest. AWEA business membership increased from 200 in 2000, to more than 600 in 2005, and has soared over the 1,800 mark in 2008. If the trend continues, the roll of AWEA member companies could pass 2,000 by mid-2009. Most of the new members are companies in the wind power supply chain. Industry will finalize guidelines for wind turbine O&M: When an industry becomes mainstream, it needs to put in place a variety of standards and guidelines, and wind power is no exception. AWEA and the wind power industry are working with the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) to develop safety guidelines for wind turbine technicians and O&M workers at utility-scale wind projects. AWEA will be presenting educational webinars to OSHA personnel in early 2009. AWEA expects to finalize standards for small wind turbines: Standards for small wind turbines will help ensure qualification for the new small wind turbine federal investment credit that is now available for homeowners and small businesses investing in a small wind system. Manufacturing standards have long been in place for utility-scale wind turbines and continue to evolve with the technology.
Larger incentive for small wind? Homeowners, farmers, and small-business owners now benefit from a federal incentive enacted in late 2008 for the purchase of small wind systems. However, this credit is capped. Owners of small wind systems with 100 kilowatts (kW) of capacity and less can receive a credit for 30% of the total installed cost of the system, not to exceed $4,000. For turbines used for homes, the credit is additionally limited to the lesser of $4,000 or $1,000 per kW of capacity. Look for an effort to remove this limitation, so that consumers can benefit from a credit of a full 30% of the total cost of a small wind turbine purchased for an individual home or business.
Denise Bode takes the helm at AWEA: Denise Bode steps in as the new CEO for the American Wind Energy Association on January 5, succeeding Randall Swisher, who retired in 2008 after leading the association and industry for 19 years. Bode takes over at an exceptional time for the industry. Also new is AWEA’s logo at the top of this page. The logo has been updated to reflect the new era for wind energy in the U.S.
AWEA is the national trade association of America’s wind industry, with more than 1,800 member companies, including global leaders in wind power and energy development, wind turbine manufacturing, component and service suppliers, and the world’s largest wind power trade show. AWEA is the voice of wind energy in the U.S. promoting renewable energy to power a cleaner, stronger America. More information on wind energy is available at the AWEA Web site: http://www.awea.org/.
Contacts For AWEAShawna Seldon, 917-971-7852
Sunday, December 28, 2008
DOE Announces Funding Opportunity of up to $200 Million for Pilot and Demonstration Scale Biorefinery Projects
DOE Announces Funding Opportunity of up to $200 Million for Pilot and Demonstration Scale Biorefinery Projects
Projects Will Demonstrate Continued Commitment to Develop Sustainable, Cost-Competitive Advanced Biofuels
December 22, 2008
WASHINGTON – The U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) today announced the issuance of a Funding Opportunity Announcement (FOA) for up to $200 million over six years (FY 2009 – FY 2014), subject to annual appropriations, to support the development of pilot and demonstration-scale biorefineries including the use of feedstocks such as algae and production of advanced biofuels such as bio-butanol, green gasoline and other innovative biofuels. The projects will support the Administration’s comprehensive energy strategy of increasing the nation’s energy, economic and national security by reducing our reliance on foreign oil, and reducing greenhouse gases. While supporting deployment and increased biofuels usage, DOE continues to focus on research and development of advanced biofuels technologies.
“This funding opportunity will look for the most promising technologies that can advance the potential of renewable biomass as a resource for second generation transportation biofuels,” Acting Assistant Secretary for Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy John F. Mizroch said. “The Department of Energy will select breakthrough integrated biorefinery projects that have technical and economic performance data at the bench or pilot scale to prove they are ready to move a step closer toward commercial readiness.”
The FOA has two topic areas for biorefinery development:
Pilot-scale, minimum throughput of one dry tonne of feedstock per day with a minimum non-federal cost-share at 30 percent. Demonstration-scale minimum throughput of 50 dry tonnes of feedstock per day, with a minimum non-federal cost-share at 50 percent.DOE anticipates making approximately 5-12 awards under this announcement, depending on the topic area, and size of awards. Projects selected under this FOA will provide operational data that reduces the risk associated with commercialization. The intent of this FOA is to have integrated biorefinery projects at the pilot and demonstration scale levels operational within three to four years after applicants are selected. All projects must be located within the U.S., use feedstock from domestic biomass resources, and demonstrate significant greenhouse gas reductions on a lifecycle basis. This FOA adds to over $1 billion DOE has committed to research, development, and demonstration of cellulosic biofuels technology.
These pilot and demonstration-scale facilities are intended to lead to commercialization in the near term. If deployed on a large scale, these commercial facilities could produce volumes that could significantly contribute to the Energy and Independence Security Act (EISA) Renewable Fuels Standard goal of 21 billion gallons of advanced biofuels by 2022. The projects selected will demonstrate the commercial viability for producing advanced biofuels from a variety of biomass conversion technologies and non-food feedstocks, therefore reducing U.S. dependence on oil. Advanced biofuels produced from these projects are expected to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by a minimum of 50 percent, as determined by the Environmental Protection Agency.
Mandatory letters of intent are due February, 20, 2009, and completed applications are due April 30, 2009. The complete FOA (number DE-PS36-09GO99038), can be viewed at www.grants.gov. Projects are expected to begin in Fiscal Year 2009 and continue through Fiscal Year 2014. Funding is subject to annual Congressional appropriations.
Media contact(s):Jennifer Scoggins, (202) 586-4940
Projects Will Demonstrate Continued Commitment to Develop Sustainable, Cost-Competitive Advanced Biofuels
December 22, 2008
WASHINGTON – The U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) today announced the issuance of a Funding Opportunity Announcement (FOA) for up to $200 million over six years (FY 2009 – FY 2014), subject to annual appropriations, to support the development of pilot and demonstration-scale biorefineries including the use of feedstocks such as algae and production of advanced biofuels such as bio-butanol, green gasoline and other innovative biofuels. The projects will support the Administration’s comprehensive energy strategy of increasing the nation’s energy, economic and national security by reducing our reliance on foreign oil, and reducing greenhouse gases. While supporting deployment and increased biofuels usage, DOE continues to focus on research and development of advanced biofuels technologies.
“This funding opportunity will look for the most promising technologies that can advance the potential of renewable biomass as a resource for second generation transportation biofuels,” Acting Assistant Secretary for Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy John F. Mizroch said. “The Department of Energy will select breakthrough integrated biorefinery projects that have technical and economic performance data at the bench or pilot scale to prove they are ready to move a step closer toward commercial readiness.”
The FOA has two topic areas for biorefinery development:
Pilot-scale, minimum throughput of one dry tonne of feedstock per day with a minimum non-federal cost-share at 30 percent. Demonstration-scale minimum throughput of 50 dry tonnes of feedstock per day, with a minimum non-federal cost-share at 50 percent.DOE anticipates making approximately 5-12 awards under this announcement, depending on the topic area, and size of awards. Projects selected under this FOA will provide operational data that reduces the risk associated with commercialization. The intent of this FOA is to have integrated biorefinery projects at the pilot and demonstration scale levels operational within three to four years after applicants are selected. All projects must be located within the U.S., use feedstock from domestic biomass resources, and demonstrate significant greenhouse gas reductions on a lifecycle basis. This FOA adds to over $1 billion DOE has committed to research, development, and demonstration of cellulosic biofuels technology.
These pilot and demonstration-scale facilities are intended to lead to commercialization in the near term. If deployed on a large scale, these commercial facilities could produce volumes that could significantly contribute to the Energy and Independence Security Act (EISA) Renewable Fuels Standard goal of 21 billion gallons of advanced biofuels by 2022. The projects selected will demonstrate the commercial viability for producing advanced biofuels from a variety of biomass conversion technologies and non-food feedstocks, therefore reducing U.S. dependence on oil. Advanced biofuels produced from these projects are expected to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by a minimum of 50 percent, as determined by the Environmental Protection Agency.
Mandatory letters of intent are due February, 20, 2009, and completed applications are due April 30, 2009. The complete FOA (number DE-PS36-09GO99038), can be viewed at www.grants.gov. Projects are expected to begin in Fiscal Year 2009 and continue through Fiscal Year 2014. Funding is subject to annual Congressional appropriations.
Media contact(s):Jennifer Scoggins, (202) 586-4940
Monday, December 22, 2008
Wells Fargo Exceeds $3 Billion in Environmental Financing
Wells Fargo Exceeds $3 Billion in Environmental Financing
Issues Progress Report on Environmental Finance Activities
SAN FRANCISCO--Dec 22 2008 --Wells Fargo & Company (NYSE:WFC) said today it has provided more than $3 billion in environmental financing, surpassing its goal to provide $1 billion in environmental finance commitments - two years ahead of schedule. The company has released a “Progress Report on Wells Fargo’s Environmental Finance Commitment,” (available at wellsfargo.com/environment) describing how it supports environmental markets.
“Our environmentally-focused investments and loans are a significant new area of business for Wells Fargo,” said Barry Neal, director of Environmental Finance. “Over the past three years we’ve focused on renewable energy, resource efficiency, and sustainability in our work with our customers – helping to protect our environment and grow our businesses.”
Wells Fargo environmental financing includes:
Green buildings - Wells Fargo provided $2 billion in financing for building projects designed to meet U.S. Green Building Council's Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) certification requirements, including: energy and water efficiency; on-site renewable energy; resource conservation measures; and improved indoor air quality. Renewable energy - Wells Fargo invested and committed more than $700 million to support solar and wind projects nationwide. Combined these projects are expected to generate enough clean, renewable energy to power about 475,000 households. Green businesses - Wells Fargo provided $500 million to support customers who have made environmental sustainability a key part of their missions, including companies focused on renewable energy, energy efficiency, sustainable agriculture and forestry, and resource management. Community development - Wells Fargo provided $50 million to support nonprofit organizations that improve the environment in low- to moderate-income communities. “Climate change and energy issues require diverse solutions and support from all areas of our society, and we look forward to continuing to work together with our customers and communities to address these important challenges," said Neal. “We see significant growth potential in all areas related to clean energy, resource efficiency and the environment and are excited about building upon what we have accomplished to date.”
Wells Fargo’s $1 billion lending target was part of its 10-point environmental commitment aimed at helping to integrate environmental responsibility into its business practices.
Wells Fargo & Company is a diversified financial services company with $622 billion in assets, providing banking, insurance, investments, mortgage and consumer finance through almost 6,000 stores and the internet (wellsfargo.com) across North America and internationally.
Contacts Wells Fargo & CompanyStephanie Rico, 415-396-5804 (Media)
Issues Progress Report on Environmental Finance Activities
SAN FRANCISCO--Dec 22 2008 --Wells Fargo & Company (NYSE:WFC) said today it has provided more than $3 billion in environmental financing, surpassing its goal to provide $1 billion in environmental finance commitments - two years ahead of schedule. The company has released a “Progress Report on Wells Fargo’s Environmental Finance Commitment,” (available at wellsfargo.com/environment) describing how it supports environmental markets.
“Our environmentally-focused investments and loans are a significant new area of business for Wells Fargo,” said Barry Neal, director of Environmental Finance. “Over the past three years we’ve focused on renewable energy, resource efficiency, and sustainability in our work with our customers – helping to protect our environment and grow our businesses.”
Wells Fargo environmental financing includes:
Green buildings - Wells Fargo provided $2 billion in financing for building projects designed to meet U.S. Green Building Council's Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) certification requirements, including: energy and water efficiency; on-site renewable energy; resource conservation measures; and improved indoor air quality. Renewable energy - Wells Fargo invested and committed more than $700 million to support solar and wind projects nationwide. Combined these projects are expected to generate enough clean, renewable energy to power about 475,000 households. Green businesses - Wells Fargo provided $500 million to support customers who have made environmental sustainability a key part of their missions, including companies focused on renewable energy, energy efficiency, sustainable agriculture and forestry, and resource management. Community development - Wells Fargo provided $50 million to support nonprofit organizations that improve the environment in low- to moderate-income communities. “Climate change and energy issues require diverse solutions and support from all areas of our society, and we look forward to continuing to work together with our customers and communities to address these important challenges," said Neal. “We see significant growth potential in all areas related to clean energy, resource efficiency and the environment and are excited about building upon what we have accomplished to date.”
Wells Fargo’s $1 billion lending target was part of its 10-point environmental commitment aimed at helping to integrate environmental responsibility into its business practices.
Wells Fargo & Company is a diversified financial services company with $622 billion in assets, providing banking, insurance, investments, mortgage and consumer finance through almost 6,000 stores and the internet (wellsfargo.com) across North America and internationally.
Contacts Wells Fargo & CompanyStephanie Rico, 415-396-5804 (Media)
Saturday, December 20, 2008
DOE Awards Sixteen Contracts for up to $80 Billion in Energy Efficiency, Renewable Energy, and Water Conservation Projects at Federal Facilities
DOE Awards Sixteen Contracts for up to $80 Billion in Energy Efficiency, Renewable Energy, and Water Conservation Projects at Federal Facilities
WASHINGTON - Dec 18 2008 Today the Department of Energy (DOE) announced the award of 16 new Indefinite Delivery Indefinite Quantity (IDIQ) Energy Savings Performance Contracts (ESPCs) that could result in up to $80 billion in energy efficiency, renewable energy, and water conservation projects at federally-owned buildings and facilities. ESPCs help to meet the federal government’s energy efficiency, water conservation, and renewable energy goals. The federal government is the largest single user of energy in the United States and these awards demonstrate a commitment to sound government stewardship by recognizing efforts to save energy, reduce federal energy costs, cut greenhouse gas emissions, bring more cutting-edge technologies to use, strengthen national security, and create a stronger economy.
“This set of awards will ensure that federal agencies have access to powerful tools for alternative financing at a scale that is needed to meet our challenge of reducing energy intensity, increasing the use of renewable energy, and decreasing water consumption.” U.S. DOE Secretary Samuel W. Bodman said.
In August 2007, Secretary Bodman launched the Transformational Energy Action Management (TEAM) Initiative, a Department-wide effort aimed at reducing energy intensity across the nationwide DOE complex by 30 percent. The TEAM Initiative aims to meet or exceed the aggressive goals for increasing energy efficiency throughout the federal government already laid out by President Bush through Executive Order 13423, which directed federal agencies to: reduce energy intensity and greenhouse gas emissions; substantially increase use and efficiency of renewable energy technologies; adopt sustainable design practices; and reduce petroleum use in federal fleets.
The new contracts were awarded to the following Energy Service Companies (ESCOs):
Ameresco, Inc. (Framingham, Mass.);
Chevron Energy Solutions (Eagan, Minn.);
Clark Realty Builders (Arlington, Va.);
Consolidated Edison Solutions, Inc. (White Plains, N.Y.);
Constellation Energy Projects & Services Group, Inc. (Baltimore, Md.);
FPL Energy Service, Inc. (North Palm Beach, Fla.);
Honeywell International, Inc. (Golden Valley, Minn.);
Johnson Controls Government Systems, LLC (Milwaukee, Wis.);
Lockheed Martin Services, Inc. (Cherry Hill, N.J.);
McKinstry Essention, Inc. (Seattle, Wash.);
NORESCO, LLC (Westborough, Mass.);
Pepco Energy Services (Arlington, Va.);
Siemens Government Services, Inc. (Reston, Va.);
TAC Energy Solutions (Seattle, Wash.);
The Benham Companies, LLC (Oklahoma City, Okla.); and,
Trane U.S., Inc. (McEwen, Tenn.).
The goals set out in Executive Order 13423 and the requirements put forth by Congress in the Energy Policy Act of 2005 and the Energy Independence and Security Act of 2007 include a 30 percent reduction in energy intensity and a 16 percent reduction in water use by 2015, and an increase of renewable energy to 7.5 percent of electricity needs by 2013 for Federal facilities. ESPCs enable agencies to undertake energy savings projects without paying up-front capital costs. ESPC task orders typically are placed competitively and can be used for energy and water efficiency and renewable energy projects.
Under an ESPC, the contractor designs, constructs, and obtains the necessary financing for an energy savings project, and the agency makes payments over time to the contractor from the savings reduction in the utility bills which are paid by the agency’s appropriated funds over time. The contractor guarantees the energy improvements will generate savings. Moreover, the aggregate annual amount of payments to the contractor and payments for utilities cannot exceed the amount that the agency would have paid for utilities without an ESPC. After the contract ends, all continuing cost savings accrue to the agency.
The new contracts provide for a maximum individual contract value of $5 billion over the life of the contract, eliminate technology specific restrictions, and allow federal agencies to use these contracts in federal buildings, nationally and internationally. In addition, ESPCs now include a greater emphasis on renewable energy and water conservation projects.
For further information on the new ESPCs please see the feature box on the FEMP website.
Media contact(s):Jennifer Scoggins (202) 586-4940
WASHINGTON - Dec 18 2008 Today the Department of Energy (DOE) announced the award of 16 new Indefinite Delivery Indefinite Quantity (IDIQ) Energy Savings Performance Contracts (ESPCs) that could result in up to $80 billion in energy efficiency, renewable energy, and water conservation projects at federally-owned buildings and facilities. ESPCs help to meet the federal government’s energy efficiency, water conservation, and renewable energy goals. The federal government is the largest single user of energy in the United States and these awards demonstrate a commitment to sound government stewardship by recognizing efforts to save energy, reduce federal energy costs, cut greenhouse gas emissions, bring more cutting-edge technologies to use, strengthen national security, and create a stronger economy.
“This set of awards will ensure that federal agencies have access to powerful tools for alternative financing at a scale that is needed to meet our challenge of reducing energy intensity, increasing the use of renewable energy, and decreasing water consumption.” U.S. DOE Secretary Samuel W. Bodman said.
In August 2007, Secretary Bodman launched the Transformational Energy Action Management (TEAM) Initiative, a Department-wide effort aimed at reducing energy intensity across the nationwide DOE complex by 30 percent. The TEAM Initiative aims to meet or exceed the aggressive goals for increasing energy efficiency throughout the federal government already laid out by President Bush through Executive Order 13423, which directed federal agencies to: reduce energy intensity and greenhouse gas emissions; substantially increase use and efficiency of renewable energy technologies; adopt sustainable design practices; and reduce petroleum use in federal fleets.
The new contracts were awarded to the following Energy Service Companies (ESCOs):
Ameresco, Inc. (Framingham, Mass.);
Chevron Energy Solutions (Eagan, Minn.);
Clark Realty Builders (Arlington, Va.);
Consolidated Edison Solutions, Inc. (White Plains, N.Y.);
Constellation Energy Projects & Services Group, Inc. (Baltimore, Md.);
FPL Energy Service, Inc. (North Palm Beach, Fla.);
Honeywell International, Inc. (Golden Valley, Minn.);
Johnson Controls Government Systems, LLC (Milwaukee, Wis.);
Lockheed Martin Services, Inc. (Cherry Hill, N.J.);
McKinstry Essention, Inc. (Seattle, Wash.);
NORESCO, LLC (Westborough, Mass.);
Pepco Energy Services (Arlington, Va.);
Siemens Government Services, Inc. (Reston, Va.);
TAC Energy Solutions (Seattle, Wash.);
The Benham Companies, LLC (Oklahoma City, Okla.); and,
Trane U.S., Inc. (McEwen, Tenn.).
The goals set out in Executive Order 13423 and the requirements put forth by Congress in the Energy Policy Act of 2005 and the Energy Independence and Security Act of 2007 include a 30 percent reduction in energy intensity and a 16 percent reduction in water use by 2015, and an increase of renewable energy to 7.5 percent of electricity needs by 2013 for Federal facilities. ESPCs enable agencies to undertake energy savings projects without paying up-front capital costs. ESPC task orders typically are placed competitively and can be used for energy and water efficiency and renewable energy projects.
Under an ESPC, the contractor designs, constructs, and obtains the necessary financing for an energy savings project, and the agency makes payments over time to the contractor from the savings reduction in the utility bills which are paid by the agency’s appropriated funds over time. The contractor guarantees the energy improvements will generate savings. Moreover, the aggregate annual amount of payments to the contractor and payments for utilities cannot exceed the amount that the agency would have paid for utilities without an ESPC. After the contract ends, all continuing cost savings accrue to the agency.
The new contracts provide for a maximum individual contract value of $5 billion over the life of the contract, eliminate technology specific restrictions, and allow federal agencies to use these contracts in federal buildings, nationally and internationally. In addition, ESPCs now include a greater emphasis on renewable energy and water conservation projects.
For further information on the new ESPCs please see the feature box on the FEMP website.
Media contact(s):Jennifer Scoggins (202) 586-4940
Thursday, December 18, 2008
Global Investment in Cleantech Companies Reaches Record US$4.6 Billion
Global Investment in Cleantech Companies Reaches Record US$4.6 Billion in the First Three Quarters of 2008, Says Ernst & YoungUnited States Continues to Drive Global Cleantech Investment
NEW YORK & LONDON, Dec 18, 2008 -- Venture capital investment in cleantech companies reached a record US$4.6 billion in the first three quarters of 2008, according to Ernst & Young's analysis of activity in the United States, Europe, China and Israel based on data from Dow Jones VentureSource. This is an increase of 82% compared with the same period last year and represents 13% of all venture capital investment in these geographies.
"Global venture capital investment in cleantech accelerated in 2008 as a number of companies, particularly in the solar and wind market, entered the capital intensive stage of commercializing new technologies. This increase in activity has been stimulated by a strengthening corporate commitment to tackling climate change," said Gil Forer, Ernst & Young's Global Director of Cleantech, IPO and Venture Capital Initiatives. "However as the global financial crisis continues and the time from initial investment to exit gets longer, venture capital investors will likely moderate the pace of investment across all sectors, including cleantech," added Forer.
United States The United States continues to be the main driver of global venture capital investment in cleantech companies. A total of US$3.3 billion was invested in the first three quarters of 2008 in 135 financing rounds, surpassing the figure for the same period last year by 71% in terms of capital raised and 4% in terms of financing activity. By cleantech segment, Energy/Electricity Generation companies attracted the most investment during the first three quarters of 2008: US$1.8 billion in 47 rounds of financing. Solar companies were by far the largest component of this segment with US$1.7 billion invested in 35 rounds - an increase of 152% in capital and 17% in financing over the same period in 2007. Alternative Fuels received US$455.5 million in investment, growing 7% over the same period last year, while the Energy Efficiency segment grew 32% to US$186 million. Several US regulatory developments in 2008 supported the continuing development of the cleantech market. The Housing and Economic Recovery Act of 2008 extended tax credits for wind energy, geothermal, biomass and other renewable energy projects, continuing and expanding an important source of financing for renewable projects. The Regional Greenhouse Gas Initiative (RGGI), a mandatory cap-and-trade program to reduce CO2 emissions from the power sector in ten Northeastern and Mid-Atlantic states became operational, which will likely drive long-term demand for efficiency and emissions-reduction technologies. Missouri and Michigan joined the growing number of states with binding or voluntary renewable portfolio standards.
Europe In the first three quarters of 2008, venture capital investment in European cleantech companies reached EUR 481.8 million in 53 financing rounds, a 67% increase in capital raised but a decline of 15% in the number of rounds. As in the US, Energy/Electricity Generation attracted the largest share of European cleantech investment with EUR 371.3 million raised 1Q-3Q 2008, a 220% increase. Wind was the largest segment with EUR 182.7 million raised in 7 rounds. Solar was also a major contributor to growth in this category with 7 rounds totaling EUR 139.0 million. Other major European cleantech investment categories in this period include Environment with EUR 49.9 million raised and Energy Storage with EUR 24.8 million raised. European climate change regulatory developments in 2008 were also favorable to the further development of the cleantech market. The United Kingdom passed legislation to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 80% by 2050, becoming the first country to impose a legally binding national emissions-reduction target. Despite the global economic crisis, European Union leaders reaffirmed their commitment to the targets of cutting EU CO2 emissions by 20% by 2020, and obtaining at least 20% of energy from renewable sources and achieving an overall 20% reduction in energy use.
China
Chinese cleantech investment grew quickly in the first three quarters of 2008, raising US$165 million compared to US$29.1 million during the same period last year. The Energy/Electricity Generation category received US$95.8 million, up from US$4.6 million. Solar was largest component of investment in this category, raising US$85.2 million. The next largest category of investment was Industry Focused Products & Service, which raised US$54.5 million for companies focused on agriculture, consumer products, materials and transportation.
China has rapidly emerged as a cleantech manufacturing center, particularly in solar and wind, and is poised to benefit from the growing adoption of cleantech globally. Energy efficiency is an emerging segment due to the country's large-scale construction activity and energy consumption. Makers of energy efficiency technologies see in China an opportunity to achieve scale quickly. Multinational corporations increasingly view China as a test market for intelligent network systems and sensors.
Israel
Israeli cleantech companies received US$76.5 million in venture capital investment in the first three quarters of 2008, up from US$31.5 million in the same period last year. The Energy/Electricity Generation category, consisting entirely of Solar companies, received US$46.5 million. Water was the other main focus of Israeli investment with US$18.2 million raised. Market drivers and related developments in clean energy Broader investment activity in clean energy alone - that is excluding the non-energy sectors of cleantech - remained strong in the first three quarters of 2008, supported by healthy asset investment activity in the first half of the year. Total new energy asset finance during the first three months of the year rose from US$74.2 billion during 2007 to US$89.7 billion in 2008, an increase of 20.9%, according New Energy Finance, a provider of information and research to investors in renewable energy, low-carbon technology and the carbon markets. New Energy Finance reported a total of US$14.7 billion of venture capital and private equity invested in clean energy companies during the first three quarters of 2008, up from a total of $10.0 billion in the same period last year. However, clean energy IPOs during the first three quarters of 2008 dropped to US$9.4 billion, a decline of 33%, according to New Energy Finance. This reflects the impact of the financial crisis and rapidly falling value of clean energy stocks. At the same time, clean energy M&A transactions declined 17.3% to US$15.8 billion, primarily focused on targets in the Equipment Manufacturing and Developer & Power Generator companies. Analysis of the carbon markets by New Energy Finance shows that in spite of the global economic turmoil the carbon market has continued to grow. Although carbon prices have come off the highs of May 2008, liquidity remains strong and substantially above the levels seen in 2007. The carbon market grew 81% over the first nine months of this year to reach US$87 billion (EUR 68bn) by the end of Q3, and is forecast to break the US$100 billion barrier by year end to reach US$116 billion (EUR 90bn). This growth is expected to continue to 2012 buoyed by higher prices and volumes, by when it should reach US$550 billion (EUR 429bn). -ends- Note to editors All comparative numbers in the release are 1Q-3Q 2007 vs. 1Q-3Q 2008. Ernst & Young uses the following definitions to classify the cleantech industry and its sub-sectors: Clean technology encompasses a diverse range of innovative products and services that optimize the use of natural resources or reduce the negative environmental impact of their use while creating value by lowering costs, improving efficiency, or providing superior performance.
-- Alternative Fuels - Biofuels; natural gas (LNG) -- Energy / Electricity Generation - Gasification, tidal/wave, hydrogen, geothermal, solar, wind, hydro -- Energy Storage - Batteries, fuel cells, flywheels -- Energy Efficiency - Energy efficiency products, power and efficiency management services, industrial products -- Water - Treatment processes, conservation & monitoring -- Environment - Air, recycling, waste -- Industry Focused Products and Services - Agriculture, construction, transportation, materials, consumer products About Ernst & Young's Strategic Growth Markets Network Ernst & Young's worldwide Strategic Growth Markets Network is dedicated to serving the changing needs of rapid-growth companies.
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SOURCE: Ernst & Young Ernst & Young Global PR Ferne Hudson +44 20 7980 0848 ferne.hudson@uk.ey.com
NEW YORK & LONDON, Dec 18, 2008 -- Venture capital investment in cleantech companies reached a record US$4.6 billion in the first three quarters of 2008, according to Ernst & Young's analysis of activity in the United States, Europe, China and Israel based on data from Dow Jones VentureSource. This is an increase of 82% compared with the same period last year and represents 13% of all venture capital investment in these geographies.
"Global venture capital investment in cleantech accelerated in 2008 as a number of companies, particularly in the solar and wind market, entered the capital intensive stage of commercializing new technologies. This increase in activity has been stimulated by a strengthening corporate commitment to tackling climate change," said Gil Forer, Ernst & Young's Global Director of Cleantech, IPO and Venture Capital Initiatives. "However as the global financial crisis continues and the time from initial investment to exit gets longer, venture capital investors will likely moderate the pace of investment across all sectors, including cleantech," added Forer.
United States The United States continues to be the main driver of global venture capital investment in cleantech companies. A total of US$3.3 billion was invested in the first three quarters of 2008 in 135 financing rounds, surpassing the figure for the same period last year by 71% in terms of capital raised and 4% in terms of financing activity. By cleantech segment, Energy/Electricity Generation companies attracted the most investment during the first three quarters of 2008: US$1.8 billion in 47 rounds of financing. Solar companies were by far the largest component of this segment with US$1.7 billion invested in 35 rounds - an increase of 152% in capital and 17% in financing over the same period in 2007. Alternative Fuels received US$455.5 million in investment, growing 7% over the same period last year, while the Energy Efficiency segment grew 32% to US$186 million. Several US regulatory developments in 2008 supported the continuing development of the cleantech market. The Housing and Economic Recovery Act of 2008 extended tax credits for wind energy, geothermal, biomass and other renewable energy projects, continuing and expanding an important source of financing for renewable projects. The Regional Greenhouse Gas Initiative (RGGI), a mandatory cap-and-trade program to reduce CO2 emissions from the power sector in ten Northeastern and Mid-Atlantic states became operational, which will likely drive long-term demand for efficiency and emissions-reduction technologies. Missouri and Michigan joined the growing number of states with binding or voluntary renewable portfolio standards.
Europe In the first three quarters of 2008, venture capital investment in European cleantech companies reached EUR 481.8 million in 53 financing rounds, a 67% increase in capital raised but a decline of 15% in the number of rounds. As in the US, Energy/Electricity Generation attracted the largest share of European cleantech investment with EUR 371.3 million raised 1Q-3Q 2008, a 220% increase. Wind was the largest segment with EUR 182.7 million raised in 7 rounds. Solar was also a major contributor to growth in this category with 7 rounds totaling EUR 139.0 million. Other major European cleantech investment categories in this period include Environment with EUR 49.9 million raised and Energy Storage with EUR 24.8 million raised. European climate change regulatory developments in 2008 were also favorable to the further development of the cleantech market. The United Kingdom passed legislation to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 80% by 2050, becoming the first country to impose a legally binding national emissions-reduction target. Despite the global economic crisis, European Union leaders reaffirmed their commitment to the targets of cutting EU CO2 emissions by 20% by 2020, and obtaining at least 20% of energy from renewable sources and achieving an overall 20% reduction in energy use.
China
Chinese cleantech investment grew quickly in the first three quarters of 2008, raising US$165 million compared to US$29.1 million during the same period last year. The Energy/Electricity Generation category received US$95.8 million, up from US$4.6 million. Solar was largest component of investment in this category, raising US$85.2 million. The next largest category of investment was Industry Focused Products & Service, which raised US$54.5 million for companies focused on agriculture, consumer products, materials and transportation.
China has rapidly emerged as a cleantech manufacturing center, particularly in solar and wind, and is poised to benefit from the growing adoption of cleantech globally. Energy efficiency is an emerging segment due to the country's large-scale construction activity and energy consumption. Makers of energy efficiency technologies see in China an opportunity to achieve scale quickly. Multinational corporations increasingly view China as a test market for intelligent network systems and sensors.
Israel
Israeli cleantech companies received US$76.5 million in venture capital investment in the first three quarters of 2008, up from US$31.5 million in the same period last year. The Energy/Electricity Generation category, consisting entirely of Solar companies, received US$46.5 million. Water was the other main focus of Israeli investment with US$18.2 million raised. Market drivers and related developments in clean energy Broader investment activity in clean energy alone - that is excluding the non-energy sectors of cleantech - remained strong in the first three quarters of 2008, supported by healthy asset investment activity in the first half of the year. Total new energy asset finance during the first three months of the year rose from US$74.2 billion during 2007 to US$89.7 billion in 2008, an increase of 20.9%, according New Energy Finance, a provider of information and research to investors in renewable energy, low-carbon technology and the carbon markets. New Energy Finance reported a total of US$14.7 billion of venture capital and private equity invested in clean energy companies during the first three quarters of 2008, up from a total of $10.0 billion in the same period last year. However, clean energy IPOs during the first three quarters of 2008 dropped to US$9.4 billion, a decline of 33%, according to New Energy Finance. This reflects the impact of the financial crisis and rapidly falling value of clean energy stocks. At the same time, clean energy M&A transactions declined 17.3% to US$15.8 billion, primarily focused on targets in the Equipment Manufacturing and Developer & Power Generator companies. Analysis of the carbon markets by New Energy Finance shows that in spite of the global economic turmoil the carbon market has continued to grow. Although carbon prices have come off the highs of May 2008, liquidity remains strong and substantially above the levels seen in 2007. The carbon market grew 81% over the first nine months of this year to reach US$87 billion (EUR 68bn) by the end of Q3, and is forecast to break the US$100 billion barrier by year end to reach US$116 billion (EUR 90bn). This growth is expected to continue to 2012 buoyed by higher prices and volumes, by when it should reach US$550 billion (EUR 429bn). -ends- Note to editors All comparative numbers in the release are 1Q-3Q 2007 vs. 1Q-3Q 2008. Ernst & Young uses the following definitions to classify the cleantech industry and its sub-sectors: Clean technology encompasses a diverse range of innovative products and services that optimize the use of natural resources or reduce the negative environmental impact of their use while creating value by lowering costs, improving efficiency, or providing superior performance.
-- Alternative Fuels - Biofuels; natural gas (LNG) -- Energy / Electricity Generation - Gasification, tidal/wave, hydrogen, geothermal, solar, wind, hydro -- Energy Storage - Batteries, fuel cells, flywheels -- Energy Efficiency - Energy efficiency products, power and efficiency management services, industrial products -- Water - Treatment processes, conservation & monitoring -- Environment - Air, recycling, waste -- Industry Focused Products and Services - Agriculture, construction, transportation, materials, consumer products About Ernst & Young's Strategic Growth Markets Network Ernst & Young's worldwide Strategic Growth Markets Network is dedicated to serving the changing needs of rapid-growth companies.
For more than 30 years, we've helped many of the world's most dynamic and ambitious companies grow into market leaders. Whether working with international mid-cap companies or early stage venture-backed businesses, our professionals draw upon their extensive experience, insight and global resources to help your business achieve its potential. It's how Ernst & Young makes a difference. About Ernst & Young Ernst & Young is a global leader in assurance, tax, transaction and advisory services. Worldwide, our 135,000 people are united by our shared values and an unwavering commitment to quality. We make a difference by helping our people, our clients and our wider communities achieve their potential. For more information, please visit www.ey.com.
Ernst & Young refers to the global organization of member firms of Ernst & Young Global Limited, each of which is a separate legal entity.
SOURCE: Ernst & Young Ernst & Young Global PR Ferne Hudson +44 20 7980 0848 ferne.hudson@uk.ey.com
Fuel Cells: $1.2 Billion Now Will Add US Jobs and Clean Energy Capacity, Reduce CO2
Fuel Cells: $1.2 Billion Now Will Add US Jobs and Clean Energy Capacity, Reduce CO2
WASHINGTON Dec 18 2008 - The fuel cell industry asked Congress and the incoming Obama Administration today to set aside $1.2 billion in the planned stimulus package for fuel cells and their fuels.
“Accelerating investment into fuel cells now will foster green power, advance a critical climate-enhancing technology, accelerate job creation and keep innovation, industrial capacity and jobs at home,” said Robert Rose, Executive Director of the US Fuel Cell Council. The investment would produce an estimated 24,000 jobs, Rose said.
“Fully funding fuel cell programs at levels authorized by Congress and utilizing other laws already on the books will put hundreds of fuel cell vehicles and up to 100 megawatts of fuel cell power into customers’ hands, reap efficiency, environmental and security benefits and create green jobs and high-tech manufacturing capacity for the American economy.”
The industry program calls for lease and purchases of fuel cells by federal civilian and military agencies for power generation and as battery alternatives, investment in supporting fueling infrastructure, improving federal investment tax credits for fuel cells and extending a credit to fuels. It also includes expanding learning demonstrations, accelerating research, and supporting an expansion of manufacturing capability at fuel cell companies and key suppliers, to foster a supply base and develop domestic momentum for jobs and expansion.
Fuel cells generate electricity and heat electrochemically, providing overall energy efficiencies of up to 80%, or even higher. Fuel cells produce benefits in all applications – power generation, industrial equipment, transportation, military power and consumer electronics. Because fuel cells are electrochemical systems and do not rely on combustion they are the cleanest fuel-consuming energy technology, with near-zero smog-causing emissions. They are essential to the nation’s response to climate change.
Fuel cells and hydrogen can help provide stability and continuity to the electric grid since they can provide continuous “base load” power in parallel with or independent of the grid. In addition, they can support intermittent renewable energy. These attributes make them ideal resources for supporting critical loads for military and civilian consumers.
For a copy of the plan, email fuelcellplan@gmail.com, or
Contacts US Fuel Cell CouncilBrynne Ward, 202-293-5500 ext. 33orBud DeFlaviis, 202-293-5500 ext. 35
WASHINGTON Dec 18 2008 - The fuel cell industry asked Congress and the incoming Obama Administration today to set aside $1.2 billion in the planned stimulus package for fuel cells and their fuels.
“Accelerating investment into fuel cells now will foster green power, advance a critical climate-enhancing technology, accelerate job creation and keep innovation, industrial capacity and jobs at home,” said Robert Rose, Executive Director of the US Fuel Cell Council. The investment would produce an estimated 24,000 jobs, Rose said.
“Fully funding fuel cell programs at levels authorized by Congress and utilizing other laws already on the books will put hundreds of fuel cell vehicles and up to 100 megawatts of fuel cell power into customers’ hands, reap efficiency, environmental and security benefits and create green jobs and high-tech manufacturing capacity for the American economy.”
The industry program calls for lease and purchases of fuel cells by federal civilian and military agencies for power generation and as battery alternatives, investment in supporting fueling infrastructure, improving federal investment tax credits for fuel cells and extending a credit to fuels. It also includes expanding learning demonstrations, accelerating research, and supporting an expansion of manufacturing capability at fuel cell companies and key suppliers, to foster a supply base and develop domestic momentum for jobs and expansion.
Fuel cells generate electricity and heat electrochemically, providing overall energy efficiencies of up to 80%, or even higher. Fuel cells produce benefits in all applications – power generation, industrial equipment, transportation, military power and consumer electronics. Because fuel cells are electrochemical systems and do not rely on combustion they are the cleanest fuel-consuming energy technology, with near-zero smog-causing emissions. They are essential to the nation’s response to climate change.
Fuel cells and hydrogen can help provide stability and continuity to the electric grid since they can provide continuous “base load” power in parallel with or independent of the grid. In addition, they can support intermittent renewable energy. These attributes make them ideal resources for supporting critical loads for military and civilian consumers.
For a copy of the plan, email fuelcellplan@gmail.com, or
Contacts US Fuel Cell CouncilBrynne Ward, 202-293-5500 ext. 33orBud DeFlaviis, 202-293-5500 ext. 35
Wednesday, December 17, 2008
Renewable Energy Stocks Sector Close-Up; Market Strength Spreads Across Sector
Renewable Energy Stocks Sector Close-Up; Market Strength Spreads Across Sector
Sector Confidence for New Year Could Result in Significant Upward Trends
POINT ROBERTS, WA —December 17, 2008 -- www.RenewableEnergyStocks.com,
a leading investor news and research portal for the renewable energy sector within Investorideas.com, presents a sector close-up on renewable energy and solar stocks based on overall upward trends in the market that reflected strong gains in some of the sector leaders. First Solar, Inc. (NasdaqGS: FSLR) was up $15.41 (13.86%) on the close.
Dr. Robert Wilder, of the WilderHill Clean Energy Index (^ECO) noted, "Stocks across the board showed up green today after the Fed's announcement targeting a rate cut, so there was little to differentiate clean energy, which also gained, from the rest. Clean energy clearly was hit much harder than most sectors over 2008 however, and so whether credit frees up boosting expansion of solar power, wind, electric cars, and the like which all demand readily available capital, remains to be seen. I think what happens the next few months will be telling. Clean energy could move up, very smartly off deep 75% declines for the year... or, it could revert to 2008's downward trend. The greatest single thing missing is probably “confidence”. Restore that, and clean energy could perhaps re-climb farther upwards than most sectors in reverting to mean."
The WilderHill Clean Energy Index (^ECO) was up 5.61 (6.77%).
In terms of confidence within the sector, industry participants are betting on Obama.” Technology breakthroughs are fueling a surge in new energy development that is no longer hostage to the ups and downs of petroleum", said Riggs Eckelberry, CEO of OriginOil (OTCBB: OOIL). He added, "The incoming Administration’s unqualified support is a key factor. We are very optimistic about New Energy's prospects for 2009."
According to Tom Djokovich, CEO of XsunX (OTCBB:XSNX),“The failure for the US government to pass an extension to the 30% Federal Investment Tax Credit (ITC) earlier this year placed downward pressure on solar stocks. By the time an eight year extension to the ITC was passed, as part of the TARP legislation, the economy had fallen into tremendous disarray.
In reality the underlying fundamentals associated with the need and demand for electricity and solar have and continue to be very strong. You have the ITC now allowing utilities to monetize the 30% tax credits which is huge, we’re seeing increased legislation requiring and expanding renewable portfolio minimums on utilities here in the USA and abroad, and for the first time the US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) appeals panel rejected a federal permit for a newly planned coal fired electrical production plant in Utah requiring that the EPA consider CO2 emissions when issuing permits. This could place in jeopardy nearly 100 planned coal fired plants.
We even have a President elect committing to build a new clean energy economy, and the scope of this endeavor is beyond comprehension for most citizens. The economic situation may be causing investors to look the other way but I think they are ignoring a freight train of opportunity headed their way in the form of solar sector opportunities. I know XsunX is working hard to deliver solar products to help fill the demand for solar,” concluded Djokovich.
Sector Close-Up as of Trading Close December 16, 2008:
Akeena Solar Inc. (NASDAQ:AKNS) (Market, News) closed up $0.12 (7.14%).
Archer-Daniels-Midland Co. (NYSE:ADM) (Market, News) had gains of $2.34 (8.89%).
Carbon Sciences, Inc. (OTCBB: CABN) (Market, News) closed up $0.02 (11.11%).
Clean Energy Fuels Corp. (NASDAQ:CLNE) (Market, News) was up $0.40 (8.62%) on the day.
Evergreen Solar Inc (NASDAQ:ESLR) (Market, News) moved up $ 0.15 (5.62%).
First Solar, Inc. (NASDAQ: FSLR) (Market, News) closed up $15.41 (13.86%).
ICP Solar Technologies Inc. (OTCBB: ICPR) was up $0.02 (8.70%).
Mantra Venture Group Ltd. (OTCBB: MVTG) (Market, News) was unchanged at $0.36.
OriginOil, Inc (OTCBB: OOIL) (Market, News) had gains of $0.05 (20.00%).
Smartcool Systems Inc. (TSXV: SSC) (Market, News) was unchanged on the day.
SunPower Corporation (SPWRA) (Market, News ) was up $1.71 (5.60%).
Suntech Power Holdings Co. Ltd. (STP) (Market, News) moved up $0.40 (4.21%).
Westport Innovations Inc. (WPT.TO) (Market, News) closed up $0.16 (3.31%).
Yingli Green Energy (YGE) (Market, News) was up $0.46 (8.95%).
XsunX Inc. (OTCBB: XSNX) (Market, News) closed at $0.20.
For investors following solar stocks, the RenewableEnergyStocks.com website provides a comprehensive list of photovoltaic and solar stocks to research.
http://www.investorideas.com/Companies/RenewableEnergy/Stock_List.asp
Featured Showcase Renewable Energy Stocks:
XsunX Inc. : (OTCBB: XSNX) Based in Aliso Viejo, Calif., XsunX is developing amorphous silicon thin film photovoltaic (TFPV) solar cell manufacturing processes to produce TFPV solar modules. To deliver its products the Company has begun to build a multi- megawatt TFPV solar module production facility in the United States to meet the growing demand for solar cell products used in large scale commercial projects, utility power fields, and other on-grid applications. Employing a phased roll out of production capacity, it plans to grow manufacturing capacities to over 100 megawatts by 2010. More info on XsunX, Inc. can be found on our media profile at: http://www.investorideas.com/co/xsnx/default.asp or http://www.xsunx.com/
OriginOil, Inc: (OTCBB: OOIL)
OriginOil, Inc. is developing a breakthrough technology that will transform algae, the most promising source of renewable oil, into a true competitor to petroleum. Much of the world's oil and gas is made up of ancient algae deposits. Today, our technology will produce "new oil" from algae, through a cost-effective, high-speed manufacturing process. This endless supply of new oil can be used for many products such as diesel, gasoline, jet fuel, plastics and solvents without the global warming effects of petroleum. Other oil producing feedstock such as corn and sugarcane often destroy vital farmlands and rainforests, disrupt global food supplies and create new environmental problems. Our unique technology, based on algae, is targeted at fundamentally changing our source of oil without disrupting the environment or food supplies. www.originoil.com.
Carbon Sciences, Inc. (OTCBB: CABN)
Carbon Sciences, Inc. is developing a breakthrough technology to transform carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions into the basic fuel building blocks required to produce gasoline, diesel fuel, jet fuel and other portable fuels. Innovating at the intersection of chemical engineering and bio-engineering disciplines, we are developing a highly scalable biocatalytic process to meet the fuel needs of the world. Company Showcase Profile page: http://www.investorideas.com/co/cabn/
About Our Green Investor Portals:
www.RenewableEnergyStocks.com® is one of several green investor portals within Investorideas.com and provides investors with stock news, exclusive articles and financial columnists, audio interviews, investor conferences and a directory of stocks within the renewable energy sector.
Renewable Energy Stocks Directory:
Gain Exclusive Insight on Leading Sectors, Global Trends, and Insider Trading Ideas, News, Articles and Investor Ideas Members only Restricted Content including the complete renewable energy stocks directory. Learn more: http://www.investorideas.com/membership/
Disclaimer: Our sites do not make recommendations. Nothing on our sites should be construed as an offer or solicitation to buy or sell products or securities. We attempt to research thoroughly, but we offer no guarantees as to the accuracy of information presented. All Information relating to featured companies is sourced from public documents and/ or the company and is not the opinion of our web sites. This site is currently compensated by featured companies, news submissions and online advertising. Disclosure: www.InvestorIdeas.com/About/Disclaimer.asp
Compensation disclosure for XSNX, CABN, OOIL, MVTG:
http://www.investorideas.com/About/News/Clientspecifics.asp
For more information contact:
Dawn Van Zant 800.665.0411
Email: dvanzant@investorideas.com,
Source: RenewableEnergyStocks.com, XsunX, OriginOil, Inc, Carbon Sciences, Inc
Sector Confidence for New Year Could Result in Significant Upward Trends
POINT ROBERTS, WA —December 17, 2008 -- www.RenewableEnergyStocks.com,
a leading investor news and research portal for the renewable energy sector within Investorideas.com, presents a sector close-up on renewable energy and solar stocks based on overall upward trends in the market that reflected strong gains in some of the sector leaders. First Solar, Inc. (NasdaqGS: FSLR) was up $15.41 (13.86%) on the close.
Dr. Robert Wilder, of the WilderHill Clean Energy Index (^ECO) noted, "Stocks across the board showed up green today after the Fed's announcement targeting a rate cut, so there was little to differentiate clean energy, which also gained, from the rest. Clean energy clearly was hit much harder than most sectors over 2008 however, and so whether credit frees up boosting expansion of solar power, wind, electric cars, and the like which all demand readily available capital, remains to be seen. I think what happens the next few months will be telling. Clean energy could move up, very smartly off deep 75% declines for the year... or, it could revert to 2008's downward trend. The greatest single thing missing is probably “confidence”. Restore that, and clean energy could perhaps re-climb farther upwards than most sectors in reverting to mean."
The WilderHill Clean Energy Index (^ECO) was up 5.61 (6.77%).
In terms of confidence within the sector, industry participants are betting on Obama.” Technology breakthroughs are fueling a surge in new energy development that is no longer hostage to the ups and downs of petroleum", said Riggs Eckelberry, CEO of OriginOil (OTCBB: OOIL). He added, "The incoming Administration’s unqualified support is a key factor. We are very optimistic about New Energy's prospects for 2009."
According to Tom Djokovich, CEO of XsunX (OTCBB:XSNX),“The failure for the US government to pass an extension to the 30% Federal Investment Tax Credit (ITC) earlier this year placed downward pressure on solar stocks. By the time an eight year extension to the ITC was passed, as part of the TARP legislation, the economy had fallen into tremendous disarray.
In reality the underlying fundamentals associated with the need and demand for electricity and solar have and continue to be very strong. You have the ITC now allowing utilities to monetize the 30% tax credits which is huge, we’re seeing increased legislation requiring and expanding renewable portfolio minimums on utilities here in the USA and abroad, and for the first time the US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) appeals panel rejected a federal permit for a newly planned coal fired electrical production plant in Utah requiring that the EPA consider CO2 emissions when issuing permits. This could place in jeopardy nearly 100 planned coal fired plants.
We even have a President elect committing to build a new clean energy economy, and the scope of this endeavor is beyond comprehension for most citizens. The economic situation may be causing investors to look the other way but I think they are ignoring a freight train of opportunity headed their way in the form of solar sector opportunities. I know XsunX is working hard to deliver solar products to help fill the demand for solar,” concluded Djokovich.
Sector Close-Up as of Trading Close December 16, 2008:
Akeena Solar Inc. (NASDAQ:AKNS) (Market, News) closed up $0.12 (7.14%).
Archer-Daniels-Midland Co. (NYSE:ADM) (Market, News) had gains of $2.34 (8.89%).
Carbon Sciences, Inc. (OTCBB: CABN) (Market, News) closed up $0.02 (11.11%).
Clean Energy Fuels Corp. (NASDAQ:CLNE) (Market, News) was up $0.40 (8.62%) on the day.
Evergreen Solar Inc (NASDAQ:ESLR) (Market, News) moved up $ 0.15 (5.62%).
First Solar, Inc. (NASDAQ: FSLR) (Market, News) closed up $15.41 (13.86%).
ICP Solar Technologies Inc. (OTCBB: ICPR) was up $0.02 (8.70%).
Mantra Venture Group Ltd. (OTCBB: MVTG) (Market, News) was unchanged at $0.36.
OriginOil, Inc (OTCBB: OOIL) (Market, News) had gains of $0.05 (20.00%).
Smartcool Systems Inc. (TSXV: SSC) (Market, News) was unchanged on the day.
SunPower Corporation (SPWRA) (Market, News ) was up $1.71 (5.60%).
Suntech Power Holdings Co. Ltd. (STP) (Market, News) moved up $0.40 (4.21%).
Westport Innovations Inc. (WPT.TO) (Market, News) closed up $0.16 (3.31%).
Yingli Green Energy (YGE) (Market, News) was up $0.46 (8.95%).
XsunX Inc. (OTCBB: XSNX) (Market, News) closed at $0.20.
For investors following solar stocks, the RenewableEnergyStocks.com website provides a comprehensive list of photovoltaic and solar stocks to research.
http://www.investorideas.com/Companies/RenewableEnergy/Stock_List.asp
Featured Showcase Renewable Energy Stocks:
XsunX Inc. : (OTCBB: XSNX) Based in Aliso Viejo, Calif., XsunX is developing amorphous silicon thin film photovoltaic (TFPV) solar cell manufacturing processes to produce TFPV solar modules. To deliver its products the Company has begun to build a multi- megawatt TFPV solar module production facility in the United States to meet the growing demand for solar cell products used in large scale commercial projects, utility power fields, and other on-grid applications. Employing a phased roll out of production capacity, it plans to grow manufacturing capacities to over 100 megawatts by 2010. More info on XsunX, Inc. can be found on our media profile at: http://www.investorideas.com/co/xsnx/default.asp or http://www.xsunx.com/
OriginOil, Inc: (OTCBB: OOIL)
OriginOil, Inc. is developing a breakthrough technology that will transform algae, the most promising source of renewable oil, into a true competitor to petroleum. Much of the world's oil and gas is made up of ancient algae deposits. Today, our technology will produce "new oil" from algae, through a cost-effective, high-speed manufacturing process. This endless supply of new oil can be used for many products such as diesel, gasoline, jet fuel, plastics and solvents without the global warming effects of petroleum. Other oil producing feedstock such as corn and sugarcane often destroy vital farmlands and rainforests, disrupt global food supplies and create new environmental problems. Our unique technology, based on algae, is targeted at fundamentally changing our source of oil without disrupting the environment or food supplies. www.originoil.com.
Carbon Sciences, Inc. (OTCBB: CABN)
Carbon Sciences, Inc. is developing a breakthrough technology to transform carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions into the basic fuel building blocks required to produce gasoline, diesel fuel, jet fuel and other portable fuels. Innovating at the intersection of chemical engineering and bio-engineering disciplines, we are developing a highly scalable biocatalytic process to meet the fuel needs of the world. Company Showcase Profile page: http://www.investorideas.com/co/cabn/
About Our Green Investor Portals:
www.RenewableEnergyStocks.com® is one of several green investor portals within Investorideas.com and provides investors with stock news, exclusive articles and financial columnists, audio interviews, investor conferences and a directory of stocks within the renewable energy sector.
Renewable Energy Stocks Directory:
Gain Exclusive Insight on Leading Sectors, Global Trends, and Insider Trading Ideas, News, Articles and Investor Ideas Members only Restricted Content including the complete renewable energy stocks directory. Learn more: http://www.investorideas.com/membership/
Disclaimer: Our sites do not make recommendations. Nothing on our sites should be construed as an offer or solicitation to buy or sell products or securities. We attempt to research thoroughly, but we offer no guarantees as to the accuracy of information presented. All Information relating to featured companies is sourced from public documents and/ or the company and is not the opinion of our web sites. This site is currently compensated by featured companies, news submissions and online advertising. Disclosure: www.InvestorIdeas.com/About/Disclaimer.asp
Compensation disclosure for XSNX, CABN, OOIL, MVTG:
http://www.investorideas.com/About/News/Clientspecifics.asp
For more information contact:
Dawn Van Zant 800.665.0411
Email: dvanzant@investorideas.com,
Source: RenewableEnergyStocks.com, XsunX, OriginOil, Inc, Carbon Sciences, Inc
Tuesday, December 16, 2008
First Asia-Pacific Renewable Energy Trust Formed by Conergy Subsidiary EPURON and GE with US$250 Million Target
First Asia-Pacific Renewable Energy Trust Formed by Conergy Subsidiary EPURON and GE with US$250 Million Target
HAMBURG, Germany & SINGAPORE, Dec 15, 2008 -- EPURON Pte. Ltd. Singapore, a regional subsidiary of the Conergy Group in GE unit GE Energy Financial Services have launched Asia-Pacific's first renewable energy private trust to spur their growth and investments in wind, solar, small hydroelectric, biogas and biomass power generation throughout the region. The Renewable Energy Trust Asia ("RETA") is an investment vehicle focused on the US$7 billion annual renewable energy markets of India, the ASEAN countries and South Korea. It plans to build a portfolio of some 200 megawatts through potential investments totalling US$250 million (S$380 million) within the next five years.
With an 80 percent stake, GE Energy Financial Services will serve as RETA's anchor investor. In addition to maintaining its core expertise in greenfield development, EPURON will hold a 20 percent stake in RETA and act as its Trustee-Manager. EPURON will be responsible for project development, debt financing, acquisition of hardware and supervision of the construction of renewable energy projects. After projects have been completed, EPURON will manage them. RETA will acquire and operate renewable energy projects from both EPURON and third parties and expects to make its first investment within a year. GE Energy Financial Services will share expenses, deciding on each proposed investment when presented. Financial details were not disclosed.
"This sophisticated investment vehicle offers great opportunities to develop in future even more commercial-scale renewable power projects in Asia-Pacific. These projects secure predictable cash flow and long-term capital growth and are therefore a particularly interesting asset class for investors, despite the volatile financial markets. Our close partnership with GE ensures that our project developers in Asia-Pacific know right from the start which demands projects must meet to fit in the trust. Thus we can use our resources in a much more specific and efficient way," said Hamburg-based EPURON Managing Director Joachim Muller. Conergy CEO Dieter Ammer added: "We are building long-term relationships between highly specialised partners with a strong track record in their respective business areas. This is one of the answers to the challenges that we have to manage in times of financial turbulence. With the Renewable Energy Trust Asia, we will combine EPURON's renewable energy project development and financial expertise with GE Energy Financial Services' world-class origination and underwriting capabilities, as well as its access to technology."
GE Energy Financial Services, which has already invested more than US$4 billion in renewable energy, sees the trust with EPURON as a new platform for its growth.
"This innovative trust is an efficient way for us to partner with an experienced developer and aggregate a diversified portfolio of smaller renewable energy investments in Asia," said James Berner, the Singapore-based head of Asia at GE Energy Financial Services. "The renewable energy trust is also a way for us to contribute to GE's ecomagination program, its initiative of helping its customers meet their environmental challenges while expanding its own portfolio of cleaner energy products."
Once a sufficient investment volume has been achieved, RETA may be listed on the Singapore Exchange Securities Trading Limited ("SGX-ST") stock exchange, becoming the first pure-play renewable energy business trust to be listed in Asia-Pacific. This first "green" trust in Asia-Pacific and the collaboration with GE serve as a potential model for realising commercial-scale renewable energy projects with the Conergy Group in other regions.
About EPURON Singapore EPURON Singapore is the Asia-Pacific subsidiary of EPURON GmbH, one of the leading companies for project development and structured financing as well as operational management in the renewable energy sector The company develops, finances and implements wind farms, solar thermal power stations as well as bioenergy plants. Since its foundation in 1998, EPURON has financed and implemented over 90 large-scale projects with an investment volume of over 800 million Euros. Its clients include institutional and private investors around the globe. EPURON is a member of the listed company Conergy AG. For more information, visit www.epuron.com.
About Conergy Since its founding in 1998, Hamburg-based Conergy AG has sold more than a gigawatt in renewable energy, making it one of the biggest European suppliers of solar energy and other renewable energies, and a world leader in solar system integration. Of the one gigawatt in renewable energies, Conergy has installed more than 400 megawatts in its major projects. Of the total one gigawatt, 200 megawatts falls to its wind energy park projects and 800 to its globally marketed solar modules. According to the German Solar Industry Association (BSW) this is just under a fifth of the entire installed photovoltaic output in Germany. Calculative one in ten modules worldwide was produced, sold or installed by Conergy. Listed on the Frankfurt Stock Exchange since 2005, the group pursues a global growth strategy, the company now produces, installs and designs solar power systems and wind turbines in around 20 countries. The Conergy Group is represented with its own branches on five continents. For more information, visit www.conergy.com.
About GE Energy Financial Services GE Energy Financial Services' experts invest globally with a long-term view, backed by the best of GE's technical know-how and financial strength, across the capital spectrum in one of the world's most capital-intensive industries, energy, to help their customers and GE grow. With US$19 billion in assets, GE Energy Financial Services is based in Stamford, Connecticut. In renewable energy, GE Energy Financial Services is growing its portfolio of more than US$4 billion in assets in wind, solar, biomass, hydro and geothermal power. For more information, visit www.geenergyfinancialservices.com. About GE GE is a diversified global infrastructure, finance and media company that is built to meet essential world needs. From energy, water, transportation and health to access to money and information, GE serves customers in more than 100 countries and employs more than 300,000 people worldwide. GE is Imagination at Work. For more information, visit the company's Web site at www.ge.com.
DISCLAIMER This communication is neither a prospectus nor does it constitute an offer to sell or the solicitation of an offer to purchase the shares or other securities of Conergy AG and it does not substitute the prospectus. Subject to the approval by the German Financial Supervisory Authority a securities prospectus will be published prior to the offer period and made available free of charge by Conergy AG and the coordinators. The shares will be offered exclusively on the basis of the prospectus required to be approved by the German Financial Supervisory Authority. This communication is not an offer of securities for sale in the United States of America. Securities may not be offered or sold in the United States of America absent registration or an exemption from registration under the U.S. Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the "Securities Act"). Any public offering of securities to be made in the United States of America will be made by means of a prospectus that may be obtained from Conergy AG and that will contain detailed information about the company and management, as well as financial statements. Conergy AG does not intend to register any part of the offering in the United States. The information contained in this communication is not for publication or distribution in or into the United States of America, Canada, Australia or Japan and does not constitute an offer of securities for sale in the United States of America, Canada, Australia or Japan.
SOURCE: GE Energy Financial Services Press Office Queries - Conergy Asia-Pacific Ms. Lyn Toh Corporate Communications Manager Conergy Asia-Pacific 138 Cecil Street #01-01 Cecil Court Singapore 069538 Tel: +65 6849 4467 Mobile: +65 9099-3280 Fax: +65 6849 5559 Email: l.toh@conergy.com or Press Office Queries - GE US Andy Katell, GE Energy Financial Services Tel: +1-203-961-5773 or Press Office Queries - GE Asia Nicole Yeong Tel: +65 6326 3587 Mobile: +65 9188 3027 Email: nicole.yeong@ge.com
HAMBURG, Germany & SINGAPORE, Dec 15, 2008 -- EPURON Pte. Ltd. Singapore, a regional subsidiary of the Conergy Group in GE unit GE Energy Financial Services have launched Asia-Pacific's first renewable energy private trust to spur their growth and investments in wind, solar, small hydroelectric, biogas and biomass power generation throughout the region. The Renewable Energy Trust Asia ("RETA") is an investment vehicle focused on the US$7 billion annual renewable energy markets of India, the ASEAN countries and South Korea. It plans to build a portfolio of some 200 megawatts through potential investments totalling US$250 million (S$380 million) within the next five years.
With an 80 percent stake, GE Energy Financial Services will serve as RETA's anchor investor. In addition to maintaining its core expertise in greenfield development, EPURON will hold a 20 percent stake in RETA and act as its Trustee-Manager. EPURON will be responsible for project development, debt financing, acquisition of hardware and supervision of the construction of renewable energy projects. After projects have been completed, EPURON will manage them. RETA will acquire and operate renewable energy projects from both EPURON and third parties and expects to make its first investment within a year. GE Energy Financial Services will share expenses, deciding on each proposed investment when presented. Financial details were not disclosed.
"This sophisticated investment vehicle offers great opportunities to develop in future even more commercial-scale renewable power projects in Asia-Pacific. These projects secure predictable cash flow and long-term capital growth and are therefore a particularly interesting asset class for investors, despite the volatile financial markets. Our close partnership with GE ensures that our project developers in Asia-Pacific know right from the start which demands projects must meet to fit in the trust. Thus we can use our resources in a much more specific and efficient way," said Hamburg-based EPURON Managing Director Joachim Muller. Conergy CEO Dieter Ammer added: "We are building long-term relationships between highly specialised partners with a strong track record in their respective business areas. This is one of the answers to the challenges that we have to manage in times of financial turbulence. With the Renewable Energy Trust Asia, we will combine EPURON's renewable energy project development and financial expertise with GE Energy Financial Services' world-class origination and underwriting capabilities, as well as its access to technology."
GE Energy Financial Services, which has already invested more than US$4 billion in renewable energy, sees the trust with EPURON as a new platform for its growth.
"This innovative trust is an efficient way for us to partner with an experienced developer and aggregate a diversified portfolio of smaller renewable energy investments in Asia," said James Berner, the Singapore-based head of Asia at GE Energy Financial Services. "The renewable energy trust is also a way for us to contribute to GE's ecomagination program, its initiative of helping its customers meet their environmental challenges while expanding its own portfolio of cleaner energy products."
Once a sufficient investment volume has been achieved, RETA may be listed on the Singapore Exchange Securities Trading Limited ("SGX-ST") stock exchange, becoming the first pure-play renewable energy business trust to be listed in Asia-Pacific. This first "green" trust in Asia-Pacific and the collaboration with GE serve as a potential model for realising commercial-scale renewable energy projects with the Conergy Group in other regions.
About EPURON Singapore EPURON Singapore is the Asia-Pacific subsidiary of EPURON GmbH, one of the leading companies for project development and structured financing as well as operational management in the renewable energy sector The company develops, finances and implements wind farms, solar thermal power stations as well as bioenergy plants. Since its foundation in 1998, EPURON has financed and implemented over 90 large-scale projects with an investment volume of over 800 million Euros. Its clients include institutional and private investors around the globe. EPURON is a member of the listed company Conergy AG. For more information, visit www.epuron.com.
About Conergy Since its founding in 1998, Hamburg-based Conergy AG has sold more than a gigawatt in renewable energy, making it one of the biggest European suppliers of solar energy and other renewable energies, and a world leader in solar system integration. Of the one gigawatt in renewable energies, Conergy has installed more than 400 megawatts in its major projects. Of the total one gigawatt, 200 megawatts falls to its wind energy park projects and 800 to its globally marketed solar modules. According to the German Solar Industry Association (BSW) this is just under a fifth of the entire installed photovoltaic output in Germany. Calculative one in ten modules worldwide was produced, sold or installed by Conergy. Listed on the Frankfurt Stock Exchange since 2005, the group pursues a global growth strategy, the company now produces, installs and designs solar power systems and wind turbines in around 20 countries. The Conergy Group is represented with its own branches on five continents. For more information, visit www.conergy.com.
About GE Energy Financial Services GE Energy Financial Services' experts invest globally with a long-term view, backed by the best of GE's technical know-how and financial strength, across the capital spectrum in one of the world's most capital-intensive industries, energy, to help their customers and GE grow. With US$19 billion in assets, GE Energy Financial Services is based in Stamford, Connecticut. In renewable energy, GE Energy Financial Services is growing its portfolio of more than US$4 billion in assets in wind, solar, biomass, hydro and geothermal power. For more information, visit www.geenergyfinancialservices.com. About GE GE is a diversified global infrastructure, finance and media company that is built to meet essential world needs. From energy, water, transportation and health to access to money and information, GE serves customers in more than 100 countries and employs more than 300,000 people worldwide. GE is Imagination at Work. For more information, visit the company's Web site at www.ge.com.
DISCLAIMER This communication is neither a prospectus nor does it constitute an offer to sell or the solicitation of an offer to purchase the shares or other securities of Conergy AG and it does not substitute the prospectus. Subject to the approval by the German Financial Supervisory Authority a securities prospectus will be published prior to the offer period and made available free of charge by Conergy AG and the coordinators. The shares will be offered exclusively on the basis of the prospectus required to be approved by the German Financial Supervisory Authority. This communication is not an offer of securities for sale in the United States of America. Securities may not be offered or sold in the United States of America absent registration or an exemption from registration under the U.S. Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the "Securities Act"). Any public offering of securities to be made in the United States of America will be made by means of a prospectus that may be obtained from Conergy AG and that will contain detailed information about the company and management, as well as financial statements. Conergy AG does not intend to register any part of the offering in the United States. The information contained in this communication is not for publication or distribution in or into the United States of America, Canada, Australia or Japan and does not constitute an offer of securities for sale in the United States of America, Canada, Australia or Japan.
SOURCE: GE Energy Financial Services Press Office Queries - Conergy Asia-Pacific Ms. Lyn Toh Corporate Communications Manager Conergy Asia-Pacific 138 Cecil Street #01-01 Cecil Court Singapore 069538 Tel: +65 6849 4467 Mobile: +65 9099-3280 Fax: +65 6849 5559 Email: l.toh@conergy.com or Press Office Queries - GE US Andy Katell, GE Energy Financial Services Tel: +1-203-961-5773 or Press Office Queries - GE Asia Nicole Yeong Tel: +65 6326 3587 Mobile: +65 9188 3027 Email: nicole.yeong@ge.com
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