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Envision Solar Creates LifeVillage™ Modular Structures with Self-Contained Electricity and Water Treatment for Use in Areas with Limited Infrastructure

September 26, 2009

LA JOLLA, Calif.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Envision Solar International announces the launch of its latest product designed to integrate clean power into buildings and communities. Envision Solar is claiming a trademark of the term and design of the LifeVillage™, a modular self-contained “infrastructure in a crate” that can provide critical utilities in even the most remote areas of the planet. A demonstration project featuring the LifeVillage™ is planned for installation in Cote d’Ivoire, on the west coast of Africa. The LifeVillage™ concept includes Envision Solar’s LifePort™ and LifePod™ modular steel-frame structures that include solar panels that provide between 1.5 and 4 kW of electricity, and also includes energy storage in the form of batteries to provide electricity outside of the hours when the sun is shining. Finally, the LifeVillage™ includes a self-contained water treatment unit that will capture and reuse water. The LifeVillage™ can be shipped in two shipping containers for assembly on-site. LifeVillage™ creators Robert Noble, AIA, LEED AP, and William Adelson, AIA, are sustainable architects based in La Jolla, California, who founded Envision Solar to create architectural solutions to facilitate the use of clean energy. “We were captivated by what occurred in Africa with the telecommunications industry,” notes Adelson. “With the use of mobile telephones, the system is highly decentralized; effectively, satellite technology evolved more quickly than did the ability to install infrastructure in Africa.” Noble adds, “The LifePort™ and LifePod™ products were always intended to be enabling technologies for photovoltaics and other clean technology. The LifeVillage™, by including energy storage and water treatment, adds utility for an off-grid solution for remote areas without access to traditional infrastructure.” “The LifeVillage™ structures can be used to create medical clinics, schools, housing for doctors and teachers, cell, mobile telephone, radio, TV, WiFi, and WiMax facilities and transmission. The combination of international building code engineered buildings, solar energy generation and battery storage provides all that is needed to improve health, safety, education, economics and general quality of life around every project or team has planned,” Noble says. Each structure can be assembled and activated within two weeks of its arrival at the site. “The goal is to plant LifeVillages™ anywhere decentralized critical infrastructure is needed, starting in Western and Central Africa,” comments Noble. Adelson adds, “We hope that the LifeVillage™ product will provide renewable energy and sustainable infrastructure for growth and advancement of underdeveloped areas.” For the demonstration project in Cote d’Ivoire, Envision Solar partnered with ZBB Energy Corporation, a Wisconsin-based energy storage innovator. ZBB will provide their long-lasting ZESS-50TM zinc energy storage system. Other potential partners include Nucon Steel for the structure framing, Kyocera for the solar panels, McElroy Roofing for the standing seam metal roof and Worldwater & Solar Technologies for the water purification and pumping components. The demonstration project will provide critical community buildings, powered by solar energy with battery support, and with a self-contained water treatment system to allow occupants to recycle and reuse water. A prototype will be constructed in the United States and tested prior to deployment at one hundred villages in Cote d’Ivoire. The Cote d’Ivoire project, at the specific request of the country’s Ministry of Energy, will incorporate a small medical clinic and a schoolhouse, including the housing for a resident doctor or nurse and the housing for a resident teacher. Envision Solar is partnering with Scripps Health and Hospitals of San Diego for the implementation of the clinic and its components
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Recycling Product “Closed Loop Networking” Showcase Sponsored by DK Enterprises to Be Launched in October

September 24, 2009

SACRAMENTO, Calif.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--DK Enterprises, a sustainable solutions consultant firm, has partnered with Quest Recycling and a major retailer to offer the first Sustainable Solutions “Closed Loop Networking” Showcase. This event will offer the latest in sustainable solutions technologies from the leaders in recycling, construction, composting, and environmentally friendly products. The showcase will be held at the Bentonville Plaza across from the Wal-Mart Home Office in Bentonville Arkansas on October 7th 2008. This Closed Loop Networking Showcase will provide vendors an opportunity to present their products and technology to Wal-Mart and Sam’s Club buyers, managers and decision makers. Additional information regarding this showcase can be found at www.dkenterprises.us. “I’m very excited about the new changes and innovations in today’s sustainable solutions. Connecting innovative companies with the decision makers of the Wal-Mart family of companies will allow the Exhibitors to share new ideas that can help make retail locations become more environmentally friendly,” stated Denise Kennedy, Founder of DK Enterprises.
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Green Leaf Partners and Pinnacle First to Install Solar Electric System in a Tennessee Apartment Community

September 30, 2008

NASHVILLE, Tenn., Sept. 29 /PRNewswire/ -- Green Leaf Partners of San Ramon, Calif., is the first to install a solar electric system in a Tennessee apartment community, according to LightWave Solar Electric, a Tennessee-based photovoltaic design and installation firm. The solar electric system installation at the Green Leaf at Heritage, formerly White Oaks apartments, is just part of a green renovation. Pinnacle, An American Management Services Company, of Seattle, is managing the environmentally friendly efforts. The resulting property will be more sustainable, consuming less water and energy. Pinnacle will also manage on-going energy conservation efforts, including resident education and recycling programs.
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Kunming, 'Spring City', to Build the Biggest Solar Energy Production Base in China

September 30, 2008

KUNMING, China, Sept. 29 /Xinhua-PRNewswire/ -- Dou Jinming, Development and Reform Commission deputy director of Kunming, Yunnan said today that Kunming will take the lead in developing the solar energy industry in China, thereby popularizing it across the whole country. Kunming is aiming to become a solar energy demonstration city with the characteristics of a solar energy industry base in China.
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San Francisco Academy of Sciences Going Platinum-Green with Help of SWA Group Landscape Architecture

September 29, 2008

SAUSALITO, Calif.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--The new San Francisco Academy of Sciences, opening Sept. 27, is expected to be awarded a Platinum-LEED rating for its sustainability characteristics, due in large part to the multiple benefits of the building's complex "living laboratory" green roof. The 2.5-acre rooftop landscape, an implementation by SWA Group of architect Renzo Piano's design, is aimed to demonstrate sustainable building-design as a new standard for the future. The Academy's living roof is a critical component in earning a coveted Platinum designation, the highest of all standards in the Leadership in Energy and Environmental Development (LEED) program sponsored by the U.S. Green Building Council. But in many ways, the Academy of Sciences is going beyond LEED in providing a highly visible example of how structures can reduce energy consumption, improve water quality, enhance local ecosystems and plant/animal habitat, and help reverse pollution and global warming. "The Academy of Sciences leadership was truly visionary in making this building a bold statement of its mission to explore, explain and protect the natural world," said John Loomis, principal of SWA Group. SWA, one of the world's leading landscape architecture and urban design firms, provided landscape design in concert with Piano, project-architect Stantec Group, contractor Webcor Builders, ARUP engineers and plant-specialist Rana Creek. Design innovation on the Academy's green roof provides insights and a demonstration-example for the building and construction industry, he said, including: -- Green roofs on extreme slopes: SWA Group pioneered the infrastructure that enables the Academy roof to accommodate plant and soil material at a 55-degree slope, unheard of in the industry until now. Its solution, following extensive mock-ups and testing, called for a system of criss-crossing wire-enclosures containing light volcanic rock. Called gabion curbs, the interlocked, now-invisible network holds the soil in place, and also serves as a water-runway to channel rainwater in storms that exceed the capacity of the soil's absorption. -- Water quality: Like green roofs in general, the roof will absorb some 98% of all storm water each year, thereby reducing pollutants from entering the neighboring ecosystem. -- Reduced Heat-Island effect: A living roof helps diminish the "Urban Heat Island" effect, which raises the temperature in cities because of the heat bounced off of buildings and concrete versus the natural environment. Scientists have measured temperature differentials of one degree or more in the urban core versus surrounding suburbs. -- Energy and cost savings: A green roof surface averages about 40 degrees cooler than standard roofs, which among other benefits ultimately cuts energy consumption by enhancing a building's natural cooling ability. The roof is expected to last many years longer than a standard roof, in part because it does not have the vast temperature-swings of other roofs. -- Environmental enhancement: The highly-diverse rooftop ecosystem, developed in concert with Rana Creek and the Academy's own staff, provides habitat for native birds, butterflies and other creatures. "The completion of this teaching structure is a tribute to the Academy and the entire team," said Loomis, whose firm has implemented many green roofs for more than 25 years, "and we anticipate that building designers and developers will gain new insights as we continue to study the roof's performance and benefits."
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Welsh Company Protomax Announces New Technology Application, Converts Waste into Fire-Resistant Panels for Construction Industry

September 29, 2008

Light, Armored Panels Can Create Emergency Modular Housing, Reduce Reliance on Plywood SWANSEA, Wales--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Protomax Plastics Ltd, an engineering company based in Swansea, Wales, UK, announced today it has developed machinery to turn discarded plastic bags, old milk cartons and other waste products into bulletproof, fireproof panels for emergency modular housing and other construction uses. “This technology has a wide range of applications, from construction of modular housing to materials for the automotive, security and defense sectors,” said Nick Stillwell, Managing Director of Protomax. “The panels can be produced on-site using local waste material, since the technology is easily transported and the panels are light and easy to handle, allowing quicker assembly than with traditional building materials.” The panels, which comply with all building regulations, can replace plywood in many other applications such as partitions, walls on construction sites, pallets and roofing. The panels can also be used to make surfboards and kayaks, and can be used by the military for construction of lightweight Kevlar protected panels. Used panels can be reprocessed to form new panels, eliminating landfill. The Welsh Assembly Government has provided Protomax with assistance to finance the design, development and manufacture of the technology, which is expected to go into production in January 2009. Geraint Jones, head of International Business Wales North America, said Protomax is reinforcing the Welsh manufacturing industry’s transition to alternative energy and environmentally friendly practices. “These ‘green’ panels can be used in a variety of applications, another example of the creative spirit of Welsh companies developing new technology with far reaching potential,” Jones said. The process of turning recyclables into usable materials was developed in 2002 by Detroit-based 3DM Technologies Inc. for the Chrysler Corp., which wanted to build strong, lightweight panels for pickup trucks, Stillwell noted. Protomax developed its product based on the technology, and applied it to other industries. Protomax is currently carrying out major trials for a number of large UK companies. Several car assembly plants are interested in using the panels for vehicle trolleys, and hospitals are investigating their use for office cubicles.
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REI’s Second Green Prototype Store Opens September 26 in Texas

September 25, 2008

Store Incorporates Next Generation Green Features SEATTLE--(BUSINESS WIRE)--On Friday, Sept. 26, Recreational Equipment, Inc. (REI), a national retail cooperative providing quality outdoor gear and clothing, opens its second prototype store that will test the performance of green building features, including state-of-the-art technology and environmentally friendly materials, and new retail design concepts. Located in Round Rock, Texas, the store is built from the ground up and projected to consume 48 percent less energy than a typical store that meets industry standards. As part of the company’s prototype initiative, findings from the working laboratory will help the company determine how it approaches green building design and construction in the future. “The green building practices incorporated into our Round Rock store help us to dramatically reduce our energy consumption, save natural resources and provide a better experience for employees, co-op members and customers,” said Sally Jewell, REI president and CEO. “This store will not only have reduced operating costs, but we’ve significantly reduced our dependency on fossil fuels.” Building upon more than 10 years of leadership in green building design, REI Round Rock was constructed using the U.S. Green Building Council’s LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) standards and is part of the LEED for Retail pilot project. “Round Rock will allow us to continue to test innovative green building concepts – many of which are new to the company and all of which will help us reduce our environmental footprint,” said Dean Iwata, REI’s director of Store Development. “We recognize the potential in utilizing energy efficient technology in our facilities, whether we’re constructing a new store or making the most out of a location that’s been operating for years.” Among its features, the Round Rock store will generate a portion of its power from a building integrated photovoltaic system, solar panel installation and a solar hot water system. These features will generate 13 percent of the store’s electricity and heat 70 percent of the store’s water used for restrooms and employee showers. In addition, Solatubes® will diffuse natural light, offsetting electrical consumption by an additional five percent as an automated lighting system dims or turns off unneeded artificial lighting throughout the store. All additional power needs will be met through green power, specifically energy generated from biomass digesters. Other features that improve the store’s performance include highly efficient building insulation; state-of-the-art mechanical equipment and controls that monitor and regulate the heating, ventilation and air conditioning system, saving 25 percent of energy consumption; a “cool” roof designed to reflect the sun’s radiation and save energy by lessening the store’s need for air conditioning by 10 to 15 percent; and water-efficient plumbing fixtures, which reduce water usage by 30 percent. In addition to a focus on sustainability, the focal point of the 32,700 square-foot store is a community center located on the mezzanine level. This designated space highlights REI’s commitment to connecting co-op members and customers to recreational opportunities, outdoor and conservation clubs and non-profit organizations, and regional volunteer service projects to help protect shared natural spaces. The store’s appearance will differ greatly from more traditional retail designs because of the incorporation of recycled and sustainable materials. Sunflower seed husks, recycled tennis shoes, carpeting manufactured through a climate-neutral process, and reclaimed wood from fallen trees are incorporated throughout the store on the floor, perimeter walls, fixtures, displays, benches and table tops. A comprehensive summary of REI Round Rock’s green building features is available at http://redirect.aecdaily.com/s18122/www.rei.com/greenbuilding/roundrock. REI’s design partner for the prototype store is Gensler, a leading global design, planning and strategic consulting firm. The company has been a champion of sustainable design for years and in 2005 received the Leadership Award from the U.S. Green Building Council for its commitment to the advancement of sustainable design. “Only through a collaborative relationship between REI and our team, as well as the truly holistic approach to affect all REI’s brand touch points, could this Round Rock store have come to fruition,” said Ted Jacobs, Gensler’s design director for the project. “The result is a design that reflects REI’s leadership in environmental design, commitment to community and to responsible retailing.” REI announced its prototype initiative in 2006 and has been involved in environmental store design since the planning and construction of its innovative Seattle flagship store in 1996. The company opened its first prototype store in Boulder, Colo. in October 2007. The store received Chain Store Age’s 2007 Retail Store of the Year award in the environmental sustainability category. In the coming year, REI will examine the environmental and financial performance of the first two prototype stores before the company designs and constructs the third prototype. While the prototype initiative places a greater focus on green design, REI continues to ensure all of its new locations are reducing the company’s impact on the environment. The co-op will open its next store in Lincoln Park, Ill. on Oct. 3 and is applying for LEED certification to determine the rating of a more traditional REI store design.
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Electron Solar Energy Applauds Florida PSC's Decision to Make Renewable Energy Credits Available to All Floridians

September 24, 2008

All Power Companies in Florida Now Approved to Issue Energy Credits for Customers with Grid Tie Solar and Wind Energy Kits Installed in Their Homes MIAMI--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Electron Solar Energy (OTC:ESRG), an international distributor of alternative energy systems, announced that on September 4, 2008, the Public Service Commission of the State of Florida (“PSC”) approved agreements from five of the state's investor-owned power companies which allow residential customers to receive credit for electricity that they feed back to the grid from solar panels and other forms of renewable energy. President and CEO of Electron Solar Energy, Christopher Quinn, commented enthusiastically, “We applaud the PSC's decision to implement a very favorable cost incentive state-wide to promote the use of customer-owned renewable energy. The concept of 'net metering' allows any excess power generated from alternative sources of energy to go into the grid and be credited back to the customer.” “Headquartered in Miami, our roots are in providing complete solar energy panel kits to customers in other countries. With this new legislation in place we look forward to great new opportunities with the residents and businesses of the State of Florida. We anticipate increased sales for renewable energy systems throughout our communities, including commercial buildings with rooftops, which are also now eligible for net metering,” concluded Quinn. The new measure applies to customers of Florida Power & Light (FPL), Progress Energy Florida, Gulf Power, Tampa Electric and Florida Public Utilities. The PSC also has expanded eligibility from renewable systems of 10 kilowatts or smaller to two megawatts, which means large businesses with solar panels occupying rooftops can now qualify for the program. For more information on the PSC, visit http://redirect.aecdaily.com/s18122/www.psc.state.fl.us/. “Safe Harbor” Statement: Certain statements made in this press release are forward looking in nature and, accordingly, are subject to risks and uncertainties. The actual results may differ materially from those described or contemplated.
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Akerman Senterfitt Builds National, LEED Accredited Team of Green Building Attorneys

September 23, 2008

LOS ANGELES, Sept. 22 /PRNewswire/ -- Until recently, green building litigation has been the subject of idle talk outside a handful of environmentally-related claims. However, in response to the nation's first state-level green building code adopted by the California Building Standards Commission earlier this year, developers are increasingly aware of the nature of these regulations as well as their potential legal pitfalls.
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Greystone Renewable Energy Ventures announce the closing of the Greystone Renewable Energy Ventures Fund 2008-A.

September 23, 2008

NEW YORK--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Greystone Renewable Energy Ventures, an affiliate of Greystone & Co, Inc. of New York City is pleased to announce the closing of the Greystone Renewable Energy Ventures Fund 2008-A. This fund has been established to invest in renewable energy projects which generate federal investment tax credits (ITC) pursuant to Section 48 of the IRS Code. The types of projects include: Thermal Process Heat, Photovoltaic’s (PV), Geothermal Electric, Fuel Cells, Solar Hybrid Lighting, Direct Use Geothermal, Micro turbines. The Fund will invest proceeds into the ownership entity at or just prior to the placed in service date of the project. The Fund has significant available cash to fund the ITC equity now. The goal of the Fund is to be fully subscribed by December 31, 2008.
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The Clorox Company Supports Sustainable Building Efforts of Greensburg, Kan.

September 22, 2008

OAKLAND, Calif.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--The Clorox Company has pledged both financial support and product donations to help rebuild Greensburg, Kan. – destroyed in May 2007 by one of the worst tornadoes in U.S. history – as a sustainable community. All Greensburg’s city building projects will be built to LEED Platinum level standards, making it the first city in the United States to achieve this level of sustainable building. Clorox is donating $500,000 toward the rebuilding of the city’s K-12 school, along with products for the entire Greensburg community, including Brita® and Filter for GoodTM bottles to help reduce bottled water waste; Green Works® natural cleaning products; and Clorox® Regular-Bleach to help with disinfecting in school locker rooms, cafeterias and the gym. Clorox is among six sponsors of “Greensburg,” which is one of the first shows to air on Planet Green, Discovery Communications’ brand new network for environmentally conscious viewers. “Clorox is committed to its own journey of environmental sustainability and was inspired by Greenburg’s plans to create a sustainable community,” said Bill Morrissey, vice president of Environmental Sustainability, The Clorox Company. “We are privileged to be a part of the city’s rebuilding efforts and hope our support can make a difference in the residents’ everyday lives.” For years, Clorox has been a supporter of the American Red Cross, donating financial aid and products like Clorox Regular-Bleach for disaster relief efforts. Recently, Clorox sent more than 20,000 gallons of bleach to the Gulf Coast to aid in clean up efforts for Hurricane Ike.
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Green Building is Growing Rapidly in Every Region of the World, According to New Report from McGraw-Hill Construction

September 19, 2008

SHANGHAI, China, Sept. 18 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- McGraw-Hill Construction (MHC), part of The McGraw-Hill Companies , today released the first-ever global look at green building market trends in a new SmartMarket Report, Global Green Building Trends: Market Growth and Perspectives from Around the World. Key findings from the report, which covers market activity, key triggers and obstacles, and trends in renewable energy driving green building in seven regions around the world, were presented today at MHC's 2008 Green Building & Energy Efficiency International Conference at the Shanghai World Financial Center.
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Bentley and Tsinghua University to Support Sustainable Building Development in China

September 18, 2008

Sign Memorandum of Understanding to Develop and Distribute Integrated Software for Modeling and Energy Analysis SHANGHAI, China--(BUSINESS WIRE)--McGraw-Hill 2008 Green Building and Energy Efficiency International Conference – Bentley Systems, Incorporated and Tsinghua University, School of Architecture, Building Energy Research Center, today announced the signing of a memorandum of understanding (MOU) that will support sustainable building development in China. It also will further strengthen and deepen Bentley’s commitment to improving building performance around the globe through its recently launched Building Performance Group. The MOU sets the stage for cooperation between Bentley and Tsinghua University in the development and distribution of integrated software for Building Information Modeling (BIM) and energy analysis. The integrated design and analysis software will incorporate the Bentley Architecture BIM application and the Tsinghua University Designer Simulation Toolkit (DeST), a standard building energy analysis and simulation platform in China that has been used in about 20 million square meters of floor space in building design and commissioning. Architects and designers employing the new integrated software will benefit from the ability to launch an energy analysis application directly within Bentley Architecture, enabling them to immediately evaluate the impact of design changes on energy efficiency. The first two versions of DeST were based on AutoCAD software. Under the MOU, Tsinghua University and Bentley will develop DeST v. 2 and DeST v. 3 – newly integrated core design and analysis software – on Bentley Architecture, gaining the advantages of its robust 3D BIM environment. The MOU calls for Tsinghua University to enroll in and receive all of the benefits of the Bentley Development Network, and for Bentley to provide Tsinghua University with assistance and support for the evaluation and implementation of Bentley Architecture as the platform for the integrated design and analysis software. Dr. Jean-Baptiste Monnier, senior vice president, Bentley Asia-Pacific, said, “We are excited to be working with Tsinghua University in the development of this new software that will put powerful 3D BIM and energy analysis capabilities in the hands of architects and designers across China. This new standard platform for flexible design and highly accurate energy simulations will further advance the country’s sustainable development efforts, and reinforce Bentley’s global leadership in building analysis and simulation products for improved building performance. Bentley’s new Building Performance Group focuses on software applications that address the global need to create and maintain energy-efficient, environmentally friendly, safer buildings that also set the benchmark for occupant comfort.” Yi Jiang, a professor at Tsinghua University and an academician of the Chinese Academy of Engineering, said, “Through this agreement, architects and designers using the DeST software application will enjoy all the benefits of developing a 3D Building Information Model with Bentley Architecture, including the ability to design in an integrated, multidisciplinary environment, easily explore an array of design options, make better-informed design decisions, and predict costs and performance. Then, within the Bentley Architecture environment, they can use DeST to easily perform an energy analysis of the 3D model data. These integrated capabilities will help designers create buildings that are much more energy-efficient.” DeST helps architects and HVAC engineers simulate and analyze building energy use and factors such as artificial lighting, natural lighting, ventilation, and thermal performance, as well as heating, ventilation, and air-conditioning systems. It helps improve the reliability of system design, ensure the quality of system performance, and reduce the amount of energy that buildings consume. DeST is widely used in China for research, design, and education. More than 4000 users are now employing DeST as a building simulation tool. Among the many projects that have benefited from its use are: 12 Olympic Games buildings in Beijing, including The National Stadium (The Bird’s Nest) and The National Aquatics Center (The Water Cube), State Grand Theatre of China, Beijing South Railway Station, Guangzhou Railway Station, Tianjin Railway Station, The Bank of China Headquarters, Shanghai Jinmao Tower.
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Certified Green Dealer Program Quickly Achieves National Status as Leading Green Certification Program

September 18, 2008

4,000 Dealer Personnel Now Participate, and 1,013 Have Completed the Program Program’s Website Gets 635,000 Views in Nine Months LAKEVILLE, Minn.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--The Certified Green Dealer™ Program, which certifies that building material dealer sales personnel have received green training—today announced that the Program has quickly achieved national status as a leading green certification program. Even in a down housing market, the Certified Green Dealer™ Program has grown at a remarkable rate. Today, more than 4,000 lumberyard/building-material-dealer personnel are enrolled in the Program. Already, 1,013 individuals have completed the entire Program. Moreover, since Jan. 1, 2008, when the Program formally launched, the Certified Green Dealer Program website has experienced 635,000 views. Defying the down housing market, The Certified Green Dealer Program has also experienced remarkable success with sponsors who want to associate with this fast-growing green Program. Today, Dupont Tyvek, Owens Corning, Masisa, ThermaTru, and Bostik are sponsors. Additionally, eight regional lumber dealer associations now promote and co-market the Certified Green Dealer Program. Do It Best Corporation and the ENAP buying co-op have both signed co-marketing agreements with Program and are actively promoting the Program to their members. With no competition in the lumber and building material dealer sector, the “sales pipeline” for the Program now exceeds 700 dealer locations, and requests and sign-ups from new lumber dealers come in every day.
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New Eco-Savvy InterContinental Chicago O’Hare Utilizes 100% Renewable Energy

September 17, 2008

ROSEMONT, Ill.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Chicagoland’s new eco-savvy and luxury destination hotel, the 556-room InterContinental Chicago O’Hare, is going above and beyond in its quest to lighten businesses’ impact on the environment. Not only does the sophisticated, design-forward property utilize 100% renewable energy credits from wind, but the InterContinental Chicago O’Hare also features a green roof, recycles all materials used throughout its hotel and convention area, and helps businesses and organizations support sustainability with its “Green Meetings” program. “The InterContinental Chicago O’Hare is dedicated to significantly lessening our carbon footprint on the earth, as well as raising awareness in our community about the importance of preserving our natural resources,” said David Hall, general manager of the InterContinental Chicago O’Hare. A contemporary destination for business and leisure travelers alike that opened September 8, 2008, the property is managed by Portfolio Hotels and Resorts, which also operates one of the first LEED-certified hotels in the U.S. Eco-savvy measures include: ● Utilizing 100% Renewable Energy Credits from wind via Constellation New Energy in Baltimore, MD. This is equal to saving more than 390,000 gallons of gasoline annually and removing 631 cars from the road. ● Lighting costs cut approximately 40% by using compact fluorescent light bulbs, dimmable fluorescent bulbs, and LED lights. ● Property-wide recycling of all glass, paper, cardboard, batteries, aluminum, and compact fluorescent bulbs. ● Green roof is covered with a reflective coating that significantly cuts down the building’s cooling costs, and will be home to drought-resistant plants. ● Biodegradable water bottles made from corn are placed in guest rooms and available for group meetings and events. ● Management and associates are committed to the hotel’s “I CARE” program (“I Care, I Conserve and I replenish the Earth”), a partnership with the local community to create awareness of energy efficiency and the environment. ● “Green Meeting Package” - Meeting and event planners can participate by selecting organic and sustainable local meals, recycled paper and pencils, LCD projectors, biodegradable water bottles, and other amenities.
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Onset Announces New LEED® Monitoring Kits

September 17, 2008

New HOBO® LEED Monitoring Kits help improve building energy performance, generate LEED credits BOURNE, Mass.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Onset Computer Corporation, the “HOBO” data logger company, today announced three new HOBO LEED Monitoring Kits designed to help improve building energy performance while generating credits as specified in the U.S. Green Building Council’s LEED for Existing Buildings Rating System. Specifically, the new kits enable facility managers, building owners, contractors and engineers to quickly and easily measure and document the following: Boiler/solar hot water heater performance Rooftop HVAC system efficiency Indoor Environmental Quality “The ability to accurately measure and document systems performance in existing buildings has become an increasingly important aspect of the LEED-EB accreditation process,” said Frank Deshaies, product marketing manager for Onset. “At the same time, people need continuously-recorded baseline data to understand how, for example, an HVAC unit is performing over time in order to make energy improvements. The new HOBO LEED Monitoring Kits are extremely affordable, easy-to-use solutions that address both of these needs.” HOBO LEED Monitoring Kits are available in three versions: a Boiler Monitoring Kit; a Rooftop HVAC System Monitoring Kit; and an Indoor Environmental Quality Monitoring Kit. Each kit includes HOBO data logger hardware, HOBOware® Lite graphing and analysis software, and associated sensors.
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Hamptons Luxury Homes Announces Hamptons Green Alliance Website Has Gone Live

September 16, 2008

Site Provides Information to Consumers Who Want to Utilize Sustainable and Green Practices in Building BRIDGEHAMPTON, N.Y.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Hamptons Luxury Homes (OTCBB:HLXH) and its wholly-owned subsidiary, Telemark Inc., today announced that the website for the Hamptons Green Alliance, (“HGA”) has gone live at: http://redirect.aecdaily.com/s18122/www.hamptonsgreenalliance.org/ The site may be the first ever formed by a consortium of local building professionals committed to green initiatives in building. It is designed specifically for consumers and includes a variety of tips and informational articles and videos. Some of the initial articles, all prepared by members of the HGA who are recognized leaders in their respective fields, focus on topics such as: Simple tips to improve my footprint Alternative energy basics How can my insulation choice make me greener? How can a smart home reduce energy usage? How do I select the best HVAC system? How can I create beauty and health in my landscape and do it naturally? How can updating my heating system better the environment? In addition, there are various categories and opportunities for blogging and on-line conversations to commence on a variety of green building topics between contractors, consumers and interested parties. “It is our hope that this site will enable consumers not only in the Hamptons, but throughout the country to find answers to questions that they are starting to ask about building in an environmentally-friendly manner so they can make the decision to go green,” said Frank Dalene, president of Telemark, Inc., who spearheaded the effort to form the group. “I’m delighted that in addition to Telemark, our charter members include Connected Hearth, Delfino Insulation Company, Inc., Flanders Heating and Air Conditioning, Inc., Sun Stream USA and Treewise. All of us have been recognized for our commitment to the environment in our individual areas of expertise. We came together to form this alliance as a result of the questions that each of us regularly answered from our customers. It is our belief that we can work together to provide the information required to build zero energy homes and carbon neutral homes in the future.” The website will be promoted in an initial ad that is scheduled to appear in VOX Magazine on September 19 and followed up by other local publications.
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TRC Expands Energy Efficiency Programs with Recent Contract Wins

September 16, 2008

EPA Energy Star Partner of the Year wins $2.5 million in additional contracts LOWELL, Mass.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--TRC’s (NYSE: TRR) Energy Services division, a 2008 ENERGY STAR Partner of the Year, is expanding its award winning energy efficiency programs with NYSERDA (New York State Energy Research and Development Authority) and the New Jersey Office of Clean Energy with contract awards totaling $2.5 million. Under the new contracts, TRC will continue its award winning work with NYSERDA’s Multifamily Performance Program that offers incentives to construct and retrofit multifamily buildings using energy efficient technologies and practices that reduce energy costs and carbon emissions. TRC will also design and implement new energy efficiency programs for the New Jersey Office of Clean Energy including a Municipal Audit, Pay for Performance and TEACH™—a new ‘Teaching Energy Awareness with Children’s Help’ energy education program. “These additional contract awards are a testament to our clients’ satisfaction with TRC’s design, implementation and management of these programs,” said Frank Reilly, Director of TRC Energy Services. “These programs have become models for other businesses looking for ways to both protect the environment and reduce energy costs.” TRC has been designing and managing energy efficiency programs throughout its customer offerings since 2003. In 2007 alone, TRC’s Energy Services staff have designed and managed energy efficiency programs that resulted in annual electric savings of more than 145,000 MWh and annual gas savings of more than 1,030,600 DTh. This corresponds to annual C02 emissions reductions of 145,800 tons. “The average American’s carbon footprint is 18 tons so a reduction of this magnitude would offset the carbon footprint of all of TRC’s 2,600 employees and their families for one year,” added Reilly.
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GE Security Announces iO-Series -- “Big Building” Intelligent Life Safety Systems for Smaller Buildings

September 15, 2008

New iO Series Applies Advanced Technology to Redefine Standard for Small Building Life Safety BRADENTON, Fla.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--GE Security, Inc., a business of GE Enterprise Solutions (NYSE:GE), today announced its latest innovation in life safety systems – the GE Security iO-Series, which incorporates control panels, intelligent detectors, control modules, and signaling devices specifically for small-building applications. Drawing on some of the most innovative fire detection technologies developed, the iO-Series offers features and benefits previously available only for big-budget, large-building systems. It makes intelligent detection technology available for any size business and building and gives customers the ability to upgrade from legacy systems to the latest technology without the need to bear the expense of rewiring buildings. Developed from GE Security’s Signature Series, the iO-Series delivers “big building” stability and reliability, redefining the standard for small building life safety. “GE Security continues to be at the forefront of creating innovative life safety systems for all customers and applications regardless of building or budget size,” said, Steve Hein, GM, fire and life safety products, GE Security. “The iO Series is another example of GE Security’s commitment to working with our customers to help them grow their businesses by delivering more and better solutions to end users real-world security challenges.” Compliant with the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) regulations, the iO-Series features two intelligent control panels, the iO64 and iO500. The iO64 supports up to 64 intelligent devices while the iO500 supports up to 500 intelligent devices. Customers also have the ability to view the status of the iO-Series panel history, sensitivity settings, and a host of diagnostics including dirty detector warnings via an Ethernet connection. With the iO-Series, unnecessary alarms are virtually eliminated with automatic drift compensation that constantly tunes detector sensitivity by adjusting for environmental conditions like humidity and dirt. In addition, sounder bases eliminate potential for disruption by providing a local audible alarm until the event is verified. Not only does this feature reduce the risk of nuisance alarms, but it also avoids disruption to building occupants and fire department fines that may result.
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Twin Cities’ Company Launches Innovative Solar Energy Leasing Program

September 15, 2008

freEner-g Seeks Twin Cities Homeowners Interested in Solar Energy MINNEAPOLIS--(BUSINESS WIRE)--freEner-g (“free energy”) LLC, a residential solar leasing company, announced today they are seeking homeowners in the Minneapolis-St. Paul metro area for a new solar energy program. The new program is based on a leasing, installation and service package for a monthly fee and will allow residents to lease solar-generated electricity for the first time. “Our goal is to make solar electricity available for all consumers who want to use renewable energy, but may not be comfortable with the upfront cost of solar,” said Gerardo Ruiz, founder and CEO of freEner-g. “We are reaching out to Twin Cities’ residents who are committed to a sustainable lifestyle. The homeowners in the freEner-g program will definitely be the pioneers for residential solar leasing in this country.” The new program from freEner-g requires no up-front installation costs for homeowners, who instead pay a deposit and monthly fee proportional to the number of solar panels they lease. The costs of installing solar energy capability for residential homes can be $50,000 or more, making it difficult to justify for many homeowners. The solar energy leasing program is a way for Twin Cities’ residents to utilize solar energy for electricity without incurring large initial fees for materials and services. freEner-g is encouraging interested Twin Cities’ homeowners to complete a form expressing interest in solar energy at www.mysolarlease.com. Based on home site inspections, the company will select approximately 50 qualified homes for the pilot project. freEner-g plans to begin installing solar systems on approved homes in October of this year. The freEner-g pilot program will last approximately fifteen months. Once 280 KW capacity of solar generation is installed, the pilot program will be completed. However, freEner-g will continue maintaining the installed systems and will begin delivering more solar home systems to a wider group of homeowners in Minnesota and elsewhere. The above pilot project is made possible in part by a $1.48 million grant from Xcel Energy’s Renewable Development Fund (RDF) that was recently awarded to freEner-g. In addition, freEner-g has entered into a long term partnership agreement with Abengoa Solar to ensure the long term viability and growth of the company in the residential and commercial solar PV markets.
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Rockwell Group and Jones|Kroloff Designing the Entrance Installation to the 11th International Architecture Exhibition of La Biennale di Venezia on View From September 14 to November 23, 2008

September 12, 2008

NEW YORK, Sept. 11 /PRNewswire/ -- David Rockwell, in collaboration with Reed Kroloff and Casey Jones, is designing the "Hall of Fragments," a site-specific installation for the entrance of the Corderie dell'Arsenale, the main exhibition facility at the 11th International Architecture Exhibition of La Biennale di Venezia. The exhibition, which runs from Sunday, September 14 to Sunday, November 23, 2008, is the preeminent international architecture exhibition and is expected to attract many visitors. Directed by Aaron Betsky, the title of this year's exhibition is "Out There: Architecture Beyond Building." Some 20 architecture firms from around the world, including Zaha Hadid, Diller Scofidio + Renfro, Frank Gehry, and Coop Himmelb(l)au, will also present large scale site specific installations in the Corderie.
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DOE Secretary Bodman Endorses NEMA Initiative to Make Buildings Energy Efficient Through Lighting Renovation

September 11, 2008

ROSSLYN, Va.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Secretary of Energy Samuel W. Bodman has invited industry leaders to become full participants in a national effort to make our buildings more energy efficient, the National Electrical Manufacturers Association announced today. American owners and operators of commercial, industrial, and institutional structures can reduce energy consumption by 30 percent by renovating lighting and other building systems. In an open letter to industry, Secretary Bodman noted that current tax deductions “provide financial incentives up to $0.60 per square foot for reducing new and existing building lighting energy use by 25 percent to 50 percent.” He added that he was pleased to support the efforts announced by NEMA and its members to dramatically alter the energy footprint related to lighting in the 70 billion square feet of existing buildings, as well as new construction. Responding to Secretary Bodman’s previous challenge to NEMA to commit to a national building energy efficiency campaign, NEMA recently announced the “enLIGHTen AMERICA” initiative, a campaign which will promote the advantages of lighting system renovation. According to NEMA, building owners and operators can realize a 50 percent return on investment, reduced operating expenses, improved productivity, and increased asset value. Some building owners could save as much as $600,000 per year on electric bills. To assist building owners and operators in establishing a lighting renovation project, NEMA has established a website with information and savings-calculation tools: www.nemasavesenergy.org. A copy of the “enLIGHTen AMERICA” brochure, Your Buildings Are Wasting Bushels of Money, and a copy of Secretary Bodman’s letter, are also available at the site.
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Eagle Roofing’s Environmental Program Helps Customers Meet Green Building Goals

September 10, 2008

RIALTO, Calif.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Eagle Roofing Products, a division of Burlingame Industries, announced that products in its Green initiative may help projects qualify for green building requirements of national programs. These programs encompass widely accepted benchmarks for the design, construction and operation of high-performance green construction, as well as industry-recognized energy efficiency standards. “As the only tile manufacturer to implement a comprehensive green program, Eagle is serious about its commitment to being environmentally friendly,” said Jay Banister, Eagle Roofing Products’ national green program manager. “Eagle is proud to deliver energy efficient products and implement responsible practices for the benefit of its customers.” Eagle Green, the company’s comprehensive program, provides customers with environmentally beneficial products they can use to distinguish their homes and create incremental value. The initiative includes Eagle Solar Roof, Cool Roof Tile, its Energy Saving Roof and environmentally-friendly manufacturing and recycling practices currently in effect at all the company’s manufacturing plants. Eagle’s Green program can help customers meet the requirements of several green building organizations including the five national programs listed below. Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED®) – This certification program provides a rating system and guidelines for the creation of projects that are kind to the environment and beneficial to its inhabitants. Eagle Green products can be instrumental in assisting builders and architects qualify project for LEED points. Energy Star Program – The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency and the U.S. Dept. of Energy have designated the “Energy Star” label for products that meet performance-based specifications in a particular category. Eagle’s Cool Roof Tile line earned its “Energy Star” approval in Spring 2008 based on the product’s ability to reflect sunlight, helping to prevent heat transfer into the home and generating up to 30 percent savings in energy bills. Cool Roof Rating Council (CRRC) – The organization’s strict product-rating program is widely accepted as the standard by the building and energy service industry. Products approved by this independent organization improve energy efficiency of the buildings they cover while positively impacting the environment. Eagle’s Energy Star products officially earned a “cool roof” rating by the CRRC since they can help save homeowners as much as 10 to 30 percent on energy bills. National Assoc. of Homebuilders (NAHB) – The NAHB pulls together local and regional green building guidelines into one easy-to-understand manual. Points are awarded for meeting criteria in each of seven sections and homes can qualify for one of three levels. Eagle roof tile products and services help builders qualify for points in categories including use of recycled-content building materials and use of locally available, indigenous materials. California’s Title 24 – The established code for construction aims to reduce the state’s energy consumption. Installation of Eagle’s roof tile products can assist builders meet or exceed these efficiency codes, enabling them to receive state rebates from participating utility companies.
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Greenlight Initiative Adds Validation Programs for LED Lighting Solutions

September 10, 2008

NEW YORK--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Greenlight Initiative, a New York City based LED-lighting sales organization and solutions provider, today announced its plans to implement full third party photometric testing and qualification for all of its product lines beginning January 2009. This program, intended to independently verify and extend upon any available manufacturers’ test data, is in addition to Greenlight’s previously announced qualitative evaluation program. According to Nik Nicolakis, President and co-founder of Greenlight Initiative, “Based on our participation in the 2008 Solid State Lighting Design Summit, held at the end of August in New Jersey, it became clear that in the eyes of the lighting and sustainability decision makers, LED and solid state lighting is not ready for widespread adoption. While there are a large number of poorly performing products available in the market, the idea that the technology isn’t ready is a misperception. We believe that lighting designers, specifiers and facilities decision makers simply need help by accessing a knowledge-base that lets them cut through the hype in order to identify the SSL winners.” Programs like the CALiPER testing performed by the Department of Energy (DOE), shows that most LED lighting products do not perform as stated. Lighting decision makers have typically not been demanding luminaire test data that back up product claims, much less data from testing performed by recognized third party labs. As more manufacturers’ products prove ready for a growing number of mainstream applications, verified data is becoming the only way to distinguish the real performance and quality of a luminaire. Greenlight Initiative is the first solid state lighting sales organization to embark on an independent testing program. This quantitative testing program, in conjunction with a well-recognized lighting laboratory who is a Department of Energy certified CALiPER program testing partner, will include extensive characterization and validation of each product Greenlight is making available to its clients. As an active technology advocate in the solid state lighting market space, Greenlight had previously announced its qualitative evaluation program that includes real-world installations and experience spanning several technology generations. Continued Mr. Nicolakis, “When you’re looking at a sample, all LED lighting products look promising. The real work is in actually bringing to market a product that produces the amount of light and lasts as long as the data sheet claims. Since many SSL luminaire manufacturers are currently unwilling or incapable of producing this data, we are going to test according to the DOE CALiPER procedures and provide the data that decision makers are just beginning to realize that they need in order to properly evaluate any solution.” “So that we can be confident in meeting the demands of our client’s applications, we won’t sell a single product that is not accompanied by certified data,” Nicolakis concluded.
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CommonBond Communities Teams up With GE and Minnesota Waste Wise to “Green” Affordable Housing

September 09, 2008

400 GE Volunteers to Transform Torre de San Miguel’s Homes in One Day ST. PAUL, Minn.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--High-end commercial and residential developers increasingly promote their LEED building certifications to demonstrate a commitment to energy efficiency and environmental sustainability. However, such benefits have rarely been available to affordable housing developers and residents. CommonBond Communities, the largest nonprofit affordable housing organization in the Upper Midwest, is working to bring the benefits of sustainability to its properties and residents. On Tuesday, Sept. 9, 400 GE volunteers will arrive at Torre de San Miguel Homes, a CommonBond family housing community in St. Paul, to stop soil erosion and runoff into the Mississippi River and begin implementing other environmentally sound initiatives. Under the direction of CommonBond, the GE volunteers will help install retaining walls, create plant beds, build a rain garden, lay an acre of sod and prepare the site for a future community garden. This effort is the last phase of CommonBond’s $2 million reinvestment into Torre de San Miguel Homes in St. Paul. The effort will improve the site’s livability and reduce its environmental impact. Trevor Russell, Watershed Program Director for Friends of the Mississippi River said, "Through installation of rain gardens and other infiltration practices, this project is helping clean up the Mississippi River by reducing erosion and treating storm water pollutants on site. This is a unique development that improves both our affordable housing stock and helps improve water quality in our river." Paul Fate, President of CommonBond Communities, believes environmental sustainability is an important addition to the organization’s strategic vision. “We see enormous value in incorporating best practices in energy conservation and waste reduction,” said Fate. “The opportunity to reduce operating costs at CommonBond’s 107 housing communities while reducing their environmental footprint is compelling. It’s also a great way to instill dignity and pride among our staff and residents.” Minnesota Waste Wise, a non-profit affiliate program of the Minnesota Chamber of Commerce, joined CommonBond and GE in evaluating waste reduction and conservation opportunities at Torre de San Miguel Homes, a 142-unit housing community with 521 multicultural residents. Mark Blaiser, executive director, conducted an audit of the property last spring to assess what types of environmental changes would benefit the site and its residents. “This marks the first time we’ve worked with one of our corporate partners to support a non-profit organization,” said Blaiser, “and we think it represents an outstanding way to strengthen collaboration between for-profit and non-profit entities to improve sustainability.” The GE businesses in the Twin Cities have worked with CommonBond Communities during the past three years in several ways. In addition to grants supporting after-school youth programs and employees conducting backpack drives, GE has painted the 24 floors of Skyline Towers, installed new blinds (to cool offices) and energy-saving lighting, replaced kitchen appliances and used floor coverings made with recycled tire materials. The GE initiatives have saved CommonBond over $200,000 through donated supplies and volunteer labor. CommonBond, GE and Minnesota Waste Wise are committed to making green practices accessible to families of all income levels and spreading green concepts to the communities they serve.
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EMCOR Group, Inc. Awarded Electrical Construction of Water Treatment Plant for Department of Environmental Protection

September 09, 2008

NORWALK, Conn.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--EMCOR Group, Inc. (NYSE: EME), a Fortune 500® leader in mechanical and electrical construction, energy infrastructure and facilities services for a diverse range of businesses, announced that its Welsbach Electric subsidiary has been awarded a contract to perform the electrical construction services for a new clean water treatment plant located in Westchester County, New York, for the New York City Department of Environmental Protection. Welsbach Electric is responsible for the complete electrical installation associated with the construction of the project’s two billion gallon-per-day ultraviolet (UV) light disinfection facility, a 170,000 square foot, two story concrete structure. Its lower level houses 56 of the largest UV units ever built, while the upper level contains electrical distribution equipment, HVAC equipment and administrative offices. Welsbach Electric will also be involved in providing electrical construction services for eight additional buildings and structures associated with the project. When complete, this clean water treatment plant will be the world's largest UV facility for disinfecting drinking water. The water treatment plant will treat drinking water from New York City's Catskill and Delaware reservoir system, which accounts for approximately 90% of New York City’s drinking water. “We are pleased to be providing the New York City Department of Environmental Protection with the electrical construction services required to power this leading-edge infrastructure project,” said Keith Carney, President and CEO of Welsbach Electric. “We look forward to being a part of a team whose priority it is to deliver safe drinking water to New York City for years and generations to come.”
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CommonBond Communities Teams up with GE and Minnesota Waste Wise to ''Green'' Affordable Housing

September 08, 2008

--(BUSINESS WIRE)--CommonBond Communities: Who: 400 GE volunteers, CommonBond staff, Minnesota Waste Wise What: CommonBond Communities brings sustainable practices to low-income housing residents via unique partnerships with GE, Minnesota Waste Wise and others. In one day, 400 GE volunteers will transform the grounds of Torre de San Miguel Homes, a 142-unit family housing community with 521 multicultural residents in St. Paul, to stop soil erosion and runoff into the Mississippi River. This event is one element in developing a longer-term strategy to benefit CommonBond's 107 housing communities in the Upper Midwest. When: Tuesday, September 9, 8:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. (Live onsite interviews with executives from 10:00 a.m. to noon) Where: Torre de San Miguel Homes, a CommonBond Community 58 Wood Street St. Paul, MN 55107
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Architecture Student’s Vision Inspires Green Classroom

September 05, 2008

Modular Building Institute and M Space Holdings Coordinate Placement of Sustainable Portable Classroom CHARLOTTESVILLE, Va.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--The Modular Building Institute (MBI) and M Space Holdings announced the placement of an eco-friendly portable for the Waldorf School (Waldorf) in Charlottesville, VA. The unit was inspired by the winning entry from MBI’s annual student architecture competition. This project was sponsored by MBI’s educational foundation and factory-built by MBI members M Space Holdings and Miller Building Systems. MBI members Bard Manufacturing and Tell Manufacturing also participated. Waldorf approached MBI after deciding on a modular classroom to quickly expand space. Upon reviewing the winning student design, Waldorf found it supported their vision for “Setting the Green Standard” through its greenest school campaign. Work started shortly thereafter to customize a similar classroom with features like: Recycled Insulation Recycled exterior siding, floor tile and acoustical ceiling tiles Insulated doors and dual-glazed, Low E glass windows Sun tunnels for natural daylighting Energy efficient and quieter HVAC system Paperless drywall No VOC paint “M Space is excited about the completion of their first ‘green’ building, and we were thrilled at meeting the needs and requirements of Waldorf School in both the unit’s design and timely delivery,” said Jeff Deutschendorf, M Space Holdings Chief Operating Officer. "The placement of this portable allowed MBI to share one architecture student’s vision on the sustainable advantages of modular classroom design, and highlighted the time advantages of the modular process," said Tom Hardiman, MBI executive director.
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Serious Materials a Two-Time Winner of AlwaysOn GoingGreen 100

September 05, 2008

AlwaysOn GoingGreen 2008 SUNNYVALE, Calif.--(BUSINESS WIRE)-- Serious Materials announced today that it has been named to the AlwaysOn GoingGreen 100 list for the second year in a row. The company was voted #1 at Cleantech Venture Forum XII, Global Gypsum Product of the Year 2008, and won the first Aspen Institute award for innovation in Energy Conservation. It has also been recognized by TIME/CNN, Fortune, Business Week, GreenTech Media and Red Herring as one of the most promising green technology companies. “The ‘built environment’ is responsible for 52% of greenhouse gas emissions worldwide,” said Kevin Surace, CEO of Serious Materials. “Our advanced building materials – like ThermaProof windows, EcoRock green drywall and QuietRock soundproof drywall – save energy and money, reduce carbon emissions and improve comfort.” Serious Materials and the GoingGreen Top 100 Companies will be honored at GoingGreen 2008 on September 15-17, 2008 at Cavallo Point in Sausalito, CA. Kevin Surace, CEO, will be featured at the ‘CEO Showcase’, and also participate on a panel on ‘The Integrated Building.’
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Skanska to develop and construct “Green Building” on Universitetsholmen in Malmö, Sweden

September 04, 2008

STOCKHOLM, Sweden--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Regulatory News: Skanska is continuing with development of the Universitetsholmen in central Malmö. The office building, designated “Bassängkajen,” will be built in seven stories and comprise a total of 19,000 square meters in two stages. Skanska’s investment in the first stage involving 10,000 square meters amounts to about SEK 240 M and is scheduled to be completed in autumn 2010. The new property is expected to be one of the first in Malmö to fulfill the requirements for the EU GreenBuilding label. This means that the building’s energy consumption will be at least 25 percent lower than what is specified in the Swedish National Board of Housing, Building and Planning’s standard for newly constructed buildings. An application for the GreenBuilding label will be submitted in the autumn. In January this year, Skanska’s (STO:SKAB) office building Hagaporten III in Solna, Stockholm, became the first in Sweden to be certified in accordance with the most recent GreenBuilding standard. In Malmö, Skanska has previously developed and constructed the Hjälmarekajen, Citykajen and Hovrätten office buildings in the Universitetsholmen area. Hovrätten was sold earlier this year. For Citykajen, which will soon be completed, a leasing contract was signed this summer with the Swedish Rail Administration. The building is then leased to 90 percent. “The rental market in the Öresund region continues to show strong demand and we are highly pleased to provide modern offices premises with a strong environmental profile in a prime downtown location,” says Richard Hultin, President, Skanska Öresund. “Increasingly more tenants are demanding buildings with a low environmental impact when they seek new premises,” continues Richard Hultin. “The building’s material selection will be characterized by eco-labeled products and halogen-free electrical installations, which reduces the use of PVC. Our tenants will also receive cost-free energy advisory service and company bicycles.” The construction project will be carried out by Skanska Sweden and is scheduled to begin in October. Negotiations regarding leasing are under way with a number of interested parties. Skanska Commercial Development Nordic initiates and develops property projects within offices, logistics centers and retail warehouses. Office operations focus on the three large metropolitan regions in Sweden, the Copenhagen region in Denmark and Helsinki, Finland. The development of logistics centers and volume retail properties is conducted in strategic locations in Sweden, Denmark and Finland. Skanska Commercial Development Nordic is divided into three regional companies: Gothenburg, Stockholm and Öresund.
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Travelers Inland Announces New Green Building Additional Coverage

September 04, 2008

HARTFORD, Conn.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--The U.S. Green Building Council reports that by 2010, the value of green building construction is projected to increase to $60 billion, with approximately 10 percent of new commercial construction starts expected to be green. Delivering on the growing demand, Travelers (NYSE: TRV) Inland is now offering Green Building Additional Coverage. Designed to support and maintain green construction, the new product was built to allow customers with new or renovation projects the opportunity to add Green Building coverage enhancements to their Builders' Risk or Installation policies. The goal of the coverage is to help a project move forward, with minimal impact, in the event of a covered loss. Green Building Additional Coverage will cover many costs related to rebuilding and recertifying a covered property to its budgeted level of green certification. A covered loss may result in additional expenses to comply with certification standards of a Green Authority. Coverage also relates to technology used in green construction such as Alternative Power Generating Equipment and Alternative Water Systems. “A new set of risks can surface when green building construction materials are used and stored,” said Joseph Tracy, Chief Underwriting Officer, Travelers Inland. “Innovative, green building materials often cost more than traditional materials. Sustainable site development, water and energy consumption and the indoor environmental quality of the completed structure are all considered when selecting construction materials. These exposures are contemplated in this additional coverage.” Travelers Inland builds upon the emphasis on sustainable design and construction offered in the coverage by providing services that add value to customers. The Inland Risk Control Network has specialized experience in working with green materials and the construction methods and technologies employed in green construction.
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EnOcean Bridges the Road to Sustainable Building Automation

September 03, 2008

315 MHz Self-powered Radio Modules Ideally Suited for Automating Buildings in North America COTTONWOOD HEIGHTS, Utah--(BUSINESS WIRE)--EnOcean, the inventor of self-powered wireless sensors and modules, has released 315 MHz versions of their ultra-low power radio modules. The development enables integrators to install wireless sensors networks into buildings using a frequency band that is far less crowded than the others available - such as 2.4 GHz. “The development concept was simple,” says EnOcean’s President of North American operations Jim O’Callaghan, “low power devices, such as thermostats and occupancy sensors, should not share air waves with higher power devices such as WiFi routers, ZigBee coordinators and microwave ovens. For building automation, the 315 MHz frequency inherently provides range and performance advantages over the higher 900 MHz and 2.4 GHz frequencies.” Laws of physics dictate that the 315 MHz frequency band is able to carry data through materials, such as building walls, more efficiently than the higher 900 MHz and 2.4 GHz frequencies. When other range variables are held equal, 315 MHz RF modules yield longer indoor range (up to 4x the range of 2.4 GHz data communications). Additionally, FCC regulations limit power output, radio packet length and data streaming when communicating using the 315 MHz band. These regulations have a desirable effect on building control networks since the three factors translate into less potential for data collisions in the air. The 315 MHz radio modules, when coupled with EnOcean’s patented energy harvesters, free integrators from the constraints of wires and batteries. The radio modules and energy harvesters convert traditional controls into “peel-and-stick” sensors and switches. The resulting controls simplify installations and provide automation systems the data needed for controlling lights, blinds and heating/cooling units. In building retro-fit projects, the self-powered wireless controls keep installers out of the walls, expedite installations, consume less copper and allow building owners to remain open-for-business during installations. Automated control systems inject energy-efficiencies into energy-inefficient buildings. Occupancy-based systems, for example, reduce the amount of energy wasted heating, cooling and lighting unoccupied rooms. Demand response systems allow utilities to avoid brown and black-outs. Master ON/OFF controls simplify compliance to government regulations such as California Title 24. Self-powered wireless sensors and switches simplify the installation of all the aforementioned systems. The 315 MHz radio modules are available in a development kit that also features EnOcean’s energy harvesting technologies. Integrators can get their hands on the radio modules, a pair of energy harvesters (solar and mechanically powered) and other components that allow them to explore sensor networking options that do not rely on line or battery power. To inquire about the self-powered wireless development kit ($999 retail); visit www.EnOcean.com or call (801) 943-3215.
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Serious Materials Introduces QuietHome Soundproof Doors

September 03, 2008

World’s First THX®-Certified Soundproof Door Joins THX-Certified QuietRock CEDIA EXPO 2008 SUNNYVALE, Calif.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Serious Materials today announced its new line of QuietHome soundproof doors. These new products provide market-leading noise reduction in an attractive, stainable wood, pre-hung door package, and are perfect for high-end home theaters, commercial studios, offices and conference rooms. Unlike most metal acoustic doors, these look like they belong in a high-end home. The entry-level QuietHome Door features a very high STC rating of 44 and is only 1¾” thick. The THX-Certified QuietHome Door provides an STC rating of 51 in a 2¼” thick door, and is the only acoustic door in the world to meet the demanding standards required for THX certification1. Typical hollow-core doors have an STC rating of only 15 and solid-core doors about 27. The high performance of QuietHome Doors reduce noise 65-85% compared to a solid core door. For the ultimate in performance in high-end home theaters, two QuietHome Doors may be used back to back, separated by a three-foot air gap, for a total STC rating of over 80. The suggested price of QuietHome Doors ranges from $1,495 to $2,495, or up to 50% lower than other acoustic doors. QuietHome Doors are available for ordering now through building products dealers and lumberyards nationwide, and online at http://redirect.aecdaily.com/s18122/quietsolution.stores.yahoo.net/construction.html. Initial products will ship to customers in Q4. “At THX, we believe great sound and picture is achieved through the right mix of audio-video components, room design, sound isolation and acoustic performance,” said John Dahl, director of education at THX. “For maximum enjoyment of your favorite movies and music, you have to keep the noise out and the sound in. THX-Certified QuietHome Doors – along with THX-Certified QuietRock – help deliver that great listening experience.” Leveraging more than 25 years of cinema and professional studio design expertise, THX partnered with Serious Materials to develop a portfolio of acoustic materials for the professional building community. The THX Certified QuietHome Door and QuietRock® soundproof drywall provide designers and architects a means to meet the sound isolation demands of commercial cinemas, recording studios and home theaters. Serious Materials’ advanced-technology Quiet®-brand products are recognized as the leader in noise reduction for construction projects, and have been used in over 35,000 projects. Its QuietRock® soundproof drywall delivers noise reduction at the lowest total cost, has over 90% market share in the category, and includes the only THX-Certified soundproof drywall, QuietRock 545 THX, with STC ratings up to 80. The new QuietHome Doors incorporate Serious’ proprietary viscoelastic polymer-based constrained layer damped system, a multi-layer design and advanced seals throughout the door edge.
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Solar Power to the People: Modular Residential Solar Shade Structures Created by Envision Solar

September 02, 2008

LifeTree™ and LifeShade™ Solar Kit-Build Structures Offer Stylish Outdoor Living Space LA JOLLA, Calif.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Envision Solar, the La Jolla, California based firm best known for its award-winning design of the Solar Trees™ in Kyocera’s landmark Solar Grove™, has expanded its product line of photovoltaic shade structures to include two “flat-pack” easy to install modular shade structures, each with eight solar panels providing 1.4 kilowatt of clean energy. The LifeTree™ is a single post steel structure with a cantilevered canopy, and the LifeShade™ is a four-post structure made of Forestry Stewardship Council (FSC) certified sustainable wood. Both are an attractive and functional application of solar power that provides recreational shade, without a requirement for a complex and invasive rooftop installation. The structures are shipped in easy to assemble components and include solar power modules, micro-inverters, and access to an online real-time tracking system to monitor production of clean energy. The structures are anchored in post-holes by concrete, in much the same way that basketball hoops or flagpoles are installed, and a local electrician can connect the AC wiring from the structure to the house meter. At a price point of $15,500 for the LifeShade™ and $18,500 for the LifeTree™, these new products offer a lower cost solar power option for homeowners and businesses. Envision Solar designers have focused on modularity as an important goal, because it offers price efficiency and accessibility to clean energy to more people. CEO Robert Noble adds, “We are committed to massive retail deployment of this product in a flat-pack format for local assembly and installation.” In addition to their attractive design and low price, The LifeTree™ and LifeShade™ products offer state of the art technical features; they were designed specifically for photovoltaic modules made by Suntech, and both the LifeTree™ and the LifeShade™ are equipped with “micro-inverters” from Enphase Energy. Micro-inverters convert the energy from the sun into usable alternating current at each module, eliminating the need for a bulky inverter on the side of the building at the meter and making connection to the meter a less costly undertaking. Enphase Energy also offers online access to a real-time monitoring package so that owners can track their clean energy production. Noble describes the company’s mission to employ the principles of sustainable design to innovate in the solar power sector: “We see renewable energy as an architectural element that be integrated into our spaces and our lives.”
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