WASHINGTON, April 29 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- There are roughly 99 million occupied permanent housing units in the United States, of which nearly 6 million are federally assisted. As the Congress and Obama Administration begin to consider ground-breaking climate change legislation it is notable that roughly 40 percent of the nation's current energy usage is by existing buildings. Addressing consumption by the existing housing stock must be an important part of any strategy. In response to this dynamic, the Council for Energy Friendly Affordable Housing (CEFAH), an affiliate of the National Housing & Rehabilitation Association, is convening a Green Housing Symposium on May 11 at the Hyatt Regency Century Plaza in Los Angeles, California. The Symposium will explore how leading developers, owners, and managers of federally assisted affordable rental housing properties are creatively implementing best practices and harnessing new technology and resources to dramatically improve the energy and utility performance of multifamily real estate and benefit residents. A primary focus of the program will be low-cost high-impact solutions that can be quickly implemented with minimal capital. Speakers will explore how affordable housing professionals can leverage billions of dollars in new "stimulus funds" from the American Recovery & Reinvestment Act to bring underperforming buildings in line with modern energy performance standards. The Symposium will also explore the Obama Administration's new renewable and green energy initiatives and how they relate to affordable housing.

Deal Expands Online Marketing Opportunities for Building Product Manufacturers SAN FRANCISCO, April 29 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- AIA 2009 National Convention and Design Exposition -- Autodesk, Inc. (NASDAQ:ADSK) , a world leader in 2D and 3D design and engineering software, announced an alliance with CADdetails.com, an industry-leading developer of manufacturer-specific design and construction details, 3D models and online building product information. Through the agreement, CADdetails product information for more than 400 building product manufacturers will now be available through the Autodesk Seek web service. Designers can use this service to search and select building product design information directly from Autodesk design applications, including AutoCAD software and the Autodesk Revit platform for building information modeling (BIM). "Architects and engineers need content for their BIM models so building product manufacturers that make their product information easily available to the designers can create more sales opportunities," said Jeff Wright, senior director, Autodesk Content Network. "With a powerful configuration engine and their high-quality content creation capabilities, CADdetails is a valuable addition to the Autodesk content network, and we look forward to working together to open new marketing opportunities for our customers."

DENVER, April 29 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- Downtown Colorado, Inc. (DCI), a nonprofit membership organization committed to building better communities through educational and technical assistance to Colorado's downtowns, commercial districts and town centers, is celebrating 2009 National Historic Preservation Month with 31 Days of Colorado Historic Preservation. Each day of May, DCI will focus on a different historical attraction in DCI and Colorado Main Street member communities across the state. Historical attractions include museums, walking tours, historic districts, and historical buildings. Some of the communities with featured historical sites include Arvada, Berthoud, Boulder, Brush, Castle Rock, Colorado Springs, Glenwood Springs, Granby, Grand Junction, Greeley, Holly, Lake City, Monte Vista, Montrose, Pueblo, Steamboat Springs, Trinidad, and Windsor. "These historical attractions provide a great opportunity for educational fun for children and adults alike, but they are so much more than just that," says Katherine Correll, Executive Director, Downtown Colorado, Inc.

SOMERSET, N.J., April 29 /PRNewswire/ -- To succeed in this down economy, manufacturers and distributors are shifting marketing budgets online. In 2009, 48% of industrial marketers are increasing their online marketing budgets and 65% of them are pulling investments from traditional marketing activities, according to the results of an annual study of industrial marketing executives conducted by SVM E-Business Solutions. The E-Business Trends in Industrial Marketing study, which surveyed more than 400 marketing executives at U.S.-based manufacturers and distributors, found that online marketing is producing measurable business results for industrial marketers, and the vast majority of respondents are shifting marketing budgets online to compete in this challenging economic climate. "Smart marketers realize that their Website is the most public face of their company," said Bob DeStefano, president of SVM E-Business Solutions. "More prospective customers will visit their Website than will ever visit their offices, see their print ads or flip through their catalog. So, in tough economic times like these, industrial marketers are investing online because it will have the greatest impact on results."

Attaining Sustainability Milestone Will Make UMM the Nation's 1st Carbon Neutral University MINNEAPOLIS--(BUSINESS WIRE)--The University of Minnesota Morris (UMM) has partnered with McKinstry, a leading design/build construction, engineering, energy services and facilities management firm, in order to realize its long-held ambition of becoming the first Carbon Neutral University in the Midwest. In 2004, UMM began acting on its sustainability target by constructing a 1.65 megawatt wind turbine. The 230-foot turbine provides UMM with 5.6 million kilowatt hours of power each year and is the first large-scale wind research turbine at a U.S. public university. In 2008, the University used funding received from the State of Minnesota to construct a biomass gasifier and steam boiler. To further assist these efforts, UMM hired McKinstry's Minnesota team, located at 8451 Xerxes Ave N, Brooklyn Park. McKinstry performed a thorough analysis of the campus' energy supply and demand which included an evaluation of campus energy supply side options; identifying demand side reductions; creating a plan for an energy education and awareness system; and formulating a plan for actively managing energy production, storage, and consumption. McKinstry's completed energy analysis of UMM resulted in the development of the Carbon Management Tool - an interactive predictive tool that visually demonstrates impacts and interactions between a multitude of conservation, energy storage, and supply side options. "McKinstry used the tool to help us identify a self-funding project with a 14-year payback," says Lowell Rasmussen, UMM's Vice Chancellor for Finance and Facilities. "Not only has this resolved the campus' chilled water shortage, but it will reduce our carbon emissions by more than 80% by 2010. This will allow us to purchase carbon offsets for the remaining carbon footprint, and achieve our goal of becoming carbon neutral." Since the original Earth Day nearly 40 years ago, the University of Minnesota, Morris has been advancing sustainable, environmentally friendly initiatives that touch nearly every aspect of campus life – from power, food, water, and transportation to waste stream infrastructure, academic study, and quality of life. UMM's commitment to environmental stewardship has grown to levels of national leadership, and it holds active membership in the Association for the Advancement of Sustainability in Higher Education (AASHE) and the Upper Midwest Association for Campus Sustainability (UMACS).

Media Campaign Urges Key Members of Congress to Stand Up for American Jobs and American Workers WASHINGTON, April 28 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- America's Building Trades Unions have launched a major new paid media campaign to urge the U.S. Congress to enact a clean energy plan that will make America a global leader in energy, while also developing the domestic energy technologies that will create American jobs and strengthen our economy for years to come. A television spot, called "It's Time," is slated to air in the districts of key Representatives who sit on the House Energy and Commerce Committee. They include: Baron Hill (D-IN), Mike Ross (D-AR), Mary Bono-Mack (R-CA), and G.K. Butterfield (R-NC). Radio spots will run in the districts of Representatives Bono-Mack, Butterfield, Mike Doyle (D-PA), and Charles Gonzalez (D-TX). Newspaper Ads are slated to run in the districts of Representatives Hill, Butterfield, and Bart Stupak (D-MI). The ads can be viewed at: www.buildinganewfuture.org

Hosted By Asia Society Northern California and Bay Area Council in San Francisco San Francisco, April 28 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- Asia Society Northern California and the Bay Area Council will host the conference "Scaling Up: From Green Buildings to Green Cities in the U.S. and China" in San Francisco on May 1, 2009. The event will take place from 9:00 am to 5:15 pm at the PG&E Auditorium at 77 Beale St. The green building revolution has begun, but it has far to go. To combat global warming, our greatest challenge is to scale up -- to move beyond pilot projects and piecemeal solutions to green building on a massive scale. Green materials must be mass produced, construction techniques must be standardized, and the principles of green building must inform urban planning. Scaling up will create jobs and help ensure growth in the current economic downturn.

Hosted By Asia Society Northern California and Bay Area Council in San Francisco San Francisco, April 28 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- Asia Society Northern California and the Bay Area Council will host the conference "Scaling Up: From Green Buildings to Green Cities in the U.S. and China" in San Francisco on May 1, 2009. The event will take place from 9:00 am to 5:15 pm at the PG&E Auditorium at 77 Beale St. The green building revolution has begun, but it has far to go. To combat global warming, our greatest challenge is to scale up -- to move beyond pilot projects and piecemeal solutions to green building on a massive scale. Green materials must be mass produced, construction techniques must be standardized, and the principles of green building must inform urban planning. Scaling up will create jobs and help ensure growth in the current economic downturn.

Bluebeam PDF Revu v 7 includes over 20 new features to help AEC firms go paperless San Francisco, CA (April 29, 2009) – Bluebeam Software, a leading developer of PDF creation, markup and editing solutions, is exhibiting at this week’s American Institute of Architects (AIA) National Convention and Expo. Bluebeam will be displaying the newest version of its professional PDF editor, Bluebeam PDF Revu v 7, in booth #1343 from April 30th to May 2nd at San Francisco’s Moscone Center. As the only PDF editor specifically designed for architecture, engineering and construction (AEC) professionals, Bluebeam PDF Revu includes specialized tools for sharing and reviewing large format drawings and other design documents electronically in PDF. For example, Revu includes plugins to AutoCAD and MS Office for one button and batch PDF creation, a drawing comparison feature for automatically redlining the differences between two similar PDF drawings, a takeoff tool for measuring and counting from PDFs and more. On March 24th, Bluebeam released Bluebeam PDF Revu v 7. This new version includes over 20 new enhancements that further Bluebeam’s commitment to improving the way AEC firms communicate design data. Many of the new features, like hatch patterns, arcs and curves, and a revamped stamp editor, help users provide more details to RFIs and other submittals. Additionally, improvements such as the reduce file size feature, PDF package support and the exclusive PDF flags extend the reach of paperless workflows by making it faster and easier to distribute and review PDFs electronically. “Bluebeam improves communication by mimicking the way our customers work with paper and pen,” said Stephani Haynes, Director of Marketing at Bluebeam Software. “By providing a paperless solution that mirrors the traditional AEC workflow, Bluebeam can help firms quickly achieve tremendous results. Success stories from our AEC users include an 80% reduction in paper usage and distribution, a 60% decrease in turnaround time and an ROI in as little as one week.” Available since 2002, Bluebeam has received several awards from AEC industry organizations and publications including AUGIWorld, Architectural Record, the Toronto Construction Association, HanleyWood/World of Concrete and Constructech Magazine. Bluebeam Software sells its desktop PDF solutions direct to customers and through a network of over 300 authorized resellers worldwide. To learn more, go to www.bluebeam..com or contact Bluebeam Sales at 866.496.2140 or sales@bluebeam.com. ________________________________________ About Bluebeam Software, Inc. Bluebeam Software invents, develops, and commercializes PDF software intelligently designed to meet the needs of design, engineering, construction and business professionals. As the trusted standard in PDF technology for architects, engineers and construction professionals, Bluebeam produces high quality, easy to use products that allow project teams to improve communication and collaboration immediately with virtually no learning curve. For more information about the company, latest news, and purchasing information, visit Bluebeam Software at www.bluebeam.com.

Project at Adelaide Showground Will Highlight Advanced Photovoltaic Technology TEMPE, Ariz.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--First Solar, Inc. (Nasdaq: FSLR) announced today that it will supply photovoltaic (PV) modules to Solar Shop Australia, Pty Ltd. (Solar Shop), for a 1 megawatt (MW) DC rooftop project. The solar power system, installed on six separate buildings at the Adelaide Showground in South Australia, will be the largest PV installation in the country. The rooftop system is being commissioned by the Royal Agricultural and Horticultural Society of South Australia. First Solar is the world's largest manufacturer of thin film solar modules. The Company recently announced that it has produced 1 gigawatt of its PV modules since beginning commercial production. In addition, First Solar has the lowest manufacturing cost in the industry, having broken the $1 per watt price barrier by reducing its manufacturing cost to 98 cents. "First Solar is proud to be supplying modules for the country's largest PV system," said John Carrington, First Solar executive vice president of marketing and business development. "This project will take one of Australia's most abundant resources, sunlight, and convert it into clean, affordable electricity." "This project marks the beginning of what we expect to be a very promising future for solar energy in Australia," said Carrington. "Australia's policy initiatives have set the stage for the growth of affordable renewable energy, and First Solar's advanced, cost-effective solar technology is a perfect fit." Solar Shop, in an alliance partnership with building and engineering company Build Environs Pty Ltd., will design and construct the 1 MW installation, which is expected to displace approximately 1500 tons of CO2 every year. Construction is anticipated to begin immediately and is expected to be completed by the third quarter of 2009. The power produced by the solar installation will be used predominantly at the Adelaide Showground site, displacing power generated from conventional sources.

GAINESVILLE, Fla., April 28 /PRNewswire/ -- Spiderman Mulholland, one of the country's leading forensic experts on building envelope water intrusion and toxic mold, is conducting investigations and working with environmental organizations and legal experts regarding the Chinese drywall issues that have impacted homes and buildings in more than 41 states. "The evidence we have uncovered to date points to sulfur emissions that corrode wires, air conditioners, electrical appliances and metal fixtures," said Mulholland. "Some home and property owners have also complained about health issues." There are reports of Chinese drywall being installed in more than 100,000 homes in the United States. Hundreds of millions of sheets of Chinese drywall were imported from 2004 to 2006. Chinese drywall has also been found in homes built or remodeled as early as 2001. The manufacturer has acknowledged that the drywall is defective, but not all drywall imported from China during the period in question should be considered tainted.

Fortune Achieves Top Energy-Efficiency Metrics at New San Jose Facility; Estimates Annual Energy-Efficiency Savings at $4 Million and Reduction of CO2 Emissions by 27,000 Tons Annually; Awaiting LEED Gold Certification SAN JOSE, Calif., April 28 /PRNewswire/ -- Fortune Data Centers (www.fortunedatacenters.com), which provides premium wholesale data center space for corporate customers, announced today that the company has commenced operations of a new highly energy-efficient, 'green' data center in Silicon Valley, despite an industry slowdown of new development due to the economic downturn and lack of available financing. "There is a continuing demand for high quality datacenter space in Silicon Valley," said Dan Golding, vice president and research director, Tier1 Research. "The current recession has dried up new datacenter supplies while pushing enterprises to outsource their datacenter requirements to specialist firms. The direction of the Bay Area market is clear: higher utilizations now and higher prices in 2010 - smart buyers will lock in as soon as possible."

BUDAPEST, Hungary, April 28 /PRNewswire/ -- Graphisoft, the global leader in Virtual Building(TM) solutions, today announced Graphisoft EcoDesigner(TM), a building energy evaluation tool for ArchiCAD 12. Graphisoft EcoDesigner is an integrated, easy-to-use energy evaluation tool for architects. EcoDesigner enables architects to control the energy consumption of their buildings, and sets new standards in sustainable design, making ArchiCAD the leading software solution for contemporary architectural demands. With EcoDesigner, architects will have easy access to much needed energy information concerning their project in the early design phase, as opposed to relying on outside professionals to analyze the buildings when the design is well advanced and decisions are irreversible. "The majority of design decisions influencing a building's energy performance are made by the architect in the early design phase," said Miklos Szovenyi-Lux, Vice President of Graphisoft Product Management. "At later design phases, engineers can only make adjustments by applying special building materials and mechanical systems. Graphisoft EcoDesigner provides architects with a unique easy-to-use tool in their native design environment to make energy-conscious decisions even during the early phase of the design."

Watt Plaza is seeking LEED Gold certification with new sustainable programs and property renovations LOS ANGELES--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Towers Perrin Forster & Crosby has renewed its lease with Watt Companies the owner and developer of Watt Plaza in Century City, for five more years in an agreement valued at approximately $10 million. A highly regarded global professional services firm that provides human resources, risk and financial management services, Tower Perrin Forster & Crosby occupies the 14th and 15th floors and a portion of the 13th floor at 1925 Century Park East for a combined total of 43,163 square feet. "With this lease renewal Towers Perrin Forster & Crosby will have maintained offices at Watt Plaza for more than 30 years, a significant milestone for their business and ours," noted Kathy McKay, vice president, leasing, Watt Plaza located at 1875 and 1925 Century Park East. "In order to retain top-tier professional firms such as this, we regularly update the property to ensure that it offers a sophisticated yet contemporary environment. We are continuing that commitment to Watt Plaza with our current renovations that are focused on the building exteriors as well as infrastructure." The exterior renovations already underway include a completely new landscaping program and upgrading the arrival area and plaza on Century Park East. The front carriage area is being reconfigured to valet service which will ease access and enhance the visitor experience. In addition, the plaza will be transformed into a lushly landscaped outdoor area with abundant seating and a new water feature. These expansive exterior improvements are expected to be completed in November 2009. Watt Plaza also is investing in a major modernization of the building elevators using new sustainable technologies. All 20 passenger elevators, two freight elevators and three parking elevators will feature new luxury cab interiors and will be upgraded using a "smarter" micro processor computer control system. The new system will reduce wait times, improve reliability, use less power and ensure a smooth ride. The project is scheduled to be completed in October 2010. In addition to these renovations, Watt Plaza has made significant green building compliant modifications and as a result has applied for a LEED Gold certification. Among the new building's sustainable features are low-flow faucets, low flush toilets and waterless urinals, occupancy lighting sensors, tinted window film, an electronic waste and battery recycling program and a waste stream audit that resulted in a 70 percent reduction in waste sent to landfills.

HARTFORD, Conn., April 27 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- In the most rigorous study ever on the subject, The World Business Council for Sustainable Development (WBCSD) demonstrates how to achieve a 60 percent reduction in the energy use of buildings by 2050 to help meet global climate change targets. To reach ambitious carbon footprint reduction goals set by the widely recognized Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change, the building sector must undergo a transformation toward greater energy efficiency through a combination of public policies, technological innovation, informed customer choices, and smart business decisions. Supported by specific implementation steps, this is the central message from the WBCSD's Energy Efficiency in Buildings report, "Transforming the Market: Energy Efficiency in Buildings." United Technologies Corp. (NYSE:UTX) and Lafarge (Euronext Paris: LG), which co-chaired the study, presented the report in Paris today at the Alliance to Save Energy's EE Global Forum and Exposition. The report is also being released in Washington, D.C., and Beijing.

WARREN, Ohio, April 27 /PRNewswire/ -- Concord Steel, Inc., the leading independent manufacturer and supplier of custom fabricated steel counterweights, was awarded a contract to provide steel counterweights for all 71 elevators being installed by ThyssenKrupp Elevator in the Freedom Tower, at One World Trade Center, in New York City. The 800,000 pound order is one of the largest single orders for elevator counterweights in Concord Steel's history. "We are proud to be a partner in this historic One World Trade Center Project," said Paul Vesey, President of Concord Steel. "We will draw upon the Company's 85 years of experience to provide these special and unique counterweights." Vesey also said, "Concord Steel was selected for this monumental project based on our competitive response, our industry leading capacity and our unmatched ability to service the metro New York City market."

Newland Communities only developer reporting 2008 sales gains; only developer with 3 communities on list HOUSTON--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Houston is home to five of the nation's top 10 communities for new-home sales in 2008, according to a new study just released by RCLCO, a leading independent real estate advisory firm which has compiled the annual list since 1994. In addition to having more top-selling communities than any other city on the list, Houston also has the only communities on the list – all developments of Newland Communities – to report positive sales gains for 2008 over 2007. In Houston, Newland Communities' Cinco Ranch development ranked No. 2 on the list, with 775 new-home sales for 2008, representing a 7% increase over 2007. Telfair, also by Newland Communities, had the highest percentage gain on the list – 13% – with 412 new-home sales. A third Newland Communities development, Eagle Springs, ranked No. 10 on the list with 274 new-home sales, a 2% increase.

ModSpace completed installation of 12 custom buildings in just 124 days at Fort Knox, Ky. BERWYN, Pa.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Modular Space Corporation (ModSpace(R)) and its strategic partner, Alutiiq, LLC, were awarded an overall rating of "outstanding" from the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Louisville District, for the final performance evaluation of the successful completion of a major installation project at Fort Knox. "Outstanding" is the highest possible rating given for construction project evaluations from the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. The Fort Knox installation project helped meet the U.S. Army's emergency need to grow its efforts at the post and accommodate almost 1,000 new soldiers. ModSpace and Alutiiq worked closely with the post to design a customized modular solution that would deliver more than 100,000 square feet of temporary space. In 124 days after breaking ground, they provided the post with four two-story barracks, four administrative offices, and six classrooms. As a result, the post has increased its ability to meet housing and training initiatives. The ModSpace project team achieved an outstanding rating for the Fort Knox project while overcoming many project challenges. "We had significant challenges with the schedule and funding constraints within the budget," says Viril Heinselmann, a project team member with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Louisville District. "Through the combined efforts of the project delivery team—including the contractors involved, Alutiiq and ModSpace—as well as the site development subcontractor, we were all able to achieve project success." The quick installation of the new facilities at Fort Knox has helped the Army attain a "modularity" concept, the new and more effective fighting force recently initiated by the Army. Modular construction helps the military meet its needs in a timely fashion, giving them the flexibility to reconfigure or adapt to different uses in the future.

2009 List Includes Century Plaza Hotel, Los Angeles; The Manhattan Project's Enola Gay Hangar at Wendover Airfield in Utah; Frank Lloyd Wright's Unity Temple, Oak Park, Illinois; and Mount Taylor, New Mexico WASHINGTON, April 28 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- The National Trust for Historic Preservation today unveiled the 2009 list of America's 11 Most Endangered Historic Places(R), an annual list that highlights important examples of the nation's architectural, cultural and natural heritage that are at risk of destruction or irreparable damage. The announcement was made adjacent to the Century Plaza Hotel in Los Angeles by Richard Moe, president of the National Trust for Historic Preservation, and Diane Keaton, an Academy Award-winning actress and a trustee of the organization. "The 22nd annual list of America's 11 Most Endangered Historic Places reflects the extraordinary diversity and fragility of our shared heritage," said Richard Moe. "These 11 sites highlight many critical issues, including the importance of preserving architectural icons of the recent past and preservation as one of the most effective forms of sustainable development. Places like these help tell all of our stories, and losing them not only erases a piece of our heritage, it also represents a threat to our planet."

NEW YORK--(BUSINESS WIRE)--As the New York Yankees open the doors of the new Stadium to the public, international law firm Proskauer Rose is proud to have advised the Yankees on a full range of Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) accessibility issues relating to the development, construction and operation of the magnificent facility. This extensive effort culminated when the United States Department of Justice (DOJ) and the US Attorney's office held a press conference to declare the Stadium a "model of accessibility for people with disabilities." "I want to thank our counsel from Proskauer Rose, Carolyn Gray, Joshua Stein and Rich Goldstein, and the entire team from Proskauer," said Randy Levine, President of the New York Yankees. "They worked so hard and did a lot of great work to get us where we are today." Mr. Goldstein, along with a team led by Ms. Gray and Mr. Stein, all of Proskauer Rose's Accessibility and Accommodations Practice Group, represented the Yankees throughout the process. "We have had a long relationship with the Yankees and are extremely proud to have been able to assist them in this important effort," said Mr. Goldstein. "This was a rewarding conclusion to a major project, which required great insight into developing bodies of law combined with the new rulemaking process," noted Ms. Gray. "We are thrilled to have been able to help the Yankees reach such an exemplary result," added Mr. Stein.

Partners with MEISTER of Germany for U.S. Distribution Rights of Green FSC Certified Flooring MILWAUKEE--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Timber Holdings International, the original Iron Woods(TM) brand of naturally durable hardwood products, today announced a partnership with MEISTER of Germany to be the U.S. distributor of the first Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) certified laminate flooring line for the U.S. The new flooring is ideally suited for both commercial and residential buildings, and complies with LEED requirements set forth by the USGBC for green buildings. The laminate line includes both cork backed (9.3mm) sound-absorbing, and non-cork backed (8mm) products in 4" and 5 1/2" widths. This floor is produced using the newly-developed direct printing technology, so there is no need to use the melamine paper used on typical laminate flooring, which makes for a more durable floor and reduces the hazardous materials used for production. The engineered flooring line (13mm), has a plank width up to 12". No formaldehyde is added in production of this FSC certified flooring, giving more opportunities at LEED credits. A 2.5mm top wear layer will allow future refinishing. Coupled with our no VOC glue and moisture barrier system, this floor can be glued directly to a concrete subfloor. A full sampling and display program is available with product distribution throughout the U.S. The collection is permitted to carry the FSC symbol, which demonstrates that this flooring is environmentally friendly and LEED compliant. Products with the FSC trademark contain wood from properly managed forests and other controlled origins. The certification is carried out according to the requirements issued by the Forest Stewardship Council.

Calls out SeriousWindows as the Most Energy-Efficient in the World and Commends Creation of New Green Jobs CHICAGO--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Serious Materials, the leading energy-saving building materials company in the U.S., today welcomed United States Vice President Joe Biden along with United States Senators Dick Durbin and Roland Burris and Mayor Richard Daley to its most recently acquired windows manufacturing plant in Chicago. Vice President Biden, whose support played a pivotal role in the passing of the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (ARRA), visited the high-performance window manufacturing plant to demonstrate his support for the creation of new green jobs through the American manufacturing of energy-saving building materials like SeriousWindows(TM) and SeriousGlass(TM). "This is a story about how we inspire a better tomorrow. You're making some of the most energy-efficient windows in the world, I would argue, the most energy-efficient windows in the world," said Vice President Joe Biden. Speaking to Serious Materials' employees, Vice President Biden continues, "And you're not just providing for your family with the income you're making here; but by lowering energy bills, you're saving the families in Delaware, California, Mississippi, Maine -- you're saving all of them. You're saving people in public housing which are investing in weatherization. You're saving people on the bottom line of how much money they will have to care for their families." Biden continues, "Kevin, thank you and Serious for your faith in the people here at this factory, your faith in the country, your willingness to invest here in America." A husband and father of 6, Frank Edwards was one of 260 workers abruptly laid off from his production supervisor position when the plant closed in December of 2008. "When I lost my job in December and couldn't support my family that was the worst feeling in the world. It was awful. Then I heard what Kevin Surace was doing with our union to bring new energy-saving windows to our plant and restart it," said Edwards, newly re-hired Serious Materials plant employee. "While I have not read all the words in the Recovery Act, I know I am standing here because of it. Thank you Mr. Vice President for helping me make my life whole again."

World's Largest Fortune-Creating(sm)/Vedic Office Building ROCKVILLE, Md., April 24 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- 2000 Tower Oaks Boulevard, co-developed by The Tower Companies (www.towercompanies.com) and Lerner Enterprises (www.lernerenterprises.com) has been officially certified LEED(R) Platinum Core and Shell 2.0 -- by the U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC), making it the first and largest multi-tenant commercial office property to achieve this designation in the Washington, Maryland and Virginia area. The LEED(R) (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) Green Building Rating System(TM) is the nationally accepted benchmark for the design, construction, and operations of high performance green buildings. The 200,000 square foot exquisite commercial office building was designed by Kishimoto.Gordon.Dalaya PC (KGD) (www.kgdarchitecture.com) and is the world's largest application of Fortune-Creating(sm) architecture, built on the Vedic principals of orientation, placement and proportion, to improve the occupant's health, enhance job performance and success. The building features 22,000 SF floorplates with 9'-3" ceilings and 6'-6" high continuous windows offering beautiful 360 degree panoramic views in all directions. The stunning daylight-filled lobby is finished with polished Tennessee Pink marble floors and Lacewood walls, accented with a luminous onyx freestanding sculpture wall and stainless steel planters. Tenant amenities include a state-of-the-art fitness room, including lockers, showers and yoga/Pilates room, luxurious bathrooms, and organic cafe. The partially underground 4-level parking structure, with dedicated parking for hybrid and low-emission vehicles, forms a pedestal, supporting sustainable landscaped terraces around the building, with serenity fountains and plaza in front of the building. Over 17,000 drought resistant native plantings of trees, ornamental grasses and flowering bulbs compliment the buildings' landscape in the park-like setting located within minutes of our Nation's Capital and just off the I-270 Tech Corridor in Rockville, Maryland.

Evidence of Explosives Found in Destruction of All 3 WTC High-Rises AE911Truth to Display Evidence at National AIA Convention 4/30 - 5/2, Moscone Center Press Conference/Speaking Engagement Saturday 5/2 at 4pm, Westin Market Street Hotel BERKELEY, Calif., April 26 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- More than 640 Architects & Engineers for 9/11 Truth (AE911Truth) are calling for a new, independent investigation into the destruction of the World Trade Center high-rises. These building professionals cite evidence of explosive demolition at all three WTC high-rises on 9/11 and document the evidence at their website. Michael Heimbach, assistant director of the FBI's counterterrorism division, wrote that their claims and conclusion were "backed by thorough research and analysis."(1) AE911Truth will host exhibitor's information booth #2609(2) at this year's annual convention of the prestigious American Institute of Architects (AIA). The convention(3), with more than 800 exhibitors and more than 20,000 participating architects, will take place in San Francisco's Moscone Center, April 30-May 2. This exhibition will be followed up on Saturday, May 2nd with a dynamic multi-media presentation by AE911Truth founder Richard Gage, AIA. Mr. Gage will cover the forensic evidence found at the crime scene as well as a review of the omissions in the official FEMA and NIST reports. Join AE911Truth at the Westin Market Street Hotel at 50 Third St. in San Francisco at 4:00 pm on Saturday for this thorough review of the myth-shattering information. Time magazine acknowledged(4) in 2006 that the 9/11 Truth movement was not a "fringe phenomenon," but "a mainstream political reality." As well, Architects & Engineers for 9/11 Truth petition signers(5) have been encouraged by President Obama's promise to "restore science to its rightful place."

Major New Energy Reports from WBCSD, McKinsey, CERA on Agenda April 27-29 Forum Features 135 Energy Efficiency Experts from 30 Nations -- http://redirect.aecdaily.com/s18122/eeglobalforum.org/ -- PARIS, April 27 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- The breadth and depth of global energy expertise to be showcased at the Alliance to Save Energy's 2009 Energy Efficiency Global Forum and Exposition (EE Global; www.eeglobalforum.org) is demonstrated by the lineup of speakers at the opening plenary session, scheduled for 4 pm today at the Palais des Congres. Those speakers include senior energy officials and corporate CEOs from five countries on three continents (Europe, Asia, North America), who will kick off the only global forum focused exclusively on energy efficiency. These high-level speakers are part of a lineup of some 135 public- and private-sector experts and officials from more than two dozen nations who will offer insights and information on the latest energy and energy efficiency policies and technologies as part of the multifaceted, three-day agenda (http://redirect.aecdaily.com/s18122/eeglobalforum.org/agenda.html). EE Global will unveil major initiatives in the energy efficiency field, including a multi-year, global study of energy efficiency in buildings funded by the World Business Council for Sustainable Development (WBCSD).

Gov. Corzine to Address 22 Newark Worker Graduates From Green Collar Jobs Training Course, Pilot Program With City of Newark NEWARK, N.J., April 24 /PRNewswire/ -- A significant milestone will be celebrated on Monday as the first participants of a Newark-based initiative that prepares workers for green collar jobs in urban communities get set to graduate from their initial training program. Twenty-two Newark residents and workers now have the skills and training necessary to work in the new environmentally friendly construction industry and in retro-fitting or upgrading existing buildings. These men and women were recruited as part of a weatherization pilot program between the Laborers' International Union of North America (LIUNA) and the City of Newark. The two entities launched the initiative in January 2009 in anticipation of federal stimulus funds for residential weatherization and energy conservation. The graduation will be held Monday, April 27 at 6:30 p.m. ET at the Mt. Olivet Baptist Church in Newark.

Company Appreciates Strong Support Offered by Courageous Legislators, Applauds Vigorous Debate about Energy Issues ST. LOUIS, April 23 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- Senior management of AmerenUE, the Missouri operating subsidiary of Ameren Corporation (NYSE:AEE) , today announced that they have asked the legislative sponsors of the Missouri Clean and Renewable Energy Construction Act (SB228/HB554) to withdraw the bills from consideration by the General Assembly. "We want to thank the visionary leadership in both the Missouri House and Senate, where this legislation won strong initial support in committees in both bodies," said AmerenUE President and Chief Executive Officer Thomas R. Voss. "Many representatives and senators understood the need for acting now to secure Missouri's energy independence and security, agreeing with us that allowing these funding mechanisms is best for Missouri. "As we were moving forward to preserve the option for nuclear energy for our state, we stressed that we needed financial and regulatory certainty before we could begin construction. However, the current version of the bill being debated in the Senate strips the legislation of the very provisions we needed most to move forward. As a result, AmerenUE is suspending its efforts to build a nuclear power plant in Missouri."

Locating Commuter Rail Maintenance Facility at Fox North site would cost taxpayers millions or could result in loss of hundreds of local jobs DENVER, April 23 /PRNewswire/ -- Owens Corning, a local employer and a leading global producer of building materials, publicly voiced this evening its strong opposition to the Regional Transportation District's (RTD's) plans to build a Commuter Rail Maintenance Facility (CRMF) at the site of the company's Fox Street roofing plant. The company was joined tonight at a RTD public meeting by approximately 250 employees and other supporters who oppose selection of the Fox North site because of the considerable expense to taxpayers or the possibility it could ultimately eliminate hundreds of Denver area jobs. "We support the RTD's FasTracks program, but we strongly object to locating the CRMF on the Fox North site," said Bill Shockley, plant leader at Owens Corning's Fox Street roofing facility. "It will cost $80-$100 million to relocate and rebuild Owens Corning's roofing facility and taxpayers would ultimately pay the bill. This includes the costs of identifying and purchasing new property, building or purchasing new infrastructure, relocating equipment, securing the required permits and the disruption to our business during construction." The company argued that the RTD's analysis of the Fox North site fails to recognize the significant expense to relocate and rebuild Owens Corning's roofing facility and that the RTD's relocation timeline is unrealistic. Owens Corning estimates it would take up to three years to relocate/rebuild. The RTD has proposed forcing Owens Corning off of the Fox North site as early as 2010.

Visitor Center, Museum Recognized by U.S. Green Building Council With Platinum Certificate, Nation's Highest Recognition for Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design LOS ANGELES--(BUSINESS WIRE)--The Metropolitan Water District of Southern California's Diamond Valley Lake Visitor Center and the Western Center for Archaeology & Paleontology will be recognized Saturday for green building and development practices when they receive the country's highest acknowledgement for sustainable design and architecture. The platinum LEED certification will be awarded by the U.S. Green Building Council at an 11:30 a.m. ceremony. LEED, or Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design, is the standard for environmentally sensitive building design. "This is great recognition for the architects and for Metropolitan in demonstrating a commitment to environmental stewardship and sustainability," said Metropolitan board Chairman Timothy F. Brick, who will take part in Saturday's ceremonies. Brick also will be leading a Metropolitan-sponsored bike ride around DVL that is open to the public. The ride on the Lakeview Trail will begin at 8 a.m. and continue until noon. Riders may go around the lake, a distance of 21.8 miles, or any distance they choose. Parking will be available at DVL's marina.

Innovative Online Platform Auctions Prime Property with No Reserve Price While Giving Back SAN DIEGO--(BUSINESS WIRE)--iBidcondo is a revolutionary online, live property auction where properties are sold without reserve prices and where the bulk of the auction proceeds are donated to a registered charity of your choice! iBidcondo follows the process of a traditional property auction. The genius of iBidcondo is in its simplicity; the patent pending system of selling a limited number of "virtual auction seats" to cover the actual "price" of the completed property leaves the "auction price" to be determined purely by the bidders. Unlike many e-retailing auction sites, iBidcondo does not charge bidders each time they make a bid. To bid at an iBidcondo auction, participants must go online to iBidcondo.com and register. Once they have found a property they are interested in, they can purchase a virtual seat to the online auction. The average auction seat price is $100 and the number of seats sold will be determined by the property’s list price. Once all seats have been sold, iBidcondo will notify participants by email of when the auction is to commence. iBidcondo requires that participants make themselves familiar with the property details and the "Terms and Conditions" of the iBidcondo auction. iBidcondo has found a way to give back to the community while creating an avenue to instill much needed movement within the real estate market; a true a win/win/win situation for buyers, sellers and the community. Because the sale of the seats covers the price of the property, iBidcondo is able to donate net proceeds of the winning bid to the bidder's nominated charity. Bidders are asked to nominate their preferred Registered 501(c)(3) Charity when they purchase their seat.

The KONE EcoStart(R), Made by Power Efficiency Corporation Exclusively for KONE, Installed on 20 Moving Walks LAS VEGAS--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Power Efficiency Corporation (OTCBB:PEFF), a clean tech company focused on efficiency technologies for electric motors, announced today that KONE Inc. (OMX: KNEBV), one of the world's leading elevator and escalator companies, installed the KONE EcoStart(R) on 20 moving walks at Boston Logan International Airport. In 2008, Logan Airport served 26.1 million passengers. The KONE EcoStart is a unique motor efficiency controller that soft starts an electric motor, bringing it from rest to full speed. Once it is at full speed, the EcoStart monitors the motor and improves its efficiency when operating. By conserving energy, the EcoStart supports the building's sustainability programs and contributes to environmental protection efforts. EcoStart is manufactured by Power Efficiency Corporation exclusively for KONE under private label. Test results at Logan Airport indicate the 24 EcoStarts will save approximately 60,000 kilowatt-hours (kWh) per year. Logan Airport is also considering installing EcoStart on the escalators at the airport, which will enable the airport to save significantly more energy. Vance Tang, KONE EVP and Area Director for the Americas, commented, "The EcoStart installations at Logan Airport are a great example of KONE's commitment to partner with our customers and suppliers to save energy, reduce emissions and eliminate waste. The EcoStart makes good business and environmental sense for the airport and the entire Boston community." Steven Strasser, Chairman and CEO of Power Efficiency Corporation, said, "We are pleased to work with KONE and Logan Airport on this EcoStart energy saving project. By working with KONE, our highly integrated and easily installed products make the EcoStart well suited to address the complex energy savings requirements of major transportation hubs like the airport."

Green Accolade Awarded During 2009 Earth Week LONDON & FRANKFURT--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Citi announced today that its newly completed Citi Data Center in Frankfurt is the first of its kind in the world to have earned the coveted Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) Platinum rating from the US Green Building Council (USGBC). This is the highest achievable award for new construction (V2.2 category). The LEED Rating System is designed to encourage and facilitate the development of more sustainable buildings and is a leading edge system for certifying the world's greenest buildings. Not only is this award a world first, it certifies the data centre's unique achievement in regard to sustainability and energy efficiency. "Citi is committed to ensuring that sustainability lies at the heart of all our major projects and a major new data centre was no different," said John Killey, Head of Citi Realty Services EMEA. "For this project a balanced approach was adopted that recognised Citi's commitment to a sustainable approach for the building without compromise to its operation and reliability." "Close co-operation between our Real Estate and Technology groups has been important to achieving major advances in the way in which we manage technology energy demand in Citi," said Stephen Ellis Head of Technology Infrastructure EMEA. "The energy efficient design of the data centre, coupled with extensive use of new, energy efficient virtualised technology, housed in innovative modular cabinets has optimized energy use and reduced the data cabling needs". "Building operations are nearly 40% of the solution to the global climate change challenge," said Rick Fedrizzi, President, CEO & Founding Chair, U.S. Green Building Council. "While climate change is a global problem, innovative firms like Citi are addressing it through local solutions." This environmentally conscious building has already been honoured for its ground breaking eco-friendly design with the prestigious European industry's "Data Centre Excellence Green Energy Efficiency Award 2007" and the title of overall Winner at the Financial Services Technology (FTS) Magazine Award 2008.

PHILADELPHIA--(BUSINESS WIRE)--National Arbor Day is Friday, April 24, and PECO offers tips and suggestions to help everyone 'plant the right tree in the right place.' Whether you are a property owner, community group or developer, PECO urges you to plant trees that will stay clear of overhead power lines as much as possible. Tall-growing trees should be planted at least 30 feet away from power lines. PECO encourages the planting of flowering trees that grow to heights less than 20 feet—like dogwoods and crabapples, near the street. Trees that grow to more than 30 feet high should never be planted under power lines. At full height, these trees may cause a power outage or even pose a public danger. They will need to be trimmed regularly to safely coexist with the aerial power lines. Tips on tree selection and planting are available at www.arborday.org. Annually, PECO spends about $25 million on tree and vegetation maintenance across its six county service territory, to prevent tree-related power outages. The company receives more than 10,000 customer requests for tree maintenance – typically with trees considered incompatible around power lines such as silver maples, sycamores and white pines. "We encourage our customers to fully research before planting a tree or bush," said Frank Moffa, PECO manager of Vegetation Management. "By planting the right tree in the right place, customers can not only enjoy the aesthetic and environmental benefits, they can feel better knowing planting the right tree in the right place allows the trees and aerial utility lines to co-exist without conflict."

Ready-to-Build Blackburn greenbarns(TM) offer Affordable, Sustainable, LEED-Worthy Alternatives to Traditional Barns WASHINGTON, April 22 /PRNewswire/ -- For the last 25 years, architect John Blackburn has been practicing sustainable principles in all his designs, long before "green" became cool. In recognition of Earth Day and to do their part this year, Blackburn and his team are introducing Blackburn greenbarns(TM) (www.blackburngreenbarns.com), starting with four, ready-to-build design models for horse owners that feature sustainable, LEED-worthy materials and finishes. Energy-saving, "passive design" innovations are hidden within the designs, for example, the large roofs are oriented to capture wind and sun in order to ventilate and light the barns naturally. Also offered are optional, eco-friendly systems such as solar panels and rainwater harvesting to take greenbarns(TM) to the next level in sustainability. Blackburn, AIA, senior principal of Blackburn Architects, PC and creator of the greenbarns(TM), is internationally known as a designer and builder of state-of-the-art equestrian facilities, with approximately 100 equestrian projects to date accommodating more than 4,000 horse stalls. In the Washington D.C. area, he also is an established leader in adaptive reuse of existing residential and commercial structures (www.blackburnarch.com, www.equestrian-architects.com). The downturn in the economy motivated Blackburn to explore more cost-effective ways of designing and building barns. "Just because it's less expensive, doesn't mean we have to compromise our values," he states. "We still follow the same principles that have guided our practice from the beginning: design for the health and safety of the horse that reflects the needs of the owner and the site. Adding the green elements of design to further drive this home only adds to the value."

Industry Offering Simple Tips for Protecting State's Water & Environment SACRAMENTO, Calif.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Californians who choose to use pesticides around the home and garden should treat every day as if it were Earth Day – by taking care to keep chemicals out of the state's water and environment, according to a leading pesticide industry alliance. The announcement is intended to promote "Apply Responsibly," a public awareness campaign to instill environmentally responsible practices among California gardeners and homeowners who choose to use outdoor pesticides. "Our Earth Day message is simple: Apply Responsibly," said Fred Pearson, chairman of the Urban Pyrethroid Stewardship. "While we recognize and appreciate the different options available for controlling pests, our focus is to ensure consumers who use our products know how to handle, store and dispose of them properly." The stewardship group, comprised of leading pesticide industry companies, was established last year as a way to inform California consumers about the important link between responsible pesticide use and safeguarding the state's water and the environment.

The Principal Child Development Center earns Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design Gold certification DES MOINES, Iowa--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Cork flooring. Ceiling tiles made of sunflower seeds. Desks made of recycled paper. These necessary elements helped The Principal Child Development Center earn its LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) Gold certification from the U.S. Green Building Council. The on-site center offers early learning and childcare services to employees of the Principal Financial Group(R). The center serves up to 180 children, age six weeks to preschool age. "After many months of planning, design and construction, LEED certification validates our commitment to environmentally sustainable projects," said Jed Fisk, vice president, Corporate Services at The Principal(R). "One of the first LEED-certified buildings in downtown Des Moines, The Principal Child Development Center is a landmark not only for our corporate campus, but for the city."

PHILADELPHIA--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Liberty Property Trust (NYSE:LRY), the real estate investment trust that owns and manages 77 million square feet of office and industrial properties in the U.S. and U.K., today announced that Comcast Center in Philadelphia has earned LEED(R) CS (Core & Shell) Gold certification from the U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC). "LEED CS Gold certification for Comcast Center means that the tallest LEED certified building in the nation is located here in Philadelphia. More importantly, it represents a model for how efficient, invigorating and environmentally sustainable workplaces can and should be integrated into our city and region," said John Gattuso, senior vice president and regional director, Liberty Property Trust. "We are extremely pleased that each of the sustainable initiatives undertaken by our team, which included Robert A.M. Stern Architects and environmental consultant Atelier Ten, was successful. This commitment will positively impact tenants, commuters and the citizens of our city and region for decades to come." Comcast Center rises 58 floors above Philadelphia. The 975' glass encased tower features 1.25 million square feet of Class A office, restaurant and retail space. Cutting edge sustainable design can be found in nearly every aspect of the building. It uses 40% less water than a typical office building, with fixtures that save more than three million gallons of drinking water annually, of which, waterless urinals in all restrooms save 1.2 million gallons. Shading on the plaza reduces the heat-island effect caused by pavement by 70%. The low-E coating on the curtainwall glass blocks 60% of heat while allowing in 70% of the sun’s visible light, reducing energy used for air conditioning while utilizing natural light to its fullest.

150,000 Square-foot Cesar Pelli-Designed Building to Open in 2013 at National Harbor WASHINGTON, April 22 /PRNewswire/ -- The National Children's Museum (NCM) today unveiled plans for its new Pelli Clarke Pelli-designed building, slated to open in 2013 at National Harbor, as a physical demonstration of the Museum's mission to inspire children to care about and improve the world. NCM's new 150,000 square-foot, LEED-certified building will serve as an active teaching tool, highlighting the accomplishments of children; using recycled and sustainable materials; and celebrating the natural environment. The space boasts an outdoor courtyard, wind turbine, green wall facade, and glass arrival area. "The building's overall design reflects the mission of the National Children's Museum through a series of dynamic architectural forms surrounding a large exterior courtyard," said Cesar Pelli, Senior Principal of Pelli Clarke Pelli Architects. "Areas of the structure vary in shape and size to create a 'village of forms' that provides great architectural scale and experiential variety to the visitor, along with intuitive wayfinding and seamless interaction between exhibits, programs, and activities. In all aspects, the design seeks to encourage and inspire children to think about their role in the community and the world."

Highlights Green Community Development Projects throughout the Nation and Announces Green Building Symposium at Phoenix NTI WASHINGTON--(BUSINESS WIRE)--As the nation celebrates Earth Day 2009, NeighborWorks(R) America reaffirms its "green" commitment to help low- and moderate-income communities across the nation become healthy, sustainable places for people to live and work. The commitment begins at home with NeighborWorks America's pledge to reduce its carbon footprint by 10 percent by 2012, and to offer training and education on green practices to the nonprofit community development field. The commitment continues throughout the NeighborWorks network, which is working hard to promote green practices in communities through green home design and construction, rehabilitation, weatherization, and energy efficient rental properties. NeighborWorks America and the NeighborWorks network are fully committed to help create and rebuild healthy, sustainable communities across the country. "This is an exciting time for the nonprofit community development field and its efforts to create healthier, sustainable and affordable housing," said Thomas P. Deyo, Senior Advisor, Green Strategies and Gulf Rebuilding at NeighborWorks America. "NeighborWorks is committed to being a leader in employing and promoting green and sustainable practices for the long-term benefit of the environment so that people can live, work, and play in healthy, ecologically friendly and affordable places."

ST. PAUL, Minn., April 22 /PRNewswire/ -- Securian Financial Group chose Earth Day - the birthday of the American environmental movement - to announce that its nine-year-old 401 Building at Sixth and Robert in downtown St. Paul has earned the prestigious LEED(R) EB certification for Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design. The LEED certification is based on exacting scrutiny of engineering standards, energy usage, and environmentally-friendly maintenance and recycling programs. LEED sets a high bar and is especially difficult for existing buildings to obtain. "Only five structures in Minnesota have received the LEED EB certification and the 401 Building is the only one in St. Paul," said Sheri Brezinka, executive director, Mississippi Headwaters Chapter of the US Green Building Council, which awards LEED certification. "The green building movement offers an opportunity to respond to global climate change, dependence on non-sustainable and expensive sources of energy, and threats to human health. Innovative projects such as the 401 Building are a fundamental driving force in the green building movement."

Save Up to 30% with new Green Room Rates HOUSTON--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Hotel Derek, the chic Houston hotel which continually keeps ahead of the curve with bold room design and innovative guest hospitality, is introducing its new Green Room Rates just in time for Earth Day. Hotel Derek joins its management company, Crestline, in establishing and supporting an enhanced sustainable hospitality environment. Crestline recently unveiled EarthPact, a comprehensive green initiative for its 70 full and select service hotels that addresses sustainability across the entire spectrum of hotel operations. In addition, meeting and event planners can book a green meeting and save a little 'green' in the process while helping to reduce their carbon footprint. Hotel Derek offers a customized Green Meetings Package which includes the following: Waste minimization through recycle bins Paperless billing Water pitcher setups vs. bottled water options A selection of organic and sustainable banquet menu items Green room rates yield big savings for travelers and meeting planners. The hotel is offering up to a 30% discount off its best corporate rate. For more information call 713-961-3000 and ask to speak to a reservations specialist.

WASHINGTON, April 21 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- Mark H. Ayers, President of the Building and Construction Trades Department, AFL-CIO, testified this morning before the Senate Health, Education, Labor & Pensions Committee (HELP) to urge them to look to the apprenticeship infrastructure of America's Building Trades Unions for green skills training for U.S. workers. The hearing was designed to explore the avenues for, and potential growth of, green jobs training in the United States, and the ways in which our nation can ensure that these jobs are family-sustaining jobs with good wages and benefits. In speaking to the advances that America's Building Trades Unions have made over the years in the areas of "green" skills training, Mr. Ayers said, "Our unions have built an unsurpassed nationwide apprenticeship and training infrastructure that incorporates the latest technologies that are becoming an increasing part of everyday life on construction projects of every imaginable type. Whether it is the installation of new, high-efficiency plumbing, HVAC and electrical systems, or the use of new and improved building materials and construction techniques, America's Building Trades Unions are on the front lines of the effort to create, not just green 'jobs,' but 'careers' that will enable Americans from all walks of life to enjoy the peace of mind associated with a stable and prosperous career that offers family-sustaining wages and benefits."

Earth Day - April 22, 2009 MARKHAM, ON and TORONTO, April 22 /PRNewswire/ -- Green demolition and environmental remediation contractor, Restoration Environmental Contractors - REC Demolition are celebrating Earth Day by announcing the planting of over 200 trees at Uxbridge, Ontario farms! "REC would like to thank all our customers for their continued support, as your success has been our success. Restoration Environmental are proud to be celebrating Earth Day by planning to plant over 200 trees on behalf of all our customers at an Uxbridge area farm later this summer. We at REC have been GREEN contractors for over twenty years," states Don Bremner, President CEO.

New System Part of City's Ongoing Green Vision SAN JOSE, Calif.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Echelon Corporation (NASDAQ:ELON) announced today that it has won a tender for California's first smart streetlight project. The City of San Jose has selected Echelon's LonWorks(R) technology for its second LED streetlight pilot. This project is part of the City's Green Vision, an ambitious and forward thinking 15-year plan to transform San Jose into a world center of clean technology innovation, to promote environmentally sustainable practices and to reduce energy use. Streetlights networked with Echelon's intelligent controls for smart networks can significantly reduce a city's energy and maintenance costs while improving light quality, decreasing light pollution, and providing increased safety. With this pilot, San Jose plans to convert 125 lights in the city's Hillview North neighborhood by June 2009. The new streetlights will use energy efficient LED lamps equipped with Echelon's power line networking technology and segment controllers. The city is seeking funds from the Federal government's stimulus package to install additional lights, with plans to change all of its 65,000 streetlights to a new energy efficient system by 2022. The city expects to reduce energy use by almost 40% with the new system.

World Leader in Quartz and Stone Surfacing Sets New Standard for Environmental Practices NEW YORK, April 21 /PRNewswire/ -- Cosentino, the world leader in quartz surfacing and one of the world's largest natural stone importers, announces the launch of ECO(TM) by Cosentino (www.ecobycosentino.com), a revolutionary new line of countertop and surfacing material composed of 75% recycled material. The launch of ECO(TM) by Cosentino sets an unprecedented standard for the green building and sustainable design industries. The result of a six million dollar research and development investment, this innovative new product caters to the environmentally conscious and design-oriented architect, designer, and consumer by providing high performance, design and sustainability. ECO(TM) by Cosentino will enter the market in April 2009, and is available at all Lowe's stores nationwide as well as specialty kitchen and bath distributors and showrooms across the country. "The launch of ECO by Cosentino is an exciting milestone for the company," said Roberto Contreras, Jr., President of Cosentino North America. "It marks the introduction of an entirely new category to the industry and sets a new standard that not only complies with environmental regulations but goes beyond and invests in innovative environmental and conservation practices and technologies." ECO(TM) by Cosentino is composed of 75% post-industrial and post-consumer recycled raw material, including: mirrors salvaged from houses, building and factories; glass from windows and bottles; granulated glass from consumer recycling practices; porcelain from china, tiles, sinks, toilets and decorative elements; and industrial furnace residuals from factories in the form of crystallized ashes.

SAN FRANCISCO--(BUSINESS WIRE)--In the midst of the global economic crisis, KMD Architects remains highly active by relying on a combination of affordable housing, sustainable design, and international projects. To meet the growing need for affordable housing in the city of San Francisco, construction is nearing completion on the KMD Architects-designed 250,000 SF mixed-use project in the South of Market neighborhood adjacent to the Mid-Market Redevelopment Agency area. Mercy Housing Towers provides 135 family and 107 senior housing units, a youth center planned to serve both the resident population and youngsters in the surrounding neighborhood, and a small retail component at street level. The project consists of a 12-story and an 11-story building connected by an elevated split-level terrace on the rooftop of an at-grade parking garage, providing a secure area for outdoor activities for the residents. Mercy Housing, a non-profit developer, has participated in the development, preservation and/or financing of more than 35,700 affordable residences, both rental and single family, serving more than 117,000 people on any given day. Mercy Housing Towers represents one of many projects KMD Architects has undertaken as part of its mission to create socially responsible buildings that will support and enhance the community and revitalize neighborhoods. This mission also informs the firm's emphasis on sustainable design, creating buildings that are more durable, safe, and pleasant and that increase occupant health and performance while reducing resource use. Examples include the firm's recent pro-bono work for the City of San Francisco in generating a sustainable master plan for the historic Civic Center as well as the firm's design for the San Francisco City Public Utilities Commission Building in the Civic Center. "This building exceeds the requirements for the US Green Building Council's LEED(TM) Platinum certification and is currently targeted to be the greenest building in the U.S. in terms of energy efficiency and onsite power production," says KMD principal David Hobstetter.

Energy Services Help Save Money and the Planet JACKSONVILLE, Fla., April 21 /PRNewswire/ -- Tomorrow, April 22, we celebrate Earth Day. Some may spend the day planting a tree or picking up litter, but there are even more things we can do that not only save our planet, but save us money. SkyeTec offers homeowners valuable services that help reduce their carbon footprint and keep cash in their wallets. Homeowners looking for low- and no-cost ways to reduce their energy bill should turn to SkyeTec's Home Energy Analysis. This inspection breaks down their current utility bill to detect which areas are costing the most and offers recommendations that will lower their energy bill. Raters use equipment such as infrared cameras to detect any air or water leakage in the home that could be costing the owner hundreds of dollars. Homeowners could reduce their energy bill by up to 30% depending on the upgrades they implement. For an even more in-depth analysis, SkyeTec's Energy Audit with HERS(R) measures the home's energy efficiency level using state-of-the-art testing, including a blower door test and duct blaster test. RESNET raters calculate a HERS index - the nationally recognized rating system for energy efficiency. This index is being increasingly used for a number of different activities, including obtaining a baseline for deep energy retrofits. "A HERS Index is extremely useful to a homeowner - it helps improve the home's resale value, and can be used to receive an Energy Efficient Mortgage, saving the owner in more money," states RESNET rater and Green building consultant, Rondra Bolden.

Pro Energy Consultants Helps Homeowners Reduce Energy Costs with Professional, Standardized Residential Energy Audits CLEVELAND, April 20 /PRNewswire/ -- Pro Energy Consultants, the nation's first home energy audit franchise, announced today it will offer free home energy audits on Earth Day, April 22, 2009. Homeowners who reside in its open markets of Evansville, Charlotte, Albuquerque, Las Vegas and Jacksonville can schedule their free home energy audit for Earth Day. Audits will be scheduled on a first-come, first-served basis. Once the Earth Day schedule is filled, others who call on or before Earth Day will receive a 50 percent discount on their audit. "Pro Energy is one of the nation's leading green franchises and offers homeowners an affordable way to identify opportunities to make their homes more energy efficient and significantly reduce their energy costs," said Derek Sola, managing partner of Pro Energy Consultants. "Since Earth Day is intended to inspire awareness and appreciation for the environment, we thought it was the perfect day to provide homeowners in our existing markets with a free home energy audit."

Company Gears Up to Help Weatherize America OKLAHOMA CITY--(BUSINESS WIRE)--M-D Building Products in Oklahoma City expects demand for its weatherization products to increase over the next year due to the stimulus bill recently signed into law by President Obama. The bill channels over $5 billion to fund weatherization programs and increases the tax credits for weatherproofing homes. The bill includes stimulus elements for states to fund the weatherproofing of homes in low income areas. These homes are traditionally older and less energy efficient. In addition, the bill increases the tax credits available to Americans for weatherproofing their homes from 10% to 30%. "The weatherproofing elements of the stimulus plan underscore the essential role conservation will play in helping our country achieve the greater goal of decreasing our energy dependence on some foreign sources over the next ten years. This bill provides the incentives and financing as well as the motivation for Americans to weatherproof their homes," commented Loren Plotkin, President and CEO of M-D Building Products. M-D Building Products, which was founded in 1920, develops, manufactures and markets a range of residential and commercial weatherproofing products, including door and window weather-stripping, garage door weather-stripping, pipe insulation and a complete line of interior and exterior caulk marketed under both the Tower Sealants and DuPont(TM) brands. "As an industry leader in weatherproofing technology, we are pleased energy conservation is front and center in the creation of the new energy movement in our country. Additionally, as an American company, we are pleased and ready to be part of our nation's new energy economy, an economy built on conservation and renewable energy sources," Plotkin said.

- Solar-Powered Roofing Tile to be Exhibited in Partnership with US Tile - PHILADELPHIA, April 20 /PRNewswire/ -- SRS Energy, a leading developer of sustainable solar roofing systems, will launch the Sole Power Tile(TM), the first building-integrated photovoltaic (BIPV) roofing product designed for curved roofing systems, at the American Institute of Architects 2009 National Convention and Design Exposition. The convention takes place April 30, 2009 through May 2, 2009 at the Moscone Center in San Francisco. SRS Energy will exhibit Sole Power Tile(TM) in partnership with US Tile, the largest manufacturer of clay tile in the United States and recently acknowledged for their Cradle to Cradle certification. "Sustainability and green living is high on the consumer agenda for 2009, with so many homeowners looking to save money and also be eco-conscious," said Marty Low, CEO of SRS Energy. "SRS Energy is excited to introduce Sole Power Tile(TM) to the architectural world. With green building playing such a significant role in the Obama administration's economic stimulus efforts, it could not come at a better time." SRS Energy's Sole Power Tile(TM) system blends seamlessly with several styles of US Tile's clay tiles, providing energy without unsightly solar panels, thus preserving a roofline's aesthetics. The partnership between US Tile and SRS Energy makes going solar easy by integrating the clay tile roof purchase with a BIPV system, enabling businesses or homeowners to go green and generate savings.

New plant will reduce emissions from cement production by over 75% CARDIFF, Wales, United Kingdom--(BUSINESS WIRE)--A small Welsh company, Cenin Ltd., announced it has developed a new technology to reduce emissions from cement production by over 75%. Cement production is currently responsible for up to 5% of all CO2 emissions worldwide—more than the entire aviation industry. Cenin Ltd., formed only two years ago, has opened a production plant and an R&D center near Bridgend in south west Wales. Cenin began supplying cement to blue chip companies last July and is now beginning construction of a second mill to meet future demand. Cenin's cement is made from industry by-products that contain the principal chemical elements found in traditional Portland cement and cement substitutes. Cenin's technology modifies these materials to provide a low-carbon, high-strength durable cement substitute for the concrete industry. On average, 1000kg of CO2 is emitted with every ton of cement produced. By contrast, Cenin's cement replacement produces less than 250kg, and Cenin intends to reduce this to below 30kg by powering its plant with renewable energy. Gary Hunt, Technical Director of Cenin, developed the technology with the help of Cardiff University, where he was an Honorary Research Fellow. Cenin Director Martyn Popham said the company is creating a truly environmentally friendly product. "Our cement eliminates the need to quarry raw materials," he explained. "Demand for Cenin's products – and interest in the technology – is huge," said Popham. "There is real potential for global growth as the construction industry is under increasing pressure to reduce its carbon footprint."

BOMA Releases 100 Strategies to Commemorate Earth Day, Obama's First 100 Days in Office WASHINGTON--(BUSINESS WIRE)--The Building Owners and Managers Association (BOMA) International has issued "100 Days, 100 Ways," a list of tips and strategies to help property professionals make going green a priority on Earth Day and every day. With the office building industry accounting for nearly 20 percent of U.S. greenhouse gas emissions, BOMA has committed to making the commercial real estate industry sustainable and energy efficient. Just as BOMA is dedicated "greening" the industry, the Obama administration has pledged to make greening America a centerpiece of their agenda. With only one week separating Earth Day and the close of President Obama's first 100 days in office, BOMA released the list to commemorate a shared green vision with the new administration. "These 100 straight-forward strategies for going green are critical tools any property professional can put to work today," said BOMA International Chair and Chief Elected Officer Richard D. Purtell, portfolio manager, Grubb & Ellis Management Services, Inc. "So much of what we do is focused on sustainability—whether it be our award-winning education programs, information sharing forums, advocacy or our programming at the BOMA International Conference and The Office Building Show. We look forward to working with the Obama administration and other public leaders as we continue to make energy efficiency and sustainability a priority throughout the built environment." Here are just three of the 100 ways commercial real estate professionals can green their operations this Earth Day: 1) Benchmark energy consumption through ENERGY STAR(R) Portfolio Manager 2) Harvest rainwater for landscaping 3) Institute a tenant energy awareness program

YARMOUTH PORT, Mass., April 17 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- The American Institute of Architects (AIA) and its Committee on the Environment selected IFAW's (the International Fund for Animal Welfare) headquarters building as one of the 2009 top ten examples of sustainable architecture and green design. The award will be given to IFAW and Boston-based designLAB architects at the AIA National Convention and Design Exposition in San Francisco later this month. "We are honored to receive AIA's top ten green award," said IFAW President Fred O'Regan. "Our international headquarters is a platform for our campaigns around the world. The green design reflects our commitment to protect animals, their habitats and the environment." The 2009 COTE Top Ten Green Projects program celebrates projects that are the result of a thoroughly integrated approach to architecture, natural systems and technology. They make a positive contribution to their communities, improve comfort for building occupants and reduce environmental impacts through strategies such as reuse of existing structures, connection to transit systems, low-impact and regenerative site development, energy and water conservation, use of sustainable or renewable construction materials and design that improves indoor air quality. "We are delighted to see IFAW recognized for their commitment to a sustainable headquarters," said designLAB architect Robert Miklos. "It was a pleasure to collaborate with them to invent a special workplace which reflects the personality, mission and purpose of this dynamic organization."

MSN Green survey finds that eco-friendliness has its limits, with nearly 70 percent of people saying that they would never limit toilet flushes to conserve water or use a kitchen compost. REDMOND, Wash., April 20 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- With Earth Day just around the corner, a new MSN Green (http://redirect.aecdaily.com/s18122/green.msn.com/) survey finds it's not always so easy being green. The survey found that overwhelmingly, almost 70 percent of the Americans surveyed say that they would never limit toilet flushes to conserve water or use a kitchen compost. As the country prepares to celebrate Earth Day, statistics show America produces enough trash in one day to equal the weight of the Empire State Building. Although half of respondents say they recycle everything possible, the rest of America needs some convincing, or some help. Nearly half (46 percent) say it will take a simplified system for identifying recyclables and curbside pickup to motivate them to recycle all their waste. However, according to the MSN Green Earth Day Survey, almost 20 percent of people still do not have access to a local recycling service, and others do not know what a carbon footprint is.

DUBLIN--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Research and Markets (http://redirect.aecdaily.com/s18122/www.researchandmarkets.com/research/bd1535/siding_industry) has announced the addition of the "Siding Industry - Global Strategic Business Report" report to their offering. This report analyzes the worldwide markets for Siding Industry in Millions of US$. The market for 'Siding' is analyzed by the following product segments - Brick Siding, Fiber Cement Siding, Metal Siding, Stucco/EIFS Siding, Vinyl Siding, Wood Siding, and Other Siding Materials. The report provides separate comprehensive analytics for the US, Canada, Japan, Europe, Asia-Pacific, and Rest of World. Annual forecasts are provided for each region for the period of 2006 through 2015. A six-year historic analysis is also provided for these markets. The report profiles 162 companies including many key and niche players worldwide such as Associated Materials, Inc., Alside, Inc., BlueScope Steel Limited, Crane Performance Siding, CRH Plc., Oldcastle, Inc., Allied Building Products Corp., Dryvit Systems, Inc., General Shale Brick, Inc., Gentek Building Products Inc., Georgia-Pacific Corporation, Glen-Gery Corporation, Hanson Brick & Tile, James Hardie Industries N.V., JS Group Corporation, Kaycan Ltd., Lahabra Products, Inc., Louisiana-Pacific -Corporation, Mitten Incorporated, NCI Building Systems Incorporated, American Building Components, Insulated Panel Systems, Metal Building Components Inc., Nichiha Corporation, Nucor Corporation, Pine Hall Brick Company, Inc., Ply Gem Holdings, Inc., Ply Gem Industries Inc., Robinson Brick Company, Royal Group, Inc., RPM International Inc., Saint Gobain, CertainTeed Corporation, STO AG, Sto Corp., Weyerhaeuser Company, and Wienerberger Baustoffindustrie AG. Market data and analytics are derived from primary and secondary research. Company profiles are mostly extracted from URL research and reported select online sources.

BETHESDA, Md., April 17 /PRNewswire/ -- A close look at how building owners are applying the latest technologies to create smarter, greener buildings is among the features on the latest edition of ElectricTV.net. A joint production of the National Electrical Contractors Association (NECA) and the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers (IBEW), ElectricTV.net is the only web TV program dedicated to reporting the latest developments in the electrical construction and information systems industries. The vast majority of the more than four million commercial buildings in the United States are equipped with outdated mechanical system technology, relying heavily on manual processes, from adjusting thermostats to turning on lights. Yet, with the advent of a new generation of computer-based, networked systems, building owners at every level can now realize considerable savings in time and money through automation. Lighting, heating and cooling, fire alarm, power systems and more can now be managed from a single computer interface. Plus, says Dave Ulrich, control manager for the Electric Company of Omaha, "With internet connectivity, you can control your systems from any location, both on- and off-site." Such global oversight allows problems to be quickly pinpointed and resolved. And the ability to automatically turn systems on and off, running only as needed, results in decreased operating costs and increased energy savings, benefiting both the owner and the environment.

Nine Percent of Respondents Already Have Made a Qualified Home Improvement Purchase Most Commonly Planned Projects Include Adding Energy-Efficient Windows, Roofing, a New Hot Water Heater or Insulation Nearly Three-Fourths, or 72 Percent, of Respondents Said They Don't Know Exactly How to Apply for State or Federal Energy Efficiency Tax Credits or Rebates DENVER--(BUSINESS WIRE)--The federal government this year extended and expanded home energy efficiency tax credits through 2010 as part of the broader economic recovery package, and millions of U.S. homeowners appear poised to pursue them, according to a survey released today by Johns Manville. More than two-thirds of survey respondents, or 68 percent, said they were aware of the newly created federal energy efficiency tax credits. Of those homeowners, 46 percent said they intend to make a home improvement-related purchase that qualifies for an energy efficiency tax credit, including nine percent of homeowners who said they had already done so during the first three months of 2009. The telephone survey of 784 U.S. homeowners was conducted from April 3 – 6 by Opinion Research Corp., a national market research firm, on behalf of Johns Manville, a leading manufacturer and marketer of premium-quality building insulation and specialty products. The survey's sampling error was plus or minus four percentage points. The energy efficiency tax credits were created earlier this year by President Obama's economic recovery package, which sought to encourage consumer spending amid the recession, as well as persuade homeowners to become more energy efficient. The tax credits allow homeowners to claim 30 percent of the cost of qualified energy efficiency products, up to $1,500, including insulation, windows and doors, roofs, HVAC equipment, and water heaters.

Law Firm Offers Retainer Refunds for Clients in the Event Their Mortgage Cannot be Adjusted LOS ANGELES--(BUSINESS WIRE)--America's Law Group, a national law firm devoted exclusively to loan modification and tax resolution, today launched its "Homeowner Benefit Program," which mandates a refund of retainer fees to all homeowners if, after fighting for loan modification on their behalf with banks and mortgage companies, they cannot ultimately be of assistance. America's Law Group believes this program will instill confidence in homeowners that solutions can, and will, be found to resolve their foreclosure fears. According to government figures, an estimated nine million U.S. homeowners are currently in some type of mortgage trouble and the situation is worsening as five-year adjustable rate and negative amortization loans are adjusted or recast over the coming years. Homeowners across the country are seeking solutions that will help them re-negotiate their current mortgage payments with banks and lenders. Many mortgage loans violate the Truth in Lending Act and the Real Estate Settlement Procedures Act, which America's Law Group will leverage when negotiating a favorable loan adjustment. "America's Law Group is currently in the process of helping almost 2,000 consumers modify their loan payments in order to stay in their homes," said Nicholas Chavarela, managing attorney for America's Law Group. "Our new Homeowner Benefit Program is a testament to our confidence and ability in helping homeowners lower their current mortgage payments. If we cannot help you, you get your money back. It's that simple. Consumers must understand that viable solutions are available."

Roofing Contractor Meets Strict Time Constraints Set by Wineries' Crush Season CONCORD, Calif., April 16 /PRNewswire/ -- D. C. Taylor Co. announced its role as roofing contractor for the solar energy project hosted at four of the Foster's Wine Estates. Due to strict time constraints set by the wineries' annual crush (harvest) season, the 400,000 square-foot roofing project began in August 2008 and finished in October 2008. D. C. Taylor Co. employed nine separate crews totaling 55 workers from across the nation to complete the 15,000-man hour project. Each roof installed by D. C. Taylor Co. features a 25-year warranty, including maintenance services for the next 25 years. The eco-friendly and innovative roofs are designed to collect potable water or can be ph neutral in order to prevent ground water contamination. By salvaging the existing insulation in the roof assembly, the company also avoided hauling 611 cubic yards of debris to local landfills. After completion of the roofing system, D. C. Taylor Co. assisted in the installation and completion of the Foster's-hosted photovoltaic system in their professional capacity. The 1.34 MW solar energy system installed at Beringer Vineyards is currently the largest operational solar energy installation at a United States winery.

Roofing Contractor Meets Strict Time Constraints Set by Wineries' Crush Season CONCORD, Calif., April 16 /PRNewswire/ -- D. C. Taylor Co. announced its role as roofing contractor for the solar energy project hosted at four of the Foster's Wine Estates. Due to strict time constraints set by the wineries' annual crush (harvest) season, the 400,000 square-foot roofing project began in August 2008 and finished in October 2008. D. C. Taylor Co. employed nine separate crews totaling 55 workers from across the nation to complete the 15,000-man hour project. Each roof installed by D. C. Taylor Co. features a 25-year warranty, including maintenance services for the next 25 years. The eco-friendly and innovative roofs are designed to collect potable water or can be ph neutral in order to prevent ground water contamination. By salvaging the existing insulation in the roof assembly, the company also avoided hauling 611 cubic yards of debris to local landfills. After completion of the roofing system, D. C. Taylor Co. assisted in the installation and completion of the Foster's-hosted photovoltaic system in their professional capacity. The 1.34 MW solar energy system installed at Beringer Vineyards is currently the largest operational solar energy installation at a United States winery.

CHICAGO, April 16 /PRNewswire/ -- Of the many aspects involved in the design of an environmentally sound, energy-efficient and sustainable building, the use of LEDs is one of the easiest to implement physically. However, many designers and architects still haven't seen the light when it comes to LED technology. As bad as the pun may be, in most cases it is the literal truth. While architects and designers give many reasons -- ranging from not knowing the standards to not being sure how to specify LEDs -- it all comes down to wanting to know how the LED light will interact with and enhance the spaces they design. Seeing an LED luminaire on a showroom floor gives only a limited idea of how the light will look in the designed space -- poor mental visualization skills and an unfortunate light choice can be costly.

Company's Waterparks Included in Its Own Environmental Program Unveiled Today MADISON, Wis.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Great Wolf Resorts, Inc. (R) (NASDAQ: WOLF), North America's largest family of indoor waterpark resorts, today announced all its U.S. properties have achieved Green Seal(TM) certification for the lodging portion of its operations, making Great Wolf Lodge(R) brand resorts the first and only national hotel chain to earn that distinction. Green Seal is a 20-year-old, independent, non-profit organization dedicated to creating a more sustainable world. Green Seal created a rigorous, science-based environmental standard for the industry, which includes nearly three dozen environmentally responsible criteria for lodging properties. Along with the Green Seal announcement, Great Wolf Lodge executives took the occasion to unveil the company's own, even more sweeping, environmental program called "Project Green Wolf." Both the hotel and waterpark portions of the business are part of Project Green Wolf, and the program also includes an inventive educational program for the resorts' youngest guests created in partnership with National Geographic Kids(TM). "We believe green tourism is the most important travel trend of our lifetime, and we wanted to do the right thing by taking a leadership position on this," said Kim Schaefer, chief executive officer of Great Wolf Resorts. "It's nice to be recognized as the first national hotel chain to achieve Green Seal Certification, yet more importantly, it's gratifying to know we're doing our part to create a sustainable tourism product for lots of families and generations to come." The company spent the last year making the necessary changes to meet the Green Seal requirements. As part of the certification process, each resort underwent an extensive operations audit covering nearly every aspect of its lodging business. All of the Great Wolf Resorts properties, including Blue Harbor Resort(TM) in Sheboygan, Wis., achieved Green Seal's Silver Certification. Additionally, Great Wolf Lodge – Niagara Falls has received a four leaf Green Leaf(TM) Eco-Rating from the Audubon Green Leaf Eco-Rating Program in Canada.

First Hotel in Southern California & One of Four Hotels Worldwide Awarded Gold Level Certification under LEED for New Construction By U.S. Green Building Council LAGUNA BEACH, Calif., April 16 /PRNewswire/ -- Montage Beverly Hills, the 201-room luxury hotel that opened November 2008 in Beverly Hills, California has earned Gold certification under the U.S. Green Building Council's (USGBC) LEED for New Construction rating system. This is the first certified ultra-luxury hotel in Southern California for LEED for New Construction, one of just four Gold certified hotels worldwide designated by this third-party benchmarking system designed to encourage the design, the construction and the operations of more sustainable buildings. Montage Beverly Hills is also the first newly constructed mixed-use hotel and residential project to be LEED certified as a single development, denoting it as a high performance building that is a responsible, efficient and healthy place to live and work. "We're gratified to have created and be operating Southern California's first hotel and residential project to obtain Gold level certification," said Alan J. Fuerstman, Founder and CEO of Montage Hotels & Resorts. "It's a fitting tribute to our development team, our construction team, the City of Beverly Hills and the ongoing efforts of the entire Montage Beverly Hills staff that luxury and sustainability can be synonymous." A total of 18 hotels worldwide have to date achieved LEED certification at Certified Silver, Gold or Platinum levels. The specific LEED for New Construction V2.2 rating system designations reflect assessments of factors such as site selection, water efficiency, energy efficiency, materials and resources, and indoor environmental quality. LEED, begun in 2000, now encompasses more than 22,000 registered and certified projects in the U.S. and 91 countries and is administered by the USGBC, a Washington, D.C.-based nonprofit coalition of building industry leaders.

FORT WORTH, Texas--(BUSINESS WIRE)--To celebrate Acme's 118th birthday on April 17th, the company is giving 8,800 compact fluorescent light bulbs to employees. Each employee will receive four, 100 watt CFL's (compact fluorescent lights). Over its lifetime, every bulb will save employees about $90.00 compared to a standard light bulb. "If you include an estimate for the birthday bulbs' impact on air conditioning requirements, our employees will save nearly one million dollars!" said Bill Seidel, Senior Vice President of Marketing. The U. S. Government's Energy Star Program estimates that, if every American home replaced just one 60 watt light bulb with an ENERGY STAR qualified bulb, we would save enough energy to light more than 3 million homes for a year, more than $600 million in annual energy costs, and prevent greenhouse gases equivalent to the emissions of more than 800,000 cars. In addition to the Energy Star light bulbs, all employees will receive an enameled lapel pin that bears Acme's motto…From the Earth, For the Earth. Both items are contained in a reusable shopping bag made of recycled materials. Acme President and CEO Dennis Knautz said, "We felt that, in addition to the many energy conserving things that we all do together as a company, it was our duty to take the green, energy conservation message from the workplace into our employees' homes."

Center for Light+Space a testament to the Company's sustainability pledge CONYERS, Ga., April 15 /PRNewswire/ -- The Center for Light+Space, the New York sales office and showroom for Acuity Brands Lighting, has earned LEED(R) certification, landing the prestigious gold rating for its midtown-Manhattan location at 5 Penn Plaza. The recognition underscores Acuity Brands Lighting's industry leadership position and its commitment to sustainable business practices. It also bolsters the Center for Light+Space's role as an exemplary "green" innovator for the New York City architectural and lighting design community. The LEED/Gold certification, which represents Leadership in Energy & Environmental Design, was presented to Acuity Brands Lighting in the Commercial Interiors category by U.S. Green Building Council, a non-profit organization that promotes sustainability in residential and commercial buildings. U.S. Green Building Council recognized the office/showroom at 8th Avenue and 34th Street for its successful implementation of environmentally sound space planning, energy and material use, and indoor environmental quality. The facility scored the most credits in the "materials and resources" category. For example, credits were earned because most raw materials, furniture and equipment are made of recycled content and were manufactured within a 500-mile radius of the Center. And, Energy Star(R)-specified devices such as computers and appliances were used exclusively.

VALLEY FORGE, Pa., April 15 /PRNewswire/ -- As tax season closes and the daunting task of preparing a tax return is fresh in the minds of homeowners, there is no better time to plan ahead. Several smart investments in energy efficiency can make it easy for homeowners to save money now on their utility bills, save money on next year's tax return and create a more comfortable, environmentally friendly home. As part of the recently signed-into-law American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009 (ARRA), homeowners can take advantage of a key provision that allows them to earn credit on their income taxes by making key energy-efficient home improvements. To make it easy, CertainTeed Corporation has launched a new online resource www.certainteed.com/energytaxcredit. The site offers an easy-to-understand explanation of the tax credits, in which homeowners can reduce the amount of taxes they pay next year, up to $1500, by investing in insulation, cool roofing, exterior doors and windows. "With unpredictable home energy costs, the growing consumer demand for eco-friendly products and interest in the federal tax credits, energy efficiency is top of mind for many homeowners," says Peter Dachowski, president of CertainTeed Corporation. "As North America's leading brand for building products for more than 100 years, we want to show homeowners how they can reinvest in their homes to save now on their bills and next year on their taxes."

CLEVELAND--(BUSINESS WIRE)--GE Consumer & Industrial's month-long Earth Day initiative, GE Project Plant-a-Bulb (www.GEProjectPlantaBulb.com), helps consumers consider the environmental and financial benefits of energy efficient lighting, while bringing the lasting beauty and positive effects of perennial flower bulbs to selected Midwestern landscapes in cities such as Cleveland and Chicago. For every unique visitor to www.GEProjectPlantaBulb.com over the next 30 days, GE will plant a corresponding number of flower bulbs, up to 100,000 in total. The plantings will be conducted with the help of environmental and civic organizations. Visitors to the site will find coupons, streaming educational videos, energy lesson plans for teachers and an energy savings calculator that shows consumers how to cut wasteful spending on energy. "Beautifying communities by planting bulbs and other flowers can have an affect that extends well beyond the obvious," says Matt McKenna, president and CEO of Keep America Beautiful. "Visually appealing public spaces have been proven to create an atmosphere that attracts visitors, improves business and commerce, increases surrounding property values, and enhances the quality-of-life for all area residents."

AUSTIN, Texas, April 15 /PRNewswire/ -- With the arrival of late spring, homeowners need to be on guard for an annual menace that threatens their homes: termites. April and May are the height of termite season - the time when the temperature is just right for termites to begin swarming out of their nests to build new colonies in another location. These "swarmers" look a lot like flying ants - but the damage they can do in the long run is much more serious. Homeowners who see flying termites in their area should be aware of the following tips, courtesy of Killthetermites.com: First, you need to find out if they came from your property. Termites commonly live underground, but tunnel into your house to eat the wood as a food source. Be on the lookout for tunnels on your home made of mud. If the swarmers seem to be mostly indoors, it's a good sign you're already infested. Second, turn off your lights at night if you see swarmers in your area. Like most bugs, they're attracted to the light, and will go straight for your home. If you think the termites are coming from your property, you should get it inspected by a professional. It's very difficult to get rid of termites on your own, and the damage they can do is severe.

A Pre-Sale or Maintenance Inspection Adds Value to the Home and Helps Identify Potential Issues DES PLAINES, Ill.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--American Society of Home Inspectors (ASHI): April is National Home Inspection month. An inspection before you sell your house can add value to the home and help to speed up the process and likelihood of an offer. Homeowners should schedule a maintenance inspection every three to five years to identify problems before they become costly repairs. Whether you are planning to put your home on the market or are expecting to stay in it for several years, this may be the right time to hire a home inspector. According to the American Society of Home Inspectors (ASHI), April is National Home Inspection Month. The association reminds homeowners that a new home purchase is not the only time for a home inspection. Bill Richardson, ASHI president, said, "In a down market, a pre-sale inspection can make a home stand out. More and more, sellers are obtaining pre-sale inspections to help uncover and address any issues before the first prospective buyer walks through the door. This simple step can allow for better planning and lower expense in making repairs, add value to the home and help speed up the process and the likelihood of an offer." In addition to pre-sale inspections, Richardson also emphasized the need to get a home inspection every three to five years to improve maintenance and avoid costly repairs. During a routine inspection, all the visible and readily accessible components and systems are checked. This includes everything from the foundation, roof and gutters, to a home's exterior and interior walls, electrical wiring and plumbing. "In this uncertain economic time, it is important to be able to plan ahead," Richardson said. "People who leave their houses unchecked are taking a significant risk. In some cases, that could be 10, 15 or even more years during which time a minor, unnoticed repair could become a significant expense or be the culprit of major damage or safety issues. A basic maintenance home inspection can cost far less than an expensive repair. An ASHI home inspector can often spot potential problems before the damage happens."

ROCKVILLE, Md.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--You can expect to read and see more about noxious odors and copper-corrosion from sulfurous off-gassing Chinese gypsum wallboard as temperatures and humidity rise this summer, indoor environmental and air quality expert Barbara Manis, M.D., says. But while irritative, rotten-egg-like odors have caused residents in at least five states to flee their homes, any actual health dangers to humans have yet to be detected, according to Dr. Manis, Chief Medical Officer for Building Health Sciences, Inc. (BHS). Gases from Chinese drywall are corroding copper-containing electronic equipment, wires, pipes and air conditioning systems in residences constructed with Chinese gypsum imported during the 2004 - 2007 housing boom. While some may be more sensitive than others to sulfur-based odor from the walls, to date no tested levels of sulfur-containing gases have been measured at or above health-based regulatory standards, Dr. Manis said, in calling for a national scientific approach to the growing problem. "Let's get ahead of this problem scientifically, now," Manis said, noting that federal and state class action and individual lawsuits have been filed against gypsum manufacturers and suppliers, builders and others. "We've seen how emotional and unscientific claims distorted the indoor mold problem into a far more serious situation than it was. Let's not replay this with Chinese gypsum. But, by the same token, if dangers to humans are discovered, we need to work together solve them." Summer's hotter more humid weather in southeastern states like Florida, Louisiana, Mississippi and Texas will keep Chinese gypsum in the headlines. One news report indicates that enough suspect drywall entered the U.S. to build 60,000 homes. Toxicologists and industrial hygienists have identified four sulfur compound emissions in testing Chinese gypsum: carbon disulfide, carbonyl sulfide, hydrogen sulfide, and strontium sulfate (trace levels), at varying exposure levels, according to Manis. "Each of these, in conditions of high humidity and heat, could trigger odors and irritative symptoms in certain individuals," she explained.

To Help Support Green Jobs, Bolster the Economy and Save Energy and the Environment BELLEVUE, Wash.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Puget Sound Energy is encouraging residential customers to take advantage of up to $8,000 in combined utility rebates and potential federal tax credits to make energy efficient home improvements this year that will help support green jobs and could pay for themselves by next year with energy savings that will continue for years to come. "If PSE residential customers are considering upgrading windows, doors, insulation or heating equipment, 2009 is the year to do it," said Cal Shirley, vice president of Energy Efficiency Services for PSE. "They'll get PSE rebates right away, may be able to claim a tax credit on next year's return and will enjoy lower annual utility costs for years to come. With all these savings combined, investments that also improve home values could pay for themselves by next April and at the same time support local green jobs, bolster the economy and protect the environment." The recent stimulus bill extends energy efficiency federal tax credits into 2010 and increases the maximum dollar amount allowed to $1,500. In addition, PSE customers can take advantage of PSE rebates and incentives totaling as much as $6,500 for energy efficiency home improvements, including the purchase of ENERGY STAR(R) rated appliances or equipment and converting from electric to natural gas home and water heating.

Livermore Cinemas' Solar Powered Movie Theater Is an Example of Environmental Leadership LIVERMORE, Calif.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--SPG Solar, Inc., recently completed the largest solar system on a movie theater in America. Livermore Cinemas in Livermore, Calif., now has a fully operational 132 kW rooftop system which produces 190,000 kilowatt-hours per year to help power the all-digital multiplex cinema. "To be at the forefront of making solar energy a part of the movie-going experience is important," says Dan Thompson, President and CEO of SPG Solar. "SPG Solar does everything possible to ensure our client's renewable energy needs are met." The SPG Solar system offsets 45 percent of the facility's electric use. According to the US Environmental Protection Agency, this system will prevent the emissions of more than 3,400 metric tons of greenhouse gases, which is equivalent to removing 625 passenger cars from the road for a year. The system utilizes 805 Solyndra solar modules, containing more than 21 miles of tubular solar cells.

Plant manufactures super-insulating, energy-saving SeriousWindows and SeriousGlass BOULDER, Colo.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Serious Materials, the leading energy-saving building materials company in the U.S., will host Senator Udall today at its Boulder facility that manufacturers super-insulating, energy-saving SeriousWindows(TM) and SeriousGlass(TM). Senator Udall plans to visit to show his support for companies that manufacture sustainable building products, and in doing so, create new American green jobs. The new funding made available through the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (ARRA) for energy-efficient building projects address residential, government buildings, schools, and low-income housing and will significantly increase demand for SeriousWindows and SeriousGlass. Replacement of existing windows with SeriousWindows and SeriousGlass could reduce the U.S. total energy use and carbon emissions by 5% and over 200 million tons of C02 per year. Super-insulating full-frame R-5 to R-11 windows can reduce heating and cooling up to 50%, resulting in a 5% savings in national energy use. SeriousWindows and SeriousGlass support energy efficiency programs as outlined under The American Recovery & Reinvestment Act (ARRA) including: Weatherization (WAP), Green Federal Buildings, State Energy Program (SEP), Energy Efficiency Block Grants, Energy Tax Credit for Consumers, and Tax Deductions for Commercial Buildings. Just last month, Serious Materials was commended by President Obama for the work it is doing to create thousands of American green jobs. "The economic opportunities for companies making sustainable products are endless, and that's what today's visit shows," said Senator Udall. "For many years I've worked for policies that encourage the development of green technology and manufacturing because I believe it's the right thing for our economy and for our environment. And I know that through the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act and other legislation, we can continue to increase the demand for sustainable building products – and create many more good-paying jobs as a result."

BROOKLYN, N.Y., April 13 /PRNewswire/ -- The Brooklyn Bridge is in critical condition of losing its life and may not have enough strength to pull through. In a heroic battle cry to prevent its demise, renowned historian, lecturer and two time Pulitzer Prize winning author David McCullough, speaks out against the very threat that seeks to destroy this national treasure in a 4 minute video Op Ed piece featured on the New York Times website. A proposed 18-story large scale structure known as Dock Street, will single handily deform the 8-story Brooklyn Bridge as we know it today, and as we've known it for the past 125 years. Two Trees' proposed development will stand just 70 feet from the iconic structure and erase its skyline forever. Its memory will remain only in the photos and films that captured its majesty and in the minds of those who saw it firsthand, from the architectural pioneers to the Ellis Island immigrants and the modern day sightseer seeking to catch a glimpse of its beauty and poise. To view Mr. McCullough's comments on what the cityscape would look like to generations to come if this proposal goes through click here : http://redirect.aecdaily.com/s18122/video.nytimes.com/video/2009/04/10/opinion/1194747017437/paving-over-hi story.html The New York City Department of City Planning will rule on this important issue April 22. DUMBO Neighborhood Association Executive Director Doreen Gallo, who invited Mr. McCullough to speak out on this topic stated, "The DNA is honored to have Mr. McCullough support our struggle. This issue is just not a neighborhood battle, but rather something that should be of concern to everyone. The proposed structure is just too tall and out of context with the neighborhood. The bridge does not just belong to DUMBO or to New York but to millions around the world. Having David McCullough, author of The Great Bridge weigh in really exemplifies that." In commenting on the project Mr. McCullough stated, "In his initial proposal for the Bridge, written in 1867, the brilliant John A. Roebling, its designer, said that the finished work would stand down the years as a testament to the community that built it. That was 142 years ago. And there the bridge stands today, just as he said, a testament to those who built it. Let what is decided now, in the year 2009, be a testament of our appreciation for this rarest of structures, the gratitude we feel as we enjoy it, the pride we take in it."

PA Senate Bill 100 Compliance Required by July 1, 2009 STATE COLLEGE, Pa., April 13 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- On July 1 PA Senate Bill 100 becomes law and many of those affected, primarily home improvement contractors and larger suppliers, may be unprepared to deal with its impact. To address this issue, a not-for-profit coalition of business owners will hold a free seminar at 7:00 PM on April 20th at the State College Elks Club in Boalsburg, PA. Participants may register online at www.stop-them.org. Pre-registration is recommended as organizers expect a full house. The seminar will explain registration and contract compliance under the Act. Allen C. Jacobson Esq., and lobbyist, Michael Caterino will explain the bill in depth, and what contractors need to know in order to obtain contract approval. Representatives from the offices of the Governor, Attorney General and state legislators have been invited to attend. "This law not only applies to home improvement contractors, but may also apply to any business that provides services and products to homeowners that exceed $500," said Sam Mannino, spokesperson and in-house volunteer lobbyist for the association, STOP THEM.ORG, a not-for-profit formed by local business owners specifically to assist contractors with PA Senate Bill 100. "I suggest that any person with a question see the non-profit's website at: www.stop-them.org for a complete list of requirements."

TOLEDO, Ohio, April 13 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- Owens Corning, a world leader in building materials and glass fiber reinforcements, today announced that its Asphalt facility in Denver, Colo., has achieved Star status under U.S. Department of Labor's Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) Voluntary Protection Program (VPP) for its outstanding safety programs. Star is the highest of three safety designations given by OSHA and the federal government. VPP Star status officially recognizes the outstanding efforts of employers and employees who have achieved exemplary occupational safety and health. The recognition validates the facility's sustained safety excellence, employee involvement in safety programs and leadership support of safety initiatives. Fewer than 2,000 of the nation's millions of worksites have earned VPP Star status. Owens Corning's Denver Asphalt facility is one of approximately 45 in the state of Colorado recognized as a Star facility, and it joins the company's Brookville, Ind. Roofing, and Linnton, Ore. Asphalt facilities in receiving this recognition. "This is a great honor for our people in Denver, and an important recognition for Owens Corning," said Karel Czanderna, Owens Corning group president, building materials. "We believe in the principles of partnership that the Star program represents. Our commitment to safety is unconditional. Throughout all of our locations and operations, we are committed to creating a workplace that is safe, engaging and productive for all employees."

CINCINNATI--(BUSINESS WIRE)--SHP Leading Design is pleased to announce that it has been awarded LEED Gold Certification for their office headquarters. LEED is the United States Green Building Council's (USGBC) rating system for designing and constructing the world’s greenest, most energy efficient, and high performing buildings. "SHP is honored to receive our certification from the USGBC," said SHP President Lauren Della Bella, LEED AP. "As an organization, we are committed to green and sustainable design and the certification of our very own office proves we are truly walking the walk." LEED verifies environmental performance, occupant health and financial return. LEED was established for market leaders to design & construct buildings that protect and save precious resources while also making good economic sense. "The strength of USGBC has always been the collective strength of our leaders in the building industry," said Rick Fedrizzi, President, CEO & Founding Chair, USGBC. "Given the extraordinary importance of climate protection and the central role of the building industry in that effort, SHP Leading Design demonstrates their leadership through their LEED certification of their headquarters in Cincinnati." SHP desired a new corporate office to better reflect their absolute commitment to sustainable architecture. "The end result of our new space is a more responsive, flexible, high-performing environment that allows us to better serve our clients," Della Bella added. Utilizing daylight was a major focus of the design of the new office. "The open floor plan, with no perimeter offices and low 42-inch partitions, enables anyone walking through the space to experience design creation," she said. The building also has floor-to-ceiling windows and boasts sloped ceiling panels that pull natural light into the center of the space thus reducing the demand for lighting. In addition, linear pendant lights dim and brighten based on the amount of daylight.

Sole Power Tile(TM) Makes Unsightly Solar Panels Unnecessary to Generate Sustainable Power. PHILADELPHIA, April 13 /PRNewswire/ -- SRS Energy, a leading developer of sustainable solar roofing options, has forged a partnership with US Tile, the largest manufacturer of authentic clay tile in the United States, to offer the first seamless solar roofing upgrade for premium curved roofing systems. The first curved solar tile to be introduced to the U.S. market, SRS Energy's Sole Power Tile(TM) seamlessly integrates with US Tile's premium "S" clay roofing systems. Sole Power Tile(TM) maintains the depth and aesthetics of a sophisticated roofline. At the same time, Sole Power Tile(TM) is infused with cutting-edge, electricity-generating technology. The partnership between US Tile and SRS Energy makes a solar upgrade easy by integrating it into a straightforward roof purchase. "Consumption without consciousness is over," said Steve Gast, president of US Tile. "The industry is building smarter, more efficient homes. US Tile has remained on the cutting edge of the green movement with cool roofs, LEED outreach, and our recent Cradle to Cradle certification. With Sole Power Tile(TM), SRS Energy offers the solar solution our customers want." Designed to blend with several of US Tile's authentic clay tiles, SRS Energy's Sole Power Tile(TM) provides sustainable solar electricity without unsightly solar panels. In this way, builders can offer homeowners appealing options, and homeowners can go green and generate savings without sacrificing aesthetics or dealing with the added complexities typically associated with going solar.

Participants of the World Bank's Green Pavement Workshop visit Aggregate Industries' Bladensburg, MD Asphalt Plant WASHINGTON, April 9 /PRNewswire/ -- The World Bank Carbon Finance Unit convened a workshop on April 2 focused on reducing emissions from road projects. The event brought together representatives from the private sector, government officials, and staff from the Carbon Finance Unit. Following the workshop, attendees were given a tour of the Aggregate Industries' Bladensburg asphalt plant, which produces warm mix asphalt. The plant tour was a part of the World Bank's Transport Week Workshop on "reducing greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions from road construction projects through the use of green pavement technologies." Aggregate Industries, which hosted the tour, is a Rockville-based producer of aggregate and construction materials and was selected to participate in the event because of the Company's commitment to developing and deploying sustainable products and solutions in the building materials market. Along with organizers from the Carbon Finance Unit at the World Bank, members from the National Asphalt Pavement Association and representatives from the World Bank's client country transport agencies, representing more than ten countries from around the world, attended the asphalt plant tour hosted by the plant manager, David Jones. During the tour, Jones explained the history, vision, products, and other significant facts about the plant to the visitors. Aggregate Industries' Bladensburg asphalt plant was commissioned on April 9, 2008. When the decision to go forward with the project was made in 2006, the DC market presented a unique opportunity, whereby market growth and a consolidated competitive market provided favorable conditions for an investment of this nature. This strongly competitive location and materials advantage, raw materials supplied direct from the quarry by rail, allow Aggregate Industries to capture market growth and market share from its competitors. Currently, the Bladensburg asphalt plant possesses a warm mix asphalt capability for all base and surface pavements as specified by surrounding jurisdictions and the private sector, while approval for the public sector is pending.

MCHENRY, Ill., April 9 /PRNewswire/ -- Jessup Manufacturing Company has introduced a new product brochure outlining the features and benefits of the company's full line of award-winning Glo Brite(R) Eco Exit(TM) signs. These signs consume no energy and need no maintenance, reducing costs and the carbon footprint for building owners. The full line of Glo Brite(R) Eco Exit(TM) signs from North America's leading manufacturer of photoluminescent safety products includes benefits for architects, contractors and building owners. A cost-comparison chart illustrates the potential savings from the Glo Brite(R) Eco Exit(TM) signs compared with other types of signs. Savings can total as much as $135,000 for 100 signs over a 10-year lifespan. Furthermore, the Glo Brite(R) Eco Exit(TM) signs can reduce air pollution by almost a half a million pounds of CO2 compared with incandescent signs over the life of the product. Glo Brite(R) Eco Exit(TM) signs use next generation photoluminescent technology to absorb and store ambient light. During an emergency blackout or smoky conditions the stored energy is immediately visible, creating a clear, recognizable exit indicator. "Our new Glo Brite(R) Eco Exit(TM) signs are changing the face of exit sign technology by combining environmentally friendly 'green' design and energy savings. They are the only zero energy, zero radioactivity and zero maintenance solution on the market," said Alan M. Carlson, vice president marketing support and business development for Jessup.

ARLINGTON, Va., April 9 /PRNewswire/ -- Federal spending on transportation and other infrastructure projects across the country is slated to top $200 billion in the next two years. The $150 billion for new infrastructure spending in the recently-passed economic stimulus package is only one aspect of a huge federal infusion of capital planned for building and maintaining high-speed rail systems, highways and bridges, airports, pipelines, and energy grids. Major spending is also anticipated for mass transit, clean water, green technology, broadband, and other infrastructure projects. Infrastructure Investment & Policy Report, a new print and electronic service from the specialized news and information publisher BNA, will be a critical resource for stakeholders seeking to monitor the flow of federal funding into state and local economies. "Lawyers, government affairs professionals, energy companies, engineers, architects and building contractors are among the many, many professional groups that will be involved in rebuilding different parts of the nation's crumbling infrastructure in the next few years and overhauling the energy efficiency of the nation's existing structures," said Stephanie I. Cohen, BNA Senior Editor. "They will find Infrastructure Investment & Policy Report an essential tool in tracking these new funding streams and program initiatives at the local, state, federal and international level, and in ways that will contribute to their success."

Completes State's Largest Rooftop Solar Installation TUCSON, Ariz.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--SPG Solar, Inc., recently completed Arizona's largest rooftop solar project for one of the world's largest beverage distributors. The 500 kWp solar system was installed at a distribution center in Tolleson, Ariz., to optimize a generous utility rebate, reduce electrical costs and meet the client's environmental stewardship goals. The completion of the system sparked interest and brought opportunity in the Arizona solar market, leading SPG Solar to establish a permanent operating facility in Tucson, Ariz., in March. SPG Solar's expansion into Arizona follows the trend of continued growth of the company since being founded in Northern California in 2001. SPG Solar also completed a project for the Wilson School District in Phoenix, Ariz., and is breaking ground on seven new projects for the City of Tucson that will combine to deliver nearly 1 megawatt of clean, renewable energy to the city. "SPG Solar believes in fostering sustainable practices that not only benefit the environment but the communities in which we live and work," says Dan Thompson, President and CEO of SPG Solar. "Our recent projects and expansion in to Arizona will continue to create jobs and further those practices."

LOS ANGELES, April 8 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- Environmental Defense Fund (EDF) applauds the City of Los Angeles for its leadership in establishing the nation's first public-sector green building retrofit program that will create green jobs and reduce carbon emissions. The ordinance calls for the green retrofitting of all city-owned buildings over 7,500 square feet or built before 1978, using guidelines from the U.S. Green Business Council and others. It sets a goal of starting 100 retrofits annually and priority will be given to projects with high community-impact level. Its green careers program features training and placement for local, low-income and underemployed workers. The ordinance creates two management positions, an interdepartmental taskforce and an advisory council of experts and stakeholders to oversee, guide and report on progress. "The 'Green Building Retrofit Ordinance' shows how environment and energy policies can stimulate California's economy. It will put people to work in green jobs, generate revenue for local businesses, save L.A. taxpayers up to $6 million in energy costs and cut global warming pollution," said Derek Walker, director of EDF's California Climate Initiative. "Los Angeles is setting an example that cities nationwide can follow." "There are tremendous opportunities for employment in the green economy and this ordinance shows how community, labor and environmental groups can work together to link environmental policies with valuable green job training, placement and apprenticeship programs," said Tim O'Connor, attorney and climate change analyst at EDF.

Insurer to Offer Innovative, Environmentally Friendly Coverage; Five Percent Discount Given to Green Homeowners NOVATO, Calif.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Fireman's Fund Insurance Company, the nation's first provider of green insurance, has introduced green insurance for homeowners in Maryland. Setting a new standard, Fireman's Fund (www.firemansfund.com/green) is offering this innovative product to homeowners who currently own green homes or who want to upgrade their residences with green features after a loss using environmental safety and efficiency standards. If a home is completely destroyed, it can be rebuilt to green standards, certified as having Leadership in Environmental and Energy Design status (LEED(R), www.usgbc.org/leed). "We believe this is a trend-setting insurance solution for homeowners who are interested in the many benefits of 'going green' at home," said Donald Soss, vice president of Fireman's Fund Personal Insurance. Homeowners whose residences are already green will be offered a five percent discount on this coverage, applied to the homeowner premium.

Come Celebrate Earth Day and Green Living at This Special Event SOUTH SAN FRANCISCO, Calif.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--The Greenv Sustainable Center of South San Francisco invites the public to celebrate Earth Day a little early this year. From 9:00 am until 5:00 pm on Saturday, April 18, the center will host a grand opening event designed to showcase the center's commitment to green living, green businesses, and the green community. Doors will open to the public at 9:00 am and the event will kick off at 9:30 am with a ribbon-cutting ceremony and speech by Karyl Matsumoto, mayor of South San Francisco. John Portner, president of Greenv, and Rick Rios, general manager of the Greenv Sustainable Center, will also speak. After the ribbon cutting, the public will be invited in to explore the wealth of products and services that the Greenv Sustainable Center offers. At 11:00 am, attendees will be treated to an inspiring keynote address by David Gottfried, founder of the U.S. Green Building Council. In addition to speakers, the Greenv Sustainable Center grand opening will feature seminars, sustainable product demonstrations, live music, organic food and beverages, and kid-friendly activities, including a visit by a mobile science lab. There will also be a raffle for the chance to win an "Eco-Ped" electric scooter and other prizes. Attendees who bicycle or take public transportation to the event will receive a free raffle ticket.

American Leak Detection Recognizes Earth Day by Showing People How They Can Conserve Water in Their Homes PALM SPRINGS, Calif.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--American Leak Detection is letting residents know they can celebrate Earth Day on April 22nd by joining the "green" bandwagon and making an impact on the environment – right in their homes. "You don't even have to take one step outside your front door to make a difference. All you have to do is be mindful of the way you’re using your water," said Stan Berenbaum, president of American Leak Detection. The following are five water conservation tips from American Leak Detection: 1. Think Smart When Using Water Appliances. With dishwashers and laundry washer machines, you can save gallons of water simply by waiting to use them until you have a full load. In fact, a dishwasher conserves more water than hand washing dishes. According to the American Water Works Association, an automatic dishwasher uses 9 to 12 gallons of water, while hand washing can use up to 20 gallons. 2. Refrigerate Your Drinking Water. Avoid running the faucet to get a cool glass of drinking water. Let your refrigerator do the work by storing a container of water in there to keep drinking water cold. 3. Conserve Water When Washing Produce. Use a bowl of water to clean fruits and vegetables instead of running water over them. In addition, always think of ways to reuse water. For example, the water from washing produce can be reused for watering your houseplants or garden. 4. Avoid Unnecessary Flushes. An average family of four uses almost 900 gallons of water per week, just by flushing the toilet. Keep children from repeatedly flushing the toilet for fun, and dispose of hand tissues, insects and other wastes in the trash, not the toilet. 5. Stop that Annoying Drip…Drip…Drip. A leaky faucet can waste 100 gallons of water each day, Berenbaum said. That’s why it’s important to make sure you fix leaks that you notice in your kitchen and bathroom. If you detect a leak, call a professional right away. The sooner you fix it the less water you are wasting.

OptimumHVAC Software Reduced the Airport's Carbon Footprint by Nearly 300,000 Pounds in First Five Months SEATTLE--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Optimum Energy LLC, provider of Ultra High Performance HVAC software solutions that set a new standard in energy efficiency, today announced the successful commissioning of its OptimumHVAC software at Mineta San José International Airport (SJC). In the first five months of operation, the Airport's HVAC system has saved more than 235,000 kilowatt hours (kWh) of electricity, which equates to utility savings of more than $35,000, and a carbon footprint reduction of nearly 300,000 pounds CO2. "The City of San Jose is committed to finding creative ways to reduce our operating costs and improve our environmental performance," said Patrick Tonna, SJC Deputy Director for Facilities and Engineering. "HVAC optimization software has helped us toward our goal to achieve airport LEED sustainability certification by reducing our energy use, while both maintaining a comfortable building for our customers and enhancing the efficiency of our staff and tenants." Engineering services firm WSP Flack + Kurtz managed the addition of a new 1,100-ton chiller unit to the SJC facility's central plant, and upgrade of SJC's two existing 450-ton chillers with installation of variable frequency drives and readjustment of the existing air handling units. Once the central plant updates were complete, OptimumLOOP software was installed. In the first five months of operation, the San Jose Airport chiller plant reduced its average kW/ton from 1.23 kW/ton to 0.65 kW/ton, a 47 percent reduction. "The success of our OptimumLOOP software at the San Jose Airport helps prove that Optimum Energy's approach to energy efficiency in commercial facilities is leading to a paradigm shift in HVAC energy efficiency," said Nathan Rothman, President and CEO of Optimum Energy. "The San Jose Airport installation is phenomenal in that we're already seeing outstanding results even through the winter months and Terminal B is not yet open. Since OptimumHVAC optimizes performance continuously based on real-time demand, we expect the energy savings to be even greater as the weather warms up and the facility is completed and fully utilized."

OptimumHVAC Software Reduced the Airport's Carbon Footprint by Nearly 300,000 Pounds in First Five Months SEATTLE--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Optimum Energy LLC, provider of Ultra High Performance HVAC software solutions that set a new standard in energy efficiency, today announced the successful commissioning of its OptimumHVAC software at Mineta San José International Airport (SJC). In the first five months of operation, the Airport's HVAC system has saved more than 235,000 kilowatt hours (kWh) of electricity, which equates to utility savings of more than $35,000, and a carbon footprint reduction of nearly 300,000 pounds CO2. "The City of San Jose is committed to finding creative ways to reduce our operating costs and improve our environmental performance," said Patrick Tonna, SJC Deputy Director for Facilities and Engineering. "HVAC optimization software has helped us toward our goal to achieve airport LEED sustainability certification by reducing our energy use, while both maintaining a comfortable building for our customers and enhancing the efficiency of our staff and tenants." Engineering services firm WSP Flack + Kurtz managed the addition of a new 1,100-ton chiller unit to the SJC facility’s central plant, and upgrade of SJC's two existing 450-ton chillers with installation of variable frequency drives and readjustment of the existing air handling units. Once the central plant updates were complete, OptimumLOOP software was installed. In the first five months of operation, the San Jose Airport chiller plant reduced its average kW/ton from 1.23 kW/ton to 0.65 kW/ton, a 47 percent reduction. "The success of our OptimumLOOP software at the San Jose Airport helps prove that Optimum Energy's approach to energy efficiency in commercial facilities is leading to a paradigm shift in HVAC energy efficiency," said Nathan Rothman, President and CEO of Optimum Energy. "The San Jose Airport installation is phenomenal in that we're already seeing outstanding results even through the winter months and Terminal B is not yet open. Since OptimumHVAC optimizes performance continuously based on real-time demand, we expect the energy savings to be even greater as the weather warms up and the facility is completed and fully utilized."

Upgrades Transform Standards into a Superior Product over Field Mix Stucco Anaheim, CA, April 8, 2009– ParexLahabra, the parent company of leading building material brands; Parex, LaHabra , El Rey Stucco, Teifs, Surewall, Mer-Krete and Mer-Ko, today announced the launch of Parex Armourwall Stucco Assemblies. Parex has enhanced their stucco offering as part of their ongoing effort to provide the best products and assemblies, on the market. Going forward Parex Stucco Assemblies will be known as Armourwall 100 (formerly “1-coat stucco”) and Armourwall 300 (formerly “3-coat stucco/Fiber 47”). "We believe the change in name will help reduce confusion that is present created by "1-coat" and "3-coat terminology”, said Quenton Roehricht, Brand Manager Parex “This move will increase recognition of the Parex products as superior over field mix stucco". The stucco assemblies have premium options available which include WaterMaster (for enhanced moisture protection and energy efficiency) or Krak-Shield (for enhanced crack reduction) or the combination of both WaterMaster Krak-Shield. "Based on market feedback we have seen a growing need for stucco assemblies that offer higher performance.” Quenton commented. “Parex’s WaterMaster option delivers superior moisture protection and enhances the energy efficiency of the assembly. Our Krak-Shield assembly was designed to minimize the aesthetic issues that are commonly associated with regular stucco assemblies. We are excited to bring these new assemblies to the market and have high expectations for them.” To support the changes and additions to the Parex Stucco Assemblies, Parex has also changed the names of their stucco base products. Parex’s 210, 202, and Fiber-47 stucco base coat products will now include the Armourwall name to provide a stronger link to the new assemblies. About ParexLahabra Inc. ParexLahabra Inc. is the US based parent company of leading building material brands; Parex, La Habra Stucco, El Rey Stucco, Teifs, Surewall, Mer-Krete and Mer-Ko. The product lines of ParexLahabra Inc. are designed for the, new/retrofit, construction of commercial, institutional and residential buildings. The 2002, ISO 9001-2000 certification of Parex helped to substantiate ParexLahabra Inc. as a leader in the building materials industry with over 80 years of combined experience in the US construction industry. For more information regarding ParexLahabra visit www.parexlahabra.com.

Coulomb Technologies ChargePoint Network and Carbon Day Automotive Deliver Solar Plug-In Stations CHICAGO--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Carbon Day Automotive today announced the unveiling of the first solar-powered electric vehicle charging station in the City of Chicago. Located and operational at the City of Chicago Department of Fleet Maintenance, it was one of the focal points of the recent IOC tour on April 5th, 2009 where guests were able to see the nation's foremost Solar Plug-In Station(TM) that was designed to pave the way to fuel plug-in electric vehicles. It will be used daily by the City of Chicago to fuel the city's electric vehicles with power from the sun. Carbon Day Automotive is the sole Midwest distributor for Coulomb Technologies ChargePoint(TM) Networked Charging Stations. When paired with Carbon Day's Solar Plug-In Station, it is a source of totally renewable and clean energy that addresses the needs of drivers, utilities and governments. "Carbon Day and the City of Chicago are demonstrating true innovation, ingenuity and initiative," said Richard Lowenthal, CEO of Coulomb Technologies. "Solar energy and electric vehicles are an inevitable partnership that is one more step to reducing our dependence on foreign oil."

HNTB's America THINKS survey highlights public perspectives on high-speed train travel KANSAS CITY, Mo., April 7 /PRNewswire/ -- The romance of riding the rails may be returning to America thanks to new federal funding and a public hungry for ways to save time, money, the environment, and add a measure of convenience in their hectic lives. According to a new study commissioned by HNTB Corporation, more than half of Americans (54 percent) would choose modern high-speed trains over automobile (33 percent) and air travel (13 percent) if fares and travel time were about the same. "Our country needs high-speed rail as part of a balanced transportation system," said Peter Gertler, chair of the firm's high-speed rail practice. "It has been the missing lynchpin in our national network. Without it, the whole system is less effective." Now is the time to act High-speed rail is receiving renewed attention in this country due to a variety of factors, including last year's spike in fuel prices, the passage of a $10 billion bond measure in California last November to support the development of a high-speed rail system there, and $8 billion this year for high-speed rail in the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act. Prominent supporters from both political parties include President Barack Obama; Vice President Joe Biden; Rep. Jim Oberstar, chair of the U.S. House of Representatives Transportation and Infrastructure Committee; Rep. John Mica, ranking Republican member of the committee; California Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger; and Wisconsin Gov. Jim Doyle, who recently toured high-speed rail systems in Spain. The survey showed Americans would be most excited by the possibility of more convenient travel (71 percent), less expensive fares (69 percent) and faster trains (55 percent) with the introduction of high-speed rail in their region. Gertler said educating people who haven't ridden high-speed trains remains a priority. There were clear differences between experienced and nonexperienced riders, including a much lower preference for traveling to large cities nearby via car (41 percent versus 69 percent) and a higher expectation of productivity when traveling high-speed rail on business (51 percent versus 38 percent). He added the fact that less than three in ten (29 percent) Americans understand the environmental impact high-speed trains can have versus traditional train travel - and high-speed rail's overall positive impact versus other forms of transportation - emphasizes the need for a more informed public. "High-speed rail will benefit the country in a variety of ways, including improved mobility, job creation, reduced usage of fossil fuel and fewer annual greenhouse gas emissions," Gertler said. "High-speed trains use one-third as much energy as comparable air travel and consume less than one-fifth as much energy as driving. This is proven technology that America can adopt and protect its status as a mobility super power."

Solar Power Partners Owns, Operates, and Manages Solar Energy Facilities at Two California Healthcare Facilities MILL VALLEY, Calif.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Solar Power Partners, Inc. (SPPTM) today announced that two recently-completed solar systems at health care facilities in California are in operation and generating power. The solar systems include a 668.80 kW system at Marshall Medical in Cameron Park, CA, and a 226.80 kW system at St. Mary Medical Center in Apple Valley, CA. Each solar facility was financed and developed using a solar Power Purchase Agreement (PPA), which allows SPP to own, operate, and manage the solar system for the length of the agreement, usually over twenty years. The host sites pay only for the energy produced by the system and put no cash upfront, freeing capital for other projects and stabilizing their energy rates. SPP manages each facility through its dedicated asset management team, which uses real-time data monitoring to provide detailed management profiles for the systems. James Whipple, Marshall Medical Center CEO, said, "Solar Power Partners made the process of incorporating solar energy at Marshall Medical easy. We hope that our project encourages other healthcare facilities to engage in obtaining renewable energy. It's a win for everyone: our organization, our patients, and the community." SPP closely oversees the technology, design, and engineering of each project. In-house engineering, construction management, and asset management teams bring over fifty combined years of experience so that challenges are resolved efficiently and fast. SPP's financial modeling incorporates detailed site profiles and offers the best possible rates for the customer. Marshall Medical is a nonprofit community healthcare provider with an outpatient facility in Cameron Park. The solar facility is a fixed elevated array structure in a parking lot adjacent to the facility. The healthcare provider wanted to incorporate solar energy as part of their commitment to the environment and desire to stay economically savvy. SPP's solar PPA was ideal for Marshall Medical in that Marshall had no cash outlay for the project, and under SPP's ownership, operation, and maintenance, Marshall worries about no associated upkeep costs. The system produces an estimated 901,805 kWh annually, which is equivalent to 648 metric tons of carbon dioxide, or emissions from 73,553 gallons of gasoline.

We are proud to announce that Mars Metal Company, and it’s divisions MarShield and MarsKeel Technology, has been named as a finalist in the Burlington Chamber of Commerce’s Business Excellence Awards in the Manufacturer category. The Business Awards Gala will be held May 7th, 2009 at the Burlington Convention Center; the winners will be announced at this time. We are honoured to be nominated for this prestigious award which recognizes outstanding achievement by a Burlington-area manufacturer. The annual gala event brings together business, government, and industry leaders to celebrate the business community’s achievements. It is the premier business awards event of the year and also features the presentation of the Mayor's Community Service Awards, Burlington Economic Development Corporation's High Five Awards and Tourism Burlington's Ambassador Awards.

Sacred Lamps Powered with Renewable Energy from SolarCity CULVER CITY, Calif.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--SolarCity(R), a national leader in solar power system design, financing, installation, monitoring and related services, has installed solar panels to power ner tamid lamps across Southern California. Eleven synagogues will "go solar" for the Jewish Blessing of the Sun holiday observance on Tuesday, April 7. "Harnessing the Blessing of the Sun" is a project funded by the South Coast Air Quality Management District (AQMD) and administered by the Board of Rabbis of Southern California's Social Action Committee. SolarCity will join Board of Rabbis leaders, AQMD and government officials for the ceremony at Temple Emanuel, 8844 Burton Way in Beverly Hills, Calif. Simultaneous celebrations with SolarCity-powered ner tamid lamps will take place at temples throughout the greater Los Angeles area. The Blessing of the Sun, called Birkat HaHammah in Hebrew, falls only once every 28 years. It celebrates the return of the sun, moon, constellations and planets to their position at creation. By adding solar power to this ancient observance, synagogues will promote a centuries-old practice and symbolically "flip the switch" on a more sustainable future. The ner tamid lamps, or eternal lights, to be powered by SolarCity's panels with clean, renewable energy, will always remain on. SolarCity custom-designed and installed each temple's solar array, and provided eco-friendly LED bulbs for each ner tamid lamp.

Marietta-based Casteel Heating and Cooling helps homeowners qualify for a $1,500 federal tax rebate and through June 30th also provides an additional $1,900 in savings MARIETTA, Ga.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Casteel announces Atlanta residents can save up to $3400 through June 30, with a combination of federal and manufacturer rebates on heating and cooling equipment. Casteel Heating and Cooling is announcing that many of their HVAC units can help people qualify for a $1,500 tax rebate, as well as an additional $1,900 in additional rebates and savings, helping residents save up to a total of $3,400. "There is no better time to replace your HVAC unit," says Casteel Vice President John Hillis. "We're providing Casteel and manufacturer savings, up to $1,900 because we support the Obama administration's vision for making the country more energy efficient. In fact, last year we won Amana's 'Going Green' award for installing more Amana Ultra High Efficiency units than anyone else. Some of our customers have noted that their monthly energy bills dropped 31%." In order to qualify for the tax rebate, air conditioning and heating units have to meet minimum requirements for energy efficiency. AC units must have an Energy Efficiency Rating (EER) of 13 and a Seasonal Energy Efficiency Rating (SEER) of at least 16. Furnaces must have an Annual Fuel Utilization Efficiency (AFUE) of at least 95%. Buyers making energy-efficiency improvements to their homes will receive a 30% tax rebate on qualifying purchases, up to the maximum federal rebate of $1,500.

DUBLIN, Ireland--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Research and Markets has announced the addition of the "Structural Building Materials Market in Canada: Business Report 2009" report to their offering. This report is a comprehensive research of the structural building materials industry in Canada. The first two chapters of the report feature a country profile by giving general information on Canada and by thoroughly studying its economic state (including key macroeconomic indicators and their development trends). The third chapter covers common business procedures in the country: from starting a project to closing a business. This chapter elucidates the country's fiscal system, existing labour practices, property rights regulation peculiarities and other issues vital for running business in this country. Further, the report analyses the structural building materials market in the country by identifying key market players (including major producers, traders, etc.), as well as evaluating foreign economic relations within the sector in the recent three years. Related news bulletins update and add the finishing touch to an overview of the economical situation in Canada. The aim of this study is to provide a tool which will assist strategy groups and management team specialists in making correct decisions as to how to penetrate the Canadian market and how to avail of the maximum commercial opportunities in dealing with business partners in this country.

World's most famous office building's more than $500 million upgrade program to incorporate comprehensive project with goal to reduce energy use by nearly 40 percent NEW YORK, April 6 /PRNewswire/ -- Using the Empire State Building as a test case and model, world-class environmental consulting, non-profit, design and construction partners - including the Clinton Climate Initiative (CCI), Rocky Mountain Institute (RMI), Johnson Controls Inc. (NYSE:JCI) (JCI) and Jones Lang LaSalle (NYSE:JLL) (JLL) - today unveiled an innovative process for analyzing and retrofitting existing structures for environmental sustainability. Adopted as core elements of the more than $500 million upgrade program presently underway at the world's most famous office building, the program is the first comprehensive approach that integrates many steps to use energy more productively. The program is expected to reduce energy consumption by up to 38 percent and will provide a replicable model for similar projects around the world. Work has already commenced, and building systems work is slated to be completed by year-end 2010. The balance of the work in tenant spaces should be concluded by end of 2013. Work that is scheduled to be completed within 18 months will result in over 50 percent of the projected energy savings. The balance will be an additional 36 months completed by 2013. The project will prove the viability for energy efficiency retrofit projects to dramatically increase building energy efficiency and reduce its overall carbon output with sensible payback periods and enhanced profitability. At the end of the project definition process, the team analyzed the steps to be taken in conjunction with other steps towards sustainability as part of the Empire State ReBuilding program within the framework of the existing USGBC LEED rating system. Internal calculations show that the Empire State Building will be able to qualify for GOLD certification for Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) for Existing Buildings, and ownership intends to pursue such certification.

Consumers Can Now More Easily Discover Relevant Properties on Real Estate Websites BERKELEY, Calif.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--iHomefinder is proud to announce the latest advance in property search for real estate websites. Our new interactive Map Search tool offers consumers a new and easy way to find properties of interest. By beginning the search on the map itself, consumers can locate the specific area where they want to search, and discover listings they might not otherwise find when a search is limited to a specific city or zip code. Map Search goes beyond simply showing the results of a search on a map. The location of a property is critical, and consumers want easy access to this information. By seeing an entire area with all listings displayed, consumers can navigate on the map and explore multiple areas at once. This is especially useful for people who are relocating or wanting to live near a specific attraction like a waterfront, park, or commuting hub. This new search tool is a valuable addition to any real estate website. By offering an alternative to a regular form-based search, agents and brokers can create a more compelling online presence. Consumers using Map Search will discover interesting properties more quickly and in greater numbers, increasing the likelihood that they'll contact an agent or broker and become a valuable new customer. "Interactive maps are becoming a critical piece of any real estate website," said Alon Chaver, CEO of iHomefinder. "I've been observing online real estate technology for years, and mapping technologies can finally offer a responsive consumer experience."

NASHVILLE, Tenn., April 1 /PRNewswire/ -- The Caterpillar Financial Center has been awarded LEED-EB(R) 2.0 (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design for Existing Buildings) Gold certification from the U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC). Achieving the certification makes the Cat Financial Center the first building in the Caterpillar family and the first privately owned, commercial building in Tennessee to become LEED-EB certified. LEED is a third-party certification program and the nationally accepted benchmark for the design, construction and operation of high performance green buildings. LEED-Gold certification is the second highest rating obtainable in the system. LEED promotes a whole-building approach to sustainability by recognizing performance in five key areas of human and environmental health: sustainable site development, water savings, energy efficiency, materials selection and indoor environmental quality. SSRCx, a Nashville-based commissioning firm specializing in the design, construction and operation of high-performance green buildings, provided LEED facilitation services for the project.

Centex Introduces New Energy-Efficient Homes Along Carolina Coast Centex Energy Advantage homes up to 40% more efficient than typical 10-year-old home NORTH CHARLESTON, S.C., April 1 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- Centex Corporation today announced that construction is under way on nearly 200 energy-efficient homes in neighborhoods across South Carolina's Lowcountry. Collectively, the new Centex homes now in progress are projected to avoid thousands of tons of carbon emissions over time, preventing approximately 340 metric tons of carbon dioxide emissions in just the first year of occupancy. The industry-leading Centex Energy Advantage is now available in all to-be-built homes in 54 neighborhoods across the Hilton Head, Charleston and Myrtle Beach areas: -- The Hilton Head area's first Energy Advantage home, located in Shadow Moss near the Shell Point community, is scheduled for delivery in April. -- Charleston's first Energy Advantage home, located in Rice Field at Carolina Bay in west Charleston, is scheduled for delivery in April. -- Myrtle Beach's first Energy Advantage home, located in the Barefoot community's Brookstone neighborhood near North Myrtle Beach, is scheduled for delivery in May. Please visit any Centex neighborhood sales office along the South Carolina coast for more information. You may also see centex.com/energyadvantage.asp for details and centex.com for details about neighborhoods, homes and prices.

ATLANTA, April 1 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- The Mansion on Peachtree Hotel and Residences ("The Mansion on Peachtree") has been awarded GREENGUARD Building Construction Certification, the construction industry's premier certification for mold and moisture management. This achievement demonstrates The Mansion on Peachtree's commitment to providing a high performance, sustainable building with healthy indoor air. The Mansion is one of the first buildings to meet the requirements of this pending American National Standards Institute (ANSI) standard for moisture and mold prevention in newly constructed buildings. The Mansion on Peachtree Hotel and Residences, a Rosewood Hotels property, is a 42-story tower located in the upscale Buckhead neighborhood of Atlanta, Georgia. This luxury hotel and residence property includes 127 hotel rooms, 45 residential units, fine dining and a world-class spa. The hotel opened in April of 2008.

Green Building Products and Services Report compares Western Pa. to other regions, provides recommendations for future growth PITTSBURGH, March 31 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- A comprehensive report issued by the Green Building Alliance (GBA) demonstrates that Western Pennsylvania is still well-positioned for green economic growth and opportunity, but also identifies unmet needs in the region and provides recommendations for future growth. The report, "Green Building Products and Services Market Analysis for Pennsylvania and Benchmark States," will be unveiled at the GBA's annual conference, GreenSense 2009: Beyond Buildings on March 31, 2009. "The findings and recommendations in this report are positive for Western Pennsylvania despite the economic crisis our region and others are facing," said Jeaneen Zappa, director of green business development, Green Building Alliance. "However, beyond just providing green building benchmark data for our region, this report details specific action steps and recommendations we believe will solidify our region's future green economic growth." Green Services In prior research, GBA focused on green construction and green product manufacturing. However, through its work with regional building product manufacturers during the past two years, GBA recognizes that services that support the construction and operation of green buildings represent an economic opportunity every bit as important as the products themselves. This report reflects this perspective and identifies green services as its own growing sector in the green building marketplace. "Green building doesn't just take place from groundbreaking to ribbon cutting. It involves technicians who operate and service those buildings, as well as maintain sophisticated sensors and building power control software interfaces; maintenance crews that perform 'green office cleaning;' and businesses that responsibly refurbish or recycle items like office furniture and carpeting that often undergo wear and tear," adds Zappa. "Our report is unique in that we've included green services data from around the region as part of our findings and, more importantly, as part of our recommendations."

-WNBC 4New York and the New York Post Join Forces with Second Annual GO GREEN EXPO to Celebrate Event April 17-19 At the Hilton New York- NEW YORK, March 31 /PRNewswire/ -- Go Green Expo, the largest environmentally-focused business and consumer show in New York's history, announces today its exciting return to New York City for the second year in a row April 17-19, 2009 at the New York Hilton in Midtown Manhattan. The nation's premiere eco-friendly business and consumer show promises the strongest show yet with big name exhibitors including Disney's Earth movie, The Sundance Channel's The GREEN, DELL, Home Depot, Food Network's Good Food Garden, and Honda's all-new advanced hybrid vehicle, The Honda Insight. "We are so pleased to bring Go Green Expo back to New York for the second year in a row," said Bradford Rand, CEO and Founder of Go Green Expo. "Last year's event was such a success with over 10,000 attendees, and we have even more to look forward to this year." The event will showcase a variety of special interest consumer and business areas including: Home Building and Energy Conservation; Health, Beauty and Fashion; Travel and Transportation; Business and Electronics and a Kids Zone, giving New Yorkers a chance to see, learn and interact with the latest in energy-efficient and environmentally-friendly products and services, as well as participate in interactive seminars with leaders in the green industry, local politicians and community organizations.

DUBLIN--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Research and Markets has announced the addition of Frost & Sullivan's new report "Strategic Analysis of the Australian Building Management and Control Systems Market" to their offering. This Frost & Sullivan research service titled Strategic Analysis of the Australian Building Management and Control Systems Market provides an overview of the building management and control systems (BMCS) market in Australia along with the analysis of key market drivers, restraints, and trends that are impacting market participants. Australian BMCS market revenue forecasts for each of the states analyzed in the study are provided along with legislative, technology, and growth trends in each segment. Market Overview Apart from the unprecedented economic downturn, the Australian BMCS market is challenged by various issues such as the drop in construction market activity, increasingly cost-conscious customers, scant product differentiation, and more intense competition. While the Australian Construction Forecast Council foresees a drastic decline in the non-residential construction market in all states, demand from the education, health, and age care sectors is likely to bolster the BMCS market. Opportunities still exist in the market as the Australian Government remains committed to the reduction of greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions in compliance with the Kyoto Protocol. The Australian Federal Government has committed a 5 to 15 percent cut in GHG emissions of its 2000 level by 2020. The building sector is responsible for a large proportion of electricity consumption in Australia and has a considerably large carbon footprint. Costs incurred toward GHG reduction will raise electricity prices and, in turn, raise the operational cost of buildings. This has proved challenging for building operators / owners facing an economic downturn. Offering the advantage of energy efficiency, building control systems will open doors for BMCS suppliers who are widening their product portfolios. Companies must be focused on offering a better value proposition, improving energy efficiency and cutting operational costs.

CalPortland and Glacier Northwest, a CalPortland Company, earn National ENERGY STAR (R) award for 5th year in a row for protecting the environment through energy efficiency GLENDORA, Calif., April 1 /PRNewswire/ -- The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has awarded CalPortland Company and Glacier Northwest, a CalPortland Company, the National 2009 ENERGY STAR Award for Sustained Excellence in recognition of their continued leadership in protecting our environment through energy efficiency. Energy efficiency accomplishments by CalPortland and Glacier Northwest over five consecutive years have never been matched by any other U.S. building materials company. The companies continue to lead the industry in managing energy as part of advancing, long-term business and environmental strategies. They continue to surpass the high standards they have set for corporate energy management through new initiatives and a continually evolving energy management strategy.

BALTIMORE, March 31 /PRNewswire/ -- Homebuyers in Baltimore, Maryland now have the opportunity to own smart innovative homes that can reduce their energy and indoor water usage - as well as emissions associated with the home - while changing the way the homeowners interact with their indoor environments. The homes built by BUILDERS ONE Corp. at Spencer's Crossing blend the beauty of gated carriage home living with the innovations of GREEN technology creating a lifestyle of comfort, elegance, and efficiency. These high-performance, energy- and water-efficient homes are remarkably comfortable, designed to help homeowners reduce their utility costs and allow homeowners to track their use of energy and water. A 2007 Energy Source report states that 86% of recent homebuyers said they would choose an energy-efficient home over one that was not energy-efficient.

'Three-Peat' Prestigious Honor, Says APS CEO PHOENIX--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Arizona Public Service Co. (APS) has been honored with the prestigious "ENERGY STAR Partner of the Year" award for the third consecutive year. Award winners are selected from more than 12,000 nationwide organizations that participate in the ENERGY STAR program. The honor for Excellence in Energy Efficiency Program Delivery of the ENERGY STAR Homes Program was bestowed on APS March 31 in Washington, D.C. by representatives of the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the Department of Energy (DOE). The award recognizes APS as a national leader in promoting energy efficiency and reducing greenhouse gases. The APS Homes Program won the same award in 2008, while APS' Compact Fluorescent Lighting Program won in 2007. APS is the only utility in Arizona ever to be recognized as a Partner of the Year and only one of three companies in the state so honored in 2009. "To earn a 'three-peat' for such a prestigious honor is a remarkable achievement," said APS Chief Executive Officer Don Brandt. "The degree to which our APS ENERGY STAR Homes Program has grown, both in number and geography, and its prominent presence in the marketplace is impressive. The fact we've been nationally recognized for this program and others like it for three straight years is evidence of our strong focus on best serving our customers." Tammy McLeod, APS Vice President and Chief Customer Officer said, "If we can make customers happy and help them save money while conserving energy and being environmentally responsible, it's a win for everyone."

Customers Paid to Ease Strain on Electrical Grid BALTIMORE--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Constellation Energy (NYSE:CEG) announced that its subsidiary, Constellation NewEnergy, Inc., has now enrolled 1,000 megawatts of demand response capacity, making the company one of the leading demand response providers in North America. Constellation NewEnergy's demand response programs make it possible for customers to voluntarily reduce electricity consumption during peak periods of demand on electricity grids—improving the reliability and sustainability of energy infrastructure. The capacity of Constellation NewEnergy's enrolled demand response customers is the equivalent of avoiding generation from a large 1,000 megawatt power plant when customers scale back usage or switch to alternative sources of power. "Demand response programs are critical to ensuring that our collective requirement for electricity on peak demand days doesn't outpace the ability to generate and deliver power reliably," said Peter Kelly-Detwiler, senior vice president of customer supply for Constellation NewEnergy. "At these high levels of participation, Constellation NewEnergy's customers are helping to ensure that adequate power supplies will be available when needed most. They are also reaping significant financial incentives for taking part in demand response programs. This is particularly important during the current period of economic stress." One Constellation NewEnergy customer utilizing demand response as part of its strategic energy portfolio is the office products company, Staples, Inc. “Staples is always looking for innovative partners to help us manage our energy costs. Constellation NewEnergy has helped make demand response a permanent strategic energy initiative at both the corporate and store levels, one that is environmentally-friendly, forward-thinking, and easy to manage, all while contributing to the bottom line,” said Bob Valair, director of energy and environmental management for Staples, Inc.

Customers Paid to Ease Strain on Electrical Grid BALTIMORE--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Constellation Energy (NYSE:CEG) announced that its subsidiary, Constellation NewEnergy, Inc., has now enrolled 1,000 megawatts of demand response capacity, making the company one of the leading demand response providers in North America. Constellation NewEnergy's demand response programs make it possible for customers to voluntarily reduce electricity consumption during peak periods of demand on electricity grids—improving the reliability and sustainability of energy infrastructure. The capacity of Constellation NewEnergy's enrolled demand response customers is the equivalent of avoiding generation from a large 1,000 megawatt power plant when customers scale back usage or switch to alternative sources of power. "Demand response programs are critical to ensuring that our collective requirement for electricity on peak demand days doesn't outpace the ability to generate and deliver power reliably," said Peter Kelly-Detwiler, senior vice president of customer supply for Constellation NewEnergy. "At these high levels of participation, Constellation NewEnergy's customers are helping to ensure that adequate power supplies will be available when needed most. They are also reaping significant financial incentives for taking part in demand response programs. This is particularly important during the current period of economic stress." One Constellation NewEnergy customer utilizing demand response as part of its strategic energy portfolio is the office products company, Staples, Inc. “Staples is always looking for innovative partners to help us manage our energy costs. Constellation NewEnergy has helped make demand response a permanent strategic energy initiative at both the corporate and store levels, one that is environmentally-friendly, forward-thinking, and easy to manage, all while contributing to the bottom line,” said Bob Valair, director of energy and environmental management for Staples, Inc.

SYLMAR, Calif.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--A new "green" exterior aircraft painting system in development by PPG Industries' (NYSE:PPG) aerospace coatings business has shown corrosion resistance comparable to processes using chromated pretreatment and primers as well as easier application than for alternative environmentally responsible systems. The PPG Aerospace chromate-free depaint/repaint process includes a new exterior epoxy primer based on nanotechnology and an adhesion promoter PPG manufactures under license from Boeing, according to Alan Schoeder, PPG Aerospace commercial coatings global segment manager. "In salt spray and filiform corrosion testing, metal surfaces protected by new Desoprime HS CA 7502 high-solids exterior epoxy primer showed the same corrosion resistance as those coated with chromated primers," Schoeder said. The PPG Aerospace environmentally-responsible primer is expected to be qualified this year at Boeing, he added. Eldorado Adhesion Promoter (EAP-9) uses Boeing's proven Boegel technology that PPG has licensed, Schoeder said, enabling PPG to offer airframe manufacturers and third-party painters an easy-to-use, competitively-priced conversion coating. "EAP-9 is applied to the stripped aluminum airframe and allowed to dry, and then Desoprime HS CA 7502 primer is applied," Schoeder said. "With a chromated process, the chemical has to be rinsed off, putting hazardous material into the rinse water. Unlike another chromate-free conversion coating, only one application is needed with EAP-9, and no mechanical abrading is required."

Via Innovative Partnership with Utility, SunEdison Financed, Built and Operates Zero-Emission System WILMINGTON, N.C.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--SunEdison, North America's largest solar energy services provider, today announced the activation of a 1.2 megawatt (MW) photovoltaic solar energy system for Progress Energy. Located on approximately 10 acres at Progress Energy's Sutton Plant near Wilmington, the 1.2 MW ground mount system is the largest in North Carolina. SunEdison financed, built, and operates the PV solar energy system. Progress Energy purchases electricity from SunEdison under a 20-year solar energy purchase agreement. The system is part of Progress Energy's mix of resources used to meet the needs of 1.4 million households and businesses in the Carolinas. Progress Energy also purchases renewable energy credits from SunEdison. "Solar energy is a growing part of our company's balanced strategy for meeting the needs of our customers," said Lloyd Yates, CEO and president of Progress Energy Carolinas. "We will continue to pursue cost-effective renewable energy investments in meeting state goals and objectives. Hand in hand with the increased investment in alternative energy sources is our aggressive promotion of energy efficiency, as well as our commitment to ensure that we have state-of-the-art power plants and infrastructure. We're focused on innovation, while ensuring that the electric service our customers depend on remains reliable, affordable and environmentally sound."

Via Innovative Partnership with Utility, SunEdison Financed, Built and Operates Zero-Emission System WILMINGTON, N.C.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--SunEdison, North America's largest solar energy services provider, today announced the activation of a 1.2 megawatt (MW) photovoltaic solar energy system for Progress Energy. Located on approximately 10 acres at Progress Energy's Sutton Plant near Wilmington, the 1.2 MW ground mount system is the largest in North Carolina. SunEdison financed, built, and operates the PV solar energy system. Progress Energy purchases electricity from SunEdison under a 20-year solar energy purchase agreement. The system is part of Progress Energy's mix of resources used to meet the needs of 1.4 million households and businesses in the Carolinas. Progress Energy also purchases renewable energy credits from SunEdison. "Solar energy is a growing part of our company's balanced strategy for meeting the needs of our customers," said Lloyd Yates, CEO and president of Progress Energy Carolinas. "We will continue to pursue cost-effective renewable energy investments in meeting state goals and objectives. Hand in hand with the increased investment in alternative energy sources is our aggressive promotion of energy efficiency, as well as our commitment to ensure that we have state-of-the-art power plants and infrastructure. We're focused on innovation, while ensuring that the electric service our customers depend on remains reliable, affordable and environmentally sound."

SCOTTSDALE, Ariz.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--The $4.5 billion in matching funds allocated to "Electricity Delivery and Energy Reliability" by the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (ARRA) includes a significant boost to "smart grid" and smart metering initiatives, aimed at updating the seriously ageing US electrical infrastructure. "ABI Research believes that the rapid injection of capital to be provided by the ARRA will solidify and encourage more investment in smart metering and the smart grid," says senior analyst Sam Lucero." Many utilities were already implementing plans to upgrade distribution and metering infrastructure, and as regulated industries with rate recovery mechanisms in place, electrical utilities have been somewhat insulated from the worst shocks of the recent economic turmoil. So, says Lucero, "The new federal funding is not an order-of-magnitude game changer, but it will certainly help to encourage and accelerate new smart grid plans, and reinforce those already in place." Who will benefit from these provisions of the ARRA and the resulting boost to smart grid and smart metering? There are winners on all sides. - Module vendors, because advanced metering infrastructure is a major application market within the larger machine-to-machine communication field. - Smart meter vendors. - Meter data management software developers such as Oracle, SAP, and eMeter, because as smart metering systems are rolled out, the amount of information needing to be processed rises very sharply. - Electrical utilities such as Pacific Gas & Electric, which are committed to large-scale upgrades of the meters deployed in the areas they serve. - The public. A more robust infrastructure will, among other benefits, reduce the blackouts and brownouts that occur across the country on a daily basis.

SCOTTSDALE, Ariz.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--The $4.5 billion in matching funds allocated to "Electricity Delivery and Energy Reliability" by the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (ARRA) includes a significant boost to "smart grid" and smart metering initiatives, aimed at updating the seriously ageing US electrical infrastructure. "ABI Research believes that the rapid injection of capital to be provided by the ARRA will solidify and encourage more investment in smart metering and the smart grid," says senior analyst Sam Lucero." Many utilities were already implementing plans to upgrade distribution and metering infrastructure, and as regulated industries with rate recovery mechanisms in place, electrical utilities have been somewhat insulated from the worst shocks of the recent economic turmoil. So, says Lucero, "The new federal funding is not an order-of-magnitude game changer, but it will certainly help to encourage and accelerate new smart grid plans, and reinforce those already in place." Who will benefit from these provisions of the ARRA and the resulting boost to smart grid and smart metering? There are winners on all sides. - Module vendors, because advanced metering infrastructure is a major application market within the larger machine-to-machine communication field. - Smart meter vendors. - Meter data management software developers such as Oracle, SAP, and eMeter, because as smart metering systems are rolled out, the amount of information needing to be processed rises very sharply. - Electrical utilities such as Pacific Gas & Electric, which are committed to large-scale upgrades of the meters deployed in the areas they serve. - The public. A more robust infrastructure will, among other benefits, reduce the blackouts and brownouts that occur across the country on a daily basis.

CLEVELAND--(BUSINESS WIRE)--The gateway to JFK's AirTrain Light Rail airport access system is the Jamaica Station complex. The facility's vertical circulation building and new portal structure serve as an introduction to the region's most important airport. Using lamps from GE Consumer & Industrial, designers Domingo Gonzalez, Nelson Downend and Mario Merza have created an energy-efficient and low-maintenance lighting design that reinforces passenger flow throughout the station and is compatible with architectural constraints. Daylight is supplemented with fluorescent lighting systems, controlled by photocell and astronomical time clocks to ensure that the right light levels are established throughout the station at all hours. Luminaires for the outdoor platforms, stairs, concourse and the Westerly Bridge are standardized around energy-efficient, integrally jacketed, GE 32-watt T8 3500 K cold temperature fluorescent lamps that are protected against steel dust and low temperatures. Custom-designed, extruded aluminum luminaires integrate ballasts, wireways and emergency power supplies, ensuring adaptability and ease-of-maintenance. At night, over the platforms, asymmetric 400-watt metal halide luminaires uplight the ceiling. In the vertical circulation building, luminaires with 70-watt metal halide lamps are integrated into the curtain wall and celebrate the facade. Recessed downlights with GE 42-watt Triple Biax(R) 3500 K lamps and 70-watt metal halide downlights with turbo-louvers to control source brightness differentiate this important connector.

PHILADELPHIA--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Mantria Realty, LLC REALTORS(R) Jim Henson and Rose Morgan have been awarded the National Association of REALTORS(R)' (NAR's) Green Designation, the only green real estate professional designation recognized by NAR. "We are incredibly proud to have earned this accreditation so aligned with our mission," states Troy Wragg, Founder, Chairman and CEO of Mantria Corporation. Henson and Morgan achieved this prestigious designation after completing 18 hours of course work designed specifically for REALTORS(R). The courses were created in collaboration with a multidisciplinary team of industry experts from across the country; ensuring designees gain comprehensive knowledge of green homes and buildings and issues of sustainability in relation to real estate. More specifically, Henson and Morgan were trained in understanding what makes a property green, helping clients evaluate the cost/benefits of green building features and practices, distinguishing between industry rating and classification systems, listing and marketing green homes and buildings, discussing the financial grants and incentives available to homeowners, and helping consumers see a property's green potential. "As energy costs rise along with concern for the environment, homeowners are looking for innovative ways to save money and live responsibly," said Dick Gaylord, NAR's immediate past president. NAR's Green Designation was developed in response to growing consumer awareness of the benefits of resource-efficient homes and buildings. The designation helps consumers who care about energy efficiency and sustainable building practices identify REALTORS(R) who can help them realize their green real estate and lifestyle goals.

Going Green Consumer II, Earth Day -- (BUSINESS WIRE) -- When people think of environmental awareness, they tend to think of fuel consumption and carbon emissions. But our concerns shouldn't stop there. "The materials used in manufacturing and shipping impact everything from depletion of natural resources, to being smarter about recycling and fuel consumption," says Wayne Rodrigue, Chairman & Chief Executive Officer of Texas-based Exousia Advanced Materials. "A reconsideration of materials technology is vital if we are to begin to get serious about the environment." Exousia is creator of two core advanced polymer materials, RPA(TM) Resin and VISTAMER(R) engineered particles, that are used in an array of products including proprietary resins, additives, industrial coatings, and structural materials used in the manufacturing and construction industries. "RPA Resin is an eco-friendly alternative for the transportation and plastics industry," explains Mr. Rodrigue. A proprietary resin that bonds rubber and plastic, RPA overcomes problems of poor strength and performance, provides a degree of rubber-plastic compatibility not previously achieved, and results in highly improved tensile strength and elongation capability. RPA solutions can be developed to replace wood, nylon, fiberglass, Luan, and other natural and plastic materials across a wide range of applications.

SNRY Rolls-Out Dealer Distribution of ProPac(TM) Water Heating System PONTE VEDRA BEACH, Fla.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Solar Energy Initiatives, Inc. (OTCBB:SNRY), executing on a grass roots campaign, "RENEW THE NATION", to help redeploy a portion of the U.S. work force and focus on reducing the world's dependence on fossil fuels by selling solar thermal and photovoltaic (PV) technologies, today announced that it has launched an industry-changing commercial solar hot water system, ProPac(TM), to its network of solar dealers. The new ProPac product will allow Solar Energy Initiatives to add another best-in-class product for solar energy installers to offer to residential and commercial customers. ProPac(TM), manufactured by Energy Laboratories, Inc. of Jacksonville, FL, offers a scalable, pre-engineered, "plug-and-play" solar thermal system that heats water using solar energy. For the average home, 20% to 30% of total energy used is solely to heat water. A solar hot water system is one of the most cost-effective renewable energy investments as its "cost per unit energy" is a fraction of traditional solar photovoltaic and can produce attractive return-on-investment scenarios with little to no financial incentives. "Solar Energy Initiatives is pleased to offer ProPac(TM) to its dealers," stated Mr. David Fann, Chief Executive Officer of Solar Energy Initiatives. "We believe ProPac(TM) is the most innovative commercial-grade solar hot water product to enter the market to date. As part of our RENEW THE NATION campaign this product will assist in redeploying electricians and plumbing contractors into solar energy dealers. Heating water is an energy-intensive endeavor and we are confident that this application is an ideal cost-cutting method for hotels, hospitals, schools, prisons and other commercial institutions where hot water is a significant expense. This revolutionary product will assist in growing our revenue base as we continue to double our sales quarter over quarter." The first commercial ProPac(TM) installation completed is located at the CSX Transportation facility in Spartanburg, South Carolina. K-Power, a division of The Dana B. Kenyon Construction Company of Jacksonville, FL was the contractor who successfully installed this best-in-class water heating system. The system commissioned in March 2009 will generate 217,800 BTU's per day, heating 240 gallons of water to 140 degrees F. It is expected to reduce water heating costs by 80% and offsetting 22 tons of carbon dioxide per year and a service life over 25 years.

Partnered with Design and Construction Firm Grupo Maiz of Monterrey, Mexico to Meet LEED Standards for Green Construction SAN DIEGO--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Silicon Border, a science and technology park located in Mexicali, Baja California, Mexico, has completed the infrastructure necessary to support phase one of its manufacturing development targeted for green technology companies. Phase one is more than 500 acres of developed land, and is ready for its current and future tenants to begin construction of their manufacturing facilities. The infrastructure build-out, financed by ING Clarion, consists of potable water plant and distribution, fiber optic telephone and data cable, power substations, waste treatment facilities. Silicon Border not only provides manufacturing space to companies creating "green" products, but does so in an environmentally conscious manner. The water treatment plant has been designed to recycle up to 90% of the water used within the park. The other 10% will be dedicated to irrigation and other uses within the park. This water treatment plant is considered state-of-the-art and will meet or exceed the exacting standards for water demanded by high technology manufacturing. In addition to a world-class water treatment facility that recycles virtually all the water within the Park, Silicon Border is the first Science Park in the world to exclusively use LED lighting for 100% of its roadways and parking lots. Silicon Border conforms to the strict LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) Green Building Rating System criteria.

FORT LAUDERDALE, Fla.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--As commercial property owners grapple with high operating costs, Hill York – one of Florida's oldest and largest air conditioning companies -- is launching a new Performance Management Division and introducing Hygreen (Hill York Green) technology solutions to reduce energy consumption in new and existing buildings. "Since 50 percent of the cost of owning a building is directly associated with operating costs, energy efficiency is critical in meeting financial objectives," said Jeff Phillabaum, president, Hill York. "By achieving ongoing peak performance of HVAC systems, owners can reduce energy use by 10 to 15 percent," he said. "Hill York has strategically invested in the research, training and technology to meet the increasing demand for green building and environmental energy conservation solutions." With annual revenues of $84 million, Hill York delivers a continuum of design, construction, service, maintenance and replacement of HVAC systems for complex facilities. Hill York's new Performance Management Division and Hygreen solutions address the "next wave" of energy saving opportunities for schools, hospitals, life science research labs and other commercial facilities. "Building a 'green' structure is not enough – it has to run green," Phillabaum explained. "Hill York's Building Oversight Management team fine tunes systems, capitalizing on energy management systems that continually monitor and analyze energy usage in buildings," he added.

First North American Owner/Operator to Surpass Major Energy Service Milestone BELTSVILLE, Md.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--SunEdison, North America's largest solar energy services provider, today announced it is the first owner/operator in the United States to surpass 100 GWh in delivered PV solar electricity generation. SunEdison's Renewable Operation Center (ROC) tracked the event as the ticker rolled over the 100 GWh milestone at 11:06 am ET on March 24, five years after the company activated its first commercial-scale PV solar energy system. SunEdison's solar fleet of 221 solar power plants has avoided more than 124 million lbs of CO2, the same amount of emissions that would be produced by driving from New York City to Los Angeles 43,101 times. One hundred GWh is enough to meet the annual energy needs for more than 13,700 California residents. "This 100 GWh milestone reflects our commitment to service delivery and investments in advanced control and monitoring technologies," said Mark Culpepper, Chief Technology Officer of SunEdison. "As the country increases investment in renewable energy, the solar industry must show results in a meaningful, transparent way." Mark Buckley, Vice President of Environmental Affairs, Staples, Inc., noted, "The 24 systems hosted by Staples have generated more than 8 million kWh of power. Not only does SunEdison bring us electricity at predictable rates, we're able to make better usage decisions and make progress toward our short- and long-term carbon reduction goals."