Eight Times Harder Than Paint, the System is the Most Durable Applied Coating Available; Zero VOCs Make It Greener Than Paint SEATTLE--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Today, Mikron Industries, the most innovative solutions provider for window manufacturers, launches new SuperCoat™ vinyl window coating for window and door manufacturers, especially those competing in the replacement market. The new coating technology features a patented durable color coating system, which is vacuum-applied and cured by ultraviolet light. The SuperCoat system offers a color surface that is eight times harder than paint, and is the most durable applied coating available for vinyl windows and doors. SuperCoat is also a much more environmentally sensitive system than paint since it is a zero volatile organic compound (VOC) technology. SuperCoat comes in six attractive colors. This next-generation color system can provide OEM manufacturers with superior durability differentiation, reduced in-field touch-up costs, and a greener image - all benefits that help them demonstrate product leadership. “SuperCoat is a vacuum-applied, ultraviolet light-cured color coating for vinyl and composite windows,” said David Wemmer, president of Mikron. “Based on testing, the result is a color layer that is eight times harder than paint and offers excellent durability against weathering and the elements. This coating incorporates Mikron’s innovative low heat-absorbing color technology to prevent heat distortion that is often seen when darker colors are specified on vinyl and composite windows. Unlike solvent or waterborne paints, it is environmentally superior because the vacuum-applied, ultraviolet light cured process creates zero VOCs.” Based on color surface hardness testing (ASTM D3363-05), Mikron SuperCoat is 800 percent harder than competitive paint. SuperCoat tested to a 4H level compared to a leading waterborne paint at 2B. “SuperCoat is a great example of how Mikron’s technical solutions provide customers with differentiated product features to help gain market-share in today’s competitive environment. By partnering with Mikron, manufacturers are instantly able to represent technology leadership to their end customers,” added Wemmer. SuperCoat is different from competing systems since is a patented, exclusive technology made available to only Mikron’s partners producing PVC, composite or fiberglass window and door profiles. Small and mid-sized OEM partners will find that the SuperCoat vacuum-applied process is faster-to-market and less capital-intensive than setting up typical specialty paint or coating systems. And because SuperCoat is more durable, it enables an ultra-long lifecycle. It’s backed by a 20 Year warranty. To learn more about this offering, Mikron will be exhibiting at GlassBuild America in Las Vegas, Nevada (booth #1229), from September 14-16, 2010. Or visit www.mikronvinyl.com or call 800.456.8020.

Eight Times Harder Than Paint, the System is the Most Durable Applied Coating Available; Zero VOCs Make It Greener Than Paint SEATTLE--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Today, Mikron Industries, the most innovative solutions provider for window manufacturers, launches new SuperCoat™ vinyl window coating for window and door manufacturers, especially those competing in the replacement market. The new coating technology features a patented durable color coating system, which is vacuum-applied and cured by ultraviolet light. The SuperCoat system offers a color surface that is eight times harder than paint, and is the most durable applied coating available for vinyl windows and doors. SuperCoat is also a much more environmentally sensitive system than paint since it is a zero volatile organic compound (VOC) technology. SuperCoat comes in six attractive colors. This next-generation color system can provide OEM manufacturers with superior durability differentiation, reduced in-field touch-up costs, and a greener image - all benefits that help them demonstrate product leadership. “SuperCoat is a vacuum-applied, ultraviolet light-cured color coating for vinyl and composite windows,” said David Wemmer, president of Mikron. “Based on testing, the result is a color layer that is eight times harder than paint and offers excellent durability against weathering and the elements. This coating incorporates Mikron’s innovative low heat-absorbing color technology to prevent heat distortion that is often seen when darker colors are specified on vinyl and composite windows. Unlike solvent or waterborne paints, it is environmentally superior because the vacuum-applied, ultraviolet light cured process creates zero VOCs.” Based on color surface hardness testing (ASTM D3363-05), Mikron SuperCoat is 800 percent harder than competitive paint. SuperCoat tested to a 4H level compared to a leading waterborne paint at 2B. “SuperCoat is a great example of how Mikron’s technical solutions provide customers with differentiated product features to help gain market-share in today’s competitive environment. By partnering with Mikron, manufacturers are instantly able to represent technology leadership to their end customers,” added Wemmer. SuperCoat is different from competing systems since is a patented, exclusive technology made available to only Mikron’s partners producing PVC, composite or fiberglass window and door profiles. Small and mid-sized OEM partners will find that the SuperCoat vacuum-applied process is faster-to-market and less capital-intensive than setting up typical specialty paint or coating systems. And because SuperCoat is more durable, it enables an ultra-long lifecycle. It’s backed by a 20 Year warranty. To learn more about this offering, Mikron will be exhibiting at GlassBuild America in Las Vegas, Nevada (booth #1229), from September 14-16, 2010. Or visit www.mikronvinyl.com or call 800.456.8020.

Eight Times Harder Than Paint, the System is the Most Durable Applied Coating Available; Zero VOCs Make It Greener Than Paint SEATTLE--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Today, Mikron Industries, the most innovative solutions provider for window manufacturers, launches new SuperCoat™ vinyl window coating for window and door manufacturers, especially those competing in the replacement market. The new coating technology features a patented durable color coating system, which is vacuum-applied and cured by ultraviolet light. The SuperCoat system offers a color surface that is eight times harder than paint, and is the most durable applied coating available for vinyl windows and doors. SuperCoat is also a much more environmentally sensitive system than paint since it is a zero volatile organic compound (VOC) technology. SuperCoat comes in six attractive colors. This next-generation color system can provide OEM manufacturers with superior durability differentiation, reduced in-field touch-up costs, and a greener image - all benefits that help them demonstrate product leadership. “SuperCoat is a vacuum-applied, ultraviolet light-cured color coating for vinyl and composite windows,” said David Wemmer, president of Mikron. “Based on testing, the result is a color layer that is eight times harder than paint and offers excellent durability against weathering and the elements. This coating incorporates Mikron’s innovative low heat-absorbing color technology to prevent heat distortion that is often seen when darker colors are specified on vinyl and composite windows. Unlike solvent or waterborne paints, it is environmentally superior because the vacuum-applied, ultraviolet light cured process creates zero VOCs.” Based on color surface hardness testing (ASTM D3363-05), Mikron SuperCoat is 800 percent harder than competitive paint. SuperCoat tested to a 4H level compared to a leading waterborne paint at 2B. “SuperCoat is a great example of how Mikron’s technical solutions provide customers with differentiated product features to help gain market-share in today’s competitive environment. By partnering with Mikron, manufacturers are instantly able to represent technology leadership to their end customers,” added Wemmer. SuperCoat is different from competing systems since is a patented, exclusive technology made available to only Mikron’s partners producing PVC, composite or fiberglass window and door profiles. Small and mid-sized OEM partners will find that the SuperCoat vacuum-applied process is faster-to-market and less capital-intensive than setting up typical specialty paint or coating systems. And because SuperCoat is more durable, it enables an ultra-long lifecycle. It’s backed by a 20 Year warranty. To learn more about this offering, Mikron will be exhibiting at GlassBuild America in Las Vegas, Nevada (booth #1229), from September 14-16, 2010. Or visit www.mikronvinyl.com or call 800.456.8020.

Rebuilding 50 homes in Gentilly, Louisiana commemorating the 5th anniversary of Hurricanes Katrina and Rita WASHINGTON, June 29 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- Rebuilding Together, the nation's leading nonprofit working to preserve affordable homeownership, has announced that their longtime sponsor, Sherwin-Williams (NYSE:SHW) , will be supplying all the paint and painting supplies for the upcoming event, Fifty for Five. Fifty for Five is Rebuilding Together's large-scale event occurring August 24 - 29, and consists of rebuilding fifty homes in Gentilly, Louisiana, to commemorate the fifth anniversary of Hurricanes Katrina and Rita. For an entire week, Rebuilding Together affiliates, volunteers and community leaders will unite to deliver considerable renovations that will allow many homeowners who have been displaced since the hurricanes to move back into safer and improved homes. "Sherwin-Williams is committed to helping our communities where we do business," said Bob Wells, SVP Corporate Communications and Public Affairs for Sherwin-Williams. "Following the hurricanes, our associates provided paint and thousands of hours of volunteer labor to help our neighbors in the Gulf region rebuild their neighborhoods and we are pleased to continue those efforts now as a supporter of Rebuilding Together's Fifty for Five." Sherwin-Williams has been a Rebuilding Together President's Circle Sponsor since 2007. During that time, Rebuilding Together and Sherwin-Williams have developed a strong relationship; rebuilding communities by delivering critical renovations to low-income homeowners nationwide. Sherwin-Williams has continuously donated paint and home-improvement supplies, and recently assisted in launching Rebuilding Together's Greater Los Angeles affiliate. In addition, Sherwin-Williams has provided valuable lead safe work practices training and education opportunities to the Rebuilding Together affiliate network. Sherwin-Williams is joining an array of other sponsors, media personalities, partners, community leaders, and volunteers who are committing their time and resources to one of Rebuilding Together's largest outreach events. To learn more about the upcoming Fifty for Five event, visit www.fiftyforfive.org.

Icynene Turns Red to Green with New Intumescent Fire Retardant Technology MISSISSAUGA, Ontario--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Icynene Inc. (Icynene), the North American leader in open-cell spray foam technology, this week introduced ICYNENE ShelterShield™, an intumescent fire retardant coating that is available exclusively to Icynene Licensed Dealers. Approved as an ignition barrier, ICYNENE ShelterShield™ is specially formulated to meet AC 377 requirements with Icynene light density spray foam insulations. While not the only intumescent fire retardant coating on the market, ICYNENE ShelterShield™ represents a breakthrough - employing a technology not used before in the spray foam industry. ICYNENE ShelterShield™ is also the most economical choice, achieving or exceeding the performance of more expensive alternatives. The other pluses of this simple to use, one component product include easy clean-up, 6 month shelf life and Limited Lifetime Warranty. “We’re excited to announce this new product which complements our light density spray foam insulation,” said Howard Deck, President and CEO of Icynene Inc. “When 100% water-based and HFC-free spray foam requires a fire retardant coating, that coating should be equally green. ICYNENE ShelterShield™ is water-based, non-carcinogenic, and VOC- and formaldehyde-free.” The green building movement has led to an increased demand for innovative and energy efficient products like Icynene insulation. Icynene offers an array of spray foam insulation solutions in both light and medium density and continues to make a difference with renewable and recycled content products that are also CHPS (Collaborative for High Performance Schools) EQ 2.2 Section 01350 compliant, meeting nationally recognized requirements as Low-Emitting Materials (LEM). Furthermore, Icynene insulation is a vital contributor towards a building obtaining critical NAHB and LEED points. And now when codes call for additional protection from the most destructive natural element, FIRE, there’s no need to see red. Instead Icynene Dealers can choose to go green with ICYNENE ShelterShield™. Available immediately, Icynene Dealers are now able to order both their spray foam insulation and fire retardant coating for delivery on the same truck. ICYNENE ShelterShield™ has been verified as code compliant by the ICC, the United States’ leader in evaluating building products for compliance with code. It is approved for use with either ICYNENE LD-R-50® or LD-C-50® as noted in ICC-ES report 2715 and 1826 respectively.

Leaders from Trane and the CoStar Group to discuss the benefits of high performance buildings LONG BEACH, Calif., June 24 /PRNewswire/ -- Going green can increase worker productivity -- and may even help employees reduce sick time -- according to a recent study by the University of San Diego and CB Richard Ellis. At the upcoming 2010 Building Owners and Managers Association (BOMA) International Conference, study author Norman Miller, vice president of analytics at the CoStar Group, and Pat Garibay, LEED AP, business development director for contracting solutions at Trane, will discuss the study and show attendees how they can effectively design and build high performance buildings. The research examined the productivity of over 500 tenants who have moved into Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED)-certified or Energy Star-labeled buildings. The study found that, compared to non-green buildings, healthier buildings reduce sick time and increase employee productivity. The presentation will: - Summarize the research findings, - Explain how commercial office building owners and facility managers can design and build LEED-certified or Energy Star-labeled buildings, - Address how the study's findings can be used to market green buildings to prospective and existing tenants and owners. Garibay will discuss how building owners and property managers can retrofit existing buildings to obtain LEED-certified or Energy Star-labeled buildings. Additionally, he will focus on strategies and technologies available to improve building efficiency while increasing worker productivity and reducing sick time. Miller will also explain how to use the study's findings to market green buildings to tenants. Presentation details: When: Sunday, June 27, 3:30-4:45 pm Where: Room 102C at Long Beach Convention & Entertainment Center, Long Beach, Calif About the BOMA International Conference and The Every Building Show® The Building Owners and Managers Association International's 2010 BOMA International Conference and The Every Building Show, June 27-29 at the Long Beach Convention Center in Long Beach, Calif., is the premier event for commercial real estate professionals to learn strategies and build relationships that are vital for achieving operational excellence and sustaining their business through this difficult market cycle. Conference website: www.bomaconvention.org. Visit Trane at the conference at booth # 342. Trane is a Cornerstone Partner of BOMA International.

TRENTON, N.J., June 24 /PRNewswire/ -- The Committee on the Environment of the New Jersey chapter of the American Institute of Architects (AIA-NJ), has announced that its green conference, East Coast Green, will be held at Bally's Atlantic City, N.J., on Sept. 16 and 17, in conjunction with its annual Design Day event. The conference will be preceded on Sept. 15 by a full day of workshops sponsored by the New Jersey chapter of the U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC). The theme of the event will be "Meeting the Architecture 2030 Goals." Architecture 2030 is a U.S.-based, environmental advocacy group focused on protecting the global environment by using innovation and common sense to develop, and quickly implement, bold solutions to global warming. The conference will feature 40 presenters, as well as the three keynote speakers: president of Waterkeeper Alliance, Robert F. Kennedy Jr.; founder of "The Architecture 2030 Challenge," Edward Mazria; and internationally recognized proponent and practitioner of sustainability, Bill Reed. In addition, there will be over 30 courses, all of which are eligible for AIA continuing education credit and are pending approval for USGBC credits. "The line-up of keynote speakers at East Coast Green comprises a virtual who's who of the green marketplace," said Jason Kliwinski, AIA, LEED AP, president of AIA-NJ. "That, coupled with the cross-disciplinary collaboration, makes this a one-of-a-kind green building conference." To register, visit the East Coast Green website at www.aia-nj.org/ECG/ and click the "Register to Attend Here" tab. Pricing varies depending on the package -- two-day pass, one-day pass or a la carte items. "Early Bird" rates are available through July 31 as well as discounts for AIA members, government officials, educators and students. Sponsorship and exhibit opportunities are available. Sponsors and exhibitors will have the opportunity to increase their company's visibility in the "greening" consumer markets, as well as to network with leaders and present their products and applications to an audience of early adopters and industry leaders. For information on exhibiting or sponsorship, visit the ECG website or e-mail Jack Purvis, AIA, LEED AP, at ECGsponsors@aia-nj.org.

Wins a 2010 Edison Best New Product Award LOUISVILLE, Ky.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--The GeoSpring™ hybrid water heater from GE continues its impressive run of firsts. Not only was the GeoSpring the first heat pump to be ENERGY STAR® rated and the first to be listed on the U.S. Department of Energy’s website, it has recently earned another first: first place in the Edison Best New Product Awards in the Lifestyle & Social impact category. The Edison Best New Product Awards recognize new and innovative products in the spirit of Thomas Alva Edison, America’s greatest inventor and innovator. Edison was father of the electric light bulb, document duplication, recorded sound, commercial electricity generation, and the motion picture, to name but a few of his inventions. After air heating and cooling, home water heating is the largest in residential energy consumption. As homes are designed to be more energy–efficient, the percentage of energy used to heat water has been growing—until now. The new GeoSpring hybrid water heater can cut residential water heater energy costs by more than half. By utilizing heat pump technology in combination with traditional electric elements, the GeoSpring hybrid water heater pulls heat from surrounding air and transfers it to the tank. This innovative process creates the same amount of hot water as a traditional water heater, but can reduce energy expenses up to 62 percent.* And that could have a dramatic impact on monthly utility bills and the environment. The GeoSpring hybrid water heater: * Consumes up to 62 percent less energy than a standard electric water heater * Results in energy savings of $320 per year** * Exceeds ENERGY STAR® minimum requirements of 2.0 Energy Factor (EF) with 2.35 EF The GeoSpring hybrid water heater has earned a “Best of What’s New” award from Popular Science magazine, and was also recently recognized in Home Builder Executive’s “Green Building Product Awards” for Heat Pump Water Heaters. *Based on DOE test procedure and comparison of a 50–gallon standard electric tank water heater using 4879 kWh every year vs. the GE Hybrid water heater using 1856 kWh every year, and national average of 10.65 cents per kWh. **Based on DOE test procedure and comparison of a 50–gallon standard electric tank water heater using 4881 kWh per year vs. the GE Hybrid water heater using 1856 kWh per year, and national average of 10.65 cents per kWh.

USGBC awards first-of-its-kind LEED Certified designation CHARLESTON, S.C. and ATLANTA, June 23 /PRNewswire/ -- First Federal's newest location has become the first in-store bank office in the nation to earn LEED® certification from the U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC). Located within the Lowes Food Store at 341 South College Road in Wilmington, N.C., the 330 square-foot facility was recently awarded the distinction of a LEED Certified facility. Developed by the USGBC, LEED certification is an internationally recognized system that verifies buildings or communities designed and built with energy savings, water efficiency, emission reduction and improved environmental quality. The South College Road branch opened in October 2009 and is the first in-store facility to earn LEED certification. Dedicated to building a LEED-certified project, First Federal turned to IBT Enterprises, their provider of choice for in-store branching, to deliver a facility that met the USGBC's strict guidelines. IBT completed the project from start to finish, conducting design-build and construction services for the project. First Federal earned points for a variety of conservation efforts, including reductions in power use, the use of construction materials with high recycled content, and installing energy-efficient equipment. As an in-store location, IBT also had to install sub-metering equipment to differentiate First Federal's metering from Lowes'.

New Model Transfer, Bio-Climatic, and Advanced Thermal, HVAC and Bulk Airflow Features BOSTON--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Integrated Environmental Solutions (IES), a provider of integrated performance analysis software and consulting services for sustainable building design, today released version 6.1 of its software suite. New features, which improve technical functionality and user experience, include plug-in enhancements to facilitate better model transfer, a new Bio-Climatic feature within VE-Gaia, and advanced thermal, HVAC and bulk airflow features within VE-Pro. These new features continue IES’ drive to open up the sustainable low-energy design power of its VE software to a wider user base, enabling the quantitative understanding of building energy performance to become a collaborative effort between architects and engineers. The IES VE technology facilitates energy-efficient building design, reduced CO2 emissions, and better utilisation of low-carbon technologies and renewable energy. It can be used on new builds, refurbishment projects and in-use evaluation to answer key sustainable design questions. The 4-tier IES VE product structure (VE-Ware, VE-Toolkits, VE-Gaia and VE-Pro), and tight integration with Google SketchUp™, Autodesk® Revit®, Graphisoft® ArchiCAD® and other CAD programs allows building designers to quickly and easily undertake iterative and quantitative analysis directly from design models, right from the earliest stages.

DUBLIN--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Research and Markets has announced the addition of the "European Architectural Barometer (Q1 2010) - Theme: Energy Reduction" report to their offering. The European Architectural Barometer shows important indicators for future European construction volume and methods. That makes this quarterly study highly useful for organisations with a focus on Europe that also want to compare different countries regarding expected building volumes and construction trends. The research is conducted in the United Kingdom, Germany, France, Spain, Italy and the Netherlands. The European Architectural Barometer is a need to know management tool for top management and strategic marketing. Besides the index figures, we also highlight a specific theme each quarter. This quarter's theme we take a look at energy reduction. The following topics will be discussed: statements regarding energy reduction and to what extent architects agree with the statements, the (perceived) best and most preferred insulation material, type of installation the most energy can be saved with, applied energy saving measures and construction materials with poor with poor energy efficiency image.

BENTON HARBOR, Mich., June 22 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- Whirlpool Corporation (NYSE:WHR) was recently named the exclusive appliance partner for Horton Homes, a privately held leader in the manufactured housing industry. As part of the agreement, Whirlpool Corporation will provide Whirlpool and Maytag brand appliances to Horton Home's modular and manufactured homes. "We are impressed with Whirlpool Corporation's excellent reputation in the industry and with consumers, and are confident that its appliance delivery and in-the-field support is exactly what we need," said Steve Gregory, vice president of purchasing for Horton Homes. Horton Homes develops and manufactures many components within the homes it builds, including dry wall, frames and moldings to ensure quality craftsmanship and fast delivery. Priding itself on providing superior construction, energy efficiency and breadth of amenities, Horton Homes will offer Whirlpool and Maytag brand appliances in its homes' kitchen and laundry areas. "Whirlpool and Maytag brand appliances provide an enhanced level of quality, energy efficiency and features for which Horton Homes is known, making us an ideal partner," said Tom Halford, general manager, contract sales and marketing at Whirlpool Corporation. "We're honored to be part of Horton Homes' commitment to the community and admirable business practices."

WASHINGTON--(BUSINESS WIRE)--The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) decision to delay enforcement of the new Lead: Renovation, Repair and Painting rule will provide much-needed time to get more remodelers and other contractors trained – and for EPA to get the word out to consumers about the importance of hiring a certified remodeler, according to the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB). “EPA listened to our concerns and did the right thing,” said NAHB Chairman Bob Jones, a builder and developer in Bloomfield Hills, Mich. In revised guidance released on Friday, EPA acknowledged that remodelers in many parts of the country have been unable to obtain the required training to comply with the rule – a problem that NAHB has urged the agency to solve since the rule was announced two years ago. The issue came to a head in May after floods devastated parts of Tennessee and there weren’t enough certified remodelers to complete much-needed home repairs. NAHB and its state home builders association proposed a delay in enforcing the rule -- a decision EPA consented to in its letter on Friday. While remodelers, electricians, heating and air conditioning technicians and other contractors must adhere to lead-safe work practices, including special equipment filters and a ban on open flames, EPA will not take enforcement action against firms that have been unable to obtain certification until Oct. 1 of this year. Individual contractors must apply to enroll in a training class by Sept. 30 and complete the training by Dec. 31, 2010. “This rule potentially affects about 79 million homeowners. That’s how many homes were built before 1978, when lead paint was banned,” Jones said. “We need significantly more contractors certified than the 300,000 who have taken the training course, and we also need to make sure that affected homeowners understand the importance of hiring a certified contractor.”

The Durst Organization Expands Its Implementation of Aircuity at One Bryant Park NEWTON, Mass.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Aircuity, the smart airside efficiency company, today announced that the Bank of America Tower at One Bryant Park in New York City has achieved an “Innovation in Design” Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) credit because of Aircuity’s contributions to the project. The LEED “Innovation in Design” credit awarded for this approach to the building’s IEQ, along with other credits that the Aircuity system contributed to, has improved the overall energy efficiency of the 55-story building and aided in it becoming the first commercial high-rise building in U.S. history to be awarded a LEED platinum rating by the U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC). Aircuity’s system of intelligent ventilation measurement and optimization—called OptiNet—is helping the Bank of America Tower continuously monitor multiple Indoor Environmental Quality (IEQ) parameters such as CO2, CO, Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs) and small particulates. Because of Aircuity, New York City’s second-tallest building can ensure a consistently high quality of ventilation air for its tenants, while reducing the energy needed to heat, cool and circulate that air within its walls. The indoor environmental performance information collected by Aircuity has become the central component and driver behind the building’s comprehensive approach to ensuring a safe and comfortable environment for its tenants. In fact, due to the success of the initial deployment, the developer of the project—The Durst Organization—has recently expanded its implementation of Aircuity to additional areas within the tower.

WEST DES MOINES, Iowa, June 21 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- Black Hills Energy has received a 2010 ENERGY STAR® Leadership in Housing Award from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. This award recognizes the contribution Black Hills Energy has made to energy-efficient construction by verifying and incenting the construction of 270 ENERGY STAR qualified homes last year throughout its Iowa service territory. According to ENERGY STAR, these homes will save Black Hills Energy customers approximately $84,000 on utility bills each year.

SAN FRANCISCO, June 18 /PRNewswire/ -- Schuco Solar USA has been growing its dealer base rapidly over the past three and a half years. Already an established solar leader around the world, the company has been selective of its U.S. dealers. One of Schuco's prestigious recognition awards is the "Residential Dealer of the Year". It is not based solely on sales revenues, but also on customer service, ethics and leadership in the solar industry. After careful review and customer feedback one dealer has stood out - "Greenspring Energy." Greenspring Energy has shown exponential growth by deploying creative and strategic marketing tactics, competent and efficient staff and processes; along with a high level of customer appreciation. "A recipe that has resulted in success for our joint partnership," said Benjamin B. Sanders - Regional Sales Director - Northeast America.

Architectural Thermal Shade Structures protect buildings from the sun's heat while producing thermal solar hot water. LOS ANGELES, June 17 /PRNewswire/ -- Eliosolar officially introduces a new line of Solar Thermal Shade products: Eliosolar Thermal shade Modular Elements (ETME). Made of recyclable aluminum, ETME contain an integrated invisible thermal solar collector and come in four sizes with standard steel wall anchors and posts in a contemporary industrial design style. Available as off-the-shelf items for easy ordering and rapid installation, ETME can be assembled into Thermal Shade Structures (Sunshades, Facade Sun Shields, Canopies, Trellis, Patio cover, Carport, Walkways...) and installed on new constructions or retrofits. Combining the benefits of passive and active solar concepts, Thermal Shade Structures protect building and occupants from solar heat with shade, reducing indoor temperature and a/c consumption while capturing the sun's energy to generate free solar hot water for the building needs: domestic or commercial consumption, pool heating or radiant heating. A perfect alternative to unsightly rooftop solar collectors, Thermal Shade Structures can also be manufactured to architect's design specifications to fit seamlessly with the architecture of a building. "Eliosolar products offer a smart solution and a great opportunity for architects and builders to integrate solar thermal hot water systems in their projects while maintaining the architectural design integrity of their buildings...and an economical solution since solar thermal shades will pay for themselves thanks to tax credits and energy savings generated over time," says architect Rob Anderson, AIA, principal of design-build firm CAC Development. For more information, consult our website: http://redirect.aecdaily.com/s18122/www.eliosolar.com/

ATLANTA--(BUSINESS WIRE)--The twenty-two story Overlook III office building, at 2859 Paces Ferry Road in the Northwest Atlanta submarket, has been awarded LEED Silver certification for existing buildings by the US Green Building Council. The 438,709 square-foot property is the second building in Atlanta owned and managed by Parmenter Realty Partners to achieve LEED certification. Parmenter and its consultant, BVM Engineering, worked together to attain this certification, building on Parmenter’s existing corporate green initiatives. Since purchasing the building Parmenter has aggressively pursued energy saving projects such as recommissioning the mechanical systems, retrofitting restroom faucets and toilets with low-flow devices, and completing a full building lighting retrofit. Additionally, the building has strengthened the green cleaning and recycling programs already in place. Parmenter has also improved the building’s Energy Star rating during the past year from a score of 87 to 90, which puts it in the top 10% of most energy efficient buildings of this size in this region.

Company to Aim for 30% Less Energy Use, 20% Reduction in Water Per Available Room WHITE PLAINS, N.Y.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Expanding on its company-wide commitment to conservation and sustainable operations, Starwood Hotels and Resorts Worldwide Inc. (NYSE: HOT) plans to significantly reduce energy and water consumption at every one of its 1,000 hotels within the decade. Starwood is targeting a 30 percent reduction in energy use per available room by 2020; the company will also work toward a 20 percent decrease in water consumption per available room by 2020. The initiative will apply to all of Starwood’s owned, managed, and franchised hotels around the world.

NEW YORK--(BUSINESS WIRE)--The New York Chapter of the Association of Energy Engineers (NYAEE) last night named Hemant R. Mehta, PE, the chapter’s Energy Engineer of the Year during its 23rd annual awards gala in New York City. “It’s certainly an honor to be recognized for doing what I love to do,” says Hemant Mehta, president of WM Group Engineers. “Saving energy is a passion, so the more concrete results I see, the better. For example, at NYU’s Langone Medical Center we were able to help them cut their peak demand by nearly a megawatt and save $460,000 a year in energy costs.” Mehta is considered an expert in utility master planning with vast experience in optimizing plant performance and improving plant efficiencies. He has managed more than 100 central utility projects throughout his 35-year career. His recommendations have enabled many facilities to save millions in capital and operating costs. “For many organizations the fixes are relatively straightforward with quick paybacks,” says Mehta. “But it’s not just equipment upgrades that make the difference, it’s operating strategies. I love to teach operators how to continuously optimize their systems. The better trained they are, the more savings they will be able to accrue over the long run. Teaching them upfront how to look at their systems as a whole – the production, distribution and utilization of energy together – allows them to make their own adjustments year after year.” Mehta founded New York City-based WM Group Engineers in 2000. The company emphasizes “smart solutions that work.” For more on WM Group, visit www.wmgroupeng.com.

Yes, it’s true – Duradek is on a roll! Last year we proudly introduced Duradek Ultra TILEDEK – the ideal solution to waterproofing and crack isolation under exterior tile, slate or porcelain! Now, we are very pleased to be introducing Duradek Ultra PLAZADEK – the perfect solution to waterproofing under exterior pavers or duck board overlays. Produced by Duradek – the ORIGINAL roofing-approved membrane that has been waterproofing flat roof decks, sundecks and balconies for over 35 years! 3 great products designed to provide 3 different exterior finishes, requiring waterproofing membranes! All with the same roofing approvals, the same proven installation techniques and the same network of professional and trained applicators! For more information call DURADEK at 1-866-591-5594 or go to www.duradek.com/DuradekUltraPlazadek.html.

The 2009 IBC and IFC require Luminous Egress Path Markings in multi-story building stair cases to help building occupants evacuate from darkened high-rises. This includes assembly, business, educational, institutional, mercantile buildings and hotels/motels nationwide. PERMALIGHT® manufactures these non-electrical, non-radioactive Code-compliant, UL1994-listed Exit Path Markings. The comprehensive PERMALIGHT® Staircase Marking system includes photoluminescent Metal Stair Nosing, Anti-Slip Floor products, Perimeter Wall Tape & Extrusions, Handrail & Obstacle Markings, Directional Signs, Floor Identification Signage and Exit Door Markings, allowing building owners and property managers to choose markings that perfectly suit their building and budget needs. PERMALIGHT® photoluminescent markings helped evacuate the New York City World Trade Center Tower stair cases during the 9/11 events. The NIST evacuation study results led to photoluminescent exit path marking requirements in NYC high rise office building staircases, and now the 2009 IBC/IFC Codes and NFPA101-Life Safety Code.

On the Heels of BP Crisis, Rating Demonstrates Firm's Commitment to Promoting Sustainable Business Practices and Individual Environmental Responsibility PHILADELPHIA, June 15 /PRNewswire/ -- Montgomery McCracken today announced that the firm was recently awarded Silver certification under the U.S. Green Building Council's LEED® -CI rating system for energy-efficient and eco-friendly environment renovations made to the Firm's office located on 123 South Broad Street in Philadelphia. The recognition is a testament to the firm's commitment to promoting sustainable business practices and working conditions. After a phased renovation process that took almost two years of planning and 11 months of construction, the construction was completed in November of 2009, and the building was awarded with the LEED® -CI silver rating on April 10, 2010. LEED®, a third-party certification program and the nationally accepted benchmark for the design, construction and operation of high-performance green buildings recognized Montgomery McCracken for performance in five key areas of human and environmental health: sustainable site development, water savings, energy efficiency, materials selection and indoor environmental quality. The project represents a successful collaboration between Montgomery McCracken, Partridge Architects, SSH Real Estate, Lakash Constructors and the HPE Group.

BERKELEY, Calif., June 14 /PRNewswire/ -- Scientific Conservation Inc. (SCI), a leading provider of energy efficiency, system optimization and Automated Continuous Commissioning (ACC) solutions for the $5 billion commercial building market, today announced it has been named a winner in the San Francisco Business Times' Green Business Awards, in the Energy Efficiency category. The company received the award at an awards reception held at the Hilton San Francisco, June 9.

For LEED focused architects, LG combines design, climate control for cost-effective products MIAMI, June 11 /PRNewswire/ -- A leading worldwide air conditioning leader, LG Electronics is showcasing advancements in energy-saving technologies, design flexibility and temperature controls this week at the American Institute of Architects (AIA) 2010 Convention (booth 367). Exhibiting for the first time at AIA 2010, LG's goal is to provide architects, building engineers and other commercial space operators with a broader range of cost and energy-efficient climate control solutions that do not sacrifice stylish design or quiet operation. Since its entry into the U.S. HVAC market in 2004 LG has made it a priority to work hand in hand with architects, engineers and contractors to determine the right product application with the maximum return on investment - from energy efficiency to design and scale. Now, with industry reports signaling an increased focus over the next year on energy management and investment, architects and engineers focusing on green buildings need to work with HVAC manufacturers that have a proven track record of product innovation, quality and energy efficiency. The built-in Inverter technology on LG's Multi-V models adds enhanced energy efficiency and flexibility in commercial industries, allowing them to enjoy efficient climate controls in a variety of chic interior styles. Efficient Heating and Cooling with Immediate Payback According to the fourth annual Energy Efficiency Indicator (EEI), which tracks energy management priorities, practices and investment plans among decision makers responsible for commercial buildings and their energy use, one of the three largest barriers to capturing potential energy savings is insufficient payback with almost half of all respondents citing that they require a simple payback of three years or less, in order to justify the investment. LG's Multi-V system combats this issue of insufficient payback with its unique HVAC system which offers commercial buildings and lodging and hospitality environments the unique combination of high energy efficiency with easy temperature controls in a cost-effective solution. Built around LG's inverter compressors, the Multi-V series delivers one of the highest EER ratings available in the VRF equipment category, along with low sound operation. Using VRF technology, the Multi-V system provides commercial businesses greater temperature control therefore avoiding unnecessary energy usage in unoccupied rooms. Additionally, industry leading pipe lengths on the Multi-V that connect in-room systems with outdoor fans use serially arranged refrigerant pipes to connect to a single outdoor unit with the option to also connect to others. This efficient system offers outstanding energy savings with a wide variety of indoor and outdoor units. LG's outdoor units also incorporate a modular design that can easily be scaled to suit the needs of a particular building, from high-rise buildings, high-end hotels and luxury resort facilities to commercial buildings and condominium projects. Also on display at AIA 2010 are LG's Duct-Free Flex Multi-Split Quad-Zone Air Conditioning systems. This series extends LG's broad portfolio of applied commercial air conditioning products into the U.S. market, and features design flexibility and industry-leading energy efficiency. This system can operate up to four interior units mounted in separate rooms for easy temperature control in each setting, but all connected to one single exterior condensing unit.

Miami, Florida – June 11, 2010 AEC Daily announced today at the AIA Convention that Whirlpool has become the first manufacturer to have their courses approved by the International Union of Architects. (generally known by the French name’s acronym: UIA) The courses were registered by AEC Daily. As the first private organization to have their educational system recognized by UIA, AEC Daily is able to certify and register courses under UIA’s Continuing Professional Development (CDP) program. Whirlpool’s continuing education will now be available to the 1.3 million architects represented by UIA’s 124 member countries. The courses will provide the learners with continuing education credits under the reciprocal recognition of the UIA’s CDP Quality Label. “The technology revolution has demonstrated that geographical boundaries are a thing of the past. Designing a building from a California office for a construction project in Dubai is part of today’s architectural markets” said Jeff Rice, President of the AEC Daily Corporation. “Given the realities of designing, we have now aligned ourselves with UIA to better equip our clients with an educational strategy that can reach the entire global architectural community.” The International Union of Architects was founded in Lausanne (Switzerland) on June 28, 1948, to unite the architects of the world. From the 27 delegations present at the founding assembly, the UIA has grown to encompass the key professional organisations of architects in 124 countries and territories, and now represents, through these organisations, more than 1,300,000 architects worldwide. In representing the world community of architects and promoting their activities, the UIA works in co-operation with high-ranking organisations around the world. They are the only world organisation officially recognised in the field of architecture by leading intergovernmental institutions such as UNESCO: United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation, WHO: World Health Organisation, WTO: World Trade Organisation, and the IOC: International Olympic Committee. AEC Daily currently has over 265 free courses that are recognized or approved by 17 different organizations and several new courses are added monthly. Each one meets or exceeds the educational requirement for most construction professionals in the world. About AEC Daily: AEC Daily is the largest provider of FREE online continuing education to construction professionals. Courses are available online 24 hours a day, 7 days a week and credits are automatically submitted to AIA, CSI and other organizations. Architects, engineers, interior designers and other construction professionals rely on AEC Daily to maintain their accreditation with ease.

Architecture Firm Uses Building Information Modeling Process to Facilitate Evidence-Based Design Decision Making AIA National Convention 2010 MIAMI--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Autodesk, Inc. (NASDAQ: ADSK), a world leader in 2D and 3D design, engineering and entertainment software, announced that DesignGroup has received an Autodesk BIM Experience Award for extending the use of building information modeling (BIM) to sustainable design, and for the application of a BIM process on more than 40 building projects to date, representing over 4.2-million square feet. The award further recognizes the firm’s efforts to promote BIM through presentations, lectures and continuing education seminars for its partners, consultants, clients, local builders, industry groups and universities. DesignGroup is also being honored for its exemplary use of software for BIM, including Autodesk Revit Architecture, Autodesk 3ds Max Design, Autodesk Ecotect Analysis, (whose active subscribers have access to Autodesk Green Building Studio web-based service), and Autodesk Navisworks.

First major branded North American supplier of exterior solid phenolic facade panels CINCINNATI, Ohio, June 10 /PRNewswire/ -- The inventor of laminate is taking its expertise outside ... literally. Formica Corporation is previewing VIVIX(TM) exterior architectural panels June 10-12 at the AIA 2010 National Convention and Design Exposition in Miami. The company will be the only major branded North American supplier of a solid phenolic exterior grade product. VIVIX is a rigid homogenous flat panel manufactured for vertical application with a rainscreen attachment system. The VIVIX panels, manufactured to ISO standards and used with the attachment system, meet all relevant building codes in the United States and Canada in accordance with the International Code Council (ICC). VIVIX panels are manufactured in Formica Corporation's facility in St. Jean, Quebec, Canada, and may contribute toward LEED credits, such as optimized energy performance, sustainable materials and resources and moisture regulation. VIVIX contains 3 percent pre-consumer recycled wood fiber content as determined in accordance with ISO Standard 14021. In addition, VIVIX exterior solid phenolic facade panels are not imported from overseas and will have a reduced transportation emission carbon footprint. VIVIX exterior architectural panels by Formica Group will launch in October 2010.

Company Promoting 3rd International Holcim Awards WALTHAM, Mass., June 10 /PRNewswire/ -- Cement manufacturer Holcim (US) Inc. announced today that it has an exhibit at the American Institute of Architects Convention being held in Miami, Florida from June 10 - June 12, 2010. Holcim is promoting the upcoming call-for-entries for the third cycle Holcim Awards. The Holcim Awards is an international competition for sustainable construction projects including a category for "next generation" which pertains to architectural students. A total of $2 million in prize money is awarded in each three-year cycle. Applications for the 3rd International Holcim Awards can be submitted starting July 1, 2010 and is open until March 23, 2011. Projects are expected to be at an advanced stage of planning. Execution may not have started before July 1, 2010.

VALLEY FORGE, Pa., June 9 /PRNewswire/ -- CertainTeed Gypsum introduces a revolutionary and ground-breaking approach to improving indoor air quality with AirRenew(TM) gypsum board. Building on a proven platform of superior protection against mold and moisture, CertainTeed has developed a patent-pending, innovative technology to further create a healthy indoor environment. The first of its kind, AirRenew wallboard permanently reduces volatile organic compounds (VOCs) circulating indoors. AirRenew actively helps clean the air by capturing VOCs - formaldehyde and other aldehydes - by converting them into inert compounds that safely remain within the board. For superior moisture and mold protection - which further improves indoor air quality - AirRenew also features M2Tech® technology, which is specially engineered to provide enhanced protection against moisture and mold. M2Tech achieves the best possible scores for mold resistance based on the stringent performance criteria of both ASTM G 21 and D 3273. AirRenew is the most sustainable gypsum board in the industry, featuring a wide range of performance and installation benefits. In addition to improving indoor air quality, AirRenew is designed for fire resistance. CertainTeed's AirRenew will help meet the VOC concentration limits, mold resistance, and recycled content criteria recognized by the U.S. Green Building Council's LEED® certification program. AirRenew will soon be available for sale across the U.S. and Canada.

Latest Evidence of Company-Wide Environmental Sustainability ROSWELL, Ga., June 9 /PRNewswire/ -- Kimberly-Clark Corporation (NYSE: KMB) received another environmental accolade, achieving its first ever LEED certification from the U.S. Green Building Council for its Kimberly-Clark Professional headquarters building (Building 100) in Roswell, Ga. The building obtained LEED Certification under the LEED for Existing Buildings: Operations & Maintenance program for existing and new practices in energy use, water use, and indoor environmental quality. To obtain the LEED for Existing Buildings: O&M Certification, the Roswell North Atlantic Facilities Management (NAFM) team focused on water efficiency, energy efficiency, the use of sustainable materials and resources, and indoor environmental quality. Fortunately, the facility already had many environmentally sustainable features in place, but the NAFM team also made several improvements to the four-story, 80,000-square-foot building, which houses about 350 employees and was originally constructed in 1980. Key achievements and resulting benefits include: Water Efficiency - Changing one gallon-per-flush restroom urinals to one pint-per-flush urinals, which helped the building reduce water use by 99,140 gallons per year. Energy Efficiency - Improving the building's EPA Energy Star rating from 72 to 79 after a comprehensive building commissioning and operational improvements which reduced energy use by 548,084 kilowatt hours per year, resulting in an energy cost savings of more than $40,000 and a maintenance cost savings of $2,605 per year. Sustainable Materials & Resources - Increasing the recycling of office materials from paper and cardboard only to also include aluminum cans, glass, and plastic bottles, thus diverting 5,300 pounds of waste from the landfill. - Using copy paper certified by the Forest Stewardship Council (FSC). - Using paints, carpet adhesives and other materials that have low volatile organic compounds (VOCs). - Maintaining a furniture re-use program that limits the need to buy new furniture. - Using low-mercury-content fluorescent bulbs throughout the building. Indoor Environmental Quality - Increasing the amount of outdoor air in the building from 1-5 cfm/person to more than 10 cfm/person. - Reducing HVAC system operation from 24x7 to hours of occupancy only, resulting in an estimated energy savings of more than $39,000 per year. - Instituting 100 percent occupant-controlled lighting in individual workstations and multi-occupant spaces - an achievement that qualifies as "exemplary performance" by USGBC. - Instituting a Green Cleaning program that replaced paper towels and other paper products used for cleaning with WypAll brand microfiber cleaning cloths and dusters. This change also significantly reduced the amount of cleaning chemicals and water used for cleaning. - Using restroom paper products that meet U.S. EPA Comprehensive Procurement Guidelines requiring a minimum percentage of post-consumer recycled content. All paper products used in Building 100 and throughout the entire Roswell campus are manufactured by Kimberly-Clark Professional, which achieved FSC chain-of-custody certification for a broad range of Kleenex brand and Scott brand tissue and towel products in August 2009.

New restaurant is first casual dining eatery in U.S. to receive LEED certification ORLANDO, Fla., June 8 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- The Olive Garden restaurant in Jonesboro, Ark. has recently been officially awarded Silver certification for Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) for New Construction (NC) from the United States Green Building Council (USGBC). The 7,500-square-foot restaurant, which opened in January, features a number of sustainable design elements, including: - Recycled Building Materials: Supplies such as sheetrock, doors and windows are made from recycled content. The flooring features carpet squares made from 100 percent recycled materials. - Increased Use of Natural Light: Incorporating more windows more frequently into the building's exterior reduces the need for artificial light. - Energy Efficient Equipment and Fixtures: Energy and water usage is reduced by incorporating items such as Energy Star-rated equipment and low-flow water nozzles in the kitchen and low-flow faucets in the restrooms. New LED parking lot light bulbs and low wattage energy efficient light bulbs use less energy and are replaced less often. Heat recovery tanks allow the capture of heat generated from the freezer/cooler compressors to aid in supplemental heating of hot water to reduce the energy required to heat water and prolong the life of the equipment.

CONCORD, N.C., June 7 /PRNewswire/ -- Circle at Concord Mills, a development by Crescent Resources Multifamily Development Group, was named the luxury multifamily project of the year by the National Association of Home Builders at the National Green Building Conference. The apartment community's clubhouse was the first Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) certified structure in Cabarrus County. Surrounded by 30 acres of preserved woods and wetlands, Circle at Concord Mills is also the first multifamily community in the country to be certified by Audubon International as an Audubon Signature Sanctuary. Circle at Concord Mills is the first multifamily garden community in North Carolina with a LEED-certified facility. A garden community is characterized by substantial open space, landscaped grounds and low-rise buildings. Circle at Concord Mills - the first smoke-free community in the Charlotte area - features ENERGY STAR appliances, built-in recycling bins, compact fluorescent light fixtures, low-energy windows and paints with low volatile organic compounds. The clubhouse also features native landscaping, water-efficient plumbing and recycled building materials.

CLEVELAND--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Better quality, more controllable and efficient lighting is an investment that ought to be on the radar screens of school districts across the U.S. this year. Superintendents, business managers, and school boards can take a meaningful step toward extraordinary, lasting lighting energy savings—and improved, more flexible learning environments—by visiting www.BetterLightingBetterSchools.com. The site provides a spectrum of information on how schools can improve lighting energy efficiency. It features a lighting audit request form tied to the introduction of energy-efficient Class Pack Lighting Systems from GE Lighting and Lithonia Lighting. By installing Class Pack Lighting Systems, schools can reduce annual lighting-related energy costs up to 50 percent. The new Class Pack Lighting Systems combine high-light-output, full-spectrum fluorescent lighting with a ballast system that delivers customized lighting levels in a two-lamp platform. With fewer, longer-longer life components, it minimizes maintenance and lamp replacement costs. It’s designed for fast, easy installation after school is out for the day or during summer renovations.

More than a name change, this is a sea change in how the building envelope is realized. Finally there is one integrated system where all the elements necessary to enclose the building are engineered to work together seamlessly. Goodbye individual components-indeed-we design, engineer, test and manufacture custom-engineered curtain wall and window wall, architectural windows, storefront systems, door, skylights and architectural glass as one unit. Why do we do it? Everyone in the design and construction chain is asking for it-from visionary architect to owners, engineers, consultants and construction managers. So what are they looking for? Better buildings, a simplified process, less risk, and fewer delays. And that is exactly what we’ve done. The future of the building envelope is here.

- Provider of building envelope solutions to use latest sustainable products, processes - BEACHWOOD, Ohio, June 7 /PRNewswire/ -- Tremco Incorporated (Tremco), which has provided building owners and managers with sustainable solutions for decades, is now turning its attention to its own headquarters, originally built in 1970, with a $5 million, top-to-bottom renovation that will transform the building into a showcase of sustainability. Tremco intends that its headquarters becomes one of the US Green Building Council's (USGBC) few LEED Gold certified facilities in Ohio. The renovation's most noteworthy sustainable features include: - Four types of sustainable roofing systems from Tremco - A vegetated roof featuring local plants. Low impact lighting and a water capture system will be integrated with the roof, as will a pathway of recycled materials. Signs will describe the roof's features and provide information about the plant palette. - The ENERGY STAR® qualified Rock-It(TM) roof surfacing system, composed of white gravel set in white adhesive. - A white, reflective, single ply system installed beneath a rooftop photovoltaic (PV) system. - A thin film rooftop PV system that will be used to generate electricity for the building. - A Dryvit Outsulation Plus® MD exterior wall system featuring Dryvit's TerraNeo(TM) finish. The system provides an energy efficient, insulated facade and can be applied directly to the existing slate, eliminating the time and potential waste of removing the facade. - High-performance, double pane, tinted windows that exceed minimum energy standards. Tremco sealants and gaskets will be used, as will Tremco's Proglaze® ETA (Engineered Transition Assembly) to ensure an airtight transition from window to wall. - New sidewalks, with decorative concrete from Increte Systems, that will be supported by gravel from one of the building's existing roofs. - A 1.8kW rated wind turbine installed on the property to help generate electricity. - Numerous interior upgrades such as ADA-compliant restrooms, interior window treatments, elevator modernizations with eco-friendly technology and ADA compliance. - Mechanical/Engineering/Plumbing upgrades such as a new control system that ensures an accurate operating schedule of HVAC and lighting as well as improved zone control; modifications to the central air handling system to enable variable flow, resulting in significant energy savings; and replacing the cooling tower with a variable speed model that also eliminates the need for water treatment. Construction best practices that WTI and its subcontractors will follow to increase the project's sustainability include: - Onsite sorting of materials - Recycling of all non-hazardous material - Chain-of-custody documentation for all off-site recycling - Reusing materials as applicable - Verifying that materials are certified for LEED credit

MISSISSAUGA, Ontario--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Icynene spray foam insulation was used in concert with other energy efficient technologies such as solar power as part of a “whole-house” approach to building Connecticut’s first net zero energy home. Construction on the 3600 sq ft New England Farm House Style home was completed in November 2009 resulting in a house requiring no fossil fuels for heating and hot water, no net electrical usage from the utility company and no emissions from fuel burning equipment. Icynene was applied in the basement walls and above grade walls. In addition, Icynene was sprayed into the unvented attic, a chicken coop and a barn on the property. “We elected to use Icynene because of its corporate history, quality installers, high R-value and moisture control properties,” said George Keithan, founder and president of Consulting Engineering Services (CES) in Middletown, CT and owner of the property. The home has been LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) Platinum Certified, the highest level obtainable. It recently won the AEE Energy Award and remains a top contender in the Zero Energy Challenge. Shown in the recent Earthday DVD, the home is scheduled to be featured in an upcoming CBS National News Weekend Edition report.

HOD HASHARON, Israel & GENEVA--(BUSINESS WIRE)--PVsyst developed a new version of its popular photovoltaic system design software. The upcoming release allows the design of systems using SolarEdge PowerBoxes and inverters, enabling simple planning of systems with all the SolarEdge benefits and providing an added energy calculation of SolarEdge enabled installations. The SolarEdge power harvesting solution includes PowerBoxes, which are module-integrated power optimizers, solar inverters and a monitoring portal. This unique end-to-end solution enables production of up to 25% more energy from PV installations, while reducing costs and complexities and increasing system safety. The SolarEdge technology allows the installation of PV systems in locations that previously were unfavorable, due for example to multiple inclinations and partial shading. PVsyst is a software package for the sizing, simulation and data analysis of complete PV systems. It can be used to easily design and compare various systems, using several project levels. The software is designed by the Institute of Environmental Sciences (ISE) at the University of Geneva. With the upcoming version a wider variety of installations can be designed and analyzed, and the added energy of SolarEdge installations is calculated by PVsyst for easy system evaluation.

ROSWELL, Ga., June 3 /PRNewswire/ -- Boral Bricks Inc., the nation's largest brick manufacturer and distributor of masonry products, announced today its Terre Haute, Ind. manufacturing facility has received LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) Gold certification from the U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC). The facility is not only the largest brick manufacturing facility in the U.S., but it is also one of the most energy efficient. Boral Bricks has partnered with Republic Services, owners of the nearby "Victory" landfill to utilize methane gas from the landfill as a substitute for natural gas. The facility is also a zero waste plant where nearly all materials used in the process are recycled in new batches. Additional sustainability is achieved by reclaiming shale from a nearby coal mining property for use in the manufacturing process. The plant also features premium efficiency motors, sensors and timers for minimal light usage.

JURONG TOWNSHIP, Singapore, June 3 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- Caterpillar Inc.'s (NYSE:CAT) recently constructed remanufacturing and components facility in Singapore has received the "Green Mark Gold Plus" award from the country's Building Construction Authority (BCA). Each year, the BCA honors the "most outstanding builders, developers, architects and engineers' contributions toward shaping an excellent environment in Singapore." The Green Mark Gold Plus award is heavily focused on the environmentally sustainable aspects of the facility. Green Mark Gold Plus requires a 25 percent reduction in energy consumption that has been achieved by the building design, materials used and equipment efficiency. Other sustainable features of the facility include: - Insulated metal cladding for the facade and roof - Recycled materials used for construction and office products - Energy efficient lighting and drainage systems - Rainwater harvesting tank for the ability to use recycled water for the remanufacturing process, irrigation and flushing Caterpillar's remanufacturing operations return end-of-life components to their original "same-as-new" condition in terms of reliability, durability and performance. Remanufacturing reduces waste and minimizes the need for raw materials to produce new parts.

JACKSONVILLE, Fla., June 2 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- CSX Corporation (NYSE:CSX) , a leader among transportation companies in environmental stewardship, has obtained its first LEED® green building certification from the U.S. Green Business Council. The LEED® certified building is a newly constructed 22,500-square-foot division headquarters in Florence, South Carolina, which includes 32 offices, a large conference room, a fitness center and a dispatch center. The building, constructed by Breaking Ground Contracting and the construction firm Dana B. Kenyon Company, includes a 6,200-square-foot command center with a raised supervisor's platform and technology equipment for 10 dispatchers. To obtain LEED® certification, the building's design and construction met a number of requirements set forth in the LEED® for New Construction Registered Project Checklist, which governs the details of sustainable sites, water efficiency, energy and atmosphere, materials and resources, indoor environmental quality, as well as innovation and design process.

Discount on SketchUp Pro Licence Offered to All IES VE Users AIA National Convention 2010 BOSTON--(BUSINESS WIRE)--A unique new partnership between building performance analysis specialists Integrated Environmental Solutions (IES), and developers of the fast and intuitive 3D modeling tool Google SketchUp, was announced today. Solidifying the existing relationship between the two companies, which has been built over the last two years, this official partnership will support both parties’ drive to facilitate and encourage wide-spread, low-energy sustainable building design and to provide the worldwide audience with important tools that support this movement. IES and SketchUp have taken the step to formalize a partnership agreement, following the worldwide success of the IES VE plug-in which links the four levels of VE analysis software to both the Free and Pro SketchUp platforms. SketchUp is one of the most widely used 3D design tools for early stage building design and IES VE tools are recognized as being at the cutting edge of building performance analysis and simulation. As part of the partnership, a discount on SketchUp Pro licences is being offered to all IES VE users, including users of the free IES VE-Ware energy and carbon calculation tool. Enabling performance analysis of design iterations across a range of areas such as energy, carbon, water, climate impact, solar and daylight at very early design stages is a crucial element of achieving low-energy sustainable building design and assessing the economics of low/zero carbon technology and renewable energy use. The integration between SketchUp and IES addresses this need with a high-quality solution.

POULTNEY, Vt., June 2 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- Green Mountain College has announced that one of its residence halls has been designated as a LEED® gold certified building by the U.S. Green Building Council. SAGE Hall, which stands for "Students for Academic and Green Engagement," is the seventh major gold certified building in Vermont and the first in Rutland County. It is also the first renovated college residence hall in Vermont to receive gold certification. Green Mountain College's honors residence hall with space for 26 students, SAGE Hall was renovated to strict environmental standards last summer. Structures meeting basic requirements by the U.S. Green Building Council are deemed certified; those that go beyond minimum standards are eligible for silver, gold, and platinum ratings. Building features at SAGE include energy star windows, high efficiency lighting fixtures, low flow-bathroom fixtures and individual heating controls, Forest Stewardship Council-certified wood products, high R-value spray foam insulation, and low VOC (volatile organic compounds) flooring and furniture. Local materials, like the slate flooring in the solarium, were used whenever possible. The total cost for the renovation was $1.3 million.

Company-wide goal set to reduce energy consumption by 10 percent this year LISLE, Ill.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--KONE, a global leader in the elevator and escalator industry, has challenged itself to reduce overall energy consumption by 10 percent this year through its “10 for 2010” program established by the company’s Environmental Excellence Strategy Team. Each KONE facility throughout North America has been tasked with implementing steps to reduce its consumption of electricity and natural gas, including: * Obtaining and entering local energy use data; * Completing an energy audit of the facility; * Preparing and implementing a local plan to reduce energy use; and * Sharing best practices with other facilities.

PECO sites include one of only 5 LEED-EB certified campuses in the U.S., first LEED-EB certified buildings in Chester and Bucks counties, and account for nearly half of all LEED-EB certified buildings in PA PHILADELPHIA--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Following more than a year of work, PECO recently received Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) Existing Building (EB) silver and gold certification from the U.S. Green Building Council for five local buildings. In total, PECO now operates six LEED certified buildings representing nearly half of all LEED-EB certified buildings in Pennsylvania. Work at the sites included lighting and HVAC upgrades and control systems, replacement and retrofit of existing plumbing fixtures, conversion of turf grass to native meadows, increased use of environmentally-preferable office supplies, the adoption of a comprehensive green cleaning program, increased recycling, improved indoor air quality management, and the creation of a Green Champion employee volunteer team. In total the work will reduce energy use by 40 to 50 percent and water consumption by nearly 50 percent at each site.