Aloft Charlotte Ballantyne Becomes Tenth LEED-Certified Property for Industry Leader Starwood Hotels and Resorts WHITE PLAINS, N.Y.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Aloft Charlotte Ballantyne has earned a coveted Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) certification from the United States Green Building Council (USGBC), it was announced today. Aloft Charlotte Ballantyne becomes the tenth LEED-certified property for parent Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide, Inc. (NYSE: HOT), which leads the industry in green-building initiatives. LEED certification verifies that Aloft Charlotte Ballantyne has achieved significant enhancements in energy efficiency, water conservation, and green cleaning, and has proven dedication to responsible sustainable practices in operations, maintenance, and upgrades.

NOVATO, Calif.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Fireman’s Fund Insurance Company, the first property and casualty insurance company to offer green insurance to the U.S. commercial marketplace, announces the expansion of its commercial green insurance appetite to include alternative energy equipment. Alternative energy equipment that Fireman’s Fund will insure includes solar photovoltaic panels, fuel cells, wind turbines and ground source heat pumps.

CHARLOTTE, N.C.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Nexxus Lighting, Inc. (NASDAQ: NEXS) today confirmed that it has submitted its first series of Array™ LED replacement lamps to ENERGY STAR for review under the ENERGY STAR program. After the required completion of rigorous third-party testing, Nexxus submitted its R30 product in both its flood and narrow flood configurations at 3000°Kelvin color temperature. The R30 utilizes the company’s patented design and patent – pending thermal management system to deliver over 60 lumens per watt. The R30 uses only 8 watts to produce 500 lumens at a color rich 3000° Kelvin color temperature with a color rendering index of 84. Nexxus also announced that it expects to submit additional lamp types and color temperatures to ENERGY STAR in the coming weeks. ENERGY STAR is a joint program of the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency and the U.S. Department of Energy, which helps businesses and individuals save money and protect the environment through energy efficient products and practices.

A New Revolutionary Technology In EIFS And Stucco Finishes Anaheim, CA – September 28, 2010 – Parex USA, Inc. the parent company of leading building material brands; Parex, LaHabra , El Rey Stucco, Teifs, and Merkrete today announced the launch of Dry-Tex, the first dry acrylic finish in the United States. Dry-Tex is the culmination of over 5 years of coordinated research and development by ParexGroup teams around the world. This exclusive product is a revolutionary development within the acrylic finish industry and is an example of Parex USA's focus and commitment to innovation. Dry-Tex, using proprietary dry polymer technology, is the most unique acrylic finish in the market. It is packaged in a 40 lb. bag and is designed to be environmentally conscious as well as bring new benefits to distributors and applicators. The Dry-Tex conveniently mixes in a 5 gallon pail and yields the same coverage as a 65 lb. pail of finish. A traditional 65 lb. pail weighs over 60% more than Dry-Tex. Therefore, 60% more units can be shipped producing significant savings in transportation and fuel consumption. Thus, providing a reduced carbon footprint overall. Eliminating water and weight from Dry-Tex provides more than shipping and environmental benefits. Unlike traditional acrylic finishes, Dry-Tex is freeze thaw stable in transportation, storage and on the job site, thus reducing waste and saving energy. In addition to the benefits from reduced weight, Dry-Tex has many other advantages. Although traditional acrylic finishes are low VOC, Dry-Tex is VOC free and will not contribute to the release of harmful volatile compounds. Since the Dry-Tex is packaged in bags versus pails it significantly reduces the impact on landfills. Today, acrylic finishes are packaged in plastic pails that eventually end up in landfills. Plastics can take up to 400 years to decompose placing a significant burden on the environment. Bags can be recycled or they will breakdown at a rapid rate if thrown away. "Dry-Tex is the most exciting product that Parex USA has launched in its history,” said Quenton Roehricht, Brand Manager. "We provided a sneak peek of this product at recent Parex USA Innovations events and the positive feedback was overwhelming. Dry-Tex is the perfect balance between enhanced applicator utility and environmental consciousness. We fully expect this to change the industry." About Parex USA, Inc. Parex USA, Inc. Parex USA, Inc., a California Corporation, is a subsidiary of the ParexGroup, a division of Materis, S.A., a French Corporation. The ParexGroup is one of the world's leading manufacturers of specialty chemicals and ready-to-use mortars for the construction industry. With over 45 manufacturing sites in 18 countries the ParexGroup employs more than 2,700 industry professionals who are the corner stone of this thriving global organization. For more information regarding Parex USA, Inc. visit www.parexusa.com.

NEW YORK--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Many homeowners love the idea of going solar but simply cannot afford to buy the pricey solar energy systems. Solar installers often lose sales to customers who don’t want to drain cash reserves or tap lines of credit for their systems. Now, BrightGrid Solar, a new company in the solar financing marketplace, introduces a financial product that solves both challenges. Homeowners simply submit an online credit application via a secure server operated by BrightGrid and receive same-day credit approval. Customers also execute the lease agreement on-line. BrightGrid is currently running a pilot program with installer partners in northern California in the PG&E service territory, giving BrightGrid access to a residential project pipeline of several thousand households.

PALM SPRINGS, Calif., Sept. 28 /PRNewswire/ -- Environmental Service Professionals, Inc. ("ESP") (Pink Sheets: EVSP), an innovator in environmental inspections, announced today that the National Association for Moisture Management (NAMM) has endorsed the Company's four key quality home inspection programs: - Certified Environmental Home Inspector (CEHI) program, - the Annual Mold and Moisture Management (MMM) program for homeowners, - the Healthy Green Living Certification (HGLC), and - the Healthy Home Mortgage Program. ( HHMP ). ESP's professionally designated CEHI Program consists of a suite of environmental services: allergen screening, energy inspections, neighborhood environment reports, radon testing, moisture management program, mold testing for commercial, residential, new and existing construction in support of the Healthy Green Living Certification (" HGLC ") and Healthy Home Mortgage (" HHMP "). ESP offers training, stringent protocols, scheduling and administrative support for the Certified Environmental Home Inspectors (CEHIs), all of whom deliver the company's "Best in Industry" inspection and management services to consumers and businesses.

PHILADELPHIA, Sept. 28 /PRNewswire/ -- SRS Energy, a leading developer of designer solar products, was recently featured on DIY Network's This New House. The segment highlights their innovative Sole Power Tile™, the first curved solar roof tile designed to integrate seamlessly with profiled clay roof products. The SRS Energy Sole Power Tile™ is the first curved solar power product to obtain UL certification and a listing on the California Energy Commission's list of approved solar modules. In July, Sole was installed on the Sunset Magazine Dream Remodel home in Los Gatos, California. SRS Energy began commercial shipments in August and is featured on the ELLE DECOR magazine 2010 Showcase Home in San Francisco, California.

ST. LOUIS and DUSSELDORF, Germany, Sept. 29 /PRNewswire/ -- Solutia Inc., (NYSE: SOA) the world's leading PVB interlayer manufacturer, announced today that the company's Saflex® Q series advanced acoustic interlayer is now available in super-wide and jumbo roll lengths to the European Architectural market. The product is being featured this week at the company's stand at Glasstec 2010, the world's largest glass trade fair held in Dusseldorf, Germany. Saflex Q series advanced acoustic technology combines three interlayers which are designed to decouple and disseminate sound waves for state-of-the-art sound dampening performance. The heart of this patented product is an advanced acoustical interlayer that transforms sound energy into heat energy, which then easily and quietly dissipates. The product also features improved handling and processing performance compared to Saflex A series monolithic acoustic interlayer and is compatible with the company's standard Saflex and premium Vanceva® color interlayers.

One of the World’s Most Sustainable Communities Leverages Aircuity’s Intelligent Airside Measurement Solutions to Lower Operating and First Costs, Improve Lab Safety and Cut Emissions ABU DHABI, United Arab Emirates & NEWTON, Mass.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Aircuity, the smart airside efficiency company, today announced that it recently completed the installation of its OptiNet® system into the first phase of the Masdar Institute of Science and Technology campus buildings to help the university achieve significant first cost reductions and sustained energy savings in these facilities. Masdar Institute, which is located in Masdar City, a cleantech cluster that aims to be one of the most sustainable cities in the world, is the Middle East’s first graduate research institution dedicated to alternative energy, environmental technologies, and sustainability. Aircuity’s OptiNet system comprises both intelligent ventilation measurement and optimization technologies to cost effectively implement energy efficiency solutions. For example, Aircuity is helping to implement Demand Control Ventilation (DCV) in the university’s classrooms, conference rooms and library areas to vary outside air ventilation based on sensing occupancy and indoor environmental quality (IEQ).

New Prototype Design Reduces Energy Usage by 24 Percent, Speeds Development Process RALEIGH-DURHAM, N.C. and PITTSBURGH, Sept. 27 /PRNewswire/ -- Concord Hospitality Enterprises, one of the nation's top-ranked hotel developer/owner/operators, announced it will open tomorrow the first LEED-designed Courtyard by Marriott. Located in Settlers Ridge in west suburban Pittsburgh, the state-of-the-art property design, created by Concord with support from Marriott, will be the prototype for all future LEED-compliant Courtyards. The new design is expected to reduce energy usage at Courtyard hotels by an average of 24 percent annually and save more than 300,000 gallons of water per year, the equivalent of 21 swimming pools. This improved energy efficiency is expected to produce average annual operating savings of $50,000 at current energy costs, which are expected to accelerate over time, yielding even greater future savings. Many of the component parts of the Courtyard's original engineering were revised to create the LEED prototype. Among the most notable and cost-effective were: - A heat recovery energy system that reclaims building exhaust air to pre-heat the building's fresh air system. - An energy management system that reduces unnecessary heating and cooling run times when guest rooms are unoccupied. - Water-saving showers, lavatories, and toilet fixtures. - Energy-efficient light fixtures. - An enhanced building thermal envelope that includes exterior building outsulation and increased glass and glazing u-value.

TORONTO, Sept. 25 /PRNewswire/ - For Sale; One of Ontario's leading environmental remediation: Restoration Environmental Contractors - REC Demolition REC Disaster Recovery Emergency Response, announced their 21st, anniversary of being GREEN. Established in 1989, the company has completed over 10,000 environmental restoration and demolition projects throughout Canada specializing in demolition, asbestos removal, lead abatement and industrial plant cleaning, plant decommissioning & closures, site remediation, disaster recovery and emergency response in the industrial, commercial, governmental and institutional sectors. Restoration Environmental REC Demolition has safely completed the asbestos removal, remediation and demolition of the seven storey Historic Guild Inn project in Toronto. Restoration Environmental prides themselves on their outstanding safety record, their commitment to environmental stewardship, the high level of productivity of their skilled unionized workforce and by enforcing the Three R's - Reduce, Re-use and Recycle, the company's "Green Philosophy" and market strategy.

WASHINGTON, Sept. 24 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- The United Planning Organization today announced the creation of Green Capital Home Improvement, an enterprise designed to showcase UPO's ability in "green systems home improvement techniques " and at the same time provide employment opportunities for Washington, DC residents. Green Capital's specializations include painting, insulation, air sealing, and weatherization. Other areas are home energy audits, window replacements, and other general home improvements.

COLUMBUS, Ohio, Sept. 23 /PRNewswire/ -- American Electric Power's (NYSE: AEP) corporate headquarters building, 1 Riverside Plaza in Columbus, Ohio, has earned the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency's (EPA) ENERGY STAR, signifying that the building performs in the top 25 percent of similar facilities nationwide for energy efficiency. The building uses nearly 16 percent less energy today than it did in 2007. Similar to the program for appliances and other household products, a facility that receives the ENERGY STAR must meet energy performance standards set by EPA and use less energy, be less expensive to operate and create fewer greenhouse gas emissions than comparable buildings. AEP has taken the following actions since 2007 to save energy at its corporate headquarters, which was constructed in 1983: - Updated the building's heating and cooling system with higher efficiency equipment; - Replaced energy management system controls with newer technology; - Installed a high efficiency reflective roof; and - Made changes to a daytime custodial service schedule, allowing the building's lights to be turned off earlier in the evening.

Solar Power Generating System to Be Unveiled at California Central Valley Vineyard SAN DIEGO--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Kyocera Solar, Inc. and REC Solar, Inc. today announced the completion of a 1.134-megawatt (MW) solar energy system at Castle Rock Vineyards, located in the heart of California’s Central Valley. The solar electric generating system, designed and installed by REC Solar, consists of 5,400 Kyocera KD210GX-LPU high-output 210-watt modules. One of the largest agricultural solar arrays of its kind, the 1.134 MW ground-mount system is a reliable source of clean energy that will serve to enhance the grower’s reputation as a leader in producing high quality food products at the best possible cost using sustainable practices. The installation is expected to have a yearly production output of 1,761,971 kilowatt hours, offsetting Castle Rock Vineyards’ energy usage by 69%.

BALTIMORE--(BUSINESS WIRE)--8840 Stanford Boulevard, an office building in Columbia, has been certified LEED®-EBOM Gold (LEED for Existing Buildings Operations & Maintenance) by the U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC). The building, which is more than 20 years old, was retrofitted by its owner, Merritt Properties, to meet LEED sustainability standards. LEED-EBOM is based on the actual operating performance of an existing building, rather than its design. Merritt, a leader in new green construction, is also focused on ensuring that its existing properties are energy-efficient. The company had already achieved an Energy Star rating of 80 for the building – without renovations -- placing it in the top 25 percent of energy-efficient buildings in the nation. Despite its age, the building was already using 40 percent less energy than similar buildings and releasing about 35 percent less carbon dioxide. To achieve the higher standards of LEED-EBOM Gold, Merritt incorporated a number of eco-friendly strategies, resulting in minimized environmental impact. These include: * Water-efficient restroom fixtures * HVAC retro-commissioning * Weather-driven irrigation system with water-efficient sprinkler heads * Low- to no VOC materials specified for interior build-outs to reduce the possibility of indoor air pollutants * Green housekeeping * Single-stream recycling dumpsters

NEW YORK, Sept. 22 /PRNewswire/ -- White Oak Solar Energy, LLC (White Oak), a subsidiary of LS Power, has completed project financing for its 10 megawatt Dover SUN Park to be constructed in Dover, Delaware. White Oak's financing was arranged by Union Bank, N.A. White Oak has also executed agreements with SunPower Corporation to design, construct, operate and maintain the solar park. SunPower will install SunPower Tracker® systems and high efficiency SunPower E19 solar panels at the site. The Dover SUN Park will be the first utility-scale solar power plant in the region. White Oak has entered into long-term power purchase and environmental attribute agreements with the City of Dover, Delmarva Power and Light, Delaware Municipal Electric Corporation and the Delaware Sustainable Energy Utility for the full output of the facility.

Pythagoras Solar Launches Advisory Board to Support Technical Innovation and Further the Development of Advanced Solar Power Window Technology SAN MATEO, Calif. and TEL AVIV, Israel, Sept. 21 /PRNewswire/ -- Pythagoras Solar, a provider of advanced building-integrated photovoltaic (BIPV) products, today announced that it has garnered support from a world-class team of technical and business advisors including Pamela Samuels, a Principal at TRIO Partners LLC and President of Corridor Holdings Corporation, and Rob Watson, Chairman, CEO and Chief Scientist of EcoTech International. Ms. Samuels brings extensive experience from New York's leading development firms, including Extell Development Company, where she led projects such as a multi-billion-dollar transit-oriented development. She also worked with The Clarett Group where she was overseeing the acquisitions, financing and development of several projects exceeding $500 million. Mr. Watson has 25 years of experience in green building and is commonly referred to as the "founding father" of LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design), the green building industry rating system of the U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC), which has become the de-facto standard for green construction. Mr. Watson's work to bring green building to China was honored by China's Ministry of Construction (MOC) with its first Green Innovation Award. As advisors to Pythagoras Solar, Ms. Samuels and Mr. Watson will contribute their expertise to Pythagoras Solar's executive team, specifically focusing on critical business strategy and bringing Pythagoras' innovative products to the global construction market. The goal for these alliances is to enhance Pythagoras Solar's mission to accelerate BIPV technology for net zero energy buildings and address the growing global demand for electricity through renewable energy solutions. In addition, these industry leaders will help broaden the awareness of the mass market potential for BIPV technology to make buildings more sustainable, energy-efficient and profitable.

First U.S. pilot with the Department of Energy's Argonne National Laboratory SYDNEY--(BUSINESS WIRE)--BuildingIQ, an energy management software company, today announced its first Predictive Energy Optimization pilot project in the United States at the U.S. Department of Energy's (DOE) Argonne National Laboratory. The BuildingIQ pilot installation, together with Argonne's expertise in optimization and modelling, is expected to improve energy performance at Argonne's Theory and Computing Sciences (TCS) building as well as enable the further collaboration and development of sustainable innovative technologies between BuildingIQ and leading researchers at the facility. The BuildingIQ system has a unique ability to reduce energy usage while minimizing tenant impact. The system automatically learns the building’s thermal characteristics; incorporates weather forecasts, electricity tariffs and other factors such as demand response signals; and then continuously manages the energy use in the building to optimize cost, emissions and occupant comfort.

The Latest in a Series of Innovative Workflow Solutions, LEED® Credit Assessment Eases the Path to Maximizing LEED® Credits CHARLESTON, S.C.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--GreenWizard, Inc., the largest collection of green building product data for intelligent material selection, today announced that it has launched yet another innovative workflow solution, LEED® Credit Assessment, to work in tandem with its WORKflow Pro and MARKET Pro tools, and GreenWizard’s expansive green-product database. LEED Credit Assessment is designed for use throughout the life cycle of LEED projects to tally LEED credits, while identifying information required for documenting products for LEED credit eligibility. For example, in the MRc5 Regional Materials credit category, the LEED Credit Assessment tool calculates the percentage of construction materials that were extracted, harvested, recovered, and manufactured within 500 miles of the project. The tool then instantly tells the user whether his product selections qualify for no points, 1 point, 2 points, or even an Innovation in Design credit. By changing the parameters in the LEED Credit Assessment tool, and using what-if scenarios, GreenWizard users can “tune” their projects to optimize LEED credits. LEED Credit Assessment works similarly in other LEED® credit categories, such as MRc4, MRc6, and MRc7. As GreenWizard users make buying decisions throughout any LEED project, the LEED Credit Assessment provides advantages at every stage, from design through final construction.

Company's Pinnacle, TruFlor, Stabledge, Rimboard, TallWall, Windstorm, Trubord and Solarbord Products Can Help Builders Gain Points Under National Green Building Standard TORONTO, Sept. 21 /PRNewswire/ -- Norbord Inc. (TSX: NBD) announced today that its Oriented Strand Board (OSB) products have achieved the certified "Green Approved" status from the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB) Research Center. By being "Green Approved", builders, designers and specifiers can use Norbord's products to earn points toward certification under the National Green Building Standard(TM). Norbord products that have been "Green Approved" include: Pinnacle, TruFlor, Stabledge, TallWall, Windstorm, Trubord, Rimboard, and Solarbord. The NAHB Research Center certified "Green Approved" product seal program was developed to help builders identify products that are eligible for National Green Building Standard certification points. "Green Approved" products must earn a certificate from the NAHB Research Center that identifies the specific sections of the Standard where points for the product are available.

Anaheim, CA – September 21, 2010 – Parex USA, Inc. the parent company of leading building material brands; Parex, LaHabra , El Rey Stucco, Teifs, and Merkrete today announced the launch of the new Teifs.com website. The new Teifs website is a significant departure from the previous version and includes many new features. Based off of the new Parex USA website template, Teifs.com users can now enjoy the benefit of creating submittal packages on the site, review system and assembly testing information, and system and assembly drawings now offered in three popular versions. Other improved site features include an improved product search function, access to Green/Leed information, and project gallery. "The old Teifs.com was functional for its time but we are very pleased with how the new site has turned out,” said Quenton Roehricht, Brand Manager. “Our expectation is that users will find it much easier to use and will be more productive when interacting with the site.” The launch is the result of over months of work with partner BuildingOnline, the Building Industry leader in website design, and key members of the Parex USA team. About Parex USA, Inc. Parex USA, Inc. Parex USA, Inc., a California Corporation, is a subsidiary of the ParexGroup, a division of Materis, S.A., a French Corporation. The ParexGroup is one of the world's leading manufacturers of specialty chemicals and ready-to-use mortars for the construction industry. With over 45 manufacturing sites in 18 countries the ParexGroup employs more than 2,700 industry professionals who are the corner stone of this thriving global organization. For more information regarding Parex USA, Inc. visit www.parexusa.com.

Orange County new home community offers SunRun’s solar power service for $0 down YORBA LINDA, Calif.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--SunRun, the nation’s leading home solar provider, and Toll Brothers, the nation’s leading builder of luxury homes, today announced the official opening of new model homes with pre-installed solar panels. The two companies, in cooperation with PetersenDean Roofing and Solar Systems, announced a partnership earlier this year to pre-install solar panels at no additional cost to homebuyers at The Preserve new home community. Last Friday, September 17, Toll Brothers hosted the official ribbon-cutting ceremony to open the community to the public. Traditionally, solar panels have cost $30,000 for homeowners. With SunRun’s solar power service, homeowners at The Preserve can sign up for solar power for $0 down instead of buying a system of their own. This service costs about $42 per month, and will lower their monthly power bills by $50 to $100, depending on the amount of power used. To date, over 90% of The Preserve buyers have elected the SunRun solar power service as part of their home purchase. SunRun’s solar power service makes solar affordable and risk-free for homeowners. SunRun owns, monitors, and maintains the solar equipment so residents can reduce their environmental impact without purchasing, installing, or maintaining the solar systems themselves.

MONTREAL, Sept. 17 /PRNewswire/ -- Many companies seek increased energy efficiency solutions, while some even strive for LEED certification. How the company chooses to go about it can be the difference between unnecessary down-time and a quicker investment payback. Especially in the case of companies who opt to retrofit existing facilities, Cypress Envirosystems offers innovative technologies that actually improve productivity while saving money. Founded by CEO Harry Sim in 2006, Cypress Envirosystems' goal is simple: to help older plants and buildings save energy and improve productivity. The company specializes in products, such as the Wireless Pneumatic Thermostat, Wireless Gauge Reader or Wireless Steam Trap Monitor, which can be installed with a minimum of disruption and expense. Their products use the latest Silicon Valley technology and apply it to the oldest building systems to make them more efficient.

WENDELL, N.C., Sept. 17 /PRNewswire/ -- Fortrans Inc. announces three new updated pH control and monitoring systems that use CO2 gas to neutralize high pH process water and lower total suspended solids in process water at ready-mixed concrete plants. The Model 5000S pH Control and Monitoring System offers precise pH control, monitoring of pH, and lowers "Total Suspended Solids" of process water contained in pits, settling basins and lagoons. Use of the system will provide clean water that meets the EPA criteria to discharge to the environment or to recycle. The pH Control and Monitoring Systems offer proven technology to enable operators of ready-mixed concrete plants to control the pH and total suspended solids of process water. After the pH is lowered to 7.5 the typical total suspended solids are between 10-18 mg/L without filtration. This enables the facility to meet the pH requirements as well as TSS limits before the water can be released. In addition, the treated water may be recycled to batch concrete, irrigate rock, or for truck rinsing.

BOULDER, Colo.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Green building certifications from programs such as Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) and the Building Research Establishment Environmental Assessment Method (BREEAM) are quickly becoming the standard for the construction industry in many countries. While green building certification programs are well-known for their importance in new construction projects, a recent report from Pike Research forecasts that by 2020, nearly half the total certified footprint – 25 billion square feet – will comprise certifications for existing buildings. Pike Research’s study, “Green Building Certification Programs”, analyzes the current market and regulatory conditions related to green building certification programs and provides forecasts for the growth of this industry. The report includes an in-depth examination of green building drivers, barriers, and likely shifts in the underlying construction market. It also features profiles of major industry players including commercial real estate companies, trade associations, and green building councils as well as detailed descriptions of dozens of green building certification programs in operation around the world.

Alcoa Products Used Throughout; Alcoa and Penguins to Jointly Promote Aluminum Can Recycling PITTSBURGH--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Alcoa (NYSE:AA) today announced it will play a key part in the Pittsburgh Penguins’ and the CONSOL Energy Center’s efforts to be green. Alcoa will work with the Penguins to promote recycling at the new 735,000 square-foot CONSOL Energy Center and throughout Pittsburgh. And Alcoa’s Kawneer unit, the leading supplier of architectural aluminum products and systems for the commercial construction industry, has supplied products that are integral to the new facility’s Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) Gold certification, signifying the building as among the most environmentally responsible facilities in the world. The CONSOL Energy Center is the first National Hockey League (NHL) arena and among the first sporting venues in the world to attain Gold LEED certification. Of the 42 LEED points the CONSOL Energy Center received as part of the rigorous process, nearly 40 percent were aided by using Alcoa's Kawneer products (nine for indoor environmental quality; seven for materials and resources).

FORT WORTH, Texas--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Entech Solar, Inc. (OTCBB: ENSL) (the “Company” or “Entech Solar”) today announced that it currently expects to submit its latest concentrating photovoltaic (CPV) product called SolarVolt™ for independent certification testing by September 30, 2010. This milestone is a key step in commercializing the Company’s latest CPV product designed to produce electricity for large commercial, industrial, government and utility applications. This key step places the Company on target to have a fully certified product for commercialization by mid-2011 to address the rapidly growing global photovoltaic market. This new Entech Solar product is protected by several issued and pending patents. Over the past two years, the price per watt of one-sun photovoltaic modules has dropped dramatically, by approximately 50%. Consequently, Entech Solar accelerated the development of a low-cost, highly reliable CPV module design aimed at keeping the Company’s technology cost-competitive for many years ahead. This advanced fifth generation module is firmly based on the field-proven heritage of Entech Solar’s previous generations of CPV modules and systems. The Entech Solar team has been involved in the research, development, field testing and commercialization of CPV technology for both ground and space applications for more than three decades. Entech Solar’s earlier development work through January 2010 on an advanced ThermaVolt (CPVT) module that generates both electricity and thermal energy, and its 24 years of development work on space CPV systems for NASA and the US Department of Defense, were very beneficial to the development of the new CPV module for ground based applications. Entech Solar, Inc. is a leading developer of renewable energy technologies and sustainable daylighting solutions for the commercial, industrial and utility markets. Entech Solar designs concentrating solar modules that produce electricity from sunlight as part of the SolarVolt™ product line. The Company also manufactures and markets the Entech™ Tubular Skylight, a state-of-the-art tubular skylight that provides superior light output and optical efficiency for the commercial and industrial green building initiatives.

Prototype of first-of-its-kind see-thru SolarWindow™ designed to generate electricity will be demonstrated today at the University of South Florida. BURTONSVILLE, Md. & TAMPA, Fla.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--New Energy Technologies, Inc. (OTCBB: NENE) debuts its SolarWindow™ technology today during a demonstration at the University of South Florida (USF). This first-of-its-kind, spray-on technology is capable of transforming everyday surfaces, such as windows, into energy-generating devices using both natural and artificial light sources, outperforming today’s commercial solar and thin-film technologies by as much as 10-fold under low-intensity irradiance. Electrical power is generated on glass when New Energy’s SolarWindow™ coatings are sprayed onto surfaces using commercially available equipment. This patent-pending process enables researchers to spray SolarWindow™ coatings onto glass at room temperature, eliminating expensive and often cumbersome high-temperature or high-vacuum production methods typically used by current solar manufacturers.

WASHINGTON, Sept. 15 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- Today, the American Society of Hematology (ASH) celebrated the opening of its new headquarters at 2021 L Street, NW, in downtown Washington, D.C. At this event, which was attended by members of the Society, representatives from the association community, and other local leaders, ASH announced that the building had been designated LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) Platinum for New Construction, making ASH the first nonprofit association in the country to achieve LEED Platinum certification on a commercial office building larger than 80,000 square feet. ASH's headquarters is now one of only seven LEED Platinum commercial office buildings in the District of Columbia. LEED Platinum certification is the most difficult and highest designation given by the U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC), which developed a certification system to guide organizations in building and renovating space with sustainability in mind. Many of the materials used for the ASH facility were regionally sourced and manufactured using recycled products, including the wood materials, which are certified by the Forest Stewardship Council (FSC), a nonprofit organization that encourages the use of products harvested using an environmentally responsible method. Notably, the design and construction costs remained within ASH's budget - and the space will continue to prove cost- and energy-efficient, with plenty of natural light, low-flow plumbing and water-efficient showerheads, a motion-sensitive lighting system, and low-energy light fixtures.

Mechanically bonded continuous filament mat with no binder, polymer or stitching can provide smooth surface finishes and unsurpassed panel clarity BEIJING, Sept. 15 /PRNewswire/ -- Owens Corning (NYSE:OC) , a leading global producer of glass fiber reinforcements for composite systems and residential and commercial building materials, today announced that its Uniconform® glass fiber mat is now available globally. Designed for advanced closed-mold processes and initially launched in Europe, Uniconform® continuous filament mat contains no chemical binder, synthetic core or stitching yarns, delivering the following performance benefits: -- Reduces mold dressing time by as much as 50 percent for complex parts -- Increases tensile strength by up to 25 percent and flexural strength by up to 10 percent compared to standard conformable continuous filament mat reinforcements -- Good finished-part surface appearance and resistance to water permeability -- Improved thermal stability and fire retardant properties. Laminates can withstand temperatures up to 200 degrees celsius with no permanent damage -- Unsurpassed clarity in translucent applications Made with the company's proprietary boron-free Advantex® E-CR glass that combines the electrical and mechanical properties of traditional E-glass with the acid corrosion resistance of E-CR glass, Uniconform® mat is 100 percent glass reinforcement that is mechanically needled. It is compatible with unsaturated polyester, vinyl-ester and epoxy resins.

WASHINGTON, Sept. 15 /PRNewswire/ -- After more than a decade of successfully certifying vinyl siding through the VSI Product Certification Program, the Vinyl Siding Institute, Inc. (VSI) is pleased to announce certification for qualified polypropylene siding to the industry performance standard. Through VSI's Program, polypropylene siding manufacturers can certify that their products meet or exceed the ASTM D7254 Standard Specification for Polypropylene (PP) Siding, as verified by an independent quality control agency, Architectural Testing, Inc. (ATI). ATI conducts a series of rigorous tests, unannounced inspections of polypropylene siding plants, and quality control plan reviews to ensure polypropylene siding certified through VSI's Program will: -- Weather the elements over time without cracking, chipping, flaking, pitting, or peeling. -- Meet impact resistance requirements. -- Withstand wind pressures equivalent to 110 mph or more. -- Demonstrate flame spread performance equivalent to or better than wood materials commonly used in building construction. A complete list of certified polypropylene siding is available at www.polypropylenesiding.org.

BENTON HARBOR, Mich., Sept. 15 /PRNewswire/ -- Whirlpool Corporation (NYSE:WHR) today announced the selection of Gray Construction, of Lexington, Ky., to build its new production facility in Cleveland, Tenn. The project includes a one million square foot, LEED-certified manufacturing facility to produce built-in, premium cooking products, as well as a 400,000 square foot distribution center. Whirlpool will invest $120 million in the new facility, which will add approximately 130 new jobs. The new plant will replace an existing 100-year old facility also located in Cleveland, Tenn. Construction is slated to begin in the fourth quarter of 2010.

Beginning October 1, Arizona's Largest Privately Owned Homebuilder Will Build All Homes to Meet Tougher New Environmental Standards PHOENIX, Sept. 14 /PRNewswire/ -- Fulton Homes (www.fultonhomes.com) today announced that beginning October 1, all of their homes will be built to meet ENERGY STAR New Homes Version 3.0 (also known as ENERGY STAR 2011) standards. According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), version 3.0 is designed to meet even more stringent standards than in previous versions of the ENERGY STAR program. Fulton Homes will be the first builder in Arizona to build all of their homes to ENERGY STAR Version 3 standards. To qualify a home under Version 3.0, a home must meet the requirements of three checklists: 1. Thermal Enclosure System Rater Checklist 2. HVAC System Quality Installation Contractor Checklist 3. HVAC System Quality Installation Rater Checklist Fulton Homes' new ENERGY STAR Version 3 homes will feature innovative upgrades such as Louisiana Pacific Tech Shield Radiant Barrier, which deflects heat away from the attic and .25" and .35" vinyl windows - a highly efficient system that reduces ultraviolet rays from entering the home. Far more efficient 14 SEER Carrier air conditioners will also replace the previous 13 SEER models. Fulton Homes will also be building all of their new homes to the new 2009 International Energy Conservation Code (IECC) Level.

MISSISSAUGA, Ontario--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Icynene has announced that its flagship product ICYNENE LD-C-50® passed two critical tests that will provide designers and builders the assurance needed to utilize the industry leading light density spray foam in a number of new assemblies specific to the commercial market including industrial and institutional buildings. This testing, completed at Intertek Testing Laboratories, included: · NFPA 285: “Standard Method of Test for the Evaluation of Flammability Characteristics of Exterior Non-Load Bearing Wall Assemblies Containing Combustible Components Using the Intermediate-Scale, Multistory Test Apparatus” · ASTM E119: “Standard Test Methods for Fire Tests of Building Construction and Materials” This testing provides confirmation that ICYNENE LD-C-50® qualifies for use in some Types 1 and 2 (Non-combustible) Construction, something no other light density spray foam insulation can claim. In addition, no other insulation product has been qualified for the range of thickness in wall and ceiling applications. The Engineering Analysis accompanying the tests indicates that ICYNENE LD-C-50® is now qualified as a 1 hour rated assembly in most common steel stud walls with 5/8” interior drywall, ½” exterior gypsum and masonry cladding. Such assemblies must be reviewed by a design professional but the testing clears the way for ICYNENE LD-C-50® to be used in a wide variety of commercial assemblies commonly used in buildings as diverse as condominiums, schools, hospitals and office buildings.

BLOOMFIELD HILLS, Mich., Sept. 14 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- PulteGroup, Inc. (NYSE:PHM) , one of the nation's largest home builders, today announced it has selected Whirlpool Corporation (NYSE:WHR) as its exclusive appliance supplier effective as of October 1, 2010. Under this multi-year contract, Whirlpool Corporation will provide appliances to PulteGroup's Pulte Homes, Del Webb and Centex communities in 29 states and the District of Columbia. Terms of the agreement were not released. PulteGroup offers homebuyers branded products for every phase of life: Centex for entry-level buyers, Pulte Homes for move-up buyers and Del Webb for active adults. Whirlpool Corporation meets the upgrade and option needs of homeowners with brands that include Amana®, Whirlpool®, Whirlpool Gold®, KitchenAid® and Jenn-Air®. Consumers purchasing a PulteGroup home now have the best of both worlds - a thoughtfully styled and reliably built home now outfitted with innovative Whirlpool Corporation appliances. This is an unbeatable value combination in today's marketplace.

Improves energy efficiency more than 10 percent FORT WORTH, Texas, Sept. 13 /PRNewswire/ -- The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency named Crescent Real Estate Holdings LLC an ENERGY STAR 2009 Top Performer. Crescent is one of only six commercial real estate companies in the U.S. and one of only two in Texas to be recognized by EPA for improving energy efficiency more than 10 percent. Each of Crescent's 35 premier office buildings totaling 17 million square feet in select markets throughout the United States are enrolled in the ENERGY STAR Leader energy efficiency program. Crescent led the Houston, Dallas and Las Vegas markets with ENERGY STAR label office buildings. In Houston, Crescent qualified 16 office buildings totaling more than 10.3 million square feet. In Dallas, Crescent qualified three buildings with more than 3.6 million square feet. In Las Vegas, Crescent qualified the largest office building in Nevada as ENERGY STAR Label. EPA established the ENERGY STAR Leader program to encourage building owners across the country to improve energy efficiency and reduce pressure on U.S. power systems, help businesses, governments, and other organizations save money, and protect the environment. If energy efficiency in every commercial and industrial building nationwide improved by 10%, Americans would save about $20 billion on energy costs each year while preventing greenhouse gas emissions equivalent to 30 million vehicles, according to EPA.

WILLIAMSBURG, Va.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--New River Kinematics (NRK), the world’s premier provider of advanced portable metrology software, today announced the release of Power3 Suite, a comprehensive bundle of software applications providing industry-leading metrology, inspection, surfacing, and reverse engineering tools for manufacturing in one powerful package. Power3 Suite has been developed in partnership with North Carolina-based Geomagic, a leading developer of software for creating digital CAD models from scanned physical objects. The Power3 Suite integrates the best-in-class technologies from NRK’s SpatialAnalyzer Ultimate metrology package with Geomagic Studio reverse engineering and Geomagic Qualify 3D inspection software. It enables the integration of large-scale measurement data from virtually any portable measurement device with precise point cloud data for use in part inspection, assembly, fixturing, tooling, reverse engineering, and a host of other manufacturing applications.

SHOREWOOD, Ill., Sept. 13 /PRNewswire/ -- The most inefficient appliance in the home is also the one that uses the most water. Most toilets waste water four out of five flushes because they empty the entire tank with every flush. That's a lot of water being wasted, especially considering that the U.S. EPA estimates that residential toilets account for a third of the U.S. indoor household water use, or more than 2 trillion gallons of water a year. A recently released study shows that individuals can make a big difference in reducing the amount of water they use indoors - as much as 30%, by using dual flush technology. The study was conducted by Veritec Consulting, developer of the de facto toilet performance standards for the U.S EPA's WaterSense Program, in conjunction with Equity Residential and MJSI, a leader in water conservation products. The purpose was to reduce water demands in an apartment complex by retrofitting existing toilets without sacrificing performance. Widely accepted in Europe and Australia, water-saving dual flush technology has only recently been introduced in the United States. Arriving first as dual flush toilets that require replacement of the entire toilet, more recent plumbing innovation has produced dual flush converter kits that retrofit existing toilets into dual flush systems in minutes.

No-Burn, Incorporated has developed a high-performance coating product specifically for use with spray polyurethane foam (SPF) to provide code-prescribed fire resistance pursuant to applicable sections of the International Building Code (IBC) and International Residential Code (IRC). The material, known as No-Burn® Plus XD, was developed to meet market demand. It is a low VOC specialty coating that is easy-to-apply and has a white, no-sheen finish when applied over spray-applied polyurethane foam. No-Burn® Plus XD has met the applicable testing requirements over a variety of both open and closed cell polyurethane foam products supplied by the largest players in the industry. According to Bill Kish, No-Burn, Inc.’s President and CEO, “We are extremely pleased with the success of our team in developing a material that is easily applied, requires extremely low film thickness, meets all applicable green standards, and offers a great deal of utility to our customers due to its economic advantages and the broad range of polyurethane foam products over which it can be applied.” Coating products for polyurethane foam have experienced increasing demand over the recent past as both the foam industry and code-setting bodies have sought ways to provide economically attractive and productivity-enhancing ways to achieve mandated fire protection over these materials. The insulation value, commonly known as the R-value and other benefits offered by SPF products have lead to record-setting demand increases over the last several years, and this dramatic demand growth is forecasted to continue well into the future. These factors combined have driven the type of innovation offered by the No-Burn® Plus XD product. Of significance to architects and designers is the fact that recent changes in the standards associated with fire protection for foam insulation used in the attics of one and two family dwellings, in the United States, will lead to a dramatic increase in the need for appropriate coating products beginning in January of 2011. These new requirements, brought about by the International Code Council’s Evaluation Services (ICC-ES) group in their acceptance criteria for the industry (AC 377), will drive the enforcement of these fire protection measures around the country. Clearly, with a code-prescribed intumescent paint such as Plus XD, the built environment is more sustainable. You may find additional information regarding International Code Council Evaluation Service’s AC-377 at: http://redirect.aecdaily.com/s18122/www.icc-es.org/criteria/dsp.cfm?ac_code=AC377. For more information about No-Burn® Plus XD, you may access the manufacturer’s website: http://redirect.aecdaily.com/s18122/noburn.com/products/no-burn-plus-products.

Governor Granholm Will Join Volunteers as MSU Graduate Student Constructs Home As Part of 2010 Whirlpool® Building Blocks Program LANSING, Mich., Sept. 10 /PRNewswire/ -- Michigan State University (MSU) students, faculty and staff will recognize the National Day of Service tomorrow with the kick-off of the 2010 Whirlpool® Building Blocks campus build. In partnership with Whirlpool Corporation, Habitat for Humanity Lansing, Habitat for Humanity International and local volunteers will be joined by Michigan Gov. Jennifer M. Granholm to raise walls in the name of affordable housing. The house will be built on-campus in the commuter parking lot near Mount Hope Road and Farm Lane before being moved to its permanent location in Lansing, where construction will be completed. Festivities will begin tomorrow at 8 a.m. as Gov. Granholm and representatives from Whirlpool Corporation, Habitat for Humanity and MSU kick-off the build with a project blessing and a few words at the build site. The Whirlpool® Building Blocks program is Whirlpool Corporation's signature program with Habitat for Humanity. This year's build format includes seven communities around the country, including two builds on university campuses. Since 1999, Whirlpool Corporation has supported Habitat in its mission to create affordable housing and is one of the organization's largest corporate sponsors.

Designers Can Now Maintain a Consistent Appearance Across the Building Facade With ThermaShade’s Sun Control System. AUSTELL, Ga.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--YKK AP America, the leader in manufacturing high quality architectural products, today expands the application of its energy efficient sun control system, ThermaShade, to include storefront facades. The industry's only sunshade system to feature a thermal barrier, ThermaShade reduces solar heat gain to help lower the overall energy consumption of a building. ThermaShade is also available for curtain wall applications. Designers can now take advantage of the proven sun control system, and apply it across the entire building facade, including storefronts and curtain walls, to maintain a consistent and aesthetically-pleasing appearance. For simple installation, pre-engineered solutions are available in over one hundred configurations, including four standard outrigger designs, eight standard lower options and five standard fascia options. An integral hook mechanism is also included on outriggers. ThermaShade is part of YKK AP’s enerGfacade product line, a family of energy efficient products which provide sustainable, thermally broken solutions for the entire building envelope. The product will be showcased at GlassBuild 2010 in Las Vegas, September 14 -16.

Hampshire, IL – DECK-O-SHIELD PLUS is a premium-grade, ready-to-use, water-based sealer formulated for use on natural stone. DECK-O-SHIELD PLUS is formulated specifically to seal porous surfaces and is ideal to use on pool copings and decks protecting them from salt penetration. It can be used on all porous surfaces such as natural stone, tile, concrete, pavers, and grout. DECK-O-SHIELD PLUS provides a solution to spalling and pitting of porous stone and concrete surfaces caused by salt penetration as well as spalling caused by freeze-thaw cycles. DECK-O-SHIELD PLUS will also resist stains. DECK-O-SHIELD PLUS weatherproofs and protects virtually all porous surfaces, including decks, porches, patios, and walkways around pools. This includes the following surfaces: natural stone, mortar joint, concrete, brick, concrete block, stucco. Another advantage DECK-O-SHIELD PLUS provides is that the product will not alter the color or tint of the surface after application. There is no need for worry when applying DECK-O-SHIELD PLUS, because the product will have no adverse effects on surface appearance after application. For more information, contact DECK-O-SEAL, a division of W. R. MEADOWS, INC. at P.O. Box 397, Hampshire, Illinois 60140; phone: (800) 542-POOL; fax: (847) 214-2268; e-mail: sales@deckoseal.com or visit www.deckoseal.com.

BENTON HARBOR, Mich., Sept. 9 /PRNewswire/ -- Whirlpool Corporation (NYSE: WHR) today announced the selection of The Pizzuti Companies, of Columbus, Ohio as developer for its new corporate campus to be located at the intersection of Main Street and Riverview Drive in downtown Benton Harbor. The new development will transform the property into an office campus of three, three-story buildings and other amenities. The proposed design will also target LEED Gold certification.

New Tankless Water Heater Heats an Entire Bathroom and Features Patented Coilless Technology and Sleek, Sophisticated Design WILMINGTON, Del.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--American Hometec, Inc., a pioneer and leader of Coilless Technology® for tankless water heaters, today introduced its Model AHQ-T16, an electric tankless water heater (also called demand water heater), for mid-range hot water demands such as the average-sized bathroom. The unit features the company’s patented Coilless Technology®, which eliminates lime scale build-up, and heats water differently, and with a state-of-the-art patent-pending power management and temperature control not found anywhere else on the market. In addition to being extremely energy efficient, the T16 breaks new ground in the industry by featuring a well-designed, modern-looking machine. As energy efficient home appliances are becoming the next must-have technologies in green homes, American Hometec’s T16 unit is poised to join other fashionable, designed products suited for today’s bathrooms. Intended to be a sleek bathroom fixture and installed in plain view, the unit features a brushed chrome frame, sophisticated blue LED smooth touch™ temperature control panel, and an easy-clean surface. Also, due to its compact size, the T16 unit is designed for point-of-use installation, which the U.S. Department of Energy recommends to help conserve both valuable water and energy. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, demand tankless water heaters can be up to 50 percent more energy efficient than conventional storage tank water heaters. American Hometec’s new T16 unit is suitable for all water conditions and provides an unlimited supply of hot water, heating water only on demand and using only required energy needs. The unit provides the versatility to heat a shower and sink simultaneously, therefore efficiently meeting all hot water demands of an average bathroom in residential homes, apartments, hotels, executive offices and other applications that benefit from a precise temperature-controlled hot water supply.

Innovative Glass Corp Receives Two Awards for Their eGlass® Product Line & SPD-Smartglass® PLAINVIEW, N.Y.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Innovative Glass Corp announced today that their company’s state-of-the-art electronic glazing technologies were honored with two Crystal Achievement Awards by the Glass, Window and Door Industry. The first award, presented by Window & Door Magazine, was given to Innovative Glass Corp’s eGlass® as the “Most Innovative Glass / Glazing Component of 2010". eGlass® is the brand name for advanced, “smart glass” products offered by Innovative Glass Corporation. The eGlass® product line represents the state-of-the-art in dynamic glazing technology and is available for windows, skylights, doors and other architectural applications. Users of eGlass® can instantly and precisely regulate the amount of light passing through their windows; from fully clear, to frosted white, to deeply tinted, and everything in between. eGlass® gives users the ability to “tune” their windows to address any desired preference or need – all within a single, unified system that does not require blinds, shades or curtains. The eGlass® product line consists of two technologies; Liquid Crystal Privacy Glass & SPD-SmartGlass®. Both technologies can be provided independently or together as a simple laminated glass, or as an Insulated Glass Unit for integration into other manufacturer’s windows, doors, and skylights. The second Crystal Achievement Award, specifically recognizes IGC’s SPD-SmartGlass®, as the Most Innovative Interior Glass Product by Glass magazine, the official publication of the National Glass Association. SPD-SmartGlass® is a variable tint glazing technology that gives the user the ability to instantly and electronically darken or tint the glass with a simple dimmer or other automatic control. It has the power to control light, sunglare, heat gain and energy while blocking 99% of harmful and damaging UV rays. SPD-SmartGlass® has a wide dynamic range of less than 1% light transmission in the darkened state, to over 65% in the clear state. Unlike ordinary tinted glass which permanently darkens the room, patented SPD-SmartGlass® can be variably controlled to transform a conference room or sun-filled space into a media-friendly environment. In addition to the interior applications, the glass can be made as an energy-efficient insulated glass unit for exterior glazing. eGlass® is UL approved, and available in large sizes to meet a wide range of architectural requirements. The switching speed is instantaneous, with an even and consistent change within seconds regardless of panel size.

SCRANTON, Pa., Sept. 7 /PRNewswire/ -- AZEK® Trim, manufactured by AZEK Building Products, was named the #1 brand in all four categories of Remodeling Magazine's 2010 Brand Use Study, sweeping the category of Decorative Mouldings/Trim/Columns. In the Remodeling Magazine reader survey, AZEK Trim was voted number one based on answers to these four questions: For each product listed below and for that product specifically, which brands ... -- Have you HEARD OF? (Brand Familiarity) -- Has your firm USED IN THE PAST 2 YEARS (including brands you subcontracted with others to install)? -- Does your firm USE THE MOST? -- Would you consider using in the future (not including those used in the past two years or used most) AZEK Trim was ranked #1 for all four questions in the Decorative Mouldings/Trims/Columns category by 20 - 25 percentage points higher than the #2 brand. In addition, after being on the market for only three years, the AZEK Deck brand ranked a close second in all four questions in the broad category of Composite/Vinyl Decking. The margins were very slim on Brand Familiarity and Would Consider Using in the Future, which Jungbluth says indicates a tremendous market opportunity for AZEK Deck. "For the AZEK Deck brand to score so highly, especially in a category previously dominated by brands that have been around for more than a decade, is extremely encouraging and speaks to the high quality of AZEK Deck," stated Jungbluth. "Needless to say, this announcement, along with the recent news from BUILDER Magazine that AZEK Deck was named #1 in Quality in their 2010 Brand Survey, gives us great reason to be thrilled."

OXFORD, Mich.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--ITW Futura Coatings, a division of Illinois Tool Works, Inc., has introduced the first window foam with renewable agricultural content. The new Foamseal® E-Z Fill™ Plus Window Foam, produced in Oxford, Michigan, replaces some of its petroleum-based content with renewable corn, soy and castor plant material. As a biobased product, Foamseal® E-Z Fill™ Plus releases less carbon into the atmosphere, which benefits the environment. By using renewable agricultural materials as a substitute for some petroleum derivatives, the new foam has received BioPreferredSM status from the U. S. Department of Agriculture (UDSA). (Details are available at www.biopreferred.gov.) E-Z Fill™ window foams are injected into vinyl window frames to help retain internal temperatures or “U” value, which reduce energy consumption for heating and cooling. Foamseal® E-Z Fill™ Plus Window Foam improves the thermal efficiency of windows by 3 to 8%, compared to window frames without foam. In addition, Foamseal® E-Z Fill™ Plus has flame-retardant properties.

WEST PALM BEACH, Fla.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Suffolk Construction Company was recently awarded construction of a sustainable environmental services laboratory for the South Florida Water Management District. The project is valued at approximately $8 million and will be located at the District’s West Palm Beach Field Operations Center Complex in West Palm Beach, Florida. The new two-story, 36,000 square-foot environmental services laboratory will be critical to the South Florida region because it will consolidate five ecological and water quality groups, all of which are associated with the management and protection of South Florida’s water resources. The environmental services laboratory will be designed and constructed to be sustainable—the District is aiming to achieve LEED Silver certification for the facility, but could potentially achieve LEED Gold. The facility will be designed to incorporate photovoltaic and solar hot water technologies; rainwater collection to supplement irrigation and sanitary systems; high efficiency mechanical, electrical and lighting systems; and other sustainable building features. The facility will also be equipped to sustain high velocity winds and will consist of emergency backup systems capable of maintaining full operations for seven days in the event of a major power outage. Completion of the environmental services laboratory project is scheduled for the end of 2011.

PITTSBURGH, Sept. 7 /PRNewswire/ -- Westinghouse Electric Company today announced that its Boiling Water Reactor (BWR) Service Center office building at its Chattanooga, Tenn., (USA), campus has achieved Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) Silver certification from the U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC). LEED is a third-party certification program and the nationally accepted benchmark for the design, construction and operation of high-performance green buildings. It 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. Michael Faidley, facilities manager for the Westinghouse Nuclear Services product line and leader of the certification effort said: "Sustainable design played a major part in our team's efforts in achieving Silver certified status." Noteworthy features of the building's sustainable design include: -- A storm water management control system (achieved using local building materials), in which the water quality coming out of the storm water collection area is enhanced before being released back into the environment -- The addition of bike racks and changing rooms to accommodate alternate transportation to the work place -- A building design which allows 90 percent daylight views to all building occupants Westinghouse's new headquarters facility located in Cranberry Township, Pa. (USA), is also expected to achieve LEED certified status. LEED is a trademark owned by the U.S. Green Building Council and is used with permission.

SEOUL, South Korea, Sept. 6 /PRNewswire-Asia/ -- Seoul Design Fair (SDF) 2010 will be held at the Seoul Olympic Stadium and in the city's four design clusters -- Hongdae Area, Dongdaemun Design Plaza (DDP), Gasan Digital Complex and Sinsa-dong area -- for 21 days from September 17 to October 7. SDF 2010 will differentiate itself from previous festivals, with programs for the socially less privileged, such as a lecture on Braille design. Under the theme of "Design for All," this year's fair will feature various different types of academic and cultural events organized in the three broad categories: Economy, Participation, and Education. One of the most outstanding new features of the fair will be three major pavilions in the stadium, which will be designed respectively by three of the greatest contemporary architects in the world: Alessandro Mendini from Italy, Daniel Libeskind from the U.S., and Kim Seok-Chul from Korea. Inside an exhibition hall, there will be a lifestyle design exhibition showcasing design products of three northeast Asian countries: Korea, mainland China and Japan. For young and upcoming design talent in search of jobs, there will be design-related job fairs and entrepreneurship consulting services provided as part of the design fair, in the Hongdae area. Seoul Brand Exhibition will combine next-generation IT technologies with design, while Design Seoul International Conference on September 17 and 18 will feature internationally acclaimed designers such as Chris Luebkeman, Alexandro Mendini, Daniel Libeskind, Kim Seok-chul and John Wood. Seoul Design Market will feature showrooms of leading global design companies, and also provide a market space for over 200 young designers from all over the globe.

AMSTERDAM & MILPITAS, Calif.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Sigma Designs (Nasdaq: SIGM), a leading provider of System-on-Chip (SoC) solutions used to deliver entertainment and control throughout the home, will be showcasing to the company’s many innovations at IBC2010. Sigma Designs will be demonstrating cutting-edge technologies in media processing, home entertainment networking, and home control in its suite, located in the Balcony Suite BM24, on the Mezzanine Level, Hall 1. At this year’s show, Sigma will give first-ever public demonstrations of: * ClearPath, Sigma’s breakthrough home entertainment networking connectivity solution. This is the first powerline technology to employ MIMO (multiple input, multiple output) features for higher performance, greater reliability and improved throughput * New thin-client solutions that enable service providers to install set top boxes throughout an entire home for significantly less cost than ever before * New optimized solutions for Microsoft Mediaroom based on Sigma’s second-generation SMP8652 media processor. Sigma’s solution will show the highest CPU performance available along with substantial savings for new set top box designs * The industry’s lowest cost, lowest power RVU remote user interface for set top boxes, which enables consumers to use DLNA to distribute their content across RVU-enabled devices in the home Sigma will also showcase its popular Z-Wave solutions for home control. Through the widest ecosystem of devices available to consumers today, Z-Wave technology helps service providers increase Average Revenue Per Unit (ARPU) and net profits by enabling new services in home control, security, and energy management. Sigma’s Z-Wave solutions put home control in the palm of consumers’ hands. The demonstration will be a chance to test drive real-world applications — using Z-Wave to monitor and manage energy use, home entertainment systems, lighting and appliance control, HVAC systems, security, and access control for a home — all from a smart phone.

ST. LOUIS--(BUSINESS WIRE)--MetLife, Inc. announced today that its office at 13045 Tesson Ferry Road has earned an ENERGY STAR rating from the United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) for its superior energy performance and management. This latest achievement marks MetLife’s 13th ENERGY STAR-rated owned and/or operated property. Additionally, six company owned and/or operated properties have received Leadership in Energy & Environmental Design (LEED) certifications from the United States Green Building Council (USGBC). MetLife’s energy management policy as well as other sustainability initiatives have enabled the company to reduce its energy consumption by more than 16% since 2006. “MetLife’s energy management program is just one of the many initiatives the company is focused on, reducing its overall global impact,” said John Vazquez, vice president, vendor sourcing and corporate services & chief procurement officer. “We are pleased to be recognized once again by the EPA for our continued environmental leadership and commitment to long-term sustainability.” ENERGY STAR facilities use less energy, operate in a more cost effective way and generate less greenhouse gas emissions (GHG) than other buildings. To earn the rating, MetLife took several steps to improve the building’s performance and reduce its environmental impact, including installing occupancy sensors in conference rooms as well as energy efficient lighting and water fixtures.

BOULDER, Colo., Sept. 1 /PRNewswire/ -- Salt Lake County has chosen NexGen Energy and Bella Energy to develop a solar installation on the roof of the Calvin L. Rampton Salt Palace Convention Center in downtown Salt Lake City. The team presented a plan to install up to 2.6 megawatts of solar modules on the structure. If built to that capacity, the Salt Palace will host the largest rooftop solar facility in the United States, generating more than 3,330,000 kilowatt hours of electricity every year, while reducing the building's consumption by 25%. NexGen Energy and Bella Energy team won a competitive RFP process that took four months and began with twelve applicants. The county informed NexGen Energy of its decision late last week. Construction is expected to begin later this year. NexGen Energy, a leading owner and operator of distributed renewable energy systems, will own and operate the facility and sell the power to Salt Lake County at a fixed rate. Bella Energy, a highly respected solar electric systems integrator based in Colorado, will design and install the project. "Today the Salt Palace is setting a national example for renewable energy," said Ted Rose, Vice President of NexGen Energy. "With a ground-breaking public-private partnership driving it, this project will place Utah at the forefront of solar development. It proves once again that large rooftops can successfully provide power from the sun that benefits both the environment and the bottom line." "Bella Energy has worked diligently to make the project a reality," said Andrew McKenna, Vice President of Bella Energy. "Our three decades of experience in solar installation will serve Salt Lake County well. Bella Energy is committed to growing Utah's distributed solar generation and will employ as many as 35 local workers and subcontractors during the construction of this project."

BOULDER, Colo., Sept. 1 /PRNewswire/ -- Salt Lake County has chosen NexGen Energy and Bella Energy to develop a solar installation on the roof of the Calvin L. Rampton Salt Palace Convention Center in downtown Salt Lake City. The team presented a plan to install up to 2.6 megawatts of solar modules on the structure. If built to that capacity, the Salt Palace will host the largest rooftop solar facility in the United States, generating more than 3,330,000 kilowatt hours of electricity every year, while reducing the building's consumption by 25%. NexGen Energy and Bella Energy team won a competitive RFP process that took four months and began with twelve applicants. The county informed NexGen Energy of its decision late last week. Construction is expected to begin later this year. NexGen Energy, a leading owner and operator of distributed renewable energy systems, will own and operate the facility and sell the power to Salt Lake County at a fixed rate. Bella Energy, a highly respected solar electric systems integrator based in Colorado, will design and install the project. "Today the Salt Palace is setting a national example for renewable energy," said Ted Rose, Vice President of NexGen Energy. "With a ground-breaking public-private partnership driving it, this project will place Utah at the forefront of solar development. It proves once again that large rooftops can successfully provide power from the sun that benefits both the environment and the bottom line." "Bella Energy has worked diligently to make the project a reality," said Andrew McKenna, Vice President of Bella Energy. "Our three decades of experience in solar installation will serve Salt Lake County well. Bella Energy is committed to growing Utah's distributed solar generation and will employ as many as 35 local workers and subcontractors during the construction of this project."

BOULDER, Colo., Sept. 1 /PRNewswire/ -- Salt Lake County has chosen NexGen Energy and Bella Energy to develop a solar installation on the roof of the Calvin L. Rampton Salt Palace Convention Center in downtown Salt Lake City. The team presented a plan to install up to 2.6 megawatts of solar modules on the structure. If built to that capacity, the Salt Palace will host the largest rooftop solar facility in the United States, generating more than 3,330,000 kilowatt hours of electricity every year, while reducing the building's consumption by 25%. NexGen Energy and Bella Energy team won a competitive RFP process that took four months and began with twelve applicants. The county informed NexGen Energy of its decision late last week. Construction is expected to begin later this year. NexGen Energy, a leading owner and operator of distributed renewable energy systems, will own and operate the facility and sell the power to Salt Lake County at a fixed rate. Bella Energy, a highly respected solar electric systems integrator based in Colorado, will design and install the project. "Today the Salt Palace is setting a national example for renewable energy," said Ted Rose, Vice President of NexGen Energy. "With a ground-breaking public-private partnership driving it, this project will place Utah at the forefront of solar development. It proves once again that large rooftops can successfully provide power from the sun that benefits both the environment and the bottom line." "Bella Energy has worked diligently to make the project a reality," said Andrew McKenna, Vice President of Bella Energy. "Our three decades of experience in solar installation will serve Salt Lake County well. Bella Energy is committed to growing Utah's distributed solar generation and will employ as many as 35 local workers and subcontractors during the construction of this project."

Candice Olson and The Portuguese Cork Association Introduce the Natural Beauty of Cork Flooring to North America NEW YORK, Sept. 1 /PRNewswire/ -- New York, a city already famous for high style and a cosmopolitan culture, got a little more chic with the launch of the North American Decor(k) Tour in Herald Square today, courtesy of the Portuguese Cork Association (APCOR). The goal of the Decor(k) Tour - which will visit 16 cities across the United States and Canada - is to educate consumers about the different styles and varieties of Portuguese cork flooring, and will feature a 53 foot-long mobile showroom designed by "Divine Design" host Candice Olson. Inside the showroom, visitors will enjoy a "feet on" experience of cork flooring's unique comfort and resiliency while viewing different room layouts and flooring applications designed by Olson. Additional displays will allow visitors to see how cork stands up to moisture, heavy foot traffic and allergens, providing users with durable, comfortable flooring that can last years. Another important benefit is that cork is the most environmentally friendly flooring choice because it is completely renewable, 100 percent natural and recyclable -- three essential qualities for a modern and environmentally friendly society. Incredible inherent properties, including sound and temperature insulation, cushioning and water resistance provide homeowners even more reasons to choose cork as a flooring option. "The choice of flooring is always an integral element in my designs," said Olson. "When homeowners are building their nests, they must think about how much time will be spent on their floors. Cork flooring is a perfect choice for the home because it can provide a desired, stylish look while remaining functional and environmentally friendly." Through Olson's beautifully designed settings for the Decor(k) Tour, it is easy to see that cork flooring is the ultimate in eco-chic. With inspirational designs ranging from traditional and vintage to artistic and modern, luxurious textures and shades, classic patterns and elegant finishes, the options available for cork flooring in North American homes are truly limitless. It has become a viable contender as the centerpiece of any home. Cork is more than 50 percent air, which makes it lightweight and highly resilient. Consequently, cork often does not show dents or grooves the same way wood flooring can. It has excellent insulating properties and is warmer under foot than a cold tile. It is also allergy free and easy to maintain - great for a healthy, safe home. "Cork has been used as flooring for a very long time because of its natural beauty, durability and renewability," said Piet Dossche, chairman of APCOR North America Flooring Group and president & CEO of USFloors, Inc. "New finishing techniques and improved technologies have revived an interest in cork flooring. No other floor covering can match the combined benefits of cork." Cork's journey begins in the montado (the Portuguese cork oak forest) where the time-honored tradition of the cork harvest takes place. Only after a maturation period of 25 years have these majestic giant cork oak trees carefully transformed their outer shell into a thing of beauty. This natural process gives way to cork flooring. During the harvesting of the bark, which can only take place every nine years, the tree is never cut down or harmed. The quality of cork actually improves with every harvest. The cork oak forest has been developed and maintained to sustain a triple bottom line industry - one that is good for the people, for the planet and for the economy. Portuguese cork makes for authentic, high quality and eco-efficient cork flooring that is created with true craftsmanship and care.

KNOXVILLE, Tenn., Aug. 31 /PRNewswire/ -- HGTV will build its fourth HGTV Green Home in Stapleton, Denver, Colorado's eco-progressive community created on the site of a former airport in Denver. Stapleton is reusing/recycling 4,700 acres of land and reconnecting it to Denver's urban fabric. Over the past decade the community has emerged as one of the country's most ambitious examples of sustainable development. The 2,400-square-foot, custom-built "green" home being built there will be given away as part of the HGTV Green Home grand prize package next spring. "The HGTV Green Home gives us an opportunity to display the latest products and highlight the newest practices for the ever-evolving standards of sustainable living," said Jack Thomasson, HGTV House Planner. "The combination of a spectacular eco-healthy home design, built in a vibrant community, will undoubtedly make this our most dynamic HGTV Green Home ever." The HGTV Green Home will feature open spaces that flow together to create an interactive environment. The home's exterior mix of hipped and cantilevered roof forms gives a feel of a winged structure, recalling the site's airport past. By not replicating a traditional house style, the HGTV Green Home of 2011 looks to the future with a modern prairie look and does not try to reproduce the past. Constructed by Infinity Home Collection of Denver, it will feature construction and design elements that are known to contribute to an energy efficient, cleaner and healthier living environment. "We're honored that HGTV has selected the Infinity for the construction of its 2011 HGTV Green Home," said David Steinke, general manager, Infinity Home Collection. "We love building smart homes for smart people and to us, building green is practically second nature. It gives us great pleasure to have our work featured as part of this year's HGTV Green Home Giveaway." "In Stapleton, we've worked to create a community that is founded on sustainability," said Denise Gammon, Senior Vice President of Development for Forest City Stapleton, the master developer of the Stapleton Community. "We'll be delighted to welcome the lucky winner of the Green Home Giveaway to the neighborhood."