National Semiconductor's Power Optimizers Reduce Annual Energy Costs for California's Affordable Housing Development OAKLAND, Calif., July 13 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- National Semiconductor Corp. (NYSE:NSM) , of Santa Clara, Calif., today announced the retrofit of an affordable housing project in Oakland with its industry award-winning SolarMagic(TM) power optimizers, boosting the electricity production by 22.6 percent. The 30-kilowatt solar system sits atop the Oak Street Terrace, a 39-unit affordable housing development specifically designed for low-income seniors. Completed in 2005, the multi-story apartment building was initially designed to be as energy efficient and eco-conscious as possible, and is constructed out of recycled and natural building materials. Jigar Shah, solar visionary and founder of SunEdison, installed the solar system and is providing the power generated through a power purchase agreement, where residents lock into a low, fixed-rate for electricity. "For over four years, our Oak Street installation has been helping residents pay less for electricity, and the addition of SolarMagic has dramatically boosted system performance," said Jigar Shah. "SolarMagic is helping us get 22.6 percent more power out of the same panels, making the system even more productive and cost-effective."
