MIDLAND, Mich., Nov. 16 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- The Dow Chemical Company's (NYSE:DOW) DOW(TM) POWERHOUSE(TM) Solar Shingle, the revolutionary flexible photovoltaic solar cell packaged in the form of a roofing shingle that can be easily integrated with standard asphalt shingle materials, has been named one of "The 50 Best Inventions of 2009" by TIME magazine. "The introduction of the DOW(TM) POWERHOUSE(TM) Solar Shingle exemplifies Dow's commitment to delivering innovative solutions to the world's most critical challenges," said Jane Palmieri, Managing Director of Dow Solar Solutions. "This groundbreaking technology will make affordable renewable energy a reality now and for future generations. Dow is proud to be recognized by TIME magazine - a strong testimonial to the power of our chemistry and science to deliver sustainable solutions." The DOW(TM) POWERHOUSE(TM) Solar Shingle integrates low-cost, thin-film CIGS photovoltaic cells into a proprietary roofing shingle design, which represents a multi-functional solar energy generating roofing product. The innovative product design reduces installation costs because conventional roofing shingles and solar generating shingles are installed simultaneously by roofing contractors - no specialized skills or knowledge of solar array installations are required. Additionally, Dow and the California Institute of Technology (Caltech) recently announced the signing of a multi-year research collaboration that is strategic to both organizations' interests in solar energy. The arrangement is aimed at developing the next generation of ultra low cost, high efficiency photovoltaic materials and will accelerate the speed to market for these next generation materials. Based on earth abundant elements, these new PV materials should further reduce the cost of Dow's building integrated photovoltaic line, including the DOW(TM) POWERHOUSE(TM) Solar Shingle. "Products like the DOW(TM) POWERHOUSE(TM) Solar Shingle demonstrate what the innovation engine of the new Dow can do," said David Parrillo, Senior R&D Director for Dow Solar Solutions. "Dow's innovation pipeline is robust and will allow us to continue to develop new building related photovoltaic materials and solutions. The collaboration with Caltech is projected to keep affordability and accessibility at the forefront of Dow's solar photovoltaic product lines and is another example of how Dow's leadership and innovation will further unlock the power of the sun for the masses." The DOW(TM) POWERHOUSE(TM) Solar Shingle systems are expected to be available in limited quantities by mid-2010 and projected to be more widely available in 2011, putting the power of solar electricity generation directly and conveniently in the hands of homeowners. To learn more about the DOW(TM) POWERHOUSE(TM) Solar Shingle visit www.dowsolar.com
