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A Competition for Sustainable Urban Development Launched in Helsinki

March 31, 2009

HELSINKI, March 31/PRNewswire/ -- Sitra, the Finnish Innovation Fund, and the city of Helsinki are launching an international competition for building a sustainable and innovative block in the Western Harbor of Helsinki. This competition is a search for teams that can provide an architecture of solutions. "The project to build up a harbor area almost in the middle of Helsinki is very innovative in the sense that we are genuinely combining different aspects of urban, environmental, social, and business innovation. We aim to prove that national and international sustainability targets can be reached cost-effectively through high quality architectural solutions that are robust and reproduceable," says Marco Steinberg, Director of Strategic Design in Sitra. "What is clear is that no single organization, profession or ministry can achieve the goals of sustainable urban development by itself. It will require an architecture of solutions including low or no carbon buildings; sustainable economic models; enhanced mobility; sustainable planning and energy policies; resilient social systems among countless others. And for each problem, care must be taken to ensure that the solution will not undermine progress at different scales. This is a way to promote systemic changes that reach the whole scale of what is at stake," Marco Steinberg continues.
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EMCOR Group, Inc. Subsidiary Awarded Contract for Electrical Street Light Installations for the New York City Department of Transportation

March 31, 2009

NORWALK, Conn.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--EMCOR Group, Inc. (NYSE: EME), a Fortune 500(R) leader in mechanical and electrical construction, energy infrastructure and facilities services for a diverse range of businesses, reported that as previously noted on its 2/26/09 Fourth Quarter Earnings Call, its Welsbach Electric subsidiary has been awarded a contract to install electrical street lights for the New York City Department of Transportation (DOT). Welsbach Electric will be responsible for furnishing and installing 83,000, state-of-the-art electronic 100-watt and 150-watt, energy efficient cobra head streetlight fixtures throughout the New York City boroughs of Manhattan, Staten Island and The Bronx. The New York City Department of Transportation oversees one of the most complex urban transportation networks in the world. The DOT also actively promotes the use of sustainable modes of transportation. “Welsbach Electric shares the Department of Transportation's passion for efficiency,” said Keith Carney, President and CEO of Welsbach Electric. “We look forward to working with the DOT to assist in the movement of people and goods in the City of New York in a safe, efficient, and environmentally responsible manner.”
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Greenberg Traurig Attorney Daniel J. Pennessi Designated as a LEED(R) Accredited Professional by U.S. Green Building Council

March 31, 2009

WHITE PLAINS, N.Y.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Greenberg Traurig attorney Daniel J. Pennessi, in the Real Estate Practice of the White Plains office, has been designated as a Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design Accredited Professional (LEED AP) by the United States Green Building Council (USGBC). Pennessi represents institutions and individuals in all aspects of commercial real estate transactions and has wide-ranging experience in urban redevelopment and revitalization projects, including public/private partnerships. The LEED Green Building Rating System is the nationally accepted benchmark for the design, construction and operation of high performance green buildings. As a LEED AP, Pennessi is able to advise clients on the many incentive-based and regulatory requirements pertaining to green building and assist in navigating the LEED certification process. Pennessi is one of only 17 legal LEED APs in New York registered with the USGBC. "Dan's LEED AP designation is an asset to the firm as it allows us to better assist clients in implementing sustainable development initiatives, as well as assisting in dispute resolution involving these green initiatives," said Thomas Leslie, managing shareholder of the firm's White Plains office. "Dan now serves as an important resource for all clients involved with or connected to the green building industry. His expertise can help maximize opportunities and minimize risks in this emerging field."
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Homebuyers and Builders Reap Many Energy Savings Benefits with the Massachusetts New Homes with ENERGY STAR(R) Program

March 31, 2009

LEXINGTON, Mass., March 30 /PRNewswire/ -- Stretching each dollar is top priority in today's economy, which is why so many in Massachusetts are seeking energy-efficient new homes. Massachusetts New Homes with ENERGY STAR Program assures homebuyers that ENERGY STAR qualified homes meet strict energy efficiency guidelines, lower utility bills and provide more comfortable living spaces. The Program is sponsored by the following local utilities and energy efficiency service providers: Bay State Gas, Berkshire Gas, Cape Light Compact, National Grid Gas and Electric, New England Gas, NSTAR Electric and NSTAR Gas, Renewable Energy Trust and Western Massachusetts Electric Company. "The Program not only provides homebuilders with technical expertise and generous incentives to achieve ENERGY STAR, it provides homeowners the assurance their dream home will be energy-efficient, cost effective, and environmentally friendly," states Brian Kearney, Residential Project Manager for NGRID. ENERGY STAR qualified homes are designed, built and performance tested to offer enhanced comfort and energy savings. These homes are at least 15 percent more efficient than homes simply built to Massachusetts Residential Building Code. Homes that have earned ENERGY STAR certification are tested to ensure they meet the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency's performance guidelines for energy efficiency.
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Solyndra Announces Completion of Commercial Rooftop Solar System in Livermore, California

March 31, 2009

FREMONT, Calif.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Solyndra Inc., a manufacturer of proprietary photovoltaic (PV) systems designed to optimize solar electricity production on commercial rooftops, announced the completion and full operation of a 132 kWp system by SPG Solar, Inc., on the rooftop of Cinema West's Livermore Cinemas in Livermore, CA. This project is one of many major commercial installations that have been completed or are underway with Solyndra PV systems in the US and Europe. Solyndra's PV system design allows maximum coverage and easy installation on commercial low-slope rooftops. There is no need for roof-penetrating mounts or ballast to hold panels in place and, as a result, the installation took less than 4 days. According to Dave Corkill, Owner of Livermore Cinemas, "No other system could offset as much power – the installation was over before we knew it." The Livermore project involved covering a complex roof shape with many areas not aligned in the north/south direction. Whereas conventional PV panels would have needed to be tilted facing southward to avoid significant energy loss, the orientation of Solyndra panels has minimal impact on overall energy yield. "The Solyndra system allowed us to maximize the available roof space, minimize labor and installation costs and increase power production – which allowed us to optimize our client's investment in solar," adds Ted Walsh, Director of Commercial Development, SPG Solar, Inc.
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Webinar Offers Energy-Saving Architectural Solutions

March 31, 2009

Hosted By Alcoa, Kawneer and Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory NEW YORK--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Alcoa (NYSE:AA) announced today that an upcoming webinar co-sponsored by Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory and Alcoa's Kawneer architectural aluminum products business will provide architects and building contractors with insights and strategies for designing high performance buildings using energy efficient architectural solutions. The webinar, "Energy-Saving Architectural Solutions for High-Performance Buildings," will take place on Thursday, April 16, 2009, at 12 noon ET. Participation is free for all architects, building contractors and media. Steve Selkowitz, head of the Building Technologies Department at Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory, will discuss the potential for savings using different energy efficient fenestration technologies and systems and how these technologies help architects meet energy saving requirements and contribute to sustainable design. Eddie Bugg, Director of Sustainable Solutions for Kawneer, will discuss the role that recyclable architectural aluminum products play in helping meet energy efficiency and LEED certification goals. "We are looking forward to dialogue on energy saving architectural tools and systems for commercial and institutional buildings. More than 40 percent of the energy consumed in the U.S. is used by buildings, and with the stimulus package funding the renovation of government buildings into green buildings, we believe the information provided today will offer valuable insight into designing high-performance buildings," said Bugg.
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Biofuels Power Closes Purchase of Decommissioned H.O. Clarke Electric Generating Station in Central Houston

March 30, 2009

SPRING, Texas--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Biofuels Power Corporation (OTCBB:BFLS) announced today that it has closed its previously announced purchase of the decommissioned H.O. Clarke Electric Generating Station located five miles from downtown Houston. The purchase includes 79 acres of land at the intersection of Main Street and Hiram Clarke Road, together with all infrastructure, equipment, buildings and other improvements. The H.O. Clarke property is adjacent to a 500 MW switchyard operated by CenterPoint Energy (NYSE:CNP) and has ready access to the same Texas ERCOT grid that the Company has connected with previously. This site will become the foundation of the Houston Clean Energy Park providing a range of new technologies for clean power production. Planned elements include biodiesel-fueled electrical generation, low emission gas turbine power generation and renewable syngas generation. Future elements could include biomass and solar energy. The key to this site is its central location inside the nation's fourth largest city and the opportunity to build a model Urban Renewable Power Plant. Fred O'Connor, Biofuel Power's CEO, said, “With the purchase of the H.O. Clarke facility, we are accelerating our power generation build out for this year. We believe the location and infrastructure of the H.O. Clarke facility provides us the unique opportunity for renewable powered large-scale industrial redevelopment in a world-class Houston location.” Mr. O'Connor continued, “We already have two plants in nearby Montgomery County that run on 100% biodiesel and generate 15 MW of green electricity that we sell into the ERCOT and Entergy Texas grids. We believe our planned Houston Clean Energy Park will become a model for clean industrial redevelopment nationwide.” Robert Roy of CenterPoint Energy added, “We are excited and fully supportive of green power into the grid. CenterPoint welcomes the opportunity to work with Biofuels Power on another renewable energy project.”
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Engineers Without Borders-USA Founder Bernard Amadei Honored with ENR's 2008 Award of Excellence

March 30, 2009

NEW YORK, March 27 /PRNewswire/ -- Bernard Amadei, founder of Engineers Without Borders-USA (EWB-USA), last night received the 2008 Award of Excellence from ENR (Engineering News Record), the magazine's highest honor. ENR is a publication of The McGraw-Hill Cos., New York City. For the past 44 years, the editors of ENR annually have selected a group of top newsmakers who have served the best interests of the engineering and construction industry. Last night, Amadei was recognized by ENR as "... an academic who is giving engineering education a new twist, founding a movement catching on with students, professionals and global communities." Amadei will be the subject of a cover story in ENR's March 30 issue. "It is a great honor for me to receive the 2008 award of excellence from ENR," said Amadei. "This award is meant to be shared by the staff and board of EWB-USA and the 12,000 engineering volunteers (students and professionals) who have the vision to making the world a better place. I am pleased to receive this award on their behalf. "The engineering profession is called to play a critical role in contributing to peace and security in an increasingly challenged world," he added. "Helping 5 billion of the people at the bottom of the pyramid with the basic necessities of livelihood -- water, sanitation, shelter, security, energy, education, health, etc. -- is no longer an option for the engineering profession. It is an obligation," Amadei said.
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Governor Rendell says 'D' Grade for PA's Infrastructure Demonstrates Need for Greater National Investment, Better Planning

March 30, 2009

Governor calls for national commitment to infrastructure funding HARRISBURG, Pa., March 27 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- Governor Edward G. Rendell today pointed to a national report card that gave Pennsylvania a cumulative grade of "D" on the condition of its roads, water systems, and other critical infrastructure as more evidence that the United States must increase its investment in infrastructure. The American Society of Civil Engineers reported this week that nation's infrastructure needs now total $2.2 trillion over the next five years -- an increase of 38 percent from just five years ago. "At the state level, we have made unprecedented investments in infrastructure repair, but we can't keep up with the needs. Even with American Recovery and Reinvestment Act funding it's impossible to do anything but fix, repair and maintain our infrastructure and by the time we complete repairs on one project, two others need to be fixed. "Pennsylvania has nearly tripled funding for bridge repair since 2003, yet we still have the highest number of structurally deficient bridges in the nation. This year alone, we will invest nearly $3 billion -- by far the most highway and bridge work ever produced in a single year in Pennsylvania -- but we'll barely scratch the surface of what needs to be done.
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National Gypsum's ProForm(R) Joint Compounds Achieve GREENGUARD Indoor Air Quality Certification

March 30, 2009

Company Offers Broadest Line of Drywall Interior Finishing Products that Meet Industry's Most Stringent Indoor Air Quality Standards NASHVILLE, Tenn.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--National Gypsum, one of the world's leading gypsum board manufacturers based in Charlotte, N.C., has achieved GREENGUARD Indoor Air Quality Certified(R) status for its complete line of ProForm(R) BRAND joint compounds. The company announced the certification today at the Association of the Wall and Ceiling Industry (AWCI) Convention and INTEX EXPO 2009 in Nashville. “National Gypsum is proud to offer the broadest line of gypsum and related products to have achieved the industry's most stringent indoor air quality standards, and to be the only manufacturer to offer a complete line of GREENGUARD Certified joint compounds,” said John Ferretti, general manager, interior finishing products. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency estimates indoor air can be up to two to five times more polluted than outdoor air, which means Americans’ health could be at significant risk given many adults spend up to 90 percent of their time inside. Building certification programs such as the U.S. Green Building Council's Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) Green Building Rating System(TM) and the Collaborative for High Performance Schools (CHPS) have identified indoor air quality as a key contributor to the overall health, safety and productivity of building occupants and a key component of sustainable design. “The ProForm joint compound line's certification is the latest demonstration of our ongoing commitment to sustainable building practices and indoor environmental quality,” said John Mixson, National Gypsum's director of marketing and the head of the company's sustainability efforts.
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Owens Corning Supports T. Boone Pickens' Virtual March on Washington

March 30, 2009

Company Encourages Employees and Suppliers to Promote Energy Efficiency in Homes and Commercial Buildings to Achieve U.S. Energy Independence TOLEDO, Ohio, March 27 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- Owens Corning, a world leader in building materials and glass fiber reinforcements, today announced its support for T. Boone Pickens' Virtual March on Washington April 1 - 3, an effort to achieve energy efficiency and independence while reducing America's dependence on foreign oil. Owens Corning, the first official corporate supporter of the Pickens Plan, will encourage its U.S. employees and suppliers to participate in the Virtual March, encouraging them to call, e-mail, fax, and meet with members of Congress about the immediate need for developing a comprehensive U.S. energy plan -- that includes energy efficiency in homes and commercial buildings. For three days, virtual marchers in Pickens' "New Energy Army" will contact members of Congress with the goal of making more than 1 million impressions to stress the importance of comprehensive national energy reform. By embracing the principles of the Pickens Plan, including energy efficiency in buildings, the United States would dramatically reduce or eliminate our reliance on foreign oil, making our nation safer, cleaner and energy independent.
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April Proclaimed National Landscape Architecture Month

March 27, 2009

Nationwide events to focus on career discovery, sustainability WASHINGTON--(BUSINESS WIRE)--The American Society of Landscape Architects (ASLA) has proclaimed April 2009 as National Landscape Architecture Month. ASLA’s 48 chapters across the country, as well as the national headquarters in Washington, D.C., will celebrate with public outreach activities to introduce the profession as a green career choice to children, parents and educators. “The profession encompasses the design of anything imaginable in the space around, between, or even on top of buildings,” said ASLA President Angela Dye, FASLA. “For students interested in the environment, conservation, and a blend of science and artistic expression, a career in landscape architecture may be a great choice.” April encompasses Earth Day on April 22 and the birthday of Frederick Law Olmsted on April 26, founder of the American landscape architecture profession. Examples of planned activities this month include job shadowing with landscape architects and hands-on demonstrations of sustainable practices, such as how to build a green roof and how to design a reading garden. Many activities are open to the public and community members are encouraged to attend. Visit www.asla.org/lamonth for a complete listing of events near you.
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Ecotope Selects Onset Monitoring Systems for Regional Energy Efficiency Study

March 27, 2009

Web-based monitoring systems to determine energy-savings potential of new home heating systems BOURNE, Mass.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Onset Computer Corporation (http://redirect.aecdaily.com/s18122/www.onsetcomp.com), the world’s leading supplier of data loggers, today announced that it has received a large order from Ecotope, a Seattle, WA-based energy consulting firm, for its web-based HOBO(R) U30 Remote Monitoring Systems. The systems, which will be used as part of an energy efficiency pilot program sponsored by the Northwest Energy Efficiency Alliance and other organizations, will measure the energy performance of ductless “mini-split” heat pumps in 120 homes throughout the Pacific Northwest. The goal of the project is to better understand the energy-savings potential of ductless heaters. “There’s a big focus on getting ductless mini-split units in homes throughout our region and displacing electric resistance heat that’s still being used,” said Bob Davis, a research engineer with Ecotope. “We will be monitoring the ductless units for one year to understand how much of a home’s electric heat can be offset by ductless heat pumps.”
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FM Facility Maintenance Announces Wind Energy Partnership with BroadStar Wind Systems

March 27, 2009

Patented AeroCam Wind Turbine Provides Energy Savings for Commercial Customers HARTFORD, Conn., March 26 /PRNewswire/ -- FM Facility Maintenance has made a major investment with innovative wind turbine producer, BroadStar Wind Systems of Dallas, in a strategic partnership to install energy efficient, building-mounted AeroCam wind turbines for major customer facilities. BroadStar is a design and concept leader in developing commercially viable wind-generated energy systems. The new program features BroadStar's patented AeroCam turbine, which uses a horizontal orientation to capture wind energy and generate power more efficiently, in a smaller footprint, than existing, comparable-sized turbines. The design is particularly well suited to rooftop locations of major retailers and multi-location customers, which are already serviced by FM Facility Maintenance (FM).
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Lime Energy and Nexxus Lighting Partner to Provide Energy Saving LED Lighting Solutions

March 27, 2009

CHARLOTTE, N.C.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Lime Energy Company (NASDAQ:LIME) and Nexxus Lighting, Inc. (NASDAQ:NEXS) today announced that they are collaborating to expand the use of Nexxus Lighting's new Array(TM) Lighting LED light bulb in numerous projects to help Lime Energy's customers save energy and reduce carbon emissions. Lime Energy has successfully installed thousands of LED solutions in resort hospitality, casinos, and business hotels. Through its long history of evaluating and installing energy efficient lighting applications, Lime Energy has emerged as a leader in applying solid state LED systems in commercial lighting applications. Based on their evaluation of available LED product offerings, Lime selected and installed Nexxus Lighting’s Array LED light bulbs in several recent hotel projects. “When meeting with our customers, they convey much frustration when considering LED technologies,” said Cliff Knutson of Lime Energy and a 23 year veteran of energy efficiency. “Since LED manufacturers are coming out of the woodwork and bombarding our customers with controversial information, the customer has a difficult time knowing what to believe, let alone the best product to use in a specific application. Lime has taken on the challenge of evaluating the LED technology so we can assist with confidence in the recommendation process and provide units with the best reliability, color rendition, beam patterns and dimming capability. It is through this service that we are able to help the customer make the very best choice in the emerging world of long-lasting and efficient LED lighting. Based on the installations we have done with the new Nexxus Array LED technology, customers have told us they like the overall light output and color of the bulbs and look forward to no lamp changes for an extended period. Energy and labor savings are vital to our hotel clients as they deal with tight operating budgets and look anxiously at state and local directives to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. Installing Array Lighting LED bulbs is one huge step in solving both of these problems for our clients,” added Knutson.
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Pennsylvania's Rachel Carson Building Earns EPA Energy Star Rating for Superior Efficiency

March 27, 2009

Budget-Neutral, Energy-Saving Work Estimated to Save Taxpayers $8.6 Million HARRISBURG, Pa., March 26 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- The Rachel Carson Building has earned the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency's prestigious Energy Star rating, becoming the first state-owned building in Pennsylvania to receive the national symbol for superior energy efficiency and environmental protection, Department of General Services Secretary James P. Creedon announced today. The energy performance of the building, located at 400 Market St. in Harrisburg, rates in the top 25 percent of facilities nationwide and, according to Creedon, reflects the state's commitment to being a smart energy consumer.
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Green Homeowners Insurance Launches in New York by Fireman's Fund Insurance Company

March 26, 2009

First Admitted Insurer to Offer Innovative, Environmentally Friendly Coverage; Five Percent Discount Given to Green Homeowners NOVATO, Calif.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Fireman’s Fund Insurance Company – the nation’s first provider of green insurance for commercial buildings – launches green insurance for homeowners in New York. This is the first-ever admitted green insurance available to homeowners in New York. Setting a new standard, Fireman’s Fund (www.firemansfund.com/green) is offering this innovative product to homeowners who currently own green homes or who want to upgrade their residences with green features after a loss using environmental safety and efficiency standards. If a home is completely destroyed, it can be rebuilt to green standards, certified as having Leadership in Environmental and Energy Design status (LEED(R), www.usgbc.org/leed). “We believe this is a trend-setting insurance solution for homeowners who are interested in the many benefits of ‘going green’ at home,” said Donald Soss, vice president of Fireman’s Fund Personal Insurance. Homeowners whose residences are already green will be offered a five percent discount on this coverage, applied to the homeowner premium. A green home uses less energy, water and natural resources, and creates less waste. Studies have shown that residents have better overall health and productivity as a result of reduced exposure to mold, mildew and indoor toxins. According to the National Center for Healthy Housing (www.centerforhealthyhousing.org), homeowners can expect substantial health gains by building green. Green NYC offers tips to New Yorkers to green their homes and make New York a healthier place.
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NPMA Launches Household Hazardous Waste Disposal Map on Pestworld.org

March 26, 2009

Pest Management Industry Pleased to Provide First National Resource for Household Hazardous Waste Disposal. FAIRFAX, Va.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Whether from a clogged drain, a patch of crabgrass in the yard, or quick paint touch ups, homeowners tend to accumulate bottles of expired, half-used do-it-yourself products, and homemade remedies – also known as Hazardous Household Waste (HHW). HHW cannot simply be poured down a drain or thrown away in the weekly trash; doing so can contaminate water and soil while also creating potential landfill buildup and pollution. With an increasing desire to act environmentally responsible, homeowners seeking information on the proper disposal of HHW were lacking a central resource – until now. The National Pest Management Association (NPMA) developed an interactive Household Hazardous Waste Disposal Map on its consumer education web site, Pestworld.org. By clicking on the state in which they live (or simply using the drop-down menu), homeowners can find the correct department within their state that addresses HHW as well as current contact information for that department. Eventually, this web site will allow homeowners to ascertain county level information regarding HHW Disposal. This newly developed section further provides a comprehensive list of HHW items that need to be specially disposed of by homeowners.
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Sierra Club Green Home Simplifies Sustainable Living, Bringing Green within Reach

March 26, 2009

New Web Site Serves as a Comprehensive Resource and Educational Tool for Greening the Home CHICAGO--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Sierra Club Green Home (SCGH) today launches its new Web site, www.sierraclubgreenhome.com, designed to educate Americans on how to make their homes more energy efficient, environmentally sustainable and healthy. Created with Sierra Club — America’s oldest, largest, and best-known environmental organization — SCGH aims to help aspirationally green citizens become more environmentally conscious. “Sierra Club is passionate about a sustainable future; however, we understand becoming green may be daunting for many, which is why we are so thrilled about Sierra Club Green Home. This site expands our reach to connect with consumers who want to begin the journey by greening their homes,” explains Carl Pope, Sierra Club executive director, who was challenged to find green products, services and contractors during a personal quest to make his home more eco-friendly and energy efficient. Confronting such hurdles inspired Pope and the organization to invest in a solution.
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Solar Power Partners Delivers Solar Energy to Universities

March 26, 2009

Solar Power Partners Owns, Operates, and Manages Solar Energy Facilities at Public and Private Universities MILL VALLEY, Calif.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Solar Power Partners, Inc. (SPPTM), one of the top three PPA providers in the country, today announced that its solar systems on university campuses are in operation and generating power. The solar systems include an 878.22 kW total system at the University of California at San Diego in San Diego, CA; a 357.32 kW system at Point Loma Nazarene University in San Diego, CA; and a 238.68 kW system at the California Institute of Technology (Caltech) in Pasadena, CA. Each solar facility was financed and developed using a solar Power Purchase Agreement (PPA), which allows SPP to own, operate, and manage the solar system for the length of the agreement, and sell back the power to the university. The universities pay only for the energy produced by the system and put no cash upfront, freeing capital for other projects and stabilizing their energy rates. SPP manages each facility through its dedicated asset management team, which uses real-time data monitoring to provide detailed management profiles for the systems. “SPP’s experience making solar power attainable for schools and universities makes for a great long-term partnership,” said Bill Irwin, Senior Director of Facility Management at Caltech. “This economic means of gaining solar energy for the campus is part of Caltech’s focus on sustainability and renewable energy. It saves money, fosters awareness, reduces the Institute’s environmental impact, and provides environment stewardship."
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A Simple Way to Go Green: New Wireless Occupancy Sensor from Lutron

March 25, 2009

Innovative Device that’s Easy to Install for Easy Energy Savings COOPERSBURG, Pa.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--The path to energy efficient lighting takes another step forward with the introduction of the Wireless Occupancy Sensor from Lutron Electronics Co., Inc. Providing a simple way to go green, the innovative sensor is specifically designed for easy installation in conference rooms, copy rooms, small offices, classrooms, living rooms, bedrooms, restrooms, and other spaces where automatic lighting shut-off is desirable. It installs in minutes. Simply place the sensor on the ceiling and replace your standard light switch with a compatible Lutron dimmer or switch – no wiring is required to the sensor. The sensor contains front-accessible buttons for easy setup and an illuminating lens to verify ideal locations. The sensor contains cutting-edge technology to detect fine motions and perform reliably. It has user-replaceable batteries, designed to last up to 10 years. For flexible and scalable energy-saving retrofits, up to 10 dimmers or switches can communicate with a sensor via radio frequency, and users can add up to 3 sensors for superior coverage. The sensor saves energy by turning lights off when a room is unoccupied. Each Lutron Wireless Occupancy Sensor can save up to $85.00 a year.* What’s more, using a compatible Lutron dimmer, with the sensor, allows you to automatically turn lights on to a dimmed level rather than to full-on, saving even more energy.
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Frost & Sullivan: Uncertainty for the Energy Efficiency Market, But the Lighting Control Sector Appears to Be a Bright Spot

March 25, 2009

LONDON, March 25 /PRNewswire/ -- "Energy Efficiency" was the buzzword of 2008, and rightfully so. With high energy prices and the "green" movement in full swing, it made both economic and social sense to invest in energy saving technologies. Entering 2009, however, the world finds itself in a different economic situation. Energy prices have declined, and the financial crisis leaves companies with little or no capital to spend on investments. In light of these new economic conditions, it is questionable whether the trend toward energy efficiency will continue. However, Frost & Sullivan believes that the demand for energy efficiency in buildings will remain a powerful driver in the short and medium term future. When oil prices peaked in 2008, it became clear that measures to reduce energy consumption were needed. This need, combined with increased environmental awareness and challenges to meet the rapid growth in global energy demand, fuelled the growth of the energy efficiency market. Energy efficiency seemed to be the perfect solution; organizations cut energy consumption costs by investing in green technology and earned themselves a greener image which gave them a competitive advantage.
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Lakeland Community College on Fast Track to Energy Efficiency with Siemens

March 25, 2009

Model project assures lower carbon footprint, reduced energy use and greener learning opportunities for students attending this Lake County, Ohio school BUFFALO GROVE, Ill., March 24 /PRNewswire/ -- Lakeland Community College is moving quickly to achieve a greener, more sustainable future with the help of a comprehensive energy and resource efficiency improvement project delivered by Siemens Building Technologies, Inc. The campus-wide effort, among the first of its kind in the region, is on a fast track--one that when finished will significantly lower its overall carbon footprint and realize enough energy savings to reduce equivalent annual energy costs by more than $500,000. "Lakeland is committed to reducing our own impact on the environment. We also hope to be a role model for our students and employees, as well as for our county, state and nation," said Lakeland President Dr. Morris W. Beverage, Jr. Encompassing a broad variety of heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) system upgrades, lighting retrofits and building and facility improvements, the campus-wide project is on a very aggressive 10-month schedule according to Siemens. Among the improvements planned is the first green roof in Lake County, which will crown the S-Building with vegetation and serve as one of the more visible examples of Lakeland's commitment to sustainability. Other elements of the project will be less apparent but will nevertheless contribute a great deal to achieving the energy and resource efficiency goals mandated by House Bill 251 and guaranteed by the Energy Savings Performance Contract (ESPC) Siemens has with the school.
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President Obama Highlights Serious Materials’ Successes, Including Green Jobs with New Mission of Producing Energy-Efficient Windows

March 25, 2009

Serious Materials Recognized for Its Innovation and Actions That Are Helping Our Country During This Challenging Time SUNNYVALE, Calif.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Serious Materials, the leading energy-saving building materials company in the U.S., was recognized by President Obama on Monday as he addressed over 100 clean energy entrepreneurs and leading researchers at the "Investing in the Clean Energy Economy" event held yesterday in Washington, DC. Highlighting various Serious Materials’ successes, including the recent re-opening of a windows plant in Pennsylvania, President Obama commended Serious Materials on creating jobs that will aid the recovery of our nation while innovating and creating the technologies that will fuel America’s long-term prosperity. President Obama commented, “Serious Materials, just reopened a manufacturing plant outside of Pittsburgh. Last year, that factory was shuttered and more than one hundred jobs were lost. The town was devastated. Today, that factory is whirring back to life, and Serious Materials is rehiring the folks who lost their jobs. And these workers will now have a new mission: producing some of the most energy-efficient windows in the world.”
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Raising America's Infrastructure GPA: A 'Study Guide'

March 25, 2009

New Report Details Impact of Crumbling Infrastructure, Offering State-by-State Perspectives and Solutions for the Future WASHINGTON, March 25 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- America's infrastructure picture certainly looks bleak. In urban areas, roadway congestion tops 40 percent. The number of high hazard dams - dams that, should they fail, pose a significant risk to human life - has increased by more than 3,000 just since 2007. Thirty percent of America's children attend school in overcrowded classrooms. However, a report released today by the American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE) shows that with ingenuity and the right amount of commitment on the part of the nation's leaders and the American people, the infrastructure crisis we face is a solvable problem. On January 28, 2009, ASCE released the most recent grades from its Report Card for America's Infrastructure, assigning the nation's roads, bridges, water systems and other critical foundations a cumulative grade of D and noting a five-year investment need of $2.2 trillion. Today's comprehensive Report Card examines the basis for those failing grades, while at the same time offering an array of solutions - national, local and personal - for how the nation can repair and revitalize the infrastructure systems it depends on. The report is accompanied by an in-depth Web site (www.asce.org/reportcard) that offers state-level infrastructure data on a variety of subjects, including needed drinking water investment, number of deficient bridges and number of high hazard dams that lack an emergency action plan, as well as suggested ways for individuals to take action.
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Rohm and Haas Hosts Greater Philadelphia Green Business Program

March 25, 2009

Pennsylvania Environmental Council’s “Go Green” Program Includes 32 Companies PHILADELPHIA--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Rohm and Haas President and Chief Operating Officer Pierre Brondeau told a gathering of 32 company representatives, including Philadelphia Mayor Michael Nutter, that “the challenge for business is to make sustainability part of its strategic design, not as an add-on, in order to make a greener Philadelphia, a greener Pennsylvania and indeed a greener America and world.” The event served as the kickoff of the Greater Philadelphia Green Business Commitment Program held at Rohm and Haas’ corporate headquarters in Philadelphia today. The Pennsylvania Environmental Council (PEC) in partnership with the PENJERDEL Council is launching a new initiative aimed at committing area businesses to making their buildings and offices “greener” and more sustainable by reducing energy, water and waste, minimizing environmental impacts, and reducing their carbon footprint. All signers of the commitment are required to meet seven Mandatory Measures and at least 20 additional Elective Measures within six months of signing and to be renewed every 12 months. These include a checklist of more than 140 guidelines designed to make buildings and offices more sustainable by adopting recycling, more efficient lighting, tankless hot water, buying low or no-VOC paints, encouraging mass transit or employee car pooling, conserving water by plantings, and other sustainable practices. Companies can qualify as Certified, Silver, Gold or Platinum based on the percentage of measures they adopt.
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White Paper Shows How to LEED the Way With Green Design

March 25, 2009

NEEDHAM, Mass., March 24 /PRNewswire/ -- Industry sources estimate that U.S. healthcare facilities spend approximately $5.3 billion annually for energy costs alone. Hospital administrators planning ahead for a new facility would face considerable escalation of such costs for the foreseeable future. Seeking systematic reductions in energy use by following Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) criteria is one way to effectively combat rising energy costs. A new free whitepaper, "LEEDing the Way With Green Design at Brigham and Women's Hospital" details how Brigham and Women's Hospital ,along with Environmental Health & Engineering (EH&E), were able to balance clinical needs with a sustainable environment plus achieve a 20% energy consumption reduction, all in accordance with LEED criteria. The white paper is available for free download at: http://redirect.aecdaily.com/s18122/www.eheinc.com/bwh_leed.htm
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Akerman's Sustainable Development Practice #1 in Florida

March 24, 2009

MIAMI, March 23 /PRNewswire/ -- Akerman Senterfitt announced today that it now has Florida's largest group of lawyers accredited by the Green Building Certification Institute's LEED(R) AP program (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design Accredited Professional). This achievement is the result of a focused effort by Akerman's leadership to develop a leading sustainable development practice. Recent Akerman lawyers to achieve LEED AP status include Sarah Campbell Smith in the Miami office, Kristen Guttmann in the Orlando office, and Jeffrey Lynne and Stacy Bercun Bohm in the Fort Lauderdale office. Ms. Bohm is one of the first in Florida to be both board certified in construction law and LEED accredited.
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Arrow Exterminators Launches New Sustainability Initiative

March 24, 2009

STEPS(TM) Total Protection System is a Commitment to Provide Healthy and Sustainable Property Protection ATLANTA--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Arrow Exterminators, a leading pest and termite control company, today announced the launch of its new industry-leading sustainability initiative – the STEPS(TM) Total Protection System. Short for Sustainability Through Environmental Practices and Solutions, STEPS is a company-wide commitment to provide homes and businesses property protection using the most effective and environmentally-responsible methods available today. “STEPS is a testament to our company culture and commitment to reducing our overall environmental footprint while focusing on the most effective methods of pest control to serve our customers,” said Emily Thomas, president and chief operating officer, Arrow Exterminators. “We believe that a thriving, healthy planet starts with thriving, healthy communities. This initiative has the potential to transform our industry, to go beyond pest control, and to contribute to creating a healthier planet and communities.”
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SolarCity and Abode Communities Salute Solar Power and Affordable Housing with Los Angeles Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa

March 24, 2009

CULVER CITY, Calif.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--SolarCity®, a national leader in solar power system design, financing, installation, monitoring and related services, is proud to unveil a solar array at Morgan Place, a new affordable housing community for seniors in South Los Angeles. SolarCity will join Los Angeles Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa, City Councilmember Bernard C. Parks, Abode Communities President Robin Hughes and many facility residents in a ribbon-cutting and celebration at 1 p.m. on Monday, March 23. The 55-unit building was designed for sustainability and community development, combining best practices in green building with an open courtyard, on-site services and ADA-accessible apartments. The building revitalized an abandoned lot in the Crenshaw neighborhood of Los Angeles, and provides affordable housing to seniors earning between 30 percent and 50 percent of the area median income.
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USGBC -- Chicago Chapter Celebrates Natural Leaders

March 24, 2009

CHICAGO, March 23 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- The U.S. Green Building Council - Chicago Chapter announced its 2009 Natural Leaders Awards winners, with a formal ceremony to recognize the recipients to be held at the Fourth Emerald Gala on Saturday, May 16. The Awards celebrate individuals and organizations that contribute to the region's sustainability and that help support the USBGC - Chicago Chapter's mission to lead the regional transformation of the built environment to become ecologically sustainable, profitable, and healthy through education, advocacy, and collaboration. Awards are given in four categories: Intent to Matter, Re-Generation, SMALL feet/large FEAT and Environmotion. The Environmental Law and Policy Center received the Intent to Matter award for excellence in sustainable design, construction, or operations. The Environmental Law & Policy Center (ELPC) successfully crafted and passed energy efficient building codes that take advantage of available technology while giving builders choices in what technologies to use and saving consumers 11-15% on annual utility bills. In 2005, the Commercial Energy Efficiency Building Code became law while the residential building code passed both the Illinois House and the Illinois Senate in 2008. Howard Learner, ELPC's executive director, was also instrumental in the development of the City of Chicago's Climate Action Plan, which includes more than two dozen policy ideas focusing on buildings, energy generation, transportation, industry, and waste reduction practices. ELPC's work is a major step toward making green buildings and policy the standard for Chicago and State of Illinois.
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SolFocus Showcases Emerging Solar Technology to California Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger at Green California Exposition

March 23, 2009

MOUNTAIN VIEW, Calif.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--SolFocus today announced that it showcased a display of its concentrator photovoltaic (CPV) solar technology to California Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger as part of his tour of the 2009 Green California Exposition. The Governor examined a panel from a SolFocus 1100S system, which achieves industry-leading panel efficiency of 25%, resulting in systems which yield high energy output, maximize land use, and support sustainable environmental practices. “As CPV technology takes hold in Europe and begins to commercialize in the United States, SolFocus sees California as an ideal market for the deployment of CPV solar systems,” said Nancy Hartsoch, vice president of marketing for SolFocus, who presented the CPV display to the Governor. “CPV systems offer 75 percent higher efficiency of traditional silicon-based photovoltaic panels, making them an ideal fit for sunny California regions looking for cost-effective, sustainable energy solutions.”
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TRIRIGA(R) and Michael Baker Corporation Offer Complimentary Webinar on Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009

March 23, 2009

PITTSBURGH--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Michael Baker Corporation (NYSE Amex: BKR), along with TRIRIGA(R) in a “Partner Showcase” Webinar Series, are hosting a complimentary webinar on Thursday, March 26, 2009, at 10:00 a.m. (Pacific). The webinar will cover the topic of the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009 which contains more than $20.5 billion in appropriation to government agencies for use in green construction projects and investments in energy efficiency. Baker’s Dhruv Jain, program manager, and Brad Dailey, director of planning from Baker, will teach participants how to create a comprehensive sustainability program for improved environmental performance of buildings and will host a discussion on the transparency reporting requirements of this important act. During the free webinar, Baker will describe how the environmental consulting services they currently offer help organizations develop programs and plans to improve energy efficiency of buildings. The Baker representatives will also demonstrate the use of TRIRIGA(R) Projects(TM) and TREES software to manage building efficiency projects and meet the requirements of the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009.
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Heath Construction Managers Earn LEED Accreditation

March 20, 2009

Heath Construction Strengthens Its Green-Building Credentials FORT COLLINS, Colo.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Heath Construction has expanded the number of LEED-certified professionals on its construction team. Brian Hergott, senior project manager, and Jim Matlock, project manager, recently became LEED-accredited after passing the Green Building Certification Institute’s accreditation exam for environmentally sustainable construction. “Green building practices are a part of Heath’s culture,” said Randy DeMario, Heath president. “Brian and Jim join a team of LEED-accredited professionals who have planned and built several environmentally sound, LEED-certifiable projects in the region over the years.”
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ICE Cold Storage Building Combines Energy Efficiency With SunPower Solar System to Reduce Energy Costs by More Than 75 Percent

March 20, 2009

Pioneering Collaboration Allows SDG&E and ICE to Share Benefit of Solar Power System; SDG&E Awards More Than $225,000 in Incentives SAN DIEGO, March 19 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- In a dedication ceremony today, Hamann Construction, Innovative Cold Storage Enterprises, Inc. (ICE), San Diego Gas & Electric (SDG&E), and SunPower Corp. (NASDAQ:SPWRA) (NASDAQ:SPWRB) , a manufacturer of high-efficiency solar cells, solar panels and solar systems, are celebrating the completion of ICE II, ICE's new 134,511-square-foot cold storage building. ICE expects to achieve more than 75 percent reduction in energy costs at the facility as a result of the energy efficient design and a 1.1-megawatt high-efficiency SunPower solar power system. "Expanding the operations of ICE, this new building will store four times as much product as the original plant while using half the power - and the SunPower solar system on the roof will generate the equivalent of 72 percent of the energy used by the facility," said Gregg Hamann, vice president of Hamann Construction, designers and builders of the project. "The 'cool roof,' designed to maximize insulation, would have been jeopardized by a solar system that required roof penetration for installation. The SunPower PowerGuard(R) non-penetrating rooftop system was perfect because it maintains the integrity of the insulated roof, installs quickly, and provides additional insulation and protection."
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NAHB Research Center Grants First "Green Approved" Product Seals of Approval to iLevel by Weyerhaeuser

March 20, 2009

UPPER MARLBORO, Md.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--The NAHB Research Center introduces its “Green Approved” product seal of approval, and recognizes structural frame products from iLevel by Weyerhaeuser with the first certificates under the new designation. The mark is intended to provide third-party evidence that building products meet specific scoring criteria for homes seeking certification to the National Green Building Standard™ (the Standard), a consensus-developed standard that was recently approved by ANSI. iLevel’s full range of engineered wood products and solid sawn lumber are now designated as NAHB Research Center Green Approved products. These include TJI® joists, TimberStrand® laminated strand lumber (LSL), Parallam® parallel strand lumber (PSL), Microllam® laminated veneer lumber (LVL), iLevel Framer Series™ Lumber, iLevel Premium Joists™ and all other wood structural framing products. The Green Approved mark indicates third-party documentation and approval by the NAHB Research Center that a building product contributes to compliance of specific green practices for National Green Building Certification to the Standard. Such products carry a certificate from the Research Center that identifies the specific sections of the National Green Building Standard under which the products can earn points. The Green Approved mark helps bridge the gap between manufacturers who make green products and builders and designers who want to use them. Green Approved products can be found from links on the Green Scoring Tool at www.nahbgreen.org.
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Rohm and Haas Highlights Sustainability with Performance at European Coatings Congress

March 20, 2009

FRANKFURT--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Heightened consumer desire for greener, non-polluting, better eco-designed products is the backdrop for presentations by specialty materials company Rohm and Haas (NYSE: ROH) at the upcoming European Coatings Congress in Nürnberg, Germany. Running from March 30th to April 1st in parallel with the European Coatings Show, participants from the global coatings community will be exposed to the most recent research results and industrial developments for advanced coatings. Rohm and Haas is well represented at the Congress with members of the company’s technical team presenting a number of papers devoted to topics that support the central theme of the Congress: how to address today’s challenges of increasing customer and legislative demands for enhanced coatings performance, and greater environmental benefit. Chairing Congress Session 16 on Waterborne Coatings II on Tuesday, March 31st, will be Rohm and Haas European technical director, Dr. Andrew Trapani. This session will focus on innovative, waterborne coatings systems that reduce VOC emissions, reduce risk of fire, and produce less hazardous residues, while contributing advanced performance attributes. Other Rohm and Haas technical specialists presenting during the Congress include: Dr. Marie Bleuzen - “Advanced Technologies for the Formulation of Higher Performance Waterborne Masonry Coatings with Lower Environmental Impact”; Dr. Zhenwen Fu - ”Designed Diffusion: A Paradigm Shift in Film Formation”; Mr. Alain Garzon - “Next Generation Opaque Polymer Technology and Its Application to Alkyd Paints”; Mr. Paul Doll - “Low Odour in Paints: What Does It Mean and How Can It Be Managed?”
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Energy Conservation Grants from Puget Sound Energy Fuel Energy Efficient New Multifamily Construction in Western Washington

March 19, 2009

Six Proposed Multifamily Developments in Bellevue, Seattle and Olympia Benefit from New PSE Program BELLEVUE, Wash.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Puget Sound Energy announced today that the utility has signed grant agreements totaling almost $650,000 with six developers to have their proposed local multifamily construction projects in Bellevue, Seattle and Olympia take advantage of a new energy conservation program recently launched by the utility. The program grants will help the complexes get built now with energy efficient designs and appliances, saving their prospective tenants energy and the environment in the long run. Avalon Towers, Meydenbauer Apartments and Metro 112 in Bellevue, Bakhita Gardens and Hearthstone on Woodlawn in Seattle and Lancaster Townhomes in Olympia were awarded the first of the PSE program’s grants worth a total of more than $550,000 for electric-saving and more than $90,000 for natural gas-saving incentives to be incorporated into their design and construction. “Many construction projects have stalled due to economic uncertainty in the last several months,” said Cal Shirley, vice president of Energy Efficiency Services for PSE. “The PSE conservation funds for these multifamily developments not only help preserve jobs as construction continues, but ensure that these residences won’t skip energy efficiency features because of budget concerns, making them a better investment for the future.”
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Energy Tax Credits Increased for Residential Metal Roofing

March 19, 2009

BELFAIR, Wash., March 18 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- By installing a new metal roof, consumers can reduce their tax burden, cut energy costs, help the environment and protect their biggest investment - their home. As a result of the new stimulus package, homeowners who make energy-efficient updates to their home, including the installation of a painted or coated Energy Star(R) labeled metal roof, may be eligible for a tax credit worth 30% of the material costs, up to $1,500 per home. To qualify, the metal roof must be installed between January 1, 2009 and December 31, 2010. The timing couldn't be better to choose a durable, eco-friendly metal roof. In addition to earning a tax credit, Energy Star-labeled metal roofs keep homes cooler in summer and warmer in winter, resulting in lower utility costs.
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Serious Materials Supports Recovery Act Energy Efficiency Requirements

March 19, 2009

Requirements for High-Performing Windows is on Target, Creating Jobs and Energy Independence SUNNYVALE, Calif.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Serious Materials, a leading sustainable building materials company, announced today that it fully supports the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act energy efficiency provisions as enacted. Under the Recovery Act, homeowners can receive federal tax credits for “qualified energy-efficient improvements,” which include windows, doors and skylights. The new tax credits are for 30 percent of the cost of eligible products up to a limit of $1,500. Qualifying window and door products must have a U-Factor of 0.30 or lower and a Solar Heat Gain Coefficient (SHGC) of 0.30 or lower. This is equal to an R-value of 3.3 or higher. Not all Energy Star labeled windows and skylights qualify for the tax credit. Some manufacturers have issued statements against the Recovery Act’s enhanced efficiency requirements, with the aim of being able to continue passing off old technology as ‘energy saving’, while saving relatively little energy and wasting tax-payer dollars. They have already enticed at least one representative to help them. In addition, two industry associations (WDMA and AAMA) have created form letters to send to congress asking them to remove the energy saving requirements currently in the Recovery Act. “It is unfortunate that already we see some old-line companies asking Congress to unravel important energy saving requirements,” said Kevin Surace, CEO of Serious Materials. “The strong energy efficiency provisions in the Recovery Act should be left alone, and we applaud congress for taking bold steps to create jobs, save energy, and spend our tax dollars wisely. We encourage the Congress to stand firm on those ideals. It is solid legislation like this that will help recover our economy quickly.”
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Solar Santa Monica and PermaCity Celebrate Solar Installation on New Affordable Housing Complex

March 19, 2009

SANTA MONICA, Calif.--Solar Santa Monica: WHAT: Leading sustainable city Santa Monica is proud to dedicate a new affordable housing apartment complex that sports a 30 kW solar system to help keep utility costs down. PermaCity Solar, the system installer, is one of the preferred contractors selected by Solar Santa Monica, the City’s two-year-old program aimed at promoting uptake of efficiency and renewables. Built without City incentives, the project features compact, loft-style units with green features, in addition to the solar. Attendees at the dedication will meet project team members, view the complex and tour one of the units. WHO: Santa Monica Mayor Ken Genser will be among the city officials saluting the developer, NMS Properties. Other attendees will include the solar installer, architect, finance company for the solar system, and contractor. WHEN: Monday, March 23, 2009 from 10:30 a.m. – noon; Dedication Ceremony at 10:45 a.m. WHERE: Olympic Studios, 2001 Olympic Blvd., Santa Monica, CA 90404. (Enter westbound on Olympic)
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Axion Announces Agreement with Ecological Development LLC

March 18, 2009

Green Business Partnership to Introduce Axion’s Eco-Friendly Products to Government Infrastructure Projects BASKING RIDGE, N.J.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Axion International Holdings, Inc. (OTCBB:AXIH), a market disruptive designer and developer of eco-friendly structural building solutions made from 100% recycled plastics, announced the Company has signed an agreement with New York City-based consulting firm Ecological Development LLC (“Ecological”). Ecological provides green retrofitting solutions by utilizing best-in-class software technology and cutting-edge green products to not only reduce energy consumption and greenhouse gas emissions, but to also efficiently manage a building’s impact on all environmental systems. The Company has unique, industry-leading technology and partnerships that allow it to assess and implement regenerative solutions for all systems across portfolios of buildings.
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BCCI Helps Energy Foundation Achieve San Francisco's First LEED Platinum Interiors

March 18, 2009

SAN FRANCISCO, March 17 /PRNewswire/ -- BCCI Construction Company is pleased to announce that The Energy Foundation, a partnership of major donors to new energy technologies, has been recognized with the first LEED Commercial Interiors - Platinum certified project in San Francisco. BCCI worked closely with TannerHecht Architecture to fulfill the Foundation's vision for the use of energy efficient technologies in its office at the historic Bently Reserve Building on Battery Street in downtown San Francisco. The Platinum rating for LEED -- the Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design green building rating system of the U.S. Green Building Council -- is the highest possible designation on the commercial interiors scale.
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Bentley Releases U.S. and Canadian Versions of Robust Energy Performance Series for ‘Green’ Building Design

March 18, 2009

Hevacomp and Tas Software Products Enable Engineers, Architects, and Energy Assessors to Predict Energy Consumption, CO2 Emissions, Operating Costs, and Occupant Comfort EXTON, Pa.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Bentley Systems, Incorporated, the leading company dedicated to providing comprehensive software solutions for the infrastructure that sustains our world, today announced the immediate availability in the United States and Canada of Bentley’s Energy Performance Series, the first robust software for building energy design, analysis, and simulation. Bentley’s Energy Performance Series, which includes Bentley Tas Simulator V8i, Hevacomp Simulator V8i, and Hevacomp Mechanical Designer V8i, has been proven in the very demanding U.K. market for the design and construction of high performance “green” buildings, including the iconic 30 St Mary Axe, Heron Tower, Terminal 5 Heathrow, 122 Leadenhall Street, and CityPoint, London. Now engineers, architects, and energy assessors in the United States and Canada can use this software to accomplish the additional and complex work that successful “green” building projects require – to assure they perform as predicted. This release of the Energy Performance Series highlights Bentley’s building performance strategy dedicated to the design, construction, and operation of better-performing, more sustainable buildings. “In today’s economy, you must be certain you are providing your clients the highest quality work for their dollars,” said David J. Cusano, BIM/CAD Technology, SSOE, Inc. “This means working both harder and smarter to stretch that investment and assure the building meets expected performance goals. We feel Bentley’s Energy Performance Series will help us do just that.”
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KlingStubbins Incorporates IES’ Integrated Analysis Tools Into Sustainable Design Process

March 18, 2009

Chosen to Ensure Proper Coordination Throughout Design Process, Saving Time From the Earliest Stages to More Advanced Analysis SAN FRANCISCO--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Integrated Environmental Solutions (IES), a world leading provider of integrated performance analysis software and consulting services for sustainable building design, today announced KlingStubbins selected the IES Suite to ensure a more integrated approach to both its operations and design processes. Using IES’ tools, KlingStubbins now includes critical sustainable design elements into each component of its projects and significantly cuts the time invested through seamless coordination between architect and engineering teams. As a highly-regarded design firm, KlingStubbins presents its clients with the best in sustainable design. Finding a way to coordinate between 3D modeling tools such as Bentley’s Generative Components and Autodesk’s Revit was important to KlingStubbins. The company undertook a three month study of the IES , which had at that time just introduced a link to Revit. The study delved into the ability of designers to take project designs and quickly export them directly into the analysis engine to ensure energy performance and design intent was kept in mind throughout the design process.
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LEED green specialty contractors; Restoration Environmental Contractors - REC Demolition - REC Disaster Recovery are proud to announce their 20th Anniversary!

March 18, 2009

TORONTO, March 17 /PRNewswire/ -- "Restoration Environmental Contractors REC Demolition are announcing our 20th Anniversary this year of being Green, now LEED qualified specialty contractors on the greenest day of the year, St. Patrick's Day! States Don Bremner, President CEO, "We have had great success, REC achieved 94.7% per cent LEED certification, at the Regent Park, the Toronto Revitalization environmental remediation and demolition project, by enforcing the three R's: reduce, re-use, recycle, and we had great results of over 75% success rate at the Queen's University Jock Harty Demolition project with PCL Constructors in Kingston. Since 1989, Restoration Consultants - Restoration Environmental Contractors REC Demolition have successfully completed over 9,000 environmental remediation and demolition projects throughout Canada, specializing in environmental remediation, asbestos removal, lead abatement, mold remediation, industrial plant cleaning, decommissioning closures, site remediation and disaster recovery in the industrial, commercial, government, and institutional sectors.
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Rep. Kay Granger Lauds Economic and Environmental Benefits of Renewable Energy Super Highway Contract

March 17, 2009

Oncor, Falcon Steel Collaborate to Build Steel Transmission Towers from Scrap Metal FORT WORTH, Texas--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Today, U.S. Rep. Kay Granger praised the creative thinking and cooperative spirit demonstrated by Oncor, Falcon Steel and supplier Nucor in crafting a five-year agreement to build 3,800 transmission line towers out of recycled steel. The Oncor-Falcon Steel contract will result in one of the largest transmission line construction projects built from recycled materials in the United States. The 120-130 foot lattice towers will serve as the backbone for more than 800 miles of transmission lines, dubbed the “Renewable Energy Super Highway,” that will move wind power from West Texas to the rest of the state. “Oncor, Falcon Steel and Nucor have shown that companies that are willing to innovate can succeed even in this challenging economy,” Granger said. “This is a homegrown project that will provide good jobs here in Texas. Best of all, everything about the project is designed with environmental concerns in mind. Every transmission tower on this project will represent another step on the way to energy independence.”
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Chicagoland's Top-Selling Neighborhoods Now Include Centex Energy Advantage

March 16, 2009

Centex Energy Advantage homes up to 40% more efficient than typical 10-year-old home ELGIN, Ill., March 13 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- Centex Corporation has implemented the Centex Energy Advantage across the Chicago metro area, including homes in progress in four of Chicagoland's 10 best-selling neighborhoods. Centex Energy Advantage homes now under construction collectively are projected to avoid thousands of tons of greenhouse gas emissions over time. Centex Energy Advantage is now available in all to-be-built homes ordered from Centex in a total of 10 active neighborhoods in northern Illinois, including Summerfield, Bristol Bay and West Ridge, which Hanley Wood Market Intelligence recently ranked among the 10 best-selling neighborhoods in the Chicago area. The first Centex Energy Advantage home in northern Illinois, a single-family home in the Bristol Bay neighborhood near Yorkville, is scheduled for delivery in March.
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Great River Energy Publishes White Paper about Platinum LEED Building

March 16, 2009

Document details planning, design and construction of company headquarters MAPLE GROVE, Minn.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--On Earth Day 2008, Great River Energy, an electric generation and transmission cooperative, dedicated its new headquarters building in Maple Grove, Minn. Designed to be the most efficient building possible, it was named the first Platinum certified LEED building in Minnesota by the U.S. Green Building Council. To assist other organizations seeking LEED certification and to further the advancement of sustainable construction, Great River Energy has published a white paper that documents the planning, design and construction of the building, detailing every step from site selection to occupation. The document is intended to help future projects prepare for LEED certification, identify opportunities for increased efficiency and avoid potential pitfalls. “One of the major motivations behind this building was to serve as an example for others who want to pursue LEED certification and usher in a new generation of efficient buildings in this country,” said Mike Finley, Great River Energy’s director of business operations. “By sharing this white paper, we hope others will learn from our experience and we contribute to the maturation of sustainable, green building.”
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Laclede Gas Recognized for its 'Green Marketing' Practices

March 16, 2009

'Extreme Makeover: Home Edition Project' Honored ST. LOUIS, March 13 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- The Southern Gas Association (SGA) recently named Laclede Gas Company the winner of SGA's 2009 Marketing Best Practices Award, "Green Marketing" category. The award recognizes a specific customer marketing effort that demonstrates a commitment to a healthier, more energy-conscious environment. Laclede's submission, "GREENING the 'EXTREME MAKEOVER: HOME EDITION'" detailed the company's participation in the planning and execution of the episode of the popular ABC television show filmed in St. Louis, Missouri last fall. Laclede Gas Company leveraged its expertise in constructing energy-efficient, environmentally-friendly homes to help one family receive the "green" home of their dreams. The episode also provided a platform to raise awareness of how natural gas can be utilized as a key component in building a "green" home, beyond the traditional applications.
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Entech Solar Enters Into Agreement with Fraunhofer USA’s Center for Sustainable Energy Systems

March 13, 2009

FORT WORTH, Texas--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Entech Solar (OTC BB: ENSL.OB), a leader in concentrating solar energy systems, announced today that it has entered into a research contract with Fraunhofer USA’s Center for Sustainable Energy Systems (CSE) to evaluate the feasibility of incorporating high-efficiency back-contact silicon solar cells into Entech’s 20x concentrating solar systems. Fraunhofer CSE will, in conjunction with the Fraunhofer Institute for Solar Energy Systems (ISE), simulate, design, and test prototype back-contact silicon solar cells with the goal of providing a cell with significantly greater efficiency than those Entech currently uses. Fraunhofer will also make recommendations related to the future mass production of such high-efficiency back-contact cells for use in Entech’s products. Fraunhofer CSE will utilize its recently established solar development and test laboratory in Cambridge, Massachusetts, in conjunction with Fraunhofer ISE’s facility in Freiburg, Germany
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Green Building Services Equips Building Owners to Address Climate Change

March 13, 2009

Provides Technical Services to Reduce Carbon Impacts PORTLAND, Ore.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Buildings use nearly 40 percent of all energy in the United States, and the burning of fossil fuels, coal and oil has increased the Earth’s temperature to unprecedented levels. A carbon-based accounting of environmental performance has become essential, and Green Building Services Inc. (GBS) redirected its technical expertise into an Advanced Climate Solutions (ACS) group to help building owners calculate and reduce their carbon emissions. GBS President Jay Coalson explains, “We are empowering our clients to meet the global challenge in ways relevant to their unique situations. Our ACS services fill a vitally important niche, and building owners also can draw upon the larger suite of services that GBS provides.”
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Power-Save Energy Company Announces Launch of New, 2009 Solar Direct Response TV Campaign

March 13, 2009

SAN LUIS OBISPO, Calif., March 12 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- Power-Save Energy Company (OTC:PWSV) (BULLETIN BOARD: PWSV) , an emerging leader in the renewable energy and energy savings products industry, today announces the launch of its new, 2009 Solar Direct Response TV Campaign. The 2008 DRTV Solar spot has been modified, directing viewers to a web landing page where they can participate in a sweepstakes giveaway of a Solar Electric system for their home. This new campaign will launch in April 2009 and run until October 2009 along with the ES35 DRTV campaign. This new DRTV Solar spot will award to the viewers, a FREE Solar Energy System for their home, $3000 dollars off a purchase of a 6Kw Solar Electric System, $1000 dollars off a purchase of a 5Kw Solar Electric System, $500 dollars off a purchase of a 4Kw Solar Electric System, ES35 Energy Saving Kits, PS1200 Energy Saving units, and coupons for free shipping of various of Power-Save products. All of these prizes are awarded instantly. The viewers will be required to sign up to receive additional information on Power-Save products.
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Vantage Properties Partners with U.S. Energy Group for Major “Green” Initiative

March 13, 2009

Leading NYC Property Owner Implements Proactive Plan to Reduce Carbon Footprint of 139-Building Portfolio NEW YORK--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Vantage Properties, LLC, one of New York's leading owners of affordable residential and retail property, has begun a major initiative, in partnership with U.S. Energy Group, to reduce the carbon footprint of its 139-building portfolio in New York City. Using U.S. Energy’s state-of-the-art energy management and control technologies to optimize usage, waste and pollution will be dramatically reduced for each property. “Vantage is dedicated to setting the highest standards of quality for affordable housing,” said Neil Rubler, President and CEO of Vantage Properties, LLC. “We believe that incorporating innovative and sustainable property management practices is integral to the responsible and proactive maintenance of our properties and a step toward making New York a healthier urban environment.” Most multi-family buildings use a single outside sensor to control cycling of the fuel-energy system - a method which is highly inaccurate, often resulting in the burning of excess fuel and, therefore, increased pollution. Vantage is implementing U.S. Energy’s Energy Management System (EMS) which uses strategically placed sensors throughout each property to reach the ideal comfort level for all residents without waste. Consequently, the properties achieve increased energy efficiency while reducing overall operating costs.
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American Water Teams With EPA For Inaugural “Fix a Leak Week”

March 12, 2009

VOORHEES, N.J.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--American Water Works Company, Inc. (NYSE:AWK), the largest investor-owned U.S. water and wastewater utility company, today announced that it is encouraging all its customers to participate in the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency's (EPA) WaterSense “Fix a Leak Week” from March 16 to 20, 2009. Because minor water leaks account for more than 1 trillion gallons of water wasted each year in U.S. homes, this event is to remind Americans to check household plumbing fixtures and irrigation systems for leaks. “Leaks can account for 11,000 gallons of water wasted in the home every year, or enough to fill a backyard swimming pool,” said Dr. Mark W. LeChevallier, director of Innovation & Environmental Stewardship for American Water. “Fixing easily corrected leaks can save more than 200 gallons of water in seven days, which could add up to more than 10 percent savings in a water bill.”
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GE to Provide Sensors for PureChoice Energy Conservation Solution

March 12, 2009

Solution improves building energy efficiency by 15 to 20 percent without capital improvements BILLERICA, Mass.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--GE Sensing & Inspection Technologies (NYSE: GE) announces a contract with PureChoice Inc. of Burnsville, Minnesota to provide 50,000 Telaire Dual Beam CO2 sensors as part of the company’s PureTrac® Building Performance Software offering. The PureTrac system provides a simple, cost-effective solution to improve energy efficiency in existing buildings by 15 to 20 percent, without compromising indoor air quality or requiring additional capital improvement costs. “We purposefully selected GE because they design the highest quality CO2 sensor available,” said Bryan Reichel, CEO, PureChoice. “Ensuring accurate CO2 measurements is an absolutely critical part of the process for any building manager looking to ensure an energy efficient building environment. If you can’t measure it – you can’t manage it.”
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Homex Opened a New, Sustainable Development in Puebla

March 12, 2009

CULIACAN, Mexico, March 11 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- Desarrolladora Homex, S.A.B. de C.V. (Homex) [NYSE: HXM, BMV: HOMEX] a leading homebuilder in Mexico, today announced the opening of a new affordable entry-level development in Huejotzingo in the state of Puebla. The new Homex community "Valle de San Miguel," which will consist of 4,000 homes, incorporates sustainable, environmental and socially friendly attributes in line with federal government initiatives to promote Integrated Sustainable Urban Developments (DUIS) to improve the quality of life of Mexican families, and orderly urban planning. The "Valle de San Miguel" community will help the Company strengthen its leadership and commitment in the state of Puebla, one of the fastest growing and most attractive states in Mexico. The Company initiated its first project in Puebla in 2006, with a community of approximately 2,000 homes.
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Research and Markets: Clean Technology Series: Global Green Buildings Market Analysis and Forecasts to 2015

March 12, 2009

DUBLIN, Ireland--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Research and Markets has announced the addition of GlobalData 's new report "Clean Technology Series: Global Green Buildings Market Analysis and Forecasts to 2015 " to their offering. The report provides detailed analysis and forecasts of the global energy efficient building technologies market. It also analyses and forecasts the key industry metrics related to the sustainable building constructions, their market size and growth. It provides information related to the available and upcoming green building technologies with a comparative cost analysis. The report helps to comprehend the green building materials industry and the associated regulatory framework across the globe. Additionally, it also provides detailed profiles of the major green building companies in the world. The trends and analysis of investments in the global sustainable building market as well as deal summary and news flow to assess the green building industry.
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CNA Announces EcoCareSM Property Upgrade Extension Endorsement

March 11, 2009

New form allows for property repairs, replacements with “green” qualification. CHICAGO--(BUSINESS WIRE)--CNA is helping commercial property policyholders “go green.” Through its new product offering, the EcoCareSM Property Upgrade Extension Endorsement, CNA customers can repair or replace damaged property using environmentally responsible and resource efficient materials and processes. “Through our new EcoCare property endorsement, we can support customers who are already or aspiring to become environmentally friendly,” said Naveen Anand, senior vice president of Commercial Insurance, CNA. “Our EcoCare property endorsement provides coverage to make a property more eco-friendly than it was before the loss … whether the loss is a partial loss or a total loss.”
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Rain Bird to Webcast Its 10th Intelligent Use of Water(TM) Summit Live from Melbourne, Australia

March 11, 2009

Live Webcast To Feature A Panel of Australian and U.S. Water Officials Discussing Outdoor Water Use On A Global Level And The Sustainability of Earth’s Water Supply March 19th, 2009, 9:30 AM AEDT* AZUSA, Calif.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Rain Bird, the leading manufacturer and provider of irrigation products and services, announced today that a global audience of media and interested consumers will have the opportunity to watch, listen and participate in the upcoming Intelligent Use of Water Summit through a LIVE webcast on www.rainbird.com (www.rainbird.com/iuow/summit.htm). Scheduled for Thursday, March 19, 2009 in Melbourne, Australia, the live webcast will be available to all viewers beginning at 9:30 am Australian Eastern Daylight Time (*U.S. viewers tune-in for the LIVE webcast on Wednesday March 18, 2009 at 6:30pm EDT/3:30 pm PDT) and will feature an impressive cross section of Australian and U.S. environmental and water conservation experts, and influencers on water-related issues.
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American Society of Landscape Architects Convenes Blue Ribbon Panel in Response to Landmark National Mall Restoration Plan

March 10, 2009

WASHINGTON--(BUSINESS WIRE)--The American Society of Landscape Architects (ASLA) announced today it will form a Blue Ribbon Panel of design professionals to discuss and make recommendations on the National Park Service’s milestone plan, released online last week, which outlines a comprehensive overhaul of the historic National Mall. The National Park Service is seeking public comment on the plan during public meetings scheduled in Washington, D.C., on Wednesday, March 11 and Saturday, March 14. The panel’s leading landscape architects, architects and planners will meet this month to analyze the results of the National Park Service’s years-in-the-making planning effort. The National Mall represents one of the most prominent works of landscape architecture in the world – including the award-winning revitalization of the Washington Monument completed in 2008. As thought leaders on the role of landscape and design in public places, panel participants will provide invaluable input on creating a sustainable future for “America’s Front Yard.”
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Bella Energy Trains Green Jobs Crews to Install Solar Systems

March 10, 2009

Federal Economic Stimulus Bill Expected to Fund Expansion of Program BOULDER, Colo., March 9 /PRNewswire/ -- Bella Energy, a Boulder-based solar energy client, trained workers learning green construction skills as part of a Boulder County Green Jobs Pipeline Program. Together the crews installed a 10 kW solar system on an affordable housing unit in Louisville, Colorado. The Green Jobs Pipeline is dedicated to helping low-income Coloradoans in need of work attain the renewable energy and energy efficiency skills necessary to compete in the nation's New Energy Economy. Boulder County hopes that funding from the federal economic stimulus bill will support expansion of the Green Jobs Pipeline Program, a joint effort between Workforce Boulder County (WFBC) and Boulder County Housing and Human Services (BCHHS), to train more eligible parents for future jobs in the booming green construction industry. The Colorado solar energy industry alone has grown 1,000% in the last three years and the Solar Energy Industries Association expects new federal legislation to create 60,000 new jobs in the national solar industry in 2009, or 111,000 over the next two years.
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GreenSource Magazine Receives SPD Design Award

March 10, 2009

Society of Publication Designers Applauds EarthWatch Section Layout NEW YORK, March 9 /PRNewswire/ -- McGraw-Hill Construction's GreenSource magazine has received a 2009 Merit Award from the Society of Publication Designers for its feature layout, "EarthWatch: A Wealth of Garbage" in the November/December 2008 issue. SPD's annual design competition reviews more than 6,000 entries to find those that represent the best editorial design and photography of 2008. Winners will be included in the SPD PUB 44 Annual book, in exhibitions on SPD.org, and at the SPD Annual Awards Gala on May 8, 2009. "We are honored to receive this significant design award for GreenSource," said Francesca Messina, senior group art director, McGraw-Hill Construction. "Editorial design plays an important role in documenting events and history, especially for architecture and design media, where so much can be said with pictures and layout. The collaborative efforts of our talented staff have truly ensured that GreenSource become and remain an essential resource for the sustainable design community," she added.
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Termites Likely to Flourish in Warm Spring Weather

March 10, 2009

National Pest Management Association Warns Homeowners to Take Action to Prevent Termite Damage FAIRFAX, Va.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--After a long winter, warmer weather is being eagerly anticipated. However, there is an important reason to be cautious this spring, especially with the increased moisture experienced across the nation during the winter months - termites. The National Pest Management Association (NPMA) warns that as the temperature begins to increase so does the potential for termite swarms and infestations. Once termites infest a home, these aggressive pests can quickly chew through floors, walls, carpeting and even wallpaper. With a termite colony's ability to chew 24 hours a day, 7 days a week and to number in the hundreds of thousands, the damage caused by termites can threaten the structural safety of a home. In fact, NPMA research has found that termites cause more than $5 billion in property damage every year
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Nexxus Lighting Helps Light Dubai Metro Project

March 09, 2009

CHARLOTTE, N.C.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Nexxus Lighting, Inc. (NASDAQ:NEXS) today announced that its Lumificient Corporation business unit has shipped over 1400 meters of its Hyperion R-Lite LED lighting system to help light the Dubai Metro / JT Metro project in the United Arab Emirates. The Dubai Metro will be the longest fully automated rail system in the world and will have a total of 43 miles (70 kilometres) of line with 47 stations when completed. The massive $4.2 billion civil engineering project is being constructed by JT Metro JV (Japan Turkey Metro Joint Venture), which is a joint venture of the Obayashi Corporation and Kajima Corporations of Japan and Yapi Merkezi Turkey. Gargash Lighting Systems LLC, Nexxus Lighting’s distributor for the middle east, supplied the product for the project, which is still under construction. The first line is scheduled to begin full operations in September 2009.
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Scot Horst Stepping Aside from 7group for USGBC

March 09, 2009

KUTZTOWN, Pa.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--7group’s John Boecker today announced that Scot Horst has resigned as president of the nationally known green building consultancy 7group to join the U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC) as its senior vice president for LEED. "For anyone else, shifting from the private sector to the non-profit sector for a period of time might be surprising, but in many ways it’s quintessential Scot,” said Boecker. “Truth be told, 7group has long been more of an advocacy organization for improving the health of place than a traditional green building consultancy, due in large part to how Scot, and all of us at 7group have chosen to conduct our business and focus our efforts. Scot’s simply taking a logical next step in this phase of his mission-driven career. He’ll be missed in his role with 7group, but we’re all very excited about the leadership he’ll bring to the long-term vision of the LEED green building program, which is something every single person in the building industry should care deeply about. His clarity of vision, technical expertise, relationship-building skills, and uncanny way of aligning people around common purpose is a special gift – one from which everyone involved in green building will benefit.”
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National Coatings Highly-Reflective Roof Coatings Aid in the Fight Against CO2 Emission!

March 06, 2009

National Coatings Corporation (NCC) is committed to developing environmentally friendly roof coatings that help reduce the effects of global climate change CAMARILLO, Calif.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Over the past 30 years, National Coatings, www.nationalcoatings.com, has created the AcryShield and Acryguard family of highly reflective roof coatings that have assisted in increasing solar reflectance back into the atmosphere while decreasing CO2 emission and its effects: solar heat gain; high temperatures and urban heat island effect. According to Senior Scientist, Hashem Akbari at the renowned Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory, resurfacing existing flat roofs with white or highly reflective roof coatings that have a durable solar reflectance of at least 60% will increase the roofs' solar reflectance by a minimum of 40%, thus resulting in a dramatic decrease of CO2 emissions from energy production. “If owners of low slope roofs choose a highly-reflective AcryShield cool roofing system, the cumulative effect can quickly move into annual avoided production of hundreds of millions of pounds of CO2 annually,” says Bill Kirn, Technical Director, author, speaker and chemist in acrylic cool roof technology.
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Rohm and Haas Showcasing Innovative Technologies at Interlakokraska 2009

March 06, 2009

MOSCOW--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Rohm and Haas (NYSE:ROH), the global leader in the creation and development of innovative technologies and solutions for the specialty materials industry, is again participating in the International Specialized Exhibition for Paints and Coatings - INTERLAKOKRASKA 2009 - held in Moscow from March 10-13, 2009. This year the company is showcasing a number of innovations focused on allowing for improvements in eco-sustainability for the industrial, decorative, and building and construction coatings segments. Innovation, sustainability, lasting quality and high performance are the key principles of the company’s operation that are also visualized in the company’s booth design.
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States and Municipalities Can Stretch Stimulus Dollars While Saving Crumbling Infrastructure

March 06, 2009

Cost-Effective, Labor-Saving, Long-Life Pipe Provides Solution for New and Old Systems IRVING, Texas--(BUSINESS WIRE)--According to the Plastics Pipe Institute (PPI), money from the economic stimulus package can go further when pipe made from high-density polyethylene (HDPE) is used for infrastructure projects. This will save money in time and materials and the millions of dollars that literally go down the drain from wasted water. “There are two distinct problems: less than ideal pipe systems made from metal or concrete and wasted water that comes from using these materials,” stated Tony Radoszewski, executive director, Plastics Pipe Institute. “Both can be solved with HDPE pipe that is easy to install, sustainable and delivers a totally leak-free system. “Infrastructure managers have struggled to replace aging water and sewer systems, but have not had the funds to address the problem. Now with the stimulus package signed by President Obama they can do the job and install a superior system that is more economical and environmentally responsible. They can make each dollar go further and have a system built for 2009, not 1909."
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“THE GREEN ENERGY SHOW with Bill Tauber” Premiers on KRLA-870AM Radio - March 7th, 2009

March 06, 2009

Southern California's First all GREEN ENERGY Talk Show LOS ANGELES--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Mr. William C. Tauber, CEO of Progressive Lighting & Energy Solutions, will be hosting a live Half-Hour Radio Talk Show every Saturday at 7:30AM in the Southern California broadcast market. The live Talk Show will have an open dialogue targeting consumers, building owners, manufacturers, municipalities, institutions and anyone interested in the Green Energy revolution. Listeners will be encouraged to send in topics of interest to be discussed and presented each week. Southern California’s first and only regularly scheduled hosted Green Energy Radio Talk Show will bring together the leading experts in each week’s topic. The Energy related topics will vary from week to week and will target the residential consumers at home as well as the non-residential commercial and industrial building owners or managers as well as municipalities and institutional professionals.
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Architecture and Design Firm Stonehill & Taylor Emerges as Leader in New York's 'Green' Hotel Boom

March 05, 2009

Currently at work on more LEED-registered hotels in Manhattan than any other architecture firm, Stonehill & Taylor defines the space where luxury hospitality meets truly sustainable design NEW YORK, March 4 /PRNewswire/ -- With eco-friendly hotels in various stages of design and construction across the city, New York's hotel scene is finally going "green" -- and Stonehill & Taylor is leading the charge. There is no single firm more closely tied to this new wave of hospitality development than the Manhattan-based architecture and design firm: with no less than four LEED-certified hotel projects on the boards, the firm is working on a greater number of "green" hotels than any other in the city (www.stonehilltaylor.com). (Developed by the U.S. Green Building Council, LEED [Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design] is a rating system for eco-friendly design and practices.) Stonehill & Taylor's specialty is incorporating state-of-the-art technologies, materials, and techniques, seemingly effortlessly, into its fashion-forward hotel designs. From the guest's point of view, these "green" elements will only enhance the overall luxury experience. With a thriving hospitality practice, a team of LEED-accredited architects and interior designers, and an extensive "green" materials library, the firm had positioned itself to be on the forefront of this hotel boom well before these projects broke ground. Stonehill & Taylor is at work on the following LEED-seeking or LEED-certified hospitality projects in New York: -- The NoMad Hotel (fall 2009) -- Crosby Street Hotel (fall 2009) -- The 94th Street Hotel (fall 2010) -- Fifteenth Street Hotel (2011) "It is gratifying for us to bring together two of our specialties, hotel design and eco-friendly architecture," said Paul Taylor, president of Stonehill & Taylor. "What's most exciting right now is this tremendous momentum -- with so many projects on the go, we have an opportunity to help shape New York's new hospitality landscape and, we hope, have some impact on its environment." Stonehill & Taylor's mastery of LEED guidelines and its innovative approach to implementing them has helped set it apart in the category. Considering the ecology of each building as a whole, the team weighs every decision against its impact on its environment. "Green" techniques include: planting self-sustaining rooftops, which have enormous environmental benefits in addition to their aesthetic and social values; incorporating energy-saving mechanical systems; using locally-made materials/products made through sustainable processes; reclaiming building sites and materials; and implementing sophisticated recycling systems for water, waste, and energy. All of this is done at the highest end of the market from an aesthetics and amenities standpoint -- all of the firm's "green" hotels will receive four- or five-star ratings.
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Key Challenges and Issues Facing the Green Building Materials in the US

March 05, 2009

Green Building Materials in the US US green building materials market to expand 6% per annum through 2013 The US market for “green” building materials -- those products that contribute to LEED certification by the US Green Building Council -- generated $58 billion of product demand in 2008. This market is forecast to expand six percent annually to nearly $80 billion in 2013, outpacing the growth of building construction expenditures over that period. Through 2013, the fastest gains will come from the residential market as it rises from its depressed 2008 level. FSC-certified wood panels, lumber to grow the fastest Interior products -- carpets and flooring, insulation, paint and gypsum board -- are projected to account for the largest share of green building materials demand generated between 2008 and 2013. Most of this growth will come from carpets and flooring, the largest single product segment. Interior products are especially dependant on the residential market, and will benefit from its recovery. Over the forecast period, lumber and wood panels are forecast to be the fastest growing green product segments, albeit from a small base. The LEED rating systems provide credits to encourage the use of Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) certified products, which are certified to assure forestry practices are environmentally responsible and socially beneficial. Demand for FSC-certified wood panels is projected to more than triple between 2008 and 2013, growing more than three times as fast as the overall market for wood panels. Key residential construction market to grow rapidly Residential construction accounts for the majority of green building material demand. Not only is the overall residential market larger than its nonresidential counterpart, but the intensity of demand for green building materials is also greater. Even in 2008, when (in inflation adjusted terms) residential construction expenditures fell to a 15 year low and nonresidential building construction spending reached its highest level ever, the residential building market remained the dominant market for green building materials. Going forward, demand in the residential market is expected to continue growing rapidly through 2013.
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Norandex Honored to Receive Environmental Protection Agency's 2009 ENERGY STAR(R) Partner of the Year Award

March 05, 2009

HUDSON, Ohio, March 4 /PRNewswire/ -- The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has named Norandex Building Materials Distribution (www.norandex.com) and its parent company, Saint-Gobain, a 2009 ENERGY STAR Partner of the Year Award winner (www.energystar.gov). Norandex was recognized for its invaluable dedication to energy efficiency, energy management, reductions in greenhouse gas emissions, and its overall commitment to the ENERGY STAR program. Award winners were selected from more than 12,000 organizations that participate in the ENERGY STAR program. Norandex's accomplishments will be recognized at an awards ceremony in Washington, D.C., on March 31, 2009. "We are extremely proud to accept this award," says Norandex President and CEO Brian Chambers. "Norandex is fully committed to providing energy-efficient, renewable/recyclable/sustainable products that are both environmentally friendly and provide our customers the opportunity to market Green products." Norandex offers a spectrum of products that carry the ENERGY STAR label, denoting the kind of energy efficiency that should help homeowners control their utility bills. In addition, the company qualifies every product it sells through an internal corporate stewardship process that targets fitness for use and minimal environmental impact. Norandex's commitment to the environment doesn't end with the products it stocks and sells, though. For example, the company's strategy also focuses on upgrading equipment specifications for both HVAC and lighting at its 150+ locations by negotiating these improvements into new lease agreements each year. Norandex is also developing general guidelines for building operation that its facilities can use to improve and sustain energy efficiency. Finally, Norandex expects its preferred suppliers to have an Environmental, Health & Safety Policy. "EPA is pleased to recognize Norandex for leadership in addressing global warming through greater energy efficiency," says Kathleen Hogan, EPA's Director of the Climate Protection Partnerships Division. "Because commercial and industrial facilities account for about half of U.S. greenhouse gas emissions, Norandex's efforts are vital to protecting our global environment." As a leading building products distributor with a fleet of trucks and other company vehicles all across the country, Norandex's commitment to reducing its carbon footprint goes far beyond the walls of its facilities. For example, the company has modified its vehicle specifications to include more fuel-efficient features such as automatic transmissions, high-efficiency diesel engines, and low rolling resistance tires. Further, Norandex has invested in GPS systems to improve overall efficiency by reducing engine idle time and optimizing routing. "At Norandex, we believe that Green is good for the environment and good for business," says Chambers. "We are very excited and appreciative to be recognized as a 2009 ENERGY STAR Partner of the Year. The bar has been set, and we will do everything we can to raise it even further each and every year."
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Saint-Gobain Wins EPA's ENERGY STAR Partner of the Year Award

March 05, 2009

VALLEY FORGE, Pa., March 4 /PRNewswire/ -- The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) (http://redirect.aecdaily.com/s18122/www.epa.gov/) has named Saint-Gobain as a 2009 ENERGY STAR Partner of the Year (http://redirect.aecdaily.com/s18122/www.energystar.gov/) for outstanding energy management and reductions in greenhouse gas emissions. The company is a leading supplier of building materials (mainly through its well known CertainTeed brand), as well as high-performance materials and glass containers. It was one of five new winners in the competition's "energy management" category for industrial companies. No other manufacturer of glass containers or fiber glass insulation has ever received the Partner of the Year award. Through a wide range of energy-awareness programs, key process improvements, and implementation of superior energy management practices in 2008, Saint-Gobain businesses in North America were able to save enough energy to make nearly 700 million glass bottles or enough fiber glass insulation for more than 160,000 homes. The company's energy-use reduction equated to a reduction in carbon dioxide emissions released to the atmosphere of nearly 70,000 tons last year. Saint-Gobain's accomplishments will be recognized at an awards ceremony in Washington, DC, on March 31, 2009. "Every Saint-Gobain business and organization made contributions to this significant reduction -- and we continue to look for additional ways to reduce our energy use in the future," says Gilles Colas, General Delegate for Saint-Gobain in North America. Last year alone, Americans with the help of ENERGY STAR saved $19 billion on their energy bills and reduced greenhouse gas emissions equivalent to those of 29 million vehicles. The 2009 Partner of the Year Awards recognize efforts to use energy efficiently in facility operations and to integrate superior energy management into overall organizational strategy. Award winners are selected from more than 12,000 organizations that participate in the ENERGY STAR program. "EPA is pleased to recognize Saint-Gobain for leadership in addressing global warming through greater energy efficiency," says Kathleen Hogan, EPA's Director of the Climate Protection Partnerships Division
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Architectural Record Wins MPA Website of the Year Award

March 04, 2009

Industry association recognizes website's use of content, design, functionality and usability NEW YORK, March 3 /PRNewswire/ -- The Magazine Publishers of America (MPA) has awarded its 2008 MPA Digital Award for "Website of the Year: Enthusiast" to McGraw-Hill Construction's ArchitecturalRecord.com, the online companion to the print magazine, Architectural Record. The MPA Digital Awards recognize magazine brands that have shown excellence and innovation on a variety of digital platforms. Winners were announced today during the Magazines 24/7 Digital Conference at the Marriott Marquis in New York. "We are pleased that ArchitecturalRecord.com has grown as the hub of a strong community, and we're honored to receive this recognition from MPA," said Robert Ivy, vice president and editorial director for McGraw-Hill Construction and editor in chief of Architectural Record. "With its rich content and innovative formats online, ArchitecturalRecord.com has built on the legacy of excellence from our print publication. We appreciate being recognized for our digital efforts, especially among so many outstanding peers in the overall magazine community beyond B-to-B." "Architects and enthusiasts have truly embraced our social-media tools, and the tremendous amount of high-value content they contribute every day -- photos, comments, ratings and more -- plays a big role in our having such a rich and deep site," said Bryant Rousseau, editorial director of digital media, McGraw-Hill Construction. "It's a tremendous honor to be recognized as the Website of the Year." ArchitecturalRecord.com has received many awards since its redesign in 2007, including two 2008 Neal Awards from American Business Media for Best Website and Best Online Article or Series; two 2008 Silver Ozzie Awards from FOLIO: for Best Cover and Best Use of Photography, and a 2007 Bronze Ozzie Award for Best Site Design. It was named to the BtoB Media Business 10 Great Media Web Sites List in 2007. McGraw-Hill Construction also received a 2008 Pluckie Award for Best Community Marketing for use of digital communities on all of its websites, including ArchitecturalRecord.com. ArchitecturalRecord.com provides a mix of multimedia news and information and complements the monthly magazine Architectural Record, a staple in the industry for more than 110 years. In addition to the design and building science ideas, trend and key issue analysis, strategic recommendations, and computer-aided practice found in the print magazine, ArchitecturalRecord.com features exclusive interviews with giants of architecture, daily news updates, book reviews, archives, links to people and products, and access to continuing education opportunities.
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Maxwell Systems Wins Two 2009 Constructech Top Products Awards

March 04, 2009

Maxwell Systems Quest Machine Control Wins Top New Product Maxwell Systems Estimation Digital Takeoff Wins Top Enhanced Product KING OF PRUSSIA, Pa., March 3 /PRNewswire/ -- Maxwell Systems, Inc., a leading provider of integrated construction business management software solutions, has been named winner of two 2009 Constructech Top Products Awards. Maxwell Systems(TM) Quest(TM) Machine Control has been awarded Top New Product and Maxwell Systems(TM) Estimation(TM) Digital Takeoff has been awarded Top Enhanced Product. "These products are among the best technology currently available for commercial construction applications," said Mike Carrozzo, chief editor of Constructech magazine. The Constructech Top Products is an annual competition that recognizes superior product innovation, success, usefulness, uniqueness, adaptation, and potential for growth in the commercial construction marketplace. "Companies will turn to products and services like those included in our 2009 Constructech Top Product Awards to take on the challenges that most certainly remain ahead," added Peggy Smedley, editorial director of Constructech. "Being honored by Constructech is a testament to the quality of our product innovations and to Maxwell Systems' commitment to developing and enhancing solutions that meet the business needs of our customers and the commercial construction industry," said Jim Flynn, Maxwell Systems President & CEO. "Our suite of solutions has been continually enhanced and expanded over 30 years as we invest in technology, engage our customers, and spearhead methods to streamline business processes." Top New Product Winner: Maxwell Systems Quest Machine Control integrates machine control systems directly with Maxwell Systems Quest Earthwork, earth-measuring software. It's ideal for contractors doing sitework, grading and excavation, heavy/highway, or any contractors measuring cut and fill. Top Enhanced Product Winner: Maxwell Systems Estimation Logistics helps electrical, mechanical, plumbing, and HVAC contractors by automating the bidding process and lowering costs associated with bidding and winning jobs. The solution has been enhanced to deliver Digital Takeoff, which is far more accurate than traditional manual methods, thus helps contractors to bid more work and win more projects in less time and with increased profitability. Estimation Digital Takeoff allows contractors to generate takeoffs straight from digital plan files instead of paper blueprints. Users may download plans from an online plan room, scan in plans or upload them from a CD; there's no need for a digitizer board, stylus pen, or paper blueprints.
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New Sensor Rapidly Determines Bridge Condition After Earthquake

March 04, 2009

First Application is for Bullet Train ("Shinkansen") Bridges in Japan ATLANTA, March 3 /PRNewswire/ -- LifeSpan Technologies, an innovator of advanced structural condition assessment solutions for civil infrastructure, announces the commercial availability of its newest PeakStrain(TM) sensor, allowing rapid and accurate evaluation of bridge conditions after a seismic event. Visual inspection techniques have been used to assess the condition of bridges for decades, both in the U.S. and many other countries. However, engineers in the U.S. and Japan know that visual inspection is subjective, highly variable, and not sufficiently reliable for long-term bridge management. It is also slow and can be costly if bridges have to be visually inspected after each seismic event. "The Japanese transportation system relies on the Shinkansen high speed trains for long distance, on-time performance," commented Peter Vanderzee, president and CEO of LifeSpan Technologies. "Since Japan resides on an active seismic zone and experiences earthquakes quite frequently, engineers at Japan Railways have been searching for a more efficient and accurate protocol to assess bridge condition after a seismic event. For trains running in excess of 180 mph, accurate and timely condition assessment is absolutely essential. We are honored to be a supplier to Keisoku Research Consultant (KRC) and Japan Railways on this project." Mr. Takuji Okamoto, president of KRC, stated that LifeSpan's new extended range PeakStrain(TM) sensor will be used by Japan Railways to monitor lateral displacement of bridge members as a result of seismic activity. "The Shinkansen is a vital link across our country. After a seismic event, LifeSpan's extended range PeakStrain(TM) sensor will allow Japan Railways to quickly determine if Shinkansen bridges can continue to be used, or must be shut down, to protect passengers and railway equipment." Information about these new sensors can be obtained by calling LifeSpan at 770-234-9494 or by emailing info@lifespantechnologies.com. About LifeSpan Technologies LifeSpan Technologies develops industrial strength, advanced condition assessment solutions that power confident decisions and deliver the engineering standard of care for deficient infrastructure though superior, real-time information. These solutions combine patented sensor technology with wireless communications and the Internet, enabling infrastructure managers to continually assess safety, extend asset life, and minimize life-cycle cost. LifeSpan's solutions are intended to complement, not replace, visual inspection. LifeSpan Technologies' advanced 24x7 condition assessment solutions have been deployed on bridges owned by state departments of transportation and toll road operators, and other civil structures across the United States. LifeSpan Technologies' patented PeakStrain(TM) sensor is intended for long-term monitoring in difficult environments and captures peak strain data without power. The sensor is used to monitor critical defects and suspect structural members; measuring displacement/strain, crack growth/propagation, or relative movement. LifeSpan Technologies is a privately held, veteran-owned corporation. Find LifeSpan Technologies on the Web at http://redirect.aecdaily.com/s18122/www.lifespantechnologies.com/ or by telephone at (770) 234-9494.
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Chemistry from Dow Helps Prevent Winter Slips and Falls

March 03, 2009

MIDLAND, Mich., March 2 /PRNewswire/ -- In cold climates, slips and falls due to frozen surfaces can cause a variety of injuries. A growing number of building owners are investing in an alternative approach to sidewalk snow removal - hydronic radiant heat snowmelt systems - a convenient, cost-effective solution for keeping sidewalks clear and safe. The Dow Performance Fluids Business of The Dow Chemical Company (NYSE: DOW) supplies inhibited glycol solutions (like DOWTHERM(TM) and DOWFROST(TM)) for "built in" snow-melting systems in sidewalks, parking lots and other heavily traveled pedestrian walkways and promenades. Built right into the pavement, these hydronic snow-melting systems along with chemistry from Dow, deliver the heat needed to keep these and other thoroughfares clear of frozen hazards. How Hydronic Snow Melting Works Hydronic snowmelt systems consist of a heating unit, pumps, manifolds that control the flow to and from the "melting zone" and a closed loop of pipes, generally made of plastic installed underneath paved surfaces. A steady stream of heated inhibited glycol passes through the pipes and supplies heat to the snow covered surface. The warm surface causes the snow to melt and the cold fluid then is reheated and re-circulated. Some systems are equipped with sensing equipment and come on automatically when frozen precipitation is present, while others are operated manually. Once activated, snow and ice will melt as heat radiates up through the pavement, keeping them passable and pedestrian friendly. For commercial applications in critical areas like hospitals, senior citizen housing, stairways and handicap access ramps, these systems are invaluable as the radiant heat helps prevent injuries and maybe even saves lives by keeping those areas clear from snow and ice. Fewer liability claims is another advantage as some insurance companies also recognize the value and will reward building owners with reduced insurance premiums. The need to physically remove snow or ice via shovels or plows is eliminated and there is no need to apply salt or gravel. Peace of Mind Hydronic snow-melting systems with Dow Performance Fluids are a convenient way to minimize the hazards posed by slippery sidewalks or other surfaces. With the right heat transfer fluid, they can provide years of reliable performance and peace of mind to building owners weary of battling winter ice and snow. About Dow With annual sales of $58 billion and 46,000 employees worldwide, Dow is a diversified chemical company that combines the power of science and technology with the "Human Element" to constantly improve what is essential to human progress. The Company delivers a broad range of products and services to customers in around 160 countries, connecting chemistry and innovation with the principles of sustainability to help provide everything from fresh water, food and pharmaceuticals to paints, packaging and personal care products. References to "Dow" or the "Company" mean The Dow Chemical Company and its consolidated subsidiaries unless otherwise expressly noted. More information about Dow can be found at www.dow.com
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New Aluminum-Wood Folding Doors Give You the Best From LaCantina Doors

March 03, 2009

A HYBRID DOOR WITH OUR MOST POPULAR FEATURES VISTA, Calif., March 2 /PRNewswire/ -- LaCantina Doors is starting 2009 off with its most innovative door to date; the Aluminum-Wood system. Affectionately named by us as "Aliwood," this hybrid door combines the consistency and strength of aluminum with the beauty of a selection of real wood interiors. Virtually identical in appearance to our most popular clad-wood product, the Aliwood is catching attention by simply providing everything you want with a low-maintenance exterior folding door system. New concealed locking mechanisms are standard, providing a discrete locking function with an easy turn of the handle. As the country has taken in the effects of the recession and the housing crisis, LaCantina Doors has continued to focus on designing and manufacturing products that improve the LaCantina experience. Matt Power, President of LaCantina Doors said, "Our product testing and customer feedback on the Aliwood makes us very confident that people will want to take advantage of its features and value." About us LaCantina Doors evolved from a long history of a custom door and window manufacturer that started in Melbourne, Australia as Jones Joinery. Jones Joinery adapted to the times and soon became a leading manufacturer of folding door systems in Australia. With success and award-winning projects, to storefronts and train stations LaCantina Doors was established in the United States in 2003. Today, LaCantina Doors is a growing company with manufacturing facilities in Southern California. Their US manufactured folding door product line includes the Wood, Clad, Aluminum and its newest addition, Aluminum-Wood. LaCantina Doors continues to grow with ongoing development of design improvements and features specifically to ensure that the doors are built to perform and built to last. We have our own signature door panel, featuring a narrow-stile and rail profile, allowing the right balance of glass and light. LaCantina Doors is on board with being green; packaging most of their products in recycled materials as well as using FSC certified wood in its Wood Door series. LaCantina Doors continues to be innovative with design and function catering to every customer's needs and wants. For all of the latest on LaCantina Doors, visit our website at www.lacantinadoors.com.
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New Blog To Keep Architects, Designers Connected in the World of Green Building, Design

March 03, 2009

ST. JOSEPH, MICH. - After years of experience working with Fortune 500 companies to promote sustainability in the building and design community, green design expert Mark Johnson — FAIA, NKBA Educator, consultant, residential architect and certified kitchen designer — is taking his message to the blogosphere. This week, Johnson, principal of design and building consulting firm MARKITECT, will debut the GreenDesignGuide blog (www.greendesignguide.com) as a new feature of leading online architecture, engineering and construction portal AEC Daily. The blog’s goal is to connect design professionals with sustainable design resources and generate discussions to further the green movement. “In the traveling I do for MARKITECT, I have seen a need in the design community to stay ahead of the game on several fronts,” Johnson said. “There are some excellent green design tools and certification programs available today, but most architects don’t have the time to research all the options. My primary goal through the GreenDesignGuide blog is to point them to the resources they need and help expedite their research and design process.” The focus of GreenDesignGuide will be on residential design, sustainable building products, online design tools for going green and tips on how to qualify for the latest national green certification programs. The blog will cater to a variety of design professionals, from the designers of custom and spec homes to the designers of home remodeling and addition projects. Material covered will offer something for everyone, with an emphasis on the use of green design case studies, including video Podcasts, 3D virtual models, Google Applications, and LEED for Home projects, as instructional tools. Featured Google applications will include SketchUp, 3D Warehouse, Earth and Trends. “Like most architects and designers, I’m a visual learner, so I’ll be directing the readers of GreenDesignGuide away from words whenever possible and on to engaging online case studies,” Johnson said. “There are a lot of great design projects that never make it into national architectural journals. Hopefully, this blog will give some of these projects the recognition they deserve, while passing on some new knowledge from the project architect or designer to readers.” re:Source, an online network of information on the latest sustainable building and design technologies, will be involved in GreenDesignGuide as a founding sponsor and will air occasional case study video podcasts for the blog. AEC Daily is looking forward to working with Johnson and making good use of his green design expertise. “Having industry experts of Mark Johnson’s caliber write for AEC Daily really adds to the intrigue of the read,” said Jeff Rice, President of AEC Daily. “Mark’s insight on green design and his professional experience are very impressive. He’s a true ambassador and visionary of the green movement, and he has a real grasp on what green design needs to be.” About Mark Johnson – FAIA/CKD/AIBD Mark Johnson is Principal of MARKITECT, a consulting firm serving the design and building industry. His work with two Fortune 500 Companies, Whirlpool Corporation and CertainTeed Corporation, garnered three AIA Continuing Education System Awards for Excellence. Prior to his corporate career, he practiced as a licensed architect, working for top firms, including HOK and Moore Ruble Yudell. Johnson writes and speaks internationally on sustainable design and technology and design trends in architecture. Johnson is a Fellow of the American Institute of Architects, NKBA Educator for the National Kitchen and Bath Association, Certified Kitchen Designer and a Professional Building Designer with the American Institute of Building Design. He holds a bachelor’s degree in architecture and an MBA degree from Washington University in St. Louis, as well as a master’s degree in architecture and urban planning from UCLA. 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. www.aecdaily.com About re:Source re:Source is a constantly growing network of information on the latest sustainable technologies and practices being implemented by designers and builders. They use the power of storytelling combined with actionable insight and education to produce videos that help to inspire the entire AEC industry to transform itself. Their goal is simple: Spread the knowledge. www.resourcemedia.tv
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LEDway Demonstrates Unique Street Smart Technology with Wisconsin Utility

March 02, 2009

We Energies looks to control costs using LED streetlights with advanced lighting controls STURTEVANT, Wis.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--BetaLED is testing two leading forms of lighting control systems with its LEDway streetlights. Eleven LEDway streetlights installed along 92nd Street in Sturtevant, Wis., were recently outfitted with either a power line communication system or wireless radio frequency (RF) system as part of a side-by-side demonstration of lighting control technologies available for LED streetlights. Both lighting control systems are designed to manage each fixture to ultimately reduce operating and energy expenses. Milwaukee based We Energies is taking part in the evaluation, testing the remote access and monitoring capabilities of each system as well as calculating reduced energy and maintenance costs presented by LED technology compared to existing streetlighting options. “We look forward to evaluating these promising streetlight technologies will further improve the level of service we provide to our customers,” said Chris Balliet, We Energies program manager/outdoor lighting. “The ultimate goal of the test is to determine if these technologies could be valuable tools in controlling costs and reducing unnecessary light.” Although the two independent lighting control systems are designed primarily to lower operating costs, they use different technology to realize results. The power line system communicates over the same wires that deliver power to each fixture to monitor and control streetlights equipped with specially designed hardware and software. Alternatively, the RF control system uses a wireless mesh network to transmit information to a remote source. Data such as energy usage, operating hours, and traffic patterns may be collected from both systems and analyzed to identify specific streetlights that can be dimmed, reducing energy usage and cost. Each individual fixture can be monitored and accessed from anywhere in the world by logging on to a specially designed, secure Website. “This is the next step in evaluating relevant technologies that enhance energy and cost savings potentials for municipalities and utilities using LEDway streetlights,” said Al Ruud, president of Beta Lighting. “We are not aware of any other manufacturer in the world performing a demonstration to this degree with the two leading forms of streetlighting control systems.” The demonstration also includes a unique online visual display of the system that allow users, with the use of pole mounted cameras, to see the effects of any adjustments to the fixtures from any location around the globe. Significant benefits of LEDway include: •Lower Total Cost of Ownership. With reduced energy and maintenance costs, LEDway streetlights deliver lower total cost of ownership, freeing up money for other budgetary or capital expenses. •Energy Cost Savings. Energy savings from LEDway streetlights is typically 40-60 % compared to HPS lamps and up to 80 % using lighting control systems. •Near Zero Maintenance. All cities found LEDway fixtures provide significantly longer life ratings and therefore require virtually no maintenance, giving them additional savings from not having to relamp or replace fixtures. •Safer, Cleaner Light. LED lights produce a white light with a dramatic improvement in color rendering. With proper optical control, greater uniformity is achieved, eliminating dark spots between fixtures and creating a safer environment for vehicle and pedestrian traffic. •No Hazardous Materials. LEDs contain no mercury or other hazardous substances. Traditional HPS lamps contain mercury, presenting potentially hazardous disposal and environmental issues. •Reduce Light Pollution. LEDway streetlights have earned full cutoff classification from Illuminating Engineering Society of America and the International Dark Sky Association. LEDway’s patented NanoOptic™ refractors and up to 96 % efficient optical design layers light for improved uniformity and control. Light is directed where it is needed without waste. •Reduces the Carbon Footprint. With their energy efficiencies and leading technologies, LED streetlights cut waste and reduce the amount of energy used, thereby reducing a municipality’s carbon footprint. People can feel better that they are only using what they need. •Show Tax Dollars at Work. Energy-efficient LED streetlights are a visible example cities can use to show citizens how tax dollars are invested in energy-saving initiatives. Cities will improve their bottom line and create a better environment for its citizens. About LEDway LEDway streetlight products are sold under the BetaLED brand. BetaLED is a premium manufacturer of LED exterior lighting from Beta Lighting. Beta Lighting, a division of Ruud Lighting, Inc., provides the lighting market with high-quality, specification-grade luminaires for exterior lighting applications. Outside the United States, LEDway products are sold under the Ruud Lighting brand. For additional exterior LED lighting information, visit www.BetaLED.com.
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