Kingston, NY- Continuing their collective effort to establish upstate New York as a national and international hub for solar energy research and development, Congressman Maurice Hinchey (D-NY), Ulster County officials, and representatives from the Ulster County Development Corporation (UCDC) and The Solar Energy Consortium (TSEC) today announce the signing of a new solar manufacturing company, Solar Thin Films, Inc. The company will locate itself in Ulster County and is expected to create 400 new jobs in Ulster County over the next five years.

“Today we take another enormous step forward in our goal of establishing the Hudson Valley and all of New York as a national and international hub for solar research and development,” Hinchey said. “I am especially pleased that Solar Thin Films uses amorphous silicon since it is the most well-developed thin film technology to-date and has a promising avenue of further development.  Solar Thin Films is playing a critical role in the steady advancement of solar technology by increasing the efficiency of solar products and lowering their costs.  I am excited to welcome into The Solar Energy Consortium, Solar Thin Films — a firm dedicated to making solar technology more mainstream across the county, state and country.”

The new manufacturing partnership with Solar Thin Films further cements TSEC as a unique leader in solar research and development.  Solar Thin Films, Inc., which first contacted Hinchey’s office about the possibility of establishing a manufacturing facility in Ulster County after learning about the congressman’s involvement with TSEC, will use its new Ulster County location as the company’s initial amorphous solar module manufacturing plant in the United States.  Machinery used to create this type of solar module will be manufactured by STF technologies, Ltd., a division of Solar Thin Films.  The company hopes to put in place six lines of equipment capable of producing 36 megawatts of module power. The facility will ultimately require a staff of approximately 400 people.  Solar Thin Films will also use its new Ulster County location for research into the enhancement of amorphous silicon module efficiency as well as the development of copper indium gallium selenide (CIGS) panels.

According to TSEC CEO Vincent Cozzolino, today’s announcement adds momentum to the goal of bringing a significant number of solar-related enterprises not only to the Hudson Valley, but throughout New York State and beyond.

“We take great encouragement from today’s development.  Our partnership with Congressman Hinchey, his dedication and our considerable effort, plus the support of the County Legislature, the UCDC and public and commercial interests represented here today, clearly represents an important step forward for the economic future of this region,” Cozzolino said.

Robert Rubin, Solar Thin Films’ Chairman said, “TSEC is to be complimented in making Solar Thin Films aware of the enormous potential available in Ulster County as the company pursues its goal to be a leading provider of amorphous silicon solar modules. TSEC and the Ulster County Development Corporation have assisted Solar Thin Films in finding an appropriate factory site, have assisted us in satisfying our financial needs and have been instrumental in forging potential power partnerships. These steps will be instrumental in protecting the environment, reducing our need and utilization of oil and significantly alter the rate of the energy cost spiral. We hope to be a major employer in the county and more importantly a very good neighbor.”

In the coming days, Solar Thin Films will formally apply for a $10 million industrial development bond with the assistance of the Ulster County Development Corporation in order to aid in the purchase of equipment.  Ultimately, Solar Thin Films will invest approximately $50 million into the manufacturing and research components.

“The promotion of clean, renewable technology is critical to revitalizing our community. The work of The Solar Energy Consortium in attracting solar companies to the Hudson Valley is exactly the type of creative economic development Ulster County needs,” said Assemblymember Kevin Cahill. ”The Hudson Valley is poised to become a leader in solar innovation. That is why I secured $6.5 million in the 2008-2009 State budget for the Consortium to attract companies such as Solar Thin Films to our region. I have been happy to work together with Congressman Hinchey and the fine leadership of TSEC to get the green economy moving,”

“The Ulster County Development Corporation worked long and hard with TSEC to reach this milestone –one more significant solar operation for Ulster County,” said Lance Matteson, President of the Ulster County Development Corporation.   “We’re delighted that Solar Thin Films shares the Hinchey-TSEC-Ulster County vision and that it will bring its solar manufacturing expertise and resources — plus well-paid employment — to the region.”

Hinchey helped organize and create TSEC in upstate New York, which is a new industry-driven, non-profit organization that provides leadership, organization, resources, and support for the establishment of a major solar energy industry cluster in New York.  TSEC is the first organization of its kind for the photovoltaic industry, encompassing research and development, manufacturing facilities, industry promotion and market development.  Earlier this year, TSEC partnered with its first major manufacturing partner, Prism Solar Technologies, which plans to bring more than 400 new jobs to upstate New York within 4-5 years.  TSEC has also partnered with six research universities throughout New York to work on the research needed to improve solar technology.

“While we will never be able to drill our way out of the energy crisis, we can turn to the sun as a solution,” Hinchey said. “Through our combined efforts to establish TSEC and bring in partners like Prism and Solar Thin Films, we are positioning New York as a leader in the advancement of this critical technology.”

In order to advance TSEC, Hinchey helped secure $1.476 million in federal funds last year to help bring companies such as Prism Solar Technologies into the consortium.  The congressman also secured final approval of $3.2 million last year for C9 Corporation to conduct solar research and development in conjunction with TSEC.  In June 2008, Hinchey secured the House Appropriations Committee’s approval of an additional $2.9 million for TSEC and its partners. Additionally, Hinchey helped convince Empire State Development to contribute a $1.5 million grant to attract solar energy companies to TSEC.  Subsequently, the recently approved New York State budget includes $6.5 million for TSEC.  Ulster County has also committed $200,000 to the consortium.

Hinchey also worked very hard to help the House pass an extension of tax incentives for the development and purchase of solar products; speaking on several occasions to Speaker of the House Nancy Pelosi to encourage her to help pass the bill. While there have been several versions of the bill, the most recent one, the Renewable Energy and Job Creation Act, is the one Hinchey is pushing the Senate to pass so that it can move to the White House to become law.

That bill focuses aggressively on helping to boost solar energy research and development while also making it more affordable for consumers to purchase solar panels for their homes.  The bill extends a 30 percent tax credit on solar products purchased by consumers and doubles the annual cap to $4,000.  The measure also extends the business solar energy tax credit at a level of 30 percent for six years, a long-term action that will spur investments and in turn make solar equipment more competitive and less costly.   
 

IBM Agrees to Invest $1.5 Billion

State Will Invest $140 Million to Secure IBM Commitment, Creating 1,000 News Jobs

Governor David A. Paterson today announced significant new investments by IBM and New York State, accelerating New York State’s international leadership in nanotechnology research and development and creating up to 1,000 new high-tech jobs Upstate. The State will provide a total of $140 million in economic development grants, leveraging more than a ten-to-one private investment of $1.5 billion from IBM.

The investment will go toward three separate and complementary components of a comprehensive project, supporting the nanotechnology chip computer activities of IBM: the expansion of IBM’s operations at the College of Nanoscale Science and Engineering at the University at Albany (Albany NanoTech), the creation of a new, advanced semiconductor packaging research and development center at a to-be-determined in Upstate New York, and the upgrading of IBM’s East Fishkill facility in Dutchess County.

“With this announcement, we are once again demonstrating that New York State is open for business. We offer a highly skilled workforce and high quality of life. New York State is also, now more than ever, a clear national leader in nanotechnology development,” said Governor Paterson. “The positive effects of this critical investment will be felt for a generation, and will be the catalyst for other high tech business development throughout Upstate New York. Our State has become the leading location for nanotechnology research and development.”

The three projects will collectively advance “nano-chip” technologies, including cutting-edge chip design, demonstration, and testing which all takes place at Albany NanoTech. Nano-chips each carry billions of transistors, and applications include high-end personal computers and laptops; high-performance servers and supercomputers; virtual reality and advanced electronic games; medical devices and components; ultra-fast telecommunications devices; “sensor-on-a-chip” systems for anti-terrorism and “soldier-in-the-field” remote monitoring and sensing.

“This agreement demonstrates the potential of public-private academic collaboration. IBM applauds the bold leadership of Governor Paterson, Senator Bruno, Speaker Silver and other New York State leaders for their commitment to high-tech economic development,” said Dr. John E. Kelly III, IBM senior vice president and director of research. “These new investments will spur continuing advancements in nanotechnology and semiconductor research and development – including new efforts in semiconductor packaging – propelling IBM chip innovations and solidifying the state’s reputation as a high-technology leader.”

IBM has agreed to expand its operations at Albany NanoTech and the State will also provide $25 million to acquire state-of-the-art infrastructure and advanced semiconductor tooling at that location, resulting in the creation of 325 new research and development jobs.

To build on the successes at Albany NanoTech, the State will invest $50 million toward the establishment of a new, 120,000 square foot semiconductor packaging center at a to-be-determined location in Upstate New York. This center will be established, managed and owned by the College of Nanoscale Science and Engineering, with IBM conducting operations at that site. Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute (RPI) will also be a research partner in the new packaging facility. It is expected this public-private partnership will ultimately create over 675 jobs.

Today’s agreement will also help IBM retain more than 1,000 key semiconductor jobs at its East Fishkill plant in Dutchess County. The company has agreed to provide significant resources to upgrade that site with state-of-the-art technology. The State will additionally provide $65 million toward that effort.

U.S. Senator Charles E. Schumer said: “One thousand high-paying, high-tech jobs is terrific news for all of Tech Valley and Upstate New York. Not only will it secure thousands of IBM jobs in the Hudson Valley, but it strengthens IBM’s presence at the world-renowned Nano Campus at UAlbany, and bolsters the network of nanotechnology suppliers across upstate. I had several discussions with our State leaders as this deal took shape and I know how hard they worked with IBM and the NanoCollege to put it together. I am confident that it will have a major economic development and job impact on the Upstate economy for years to come.”

Senate Majority Leader Dean G. Skelos said: “I applaud Senator Joe Bruno for showing, again, his leadership in getting a deal done to create new jobs for the Capital Region, the Hudson Valley and all of Upstate New York. For over a decade, Senator Bruno has been the catalyst for high tech economic development projects that have created tens of thousands of new jobs. As the new Senate Majority Leader, I will continue our efforts to encourage new business growth to revitalize all of Upstate New York. I look forward to working with Governor Paterson to make New York more economically competitive with other states and countries so we can have many more job creation announcements such as this across the State.”

New York Times
Published: February 26, 2008

Solar power generated by photovoltaic cells is among the greenest of energy options. The cells just sit there, basking in the sun and emitting nothing but electrons.

But cells are manufactured, and the manufacturing process is not benign. Over the life cycle of solar cells — from the mining of raw materials to the finished product — just how green are they?

Vasilis M. Fthenakis of Brookhaven National Laboratory and colleagues have the latest analysis to be published in Environmental Science and Technology. The short answer is that photovoltaic cells are still very green.

The researchers looked at emissions of greenhouse gases and pollutants like nitrogen oxide gases and heavy metals from the manufacture of four types of cells. Most of the emissions are results of the electricity used, and the amounts depend in part on the mix of electricity in the grid, or how much comes from coal plants, hydroelectric, nuclear and the like.

The researchers found that thin-film cadmium telluride cells were the greenest, although the differences among the four types were slight. All told, the researchers say, replacing electrical power from the grid with electricity generated by solar cells results in at least an 89 percent reduction in greenhouse gases and pollutants.

IBM today announced a research breakthrough in photovoltaics technology that could significantly reduce the cost of harnessing the Sun’s power for electricity.

By mimicking the antics of a child using a magnifying glass to burn a leaf or a camper to start a fire, IBM scientists are using a large lens to concentrate the Sun’s power, capturing a record 230 watts onto a centimeter square solar cell, in a technology known as concentrator photovoltaics, or CPV. That energy is then converted into 70 watts of usable electrical power, about five times the electrical power density generated by typical cells using CPV technology in solar farms.

If it can overcome additional challenges to move this project from the lab to the fab, IBM believes it can significantly reduce the cost of a typical CPV based system. By using a much lower number of photovoltaic cells in a solar farm and concentrating more light onto each cell using larger lenses, IBM’s system enables a significant cost advantage in terms of a lesser number of total components.

For instance, by moving from a 200 sun system (”one sun” is a measurement equal to the solar power incident at noon on a clear summer day), where about 20 watts per square centimeter of power is concentrated onto the cell, to the IBM Lab results of a 2300 sun system, where approximately 230 watts per square centimeter are concentrated onto the cell system, the IBM system cuts the number of photovoltaic cells and other components by a factor of 10.

“We believe IBM can bring unique skills from our vast experience in semiconductors and nanotechnology to the important field of alternative energy research,” said Dr. Supratik Guha, the scientist leading photovoltaics activities at IBM Research. “This is one of many exploratory research projects incubating in our labs where we can drive big change for an entire industry while advancing the basic underlying science of solar cell technology.”

The trick lies in IBM’s ability to cool the tiny solar cell. Concentrating the equivalent of 2000 suns on such a small area generates enough heat to melt stainless steel, something the researchers experienced first hand in their experiments. But by borrowing innovations from its own R&D in cooling computer chips, the team was able to cool the solar cell from greater than 1600 degrees Celsius to just 85 degrees Celsius.

The initial results of this project will be presented at the 33rd IEEE Photovoltaic Specialists conference today, where the IBM researchers will detail how their liquid metal cooling interface is able to transfer heat from the solar cell to a copper cooling plate much more efficiently than anything else available today.

The IBM research team developed a system that achieved breakthrough results by coupling a commercial solar cell to an advanced IBM liquid metal thermal cooling system using methods developed for the microprocessor industry.

Specifically, the IBM team used a very thin layer of a liquid metal made of a gallium and indium compound that they applied between the chip and a cooling block. Such layers, called thermal interface layers, transfer the heat from the chip to the cooling block so that the chip temperature can be kept low. The IBM liquid metal solution offers the best thermal performance available today, at low costs, and the technology was successfully developed by IBM to cool high power computer chips earlier.

While concentrator-based photovoltaics technologies have been around since the 1970s, they have received renewed interest in recent times. With very high concentrations, they have the potential to offer the lowest-cost solar electricity for large-scale power generation, provided the temperature of the cells can be kept low, and cheap and efficient optics can be developed for concentrating the light to very high levels.

IBM is exploring four main areas of photovoltaic research: using current technologies to develop cheaper and more efficient silicon solar cells, developing new solution processed thin film photovoltaic devices, concentrator photovoltaics, and future generation photovoltaic architectures based upon nanostructures such as semiconductor quantum dots and nanowires.

The goal of the projects is to develop efficient photovoltaic structures that would reduce the cost, minimize the complexity, and improve the flexibility of producing solar electric power.

In addition to the photovoltaic research announced today, IBM is focused on several areas related to energy and the environment, including energy efficient technology and services, carbon management, advanced water management, intelligent utility networks and intelligent transportation systems. With decades of leadership in environmental stewardship, proven ability to solve complex challenges and unparalleled global reach, IBM is uniquely positioned to increase the efficiency of today’s systems and enable our clients’ “green” strategies.

May 20, 2008

Empire State Development (ESD) and New York Power Authority (NYPA) today announced a major economic development package for Niagara County that will bring hydropower from the Niagara Power Project that will serve as the linchpin for the reopening and expansion of manufacturing facilities of Globe Specialty Metals, Inc. (Globe) in Niagara Falls.

ESD and NYPA partnered to develop an incentive package for Globe, a leader in the silicon manufacturing that is used to create solar panels.

“This is another demonstration of our resolve to revitalize economic development in Upstate New York.” said Governor Paterson. “This project signifies how powerfully competitive New York State can be in attracting businesses when we pool our resources — in this case low cost hydropower through NYPA and an Empire Zone incentive through Empire State Development. In these fiscally tough times, these are the kind of collaborative investments of state resources that we need to spur economic development in communities throughout New York.”

Alan Kestenbaum Chairman and CEO of Globe, said: “We are pleased to be partnering with the State of New York and in particular with Governor Paterson, ESD and NYPA in bringing about the reality of the reopening and expansion of Globe’s Niagara Falls facility. This project will add needed capacity of silicon for solar grade silicon and will be a cornerstone for New York State to realize the goal of making New York a major center for production and research for renewable energy and in particular solar energy products. We salute all those individuals and agencies who worked tirelessly and expeditiously to make this happen and for proving once again the attractiveness of doing business in the State of New York.”

As part of their agreement with the state, 25% of Globe’s Upgraded Metallurgical Grade Silicon (UMG-Si) production from their new Niagara Falls facility will be used to attract new solar panel manufacturers to New York State, thus seeding the development of the “Green Collar” industry in Western New York. This provides a foundation for New York to become a leader in the solar use and production industry.

While the solar industry is the highest growth sector in the CleanTech cluster and is currently experiencing a large influx of investment and expansion, the vast majority of solar technologies require purified silicon which is extremely scarce. Several major solar panel manufacturers have inquired about the availability of the material in conjunction with locating new plants. Since that time, ESD has been engaging silicon producers in an attempt to leverage New York’s hydropower assets to produce silicon and build new facilities to help meet that demand.

Globe will re-open the existing Highland Avenue silicon production facility in Niagara Falls and invest in upgrading the equipment to produce approximately 30,000 tons of metallurgical grade silicon annually. In addition, it will build a new 100,000+ square foot facility in Niagara Falls to annually convert their metallurgical grade silicon into 4000 tons of Solar Grade silicon– enough to produce 500 MW of solar power.

ESD and NYPA created a package that provides Globe with 40 MW of hydropower over five years and up to $25,000,000 in Empire Zone benefits for up to ten years. The company will provide a capital
investment of $60 million.

This economic development package will advance the Governor’s Renewable Energy Task Force recommendations by developing incentives to attract clean energy industries to New York. The hydro power used to produce solar grade silicon in turn will be used to create zero-emission solar energy, a true “Green-to-Green” energy industry.

Congresswoman Louise M. Slaughter said: “The New York Power Authority’s decision will allow Globe Specialty Metals to reopen its Niagara Falls factory, inject millions into our slumping manufacturing industry, and create 500 badly-needed new jobs. I was pleased to work with the Power Authority on behalf of Globe and applaud their prudent decision that will open the doors to a much-needed jump start for our regional economy.”

State Senator Antoine Thompson said: “I am proud to work with Gov. Paterson to bring 500 new green collar jobs to Niagara Falls. This project represents another critical step forward in revitalizing the Highland Avenue community.”

Assemblywoman Francine DelMonte said: “This announcement is exciting news for Niagara County. This partnership will provide 500 new jobs with the possibility of bringing hundreds more in the future. Having this high growth industry come to Niagara Falls is a step in the right direction to further our economic revitalization and is a way to keep our residents right here in Niagara County. I applaud the Governor and Empire State Development Corporation for their forward thinking in allowing Niagara Falls to set the way for New York to move into this ever growing industry.”

Roger B. Kelley, NYPA president and chief executive officer, said: “The plans to reopen Globe Specialty’s Niagara Falls facility are a direct result of the efforts of NYPA and Empire State Development Corp. who worked together to make this happen,” said Roger B. Kelley, NYPA president and chief executive officer. “This collaborative initiative recognizes the strong commitment by Governor Paterson to both stimulate the upstate economy and advance renewable energy technologies. The revamped Globe Metallurgical facility exemplifies both goals. We’re excited about the role we’re playing in providing the low-cost
hydropower for this enterprise.”

Daniel C. Gundersen, Upstate Chair of ESD, said: “The economic impact of the Globe deal will reach far beyond the 500 jobs pledged as we can now use this facility as an inducement to attract solar panel manufacturers to Upstate. We salute NYPA for their cooperation and enthusiasm in helping to bring these jobs to Niagara Falls. Governor Paterson’s vision to expand our green economy and grow our high-tech
sector is becoming a reality through partnerships such as this one.”

Labor Commissioner M. Patricia Smith said “The investment of Globe in Upstate will not only create livable wage jobs but also train local workers in the emerging green technology field. This will serve as an example for companies and workers that New York State is committed to retraining our skilled workforce by providing opportunities in the innovative industries of tomorrow.”

Globe Specialty Metals has a strong working relationship with the Solar Energy Consortium, a publicprivate partnership designed to foster solar energy research and production in New York State. This is an example of how, under the Governor’s leadership, the State, private industry and the Consortium are working together to make NY a leader in the Solar Energy Industry.

Empire State Development is New York’s chief economic development agency, encompassing business, workforce and community development. ESD also oversees the marketing of “I LOVE NY,” the State’s
iconic tourism brand. For more information, visit www.nylovesbiz.com.

About NYPA:

• NYPA uses no tax money or state credit. It finances its operations through the sale of bonds and revenues earned in large part through sales of electricity.
• NYPA is a leader in promoting energyefficiency, new energy technologies and electric transportation initiatives.
• It is the nation’s largest state-owned electric utility, with 18 generating facilities in various parts of the state and more than 1,400 circuit-miles of transmission lines.

For more information, contact Michael.Saltzman@nypa.gov.

Globe Specialty Metals Inc. is among the world’s largest producers of silicon metal and silicon-based specialty alloys, critical ingredients in a host of industrial and consumer products with growing markets. Customers include major silicone chemical, aluminum and steel manufacturers, auto companies and their suppliers, ductile iron foundries, manufacturers of photovoltaic solar cells and computer chips, and concrete producers. The company’s headquarters are in New York City.

April 22, 2008

Governor David A. Paterson today announced a major alternative energy project that would create the state’s largest source of solar power to help meet the challenge of developing comprehensive renewable energy alternatives and address the growing demand for energy on Long Island and throughout the state.

Long Island Power Authority (LIPA) President and CEO Kevin S. Law said LIPA released a Request for Proposals (RFP) today calling for 50 megawatts (MW) of solar energy to be generated on Long Island. The project would provide enough power to sustain more than 6,500 households and reduce carbon dioxide emissions by 20,000 tons. The solar energy would be produced by one or more developers of solar photovoltaic systems and will be introduced onto the LIPA grid and purchased by LIPA.

“As our need for energy continues to grow on Long Island and throughout the state, it is imperative that we find new ways to develop more renewable energy resources that will reduce our dependence on fossil fuels,” said Governor Paterson. “The RFP issued today, which was one of the recommendations of my Renewable Energy Task Force, is just one of the actions we are taking to meet our energy needs while reducing the State’s carbon footprint.”

LIPA envisions that the photovoltaic arrays will be installed at school buildings, on commercial and municipal rooftops, along parking lots, atop landfills, and at brownfield sites. This innovative project could further stimulate the solar marketplace throughout the state, fostering the creation of more “green collar” jobs.

The 50MW of solar energy builds on the success of LIPA’s Solar Pioneer program, which boasts more than 1,200 participants and has resulted in more than $30 million in LIPA rebates. LIPA and Long Island have been leading the way in this regard, serving as a host to 90 percent of the photovoltaic systems purchased throughout the entire state. The new 50MW will count for nearly one percent of LIPA’s total annual demand and will be the single largest block of solar energy in New York State.

LIPA President and CEO Kevin S. Law said: “This project will diversify Long Island’s energy portfolio, strengthen the local economy, transform the solar photovoltaic marketplace, and reduce our dependency on costly fossil fuels.”

Ashok Gupta, Senior Energy Economist for the Natural Resources Defense Council, said: “Governor Paterson and LIPA’s leadership on solar is to be commended. Having 50 MW of solar in LIPA’s portfolio will not only help reduce the pollution that causes global warming but it will also provide critical peaking power which is otherwise very expensive and often dirtier than baseload generation.”

Gordian Raacke, Executive Director of the not-for-profit Renewable Energy Long Island said: “LIPA’s Solar Pioneer program for homeowners has helped transform a virtually non-existent residential market into a fast growing success story. I hope that LIPA’s new large-scale solar initiative will do the same for commercial and institutional buildings on Long Island. The roofs of our malls, institutional buildings and covered parking lots present a huge opportunity to turn Long Island’s abundant sunshine into clean and green electricity.”

The deadline for RFP responses is June 27, 2008. Recommendations for an award are expected to be made at the October 2008 meeting of LIPA’s Board of Trustees.

A Proposers’ Conference will be held at LIPA’s offices in Uniondale, New York on May 12, 2008, where LIPA staff will provide an overview of key elements of the RFP and answer questions from interested parties. Further details of the conference will be posted on LIPA’s website at http://www.lipower.org/