Announcing March 13-14 High Performance Sustainable Schools Workshop

HIGH PERFORMANCE SUSTAINABLE SCHOOLS: THE PROOF AND THE PROMISE

March 13-14, 2013

Marriott RiverCenter - Covington, KY

If you aspire to high performance buildings for your clients, for your
school, for your students-this workshop is for you.

This two-day workshop will demonstrate proven results of the high
performance building process in Kentucky schools and districts. Sessions
will be led by architects, engineers and facilities directors who have
successfully designed, built, operated and maintained high performance
school buildings.

Day one will include a tour of Turkey Foot Middle School, a net-zero ready
middle school featuring natural lighting, solar collection, insulated
concrete, rainwater harvesting and a green roof. The tour will include one
track for the design professional and one track that will focus on
educational opportunities.


REGISTER NOW: WWW.REGONLINE.COM/HPSS2013 <http://www.regonline.com/HPSS2013>

Lennox’ Environ™ Coil system now available on all Energence® rooftop units up to 25 tons

Lennox' Environ™ Coil system now available on all Energence® rooftop units up to 25 tons

Dallas, TX – (January 29, 2013) –Lennox has expanded the availability of its Environ™ Coil System to 4-, 6-, 13-, 17.5- and 25-ton Energence® rooftop unit models, completing the product lineup to 25 tons. The Environ Coil System will now come standard on Energence rooftop unit models, with the tube-and-fin condenser coil available as an option.

The all-aluminum Environ condenser coil offers a significant reduction in refrigerant charge requirements, with innovative technology that helps maximize reliability and sustainability. It uses up to 52% less refrigerant than a traditional tube-and-fin condenser coil, providing sustainable savings. Additionally, the coil's all-aluminum construction results in a significantly lighter unit weight - up to 59% lighter than traditional coils - shaving a total of approximately 149 pounds, for example, from a 15-ton rooftop unit. Less brazed joints, up to 20% less compared to that of tube and fin coils, decreases the potential for leakage, increasing the reliability of the system. Finally, a mounting configuration that uses rubber inserts, provides vibration dampening to prevent damage during shipping as well as isolation to protect against corrosion. A 3-year warranty is included with the Environ Coil System.

About Lennox Industries Inc.
A worldwide leader in residential and commercial heating and air conditioning systems, Lennox Industries Inc. is based near Dallas, Texas. Deeply committed to helping consumers and businesses reduce energy needs and lessen their environmental impact, the company offers a wide range of resources for improving efficiency, including a selection of ENERGY STAR® qualified products. Lennox Industries is a subsidiary of Lennox International Inc. and is a global leader in the heating, ventilation, air conditioning and refrigeration markets. Lennox International stock is traded on the New York Stock Exchange under the symbol "LII." To learn more about Lennox International, visit www.lennoxinternational.com. To learn more about Lennox Industries, contact a Lennox sales representative or visit www.lennox.com.

News: PV Power Plant for Concrete Manufacturer

5 acre ground mount system provides electricity to high-usage consumer; PPA guarantees electricity rate for 25 years

Dublin (Georgia), January 29, 2013. – MAGE SOLAR, a turn-key provider of optimally coordinated solar PV solutions, and Paradise Energy Solutions, an integrator company operating in nine North Eastern states, announced the completion of a 1.12 MW system for Martin Limestone Inc.

 

Martin Limestone, Inc. is a construction materials supplier providing aggregates, hot-mix asphalt, paving, and concrete products from plants in several locations throughout Pennsylvania. Staying cost competitive without compromising quality has been a huge challenge for the industry in general, especially as utility costs are continually rising. For its New Holland facility Martin Limestone decided to opt for a renewable energy system that would give it a long-term financial advantage. The site is home to a block and ready-mix manufacturing plant as well as warehouses, stores, and offices.

 

But rather than investing in and securing financing for a solar system that would cover nearly 50% of the energy needs for the New Holland Concrete facility, the company chose to engage in a Power Purchase Agreement (PPA) with Sunstream Energy. Sunstream Energy, a sister company of Paradise Energy, is leasing five acres of land on New Holland Concrete’s property where it has installed the 1.12 MW solar farm. In return, Sunstream Energy sells the generated electricity to New Holland Concrete under a 25-year fixed rate.

 

"As a business this project allows us to lock in reasonable long-term electric rates using a clean, renewable power source without a significant upfront investment," comments Jeff Detwiler, chief executive officer of Martin Limestone, the owner of New Holland Concrete. "The system also generates the highest amounts of power during our peak production times."

 

The 4,480 MAGE POWERTEC PLUS modules are mounted on 8 rows of ground mounts and are expected to generate 1.5 million kWh annually, enough electricity to power about 150 homes. Paradise Energy built the system, one of the county’s largest, in only four months and will continue to monitor it for optimal maximum power production. Since the MAGE POWERTEC PLUS modules are warranted to produce 0 to +5 W tolerances only, the system is engineered to generate the highest energy yields possible. Additionally MAGE SOLAR’s signature 30-year 80% power output guarantee ensures some of the longest ROI periods in the industry.

 

"This project created numerous jobs during the construction phase,” said Tim Beiler, CEO of Paradise Energy Solutions. “It is mutually beneficial to the investor, Sunstream Energy, and to the end user of the electricity, Martin Limestone.  I have been thrilled with the cooperation from all parties involved to make this project happen, helping to create a bright and sustainable future for the community."
 

Financing for the system was made possible in part by the Department of Treasury’s 1603 grant program which covered 30% of the project costs, as well as favorable bonus depreciation rules for solar energy systems. The system was commenced at the end of December 2012. 

 

 “The Martin Limestone installation is a particularly great example of the role renewable energy systems play as a valuable economic tool,” adds Joe Thomas, President and CEO of MAGE SOLAR USA. “They have the power to leverage competitiveness and manage operating expenses for the long-term even for high energy users like Martin Limestone. Our sincere thanks and appreciation also go to our partners at Paradise Energy for executing this project so swiftly and competently.”

Limestone, a construction materials supplier based in East Earl, PA. © Paradise Ener

MAGE SOLAR – The Sun on Your Side

MAGE SOLAR USA, headquartered in Dublin, Georgia, specializes in complete solar systems and provides high-quality photovoltaic modules, intelligent mounting systems and high-performance brand inverters. As a subsidiary of the international MAGE GROUP, it uses the Group’s 40 years of know-how to develop optimally coordinated system solutions. A competent partner network guarantees profitable solar energy systems for customers throughout the Americas and in 21 more countries in Europe, Asia, Africa, and Australia. In 2011, the company generated U$280 in sales with around 180 employees.

www.magesolar.com

www.linkedin.com/company/mage-solar-projects-inc
www.facebook.com/magesolar                           

www.twitter.com/mage_solar

 

Paradise Energy Solutions

Paradise Energy Solutions, LLC is an experienced and qualified solar energy contractor with offices in Pennsylvania, Illinois, Maryland, Massachusetts, New York and Ohio.  They are a fully licensed and insured Solar Energy Contractor in Pennsylvania (PA), New Jersey (NJ), Maryland (MD), Delaware (DE), New York (NY), Massachusetts (MA), Ohio (OH), and Illinois (IL).  They are also an “Approved Solar PV Installer” under many state rebate programs in the states listed.   Paradise Energy has 45 employees and has installed a total of over 5 megawatts of solar-power as of the end of 2012.  In addition, Paradise Energy Solution’s CEO Tim Beiler, as well as Larry Beiler, Manager of PA Operations, have earned the industry's leading recognition of expertise as a certified installer of solar electric systems (aka "photovoltaic" or "PV" systems) and certified technical sales from the North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners (NABCEP).

 

www.paradisesolarenergy.com

www.linkedin.com/company/paradise-energy-solutions-llc
www.facebook.com/ParadiseEnergySolutions                 

www.twitter.com/paradisesolar

 

 

About Sunstream Energy

Sunstream Energy, a sister company of Paradise Energy Solutions, is a growing investment company that specializes in large Solar systems. Owned and operated by four brothers, they have more than a megawatt of solar production.

 

About Martin Limestone

Martin Limestone, a division of New Enterprise Stone & Lime Co., Inc., is a mining, manufacturing, and paving construction company based in East Earl, PA.  Their construction materials are produced for agricultural and industrial uses as well as the construction of roads, homes, athletic facilities and corporate and industrial buildings throughout the Mid-Atlantic region.

Climate Change and Coastal Land Use: A Game Changer for the Business of City Building

WASHINGTON (January 24, 2013) – The impact of climate change will play a greater role in shaping coastal development in the years ahead, influencing decisions on what is built and rebuilt, where and how it is built, and how it is insured and financed, according to insurance and real estate professionals speaking at a global policy and practice forum hosted by the Urban Land Institute (ULI).

The increased frequency of property casualties associated extreme weather events, including severe hurricanes, tornadoes, floods, storm surges, and drought-fueled fires, as well as significant sea level increases are changing how property risk is valued, noted the panelists.  The changes in both extreme weather events and risks are compelling the real estate industry to explore new development practices that implement adaptive measures that better protect both the built and natural environment.  Increased climate risks are also raising awareness of the need for more investments to make existing buildings more energy efficient and reduce the carbon emissions associated with buildings.

"For the real estate industry, the risk posed to urbanized coastal areas by climate change has become a global issue with dramatic local ramifications. It's one of several drivers – along with economic, demographic and societal changes – that are necessitating a different approach to coastal development in the twenty-first century," said ULI Chief Executive Officer Patrick L. Phillips. "Whether necessitated by reasons related to market demand or environmental concerns, rebuilding presents an opportunity to reduce risk in the future, enhance livability, restore natural resources, and increase community resilience." 

The forum, "Resilience and Risk in Coastal Regions," held January 16-17 in Washington, D.C., included representatives of the federal government, local governments, investors, property owners and leading members of the insurance and reinsurance industries.  Among the panelists' observations and predictions:    

• Mark-to-market pricing could be replaced by "mark-to-future" pricing that reflects external factors such as a community's sea wall height and internal factors such as whether the building mechanical systems are elevated in a building. "This century will be about high volatility and huge uncertainty…Planning will be stepped up for events related to climate change, and buildings will be assessed for what will break."
• Population growth and the rise of the global middle class is accelerating the urbanization of coastal cities worldwide, increasing their vulnerability to high losses of life and property damage from catastrophic storms.
• In the U.S., compromised infrastructure systems are adding to the risks faced by these rapidly growing areas. "Reinsurers and insurers are facing increasing losses around the globe, and what it boils down to is how to deal with uncertainty going forward."
• Risk assessments are being adjusted to account for the fact that storms originating off the coast are increasingly having a major effect on geographic areas far beyond the initial landfall point, reaching places where buildings are not constructed to the same standards as those on the coast.
• Several lessons resulted from Hurricane Sandy that can be applied to urban planning for the future:  1) Critical infrastructure (such as electricity grids) should be restructured to provide more individualized service on a block-by-block basis, so whole communities do not lose power at once; 2) Land uses need to be reevaluated, in terms of which areas should not be rebuilt or rebuilt differently; 3) Consideration should be given to elevating water and sewer systems to factor in sea level increases; and 4) a new system of infrastructure financing, such as an infrastructure bank, is needed to generate funds to upgrade and build more weather-resilient systems.
• The carbon footprint of buildings will increasingly affect property values and the availability of financing. Tenants seeking to lower their own carbon emissions will choose to lease space in high performing buildings, even if the rent is more expensive. "Carbon is the new asbestos for real estate; and it's on everyone's balance sheet."
• Property insurance underwriting is being driven by the desire for market share, which is causing many companies to be heavily exposed in areas inadequately prepared to withstand natural and manmade disasters. More programs are needed to incentivize cities to implement adaptation measures.
• The costs of business interruption are often far higher than those for replacing properties and repairing damage, but business interruption is seldom reflected in policy coverage. In addition to the vulnerability of their own locations, companies need to gauge the risks posed by the locations of partners such as parts suppliers. As storms become more frequent and intense, long-term economic losses will eclipse property destruction as the major threat to urban prosperity. 
• More and more coastal areas are being affected not just by major storms, but by "non-event" weather that is flooding heavily built-up shorelines. A more balanced approach is needed that reflects the likelihood of future damage (and thus avoids rebuilding in the most disaster-prone areas), but which also recognizes that coastal real estate is a key economic driver. One likely outcome: greater use of the waterfront as open space, which creates value for the entire community but can also act as a protective barrier to storm surges.

Observed forum keynote speaker Fred Krupp, president of the Environmental Defense Fund: "Finding solutions to climate change is not an easy path, but a necessary path. We must keep talking about these issues, because we have paid a heavy price for our silence."

About the Urban Land Institute

The Urban Land Institute (www.uli.org) is a nonprofit education and research institute supported by its members. Its mission is to provide leadership in the responsible use of land and in creating and sustaining thriving communities worldwide. Established in 1936, the Institute has nearly 30,000 members representing all aspects of land use and development disciplines.

 

ASHRAE Seeks Input on Revisions to Data Centers in 90.1 Energy Standard Scope

ASHRAE Seeks Input on Revisions to Data Centers in 90.1 Energy Standard Scope

ATLANTA – Addendum cs to ANSI/ASHRAE/IES Standard 90.1-2010, Energy Standard for Buildings Except Low-Rise Residential Buildings, is open for advisory public review from Jan. 4-Feb. 3, 2013. The addendum proposes changes to definitions for computer rooms and data centers in Standard 90.1 to create a distinction between facilities covered by 90.1 and those which are intended to be under the scope of ASHRAE Standard 90.4P, Energy Standard for Data Centers and Telecommunications Buildings, proposed by ASHRAE in late 2012.

The definition proposed for computer rooms more closely aligns with ASHRAE Standard 100, Energy Efficiency in Existing Buildings, and the U.S. Energy Information Administration's Commercial Building Energy Consumption Survey (CBECS). In addition, the definition is consistent with Uptime Institutes' "Tier Standard: Topology" and the Telecommunications Industry Association ANSI/TIA-942 class rating for low-risk Tier I data centers. High risk data centers such as those designed as Tier II or greater per ANSI/TIA942 or ones with mechanical cooling system redundancy are expected to be covered by the 90.4P standard now under development.

Steve Skalko, chair of the Standard 90.1 committee, said with the development of Standard 90.4P feedback is needed from the industry to clarify the scope and definitions of each standard. Energy conservation requirements for high risk data centers, initially covered by Standard 90.1-2010, are expected to be detailed in the 90.4P standard. Computer rooms, which can include low-risk data centers, would remain under the scope of Standard 90.1.

"The costs and approaches used in determining appropriate HVAC applications used to achieve energy efficiency are different," he said.

Computer rooms, which by the proposed definitions include low-risk data centers, are usually associated with electronic equipment spaces that are not considered risks and therefore money is typically not spent to install levels of component and systems redundancies. Computer rooms may be ancillary functions and add loads in a larger building and often are served from the same central cooling plants.

Computer rooms are designed to provide local data processing and information storage for in-house end users and clients, which the owner has deemed very low risk. Risk choices are made to reduce total life cycle costs associated with not only system selection and operation, but potential failures, business interruptions, continuity plans and overall company specific business model features like staffing requirements, according to Skalko.

By comparison, data centers designed as Tier II or greater per ANSI/TIA942 or ones with mechanical cooling system redundancy carry more risk, he said. Industry studies indicate downtime associated with such risk can cost tens of thousands of dollars a minute, with the potential to negate both past energy savings and future business viability in a single act. The demand for data centers has grown, as the electronic equipment needs have evolved with the huge demand for data processing services and storage in the age of digital devices.

A data center has the function to support the electronic equipment that commonly provides services to outside or external clients, hence the heightened awareness of risk and risk mitigation approaches employed. Data centers can support everything from an individual enterprise all the way to hosting services on the internet and must provide maximum operational run time on a 24-7 basis. These facilities are built with multiple levels of component redundancy, providing at least an N+1 mechanical cooling capacity redundancy, if not greater, as well as operational resiliency (increased staffing hours and expertise), Skalko said.

To comment or to learn more, visit www.ashrae.org/publicreviews.

ASHRAE, founded in 1894, is a building technology society with more than 50,000 members worldwide. The Society and its members focus on building systems, energy efficiency, indoor air quality, refrigeration and sustainability within the industry. Through research, standards writing, publishing and continuing education, ASHRAE shapes tomorrow's built environment today.

Sustainable Lighting Made From Recycled Bottles

 

Metro Lighting Launches Recycled Glass Line Through Kickstarter

 

Berkeley, California - January 10, 2013 - Metro Lighting, a sustainable business leader, is launching a line of recycled glass lamps and fixtures through Kickstarter.com. The shades are made from clear bottle glass that is crushed, melted, and poured into molds. Metro Lighting builds the lamps and fixtures in their workshop in Berkeley, California.

 

"We designed a custom mold for lighting after we found a studio that could cast recycled glass," says Lawrence Grown, who owns Metro Lighting with is wife and business partner Christa Rybczynski. Both hold degrees in architecture. "The glass has a wonderful texture that is evidence of the casting process," says Rybczynski, "Each shade is a beautiful work of illuminated art." The shades are offered in seven colors, each available clear or sandblasted. LED light engines pair well with the sandblasted shades.

 

Metro Lighting (metrolighting.com, facebook.com/metrolightingCA) has been an Alameda County Certified Green Business since 2008. A rooftop solar array provides 100% of the energy needs for their retail showroom and manufacturing facility in Berkeley, California. The showroom features many fixtures built from repurposed items including glass insulators (from telephone poles), liquor bottles, bicycle rims and gears, and traffic light lenses in green, yellow, and red. 

 

Metro Lighting is the recipient of multiple awards, including Acterra's Business Environmental Award for Sustainable Built Environment, Residential Lighting Showroom Of The Year for Exceptional Community Involvement, and Best Green Business in the East Bay.  Most recently Metro lighting received a Berkeley Benchmarking Award from the East Bay Environmental Network presented by Assemblywoman Nancy Skinner in November of 2012.   

 

Founded in 1993, Metro Lighting creates beautiful sustainable lighting, handcrafted in California. Their design-build studio moved the world towards a zero-waste culture by providing sustainable lighting fixtures intended to delight customers for generations. Their goal is to shift the lighting industry away from disposable products made by disposable labor overseas, to sustainable lighting made by skilled artisans in the United States, as noted in the slow goods movement. Metro Lighting simultaneously provides customers with the best products while supporting local skilled artisans in California.

# # #

For more information or high-resolution photos, please contact Christa Rybczynski at 510-540-0509 or christa@metrolighting.com, or visit kickstarter.com.

Lennox adds new high-efficiency models to Landmark® rooftop unit line

Lennox adds new high-efficiency models to Landmark® rooftop unit line

Dallas, TX – (January 8, 2013) – In order to offer customers increased energy savings and overall lower utility costs, Lennox has added high-efficiency 7.5- to 10-ton, gas/electric and  electric/electric models to its existing line of Landmark® rooftop units. Designed for use in new construction or for the replacement of an existing rooftop unit, high-efficiency Landmark® units offer customers increased energy savings and reliability, along with the flexibility of field configuration.

With the addition of Lennox' optional MSAV supply fan technology, Landmark units are up to 25% more efficient.* This factory-installed technology uses a variable frequency drive to deliver supply fan power savings of up to 61% while still meeting comfort requirements. Additionally, high-efficiency Landmark models may help businesses qualify for state and local utility rebates.

"Our high-efficiency Landmark models help businesses reduce energy use without sacrificing comfort," said Mike Ray, Senior Rooftop Unit Product Manager, Lennox Commercial. "We have also built added flexibility into our entire Landmark product line, providing installers with a solution for their needs at any job site, and customers with a unit that fits many applications."

The Landmark unit's flexible design offers more than 100 field customizable options and over 30 features designed to reduce installation and service time. This includes an isolated compressor compartment for easier, more accurate charge confirmation; a slide-out blower that offers quick belt tensioning, adjustment or replacement and easier cleaning of the blower wheel; and an accessible gas compartment that simplifies analysis and service.

These new Landmark units feature the Environ™ Coil System, which helps makes the unit easier to service and clean—a single service technician can clean the coil—reducing costs associated with maintenance. In addition, the all-aluminum coil is more resistant to corrosion, increasing the unit's reliability.

Coupled with the release of the 7.5- to 10-ton high-efficiency Landmark rooftop models is a company-wide expansion to address emergency replacement markets, designed to increase speed and availability of products to the light commercial rooftop industry. Many commonly used, standard- and high-efficiency Landmark units are now stocked and available the same-day in many major markets.  These models are available to 98% of North America within 48 hours or less through local Lennox commercial warehouses and select Lennox PartsPlus™ stores. To further expedite the emergency replacement process, Lennox offers a dedicated hotline to provide contractors quotes and availability within minutes.

Landmark units are available in 3- to 25-ton gas/electric and electric/electric and 3- to 20-ton heat pump configurations, with efficiency ratings up to 13 SEER, 14 IEER and 12.7 EER.

Warranties offered on the Landmark rooftop unit include a 15-year limited warranty on the stainless steel gas heat exchanger; a 10-year limited warranty on the aluminized gas heat exchanger; a 5-year limited warranty on the compressor; a 3- year limited warranty on the Environ™ coil system and a 1- year limited warranty on all covered components.

*Part load, IEER improvement. Comparing standard 11.2 IEER system to optional MSAV 14 IEER system.    

About Lennox Industries Inc.
A worldwide leader in residential and commercial heating and air conditioning systems, Lennox Industries Inc. is based near Dallas, Texas. Deeply committed to helping consumers and businesses reduce energy needs and lessen their environmental impact, the company offers a wide range of resources for improving efficiency, including a selection of ENERGY STAR® qualified products. Lennox Industries is a subsidiary of Lennox International Inc. and is a global leader in the heating, ventilation, air conditioning and refrigeration markets. Lennox International stock is traded on the New York Stock Exchange under the symbol "LII." To learn more about Lennox International, visit www.lennoxinternational.com. To learn more about Lennox Industries, contact a Lennox sales representative or visit www.lennox.com.

Sharpen Your Solar Skills in 2013

Student-friendly online format for convenient distance learning; Seminars and workshops for general public round off curriculum 

Dublin (Georgia), December 19, 2012.—MAGE SOLAR ACADEMY, a premiere training and education arena for the PV industry, just announced its 2013 course schedule.

Starting in January, MAGE SOLAR ACADEMY will offer some of its most popular courses in a convenient online format to accommodate busy schedules and reduce travel time. Among the first courses slated to go live online is Solar Civics; a 2 hour overview for schools, municipalities, and the general public interested in solar energy and its benefits. Following Solar Civics will be Fundamentals of Business and Technical Sales in mid February. As one of the most requested courses at MAGE SOLAR ACADEMY, this 8 hour training session on proven business practices and essential technical knowhow for the quickly expanding solar industry also qualifies for 8 CEUs with NABCEP, the North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners. 

In March of 2013, the online version of PV Field Inspectors will be available. At the center of this course is a thorough review of the 2011 NEC code and an overview over basic PV system requirements and efficiency. Students also learn how to correctly address safety, connectivity, as well as operation issues and identify common installation mistakes. 

Besides its new online presence MAGE SOLAR ACADEMY will continue to offer key courses in a traditional classroom format. With its strong emphasis on practical hands-on training and the actual installation of an operational PV-system, SOLAR PV 101—Entry Level will be a staple again in the Academy’s 2013 curriculum. Following the successful completion of this 40 hour course in collaboration with Oconee Fall Line Technical College, participants are eligible to sit for the NABCEP Entry Level Exam. The first 2013 SOLAR PV 101 course date is April 8-12 at the MAGE SOLAR ACADEMY in Dublin, Georgia, a state-of-the-art 10,000 sq ft learning facility with vast indoor and outdoor training areas plus a solar technology park. 

Parallel to its new online format PV Field Inspectors is scheduled to meet on February 22 at MAGE SOLAR ACADEMY, following the first 2013-classroom session of Fundamentals of Business and Technical Sales on January 25. Solar Civics on March 26 will conclude the new course offerings for the first quarter in Dublin.

A month later, on April 26, Fundamentals of Business and Technical Sales will be offered as a day-long face-to-face course also, with Grounding and Bonding following on May 10. This 8-hour course is designed as in-depth review of the 2011 National Electric Code, conductor sizing applications, and sample calculations.

Amy Harrelson was recently named Head of MAGE SOLAR ACADEMY. Bringing with her over seven years of experience in higher education in addition to her PV background, she comments: “Since its opening in January of 2011 MAGE SOLAR ACADEMY has matured into a well-established and respected training arena for PV professionals and many others interested in the fast growing solar market. With the expansion into online education MAGE SOLAR ACADEMY takes the next logical step to further increase its presence. We will continually enhance our course offerings and methods of delivery so installers and others interested in learning more about solar energy can add necessary skills and knowledge on the high level they have come to expect from MAGE SOLAR ACADEMY.” 

To view a complete course schedule and register, please visit MAGE SOLAR ACADEMY or email msa@magesolaracademy.com for more information. You may also call the Academy toll-free +1 (877) 311-6243 or at +1 (478) 609-6751 directly.

MAGE SOLAR ACADEMY

MAGE SOLAR ACADEMY, located at the American corporate campus of MAGE SOLAR USA in Dublin, Georgia, is a premier educational arena for professionals of all levels and occupations in the expanding PV-market. A subsidiary of the international MAGE SOLAR GROUP, the academy boasts over 10,000 sqf of state-of-the-art educational technology, indoor/ outdoor training and simulation areas.

www.magesolaracademy.com

MAGE SOLAR – The Sun on Your Side

MAGE SOLAR USA, headquartered in Dublin, Georgia, specializes in complete solar systems and provides high-quality photovoltaic modules, intelligent mounting systems and high-performance brand inverters. As a subsidiary of the international MAGE GROUP, it uses the Group’s 40 years of know-how to develop optimally coordinated system solutions. A competent partner network guarantees profitable solar energy systems for customers throughout the Americas and in 21 more countries in Europe, Asia, Africa, and Australia. In 2011, the company generated U$280 in sales with around 180 employees.

 

www.magesolar.com

www.linkedin.com/company/mage-solar-projects-inc
www.facebook.com/magesolar                           

www.twitter.com/mage_solar

Energy-Efficient Garage Remodel Features LED Lighting from EnvironmentalLights.com

Energy-Efficient Garage Remodel Features LED Lighting from EnvironmentalLights.com

San Diego homeowners convert garage into a guest house with a focus on green remodeling and energy-efficiency

EnvironmentalLights.com, a leading source for high-quality, energy-efficient LED lighting, recently teamed up with local San Diego residents to complete a green garage remodel. The nonfunctional garage was transformed into a finished guest house, complete with LED lighting, energy-efficient windows, insulation, a tankless water heater, water conserving toilet and low-voltage heating/cooling unit.

"We wanted to incorporate sustainable, durable and energy-efficient materials into our garage remodel," said Justin Brown, homeowner. "By paying attention to the details and paying a little extra for the upgraded materials we knew that we would be adding resale value to our home."

According to the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB), the Remodeling Market Index (RMI) climbed to 50 in the third quarter of 2012, up from 45 in the previous quarter. The RMI is at its highest point since the third quarter of 2005, tracking the positive trends recently seen in the rest of the housing sector.

With only 840 square feet in their 1930s-era house, the additional 320 square feet that the garage added to their living space provides them with not only an additional bathroom, but also home office and family room.

"From our initial drawings and concepts, the garage has every detail we wanted down to the custom closets and fun color-changing LED lighting" said Stacy Brown, homeowner. "The lighting and appliances also help to cut down on additional costs we may see in our utility bills."

A detached garage conversion is also a perfect way for a homeowner to make a little extra money by using the space as a rental property. In this case, the homeowners also added a private gated entrance from the driveway so future owners could consider this option.

By properly insulating the garage, adding windows and also installing an energy-efficient heating and air conditioning unit in the space, the new guest house complies with local ordinances and building codes and is guaranteed to be warm in winter and cool in summer.

Why Go Green?

The National Association of Home Builders states that the top ways to increase energy efficiency are:

• Install appropriate insulation in area to be remodeled.
• Install high-efficiency windows instead of those that minimally meet the energy code.
• Seal all exterior penetrations in areas being remodeled.
• Purchase only ENERGY STAR®-rated appliances.
• Install only low-flow water fixtures.
• Upgrade to at least an ENERGY STAR®-rated water heater, or better yet, a tankless water heater.
• Purchase the highest efficiency HVAC system you can afford and make sure it is correctly sized for the area you want to condition.

 

Energy-Efficient Lighting

LED lighting was installed in the entire guest house to help save on extra energy costs - and to add a little extra flair. The LED light bulbs in the ceiling lights are wirelessly controlled by a Lutron Pico Wireless remote synced to Lutron Maestro Wireless Electronic Low Voltage dimmers. This allows the user to turn all the lights on/off or dim them from any area in guest house at the same time.

A Lutron Pico wireless remote was also synced up to the outdoor lighting so that the homeowners can turn on the lights from inside their home before walking out to the guest house.

The built-in cabinets in the laundry and wet bar area really bring the room alive with their color-changing capabilities. RGB Double Density LED strip light was installed above and below the cabinets and are controlled with an RGB LED Touch Controller.

"Everyone that visits the house loves to play with the new color-changing LED lights," said Brown. "I can't believe how energy-efficient they are. They use less than 50 watts of power!"

The LED controller allows them to use the color wheel to select any color they desire or choose one of the 11 pre-programmed modes, which includes flipping through all the colors. White light can also be created with this strip light for standard lighting use.

View a video of the color changing LED strip lighting: http://youtu.be/EdpIlvximYc

About EnvironmentalLights.com 

EnvironmentalLights.com is a leading resource for sustainable, energy-efficient LED lighting products to meet the needs of business, commercial and residential clients. Founded in 2006 by Greg and Anne Thorson, their in-house sales engineers provide expert advice in the selection and design of lighting systems, as well as technical support throughout the installation process.

EnvironmentalLights.com offers a broad spectrum of LED light bulbs, strip and rope light, under cabinet light systems, Christmas lights, dimmers, controls and necessary hardware for any lighting project.

Can gray water keep landscapes green?

UVALDE – With water resources throughout Texas becoming scarcer, a Texas A&M AgriLife Research ornamental horticulturist is working with others to determine the feasibility of using gray water to irrigate home landscapes.

"There has been interest in and discussion about the possible use of gray water for irrigating home landscapes, but so far little formal research has been done to validate its practicality," said Dr. Raul Cabrera, Texas A&M AgriLife Extension and Research Center in Uvalde.

Cabrera said gray water is essentially "soapy" water left after tap water has been run through a washing machine or used in a bathtub, bathroom sink or shower and does not contain serious contaminants.

He said while it is difficult to precisely estimate the statewide potential for water savings through the use of gray water and application of the technology needed, it may reduce household landscape water use by up to 50 percent, depending on the size, type of landscape plants used and geographical location.

"The average household uses as much as 50-60 percent of its water consumption for the landscape – grass, ornamental plants, trees, etc.," he said. "Considering that the average family of four produces about 90 gallons of gray water per day, if this was used to irrigate a landscape, it could represent a significant water savings."

Cabrera said this would be especially true for a large city such as nearby San Antonio, which has more than 1.3 million people in its metropolitan area.

"Implementing the use of gray water for landscape irrigation across the state could mean a tremendous water savings in terms of acre-feet of water, contributing to the water use and conservation goals of the recently released 2012 Water Plan," Cabrera said.

Using gray water is one of the easiest ways to reduce the need for potable water typically used in a home landscape, said Dr. Calvin Finch, director of the Water Conservation and Technology Center in San Antonio, which is administered by the Texas Water Resources Institute, part of the Texas A&M University System. The institute is participating in the gray water research, as well as providing funding.

Finch said the Texas 2012 Water Plan identifies more than 500 specific activities that, if implemented, would help meet the state's future water needs.

"One of the low-hanging fruit projects that is often overlooked is use of gray water from households," he said. "Research results indicate that with minimum precautions water from our showers, bathroom sinks and clothes washers could be used to meet up to 10-15 percent of our overall landscape water needs."

Gray water differs from reclaimed water in that it is not captured water from sewer drainage or storm-water systems and then run through a waste-water treatment facility, Cabrera said.

"Reclaimed or 'purple-line' water is used for irrigation by some large-acreage operations such as golf courses, sports fields and large businesses," Cabrera said. "But gray water is just potable water that has been used for fairly benign household activities and could be reused immediately or stored and used soon after its initial use.

"It is also not what is referred to as 'black' water, which is used water from a toilet or the kitchen sink, both of which have a higher potential for containing bacteria and other organisms considered hazardous for human health. In this regard, gray water poses a minimal risk, particularly if we look primarily at water generated from clothes-washing machines."

He said some southwestern U.S. states, including parts of Texas, already allow for the use of gray water under certain restrictions, such as irrigation through delivery by flooding, subsurface or drip irrigation.

"While gray water has little potential for containing hazardous organisms, such as coliform bacteria, these irrigation distribution methods are preferred to spraying in order to further ensure safety," he said.

Cabrera said collaborating entities working to evaluate the viability of gray water use include AgriLife Research, the Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service, Texas Water Resources Institute, Water Conservation and Technology Center and Texas Center for Applied Technology.

"Here at the Uvalde AgriLife center, we will be focusing primarily on evaluating the efficacy of gray water use on ornamental plants," he said. "We will establish a display plot of conventional and water-use-efficient ornamental plants that will simulate a typical Texas landscape, so we can evaluate the short-term and long-term effects of gray water on these plants and their surrounding soil."

Cabrera said one concern about using gray water on home landscapes is possible salt content.

"Some detergents may have a high salt content in the form of sodium, chloride or boron, which could potentially 'burn' a plant," he said. "Part of our research here will involve determining the salinity and specific constituents found in gray water and their effect on plants, plus determining the efficacy and function of irrigation systems."

He said there is also the concern that some of the constituents in soapy water might plug drip irrigation systems, thus requiring additional and periodic care and maintenance.

"Additional research will address how variations in water quality, such as soft vs. hard water, may affect the salt content and chemical constitution of the produced gray water and how it affects plant growth and quality" he said.

He said the Texas Center for Applied Technology, part of Texas A&M Engineering, would "evaluate the plumbing and delivery technology needed to retrofit a household" so gray water could be used to irrigate a home landscape.

"They will evaluate the routing and, if allowed, the possible capture and short-term containment, as well as any filtration needed along with the means by which it can be delivered to the landscape," he said.

He added if essential aspects of the initial research are positive, additional involvement might include microbiologists and health officials to address any perceived health issues or concerns.

"If the totality of the research validates the use of gray water, AgriLife Extension personnel would provide educational outreach to inform water management entities and the public about its potential utilization and the water savings it could represent at the local and statewide levels," Cabrera said.

Initial gray water testing and evaluation will take from nine months to a year, he noted.

"We hope the results will support the launching and development of a statewide initiative to conserve water resources that will involve many additional partners," Cabrera said