Green Building Materials News and Reviews

Trane Sets Benchmark for Energy Efficiency and Sound Reduction

noreply@blogger.com (Matt Banes) — Tue, 18 Jun 2013 23:49:00 +0000

Stealth™ air-cooled chiller delivers reduced energy consumption, improved flexibility and performance

Trane, a leading global provider of indoor comfort solutions and services and a brand of Ingersoll Rand, introduces the newest addition to its air-cooled chiller product portfolio, the Trane Stealth™ air-cooled chiller. Available in the 150-300 ton capacity range, Stealth air-cooled chillers deliver an industry-leading combination of part-load and full-load efficiencies and the lowest published sound levels for an air-cooled chiller in the heating, ventilation and air conditioning industry.

At the core of the Stealth chiller’s performance is AdaptiSpeed™ technology – the integration of a direct-drive, specific-speed screw compressor, permanent-magnet motors and third-generation Trane Adaptive Frequency™ Drive (AFD3).

“Building on more than 40 years of experience designing air-cooled chillers, Trane engineers brought innovation and knowledge to every component of the next-generation Stealth air-cooled chiller,” said Al Fullerton, chiller product business leader for Trane North America. “These new technologies deliver superior chiller performance and reliability, equating to an extremely low cost of ownership.”

The chiller’s innovative compressor design delivers peak efficiency under all operating conditions. As a result, the Stealth air-cooled chiller is capable of up to12.1 energy efficiency ratio (EER), minimizing the electrical infrastructure required as well as the impact of demand-based utility costs during periods of peak operation. The design also delivers up to 20 integrated part-load value (IPLV) to drive lower overall electrical consumption and ensure energy savings across typical operating conditions.

Additionally, the new compact, high-performance, integrated, low-charge (CHIL) evaporator technology optimizes refrigerant flow for improved efficiency and better heat transfer performance, while using up to 40 percent less refrigerant than traditional flooded designs.

Quiet operation is designed into every Stealth air-cooled chiller as standard, along with two optional InvisiSound™ acoustic reduction treatments available to meet specific application needs.

The key to low sound levels is the combination of variable-speed compressors, variable-speed condenser fans and an integrated compressor muffler. Because variable-speed compressors and condenser fans only operate as fast as demand levels require, their overall sound levels are less than those of constant-speed units. The integrated compressor muffler reduces sound even more — up to 10 decibels (dB) when compared to the previous compressor designs.

For additional sound reduction, the InvisiSound Superior package adds acoustical treatments to key sound-generating components. For installations that require the lowest published sound levels for an air-cooled chiller, the InvisiSound Ultimate package features a user-selectable noise-reduction mode that can be activated to limit the maximum condenser fan speed, achieving even lower sound levels and unit operation management to comply with nighttime and weekend noise restrictions.

“Three available InvisiSound packages provide flexibility for our customers to meet their buildings’ unique needs,” said Todd Duncan, product manager for air-cooled chillers. “Additional design features, exclusive controls and factory-installed options save time during Stealth chiller installation and assure consistent performance.”

Trane controls add additional performance and efficiency advantages. The Tracer™ UC800 provides the intelligence behind the Stealth chiller and features Adaptive Control™ algorithms that respond to a variety of conditions to maintain efficient chiller plant operation.

The chiller’s design allows for easy integration with facilities that have specialized requirements. In the case of a power interruption, Stealth chiller’s rapid restart capability can quickly regain full operational capacity, so mission-critical applications can maintain maximum uptime.

Unique to the industry, the Trane true 24-pulse drive produces low harmonic distortion levels that meet the stringent requirements of IEEE 519. Its rugged design also means the AFD3 can effectively handle electrical dips, surges and other imbalances to maintain reliable chiller operation.

Stealth air-cooled chillers include standard features and are available with additional factory-installed options to make system design, installation and start-up faster and easier. The chillers also incorporate multiple design features for easier, safer and less frequent maintenance once installed.

The Trane Stealth air-cooled chiller is ideal for a wide variety of building types and sizes – both new construct and existing buildings, especially for K-12 educational institutions and data centers.

To learn more, visit www.trane.com/Stealth.

Reporters may contact: Joan Schimml, +1.651.260.4983, joan.schimml@irco.com.

Green Roof Performance Monitoring

noreply@blogger.com (Matt Banes) — Fri, 05 Apr 2013 05:24:00 +0000

WEB-BASED WEATHER STATIONS TRACK PERFORMANCE OF GREEN ROOF DEMONSTRATION PLOTS AT AMHERST COLLEGE

BOURNE, MA, April 4, 2013 — Amherst College in Western Massachusetts has installed a series of research-grade, web-based weather stations to monitor the performance of two green roof demonstration plots for its new science center.

The college plans to cover the rooftop of the new building with vegetation to help offset interior cooling costs, and help the four-story, 250,000-square-foot facility blend in with its natural surroundings. The building, which is estimated to open in 2018, will house the college's various science departments and programs.

Green roofs are an increasingly-popular means to absorb rainwater, provide insulation, offer a habitat for wildlife, and lower urban air temperatures. Vegetation, which can completely or partially cover the roof, is planted over a waterproof membrane. These living roofs typically include drainage and irrigation systems.

Four web-based HOBO® U30 weather stations from Onset, a Massachusetts-based company, are being used to help track local weather conditions to determine the most prolific vegetation varieties for the college's proposed green roof.

The stations, which feature double-weatherproof enclosures, are outfitted with plug-in soil moisture and temperature sensors that were installed in the roof's soil matrix at various depths. They also include sensors for measuring air temperature, wind speed, wind direction, relative humidity, rainfall, barometric pressure, and solar-radiation data. The units are affixed to the top of an 8-foot shade wall, from which they transmit data wirelessly to the college's computer network via HOBOlink, a cloud-based data access service hosted by Onset. This allows for remote access to data on a 24/7 basis.

"Remote access to data is key to the success of this study because it eliminates sneaker traffic from the team's office in Boston to the site on campus," said Gregory Johnson, president at Vermont-based Kilawatt Technologies and consultant on the project. "In addition, members of the design team on the West Coast can access the data instantly."

The HOBO U30 weather stations can also be configured to send text and email alerts when measurements hit high and low values that exceed set tolerance.

The weather stations are collecting data from the demonstration plots every 15 minutes, 24 hours a day, for the duration of the 2012-2013 growing season. The data collected by the stations will help determine specific air temperatures, humidity levels, and moisture levels that yield the healthiest plants, and gauge how the green roof is performing.

ABOUT ONSET
Onset is the world's leading supplier of data loggers. The company's HOBO data logger and weather station products are used around the world in a broad range of applications, including building energy performance monitoring, water resources management, and ecological and agricultural research. Based on Cape Cod, Massachusetts, Onset has sold more than 2 million data loggers since the company's founding in 1981. Visit Onset on the web at http://www.onsetcomp.com.

ABOUT KILAWATT TECHNOLOGIES
Kilawatt Technologies, based in Shelburne, Vermont, provides a data-centric, statistically-based, energy and environmental management program. The methods involve continuous trending and analysis of energy and interior environmental data for commercial, multi-family, and industrial buildings. Visit Kilawatt on the web at http://www.kilawatt.com.

Green Building News and Insight from iGreenBuild.com: Recycled Roof for Major Sports and Entertainment A...

noreply@blogger.com (Matt Banes) — Tue, 26 Mar 2013 14:04:00 +0000

Here is a good example of how recycled materials can be used to renovate a roofing system on a high use, very visible sports arena in Boston... Green Building News and Insight from iGreenBuild.com: Recycled Roof for Major Sports and Entertainment Arena

Door Hardware for Harsh Conditions

noreply@blogger.com (Matt Banes) — Thu, 07 Mar 2013 14:17:00 +0000

Von Duprin Compiles “Harsh Environment” Suite

of Door Hardware

Water, Salt or High Winds, Von Duprin Provides

Products that Fight Extreme Environments

CARMEL, Ind., March 7, 2013 – For facilities in code-driven regions and humid, salty and high wind conditions, such as outdoor venues, coastal buildings or wet environments including pools, aquariums, water parks and zoos that require extra protection, Von Duprin has brought together a suite of products that assure buildings remain safe and secure. Products include coatings that inhibit rust and those that are designed, tested and certified to WS9827/9927 and 237 standards, which both meet the FEMA 361 and 320 building codes for windstorm resistance.

“Harsh environments can damage exit devices and other door hardware quickly, whether the abuse comes from salt, water or excessive winds,” explains Joseph Vaida, Ingersoll Rand Security Technologies, portfolio marketing manager-mechanical. “For these applications, the same door hardware that’s used in one place in the facility may not be appropriate for areas that needed to fight these harsh conditions. Therefore, Von Duprin offers this suite of hardware to fight abusive elements.”

Exit devices exposed to extreme conditions and weather need additional protection against the elements. For these applications, Von Duprin can apply a clear protective coating to the exterior and interior of an exit device’s mechanical parts to help prevent the effects of weather or chemical corrosion, extending the life of the device. This clear protective coating improves chemical and corrosion resistance and additionally provides antimicrobial protection.

Exit devices on the exterior of a building are often exposed to the weather. Humidity and heavy rain can find its way into the exit device and cause electronics to malfunction. By water-proofing switches, designed to function safely in humid or wet conditions, Von Duprin helps prevent the effects of humidity and rain.

Exit devices mounted to exterior doors are often exposed to rain and other elements. Water enters the exit device and causes critical components to potentially rust or function improperly. Von Duprin can add drainage holes to assure exterior exit devices don’t hold water in the mechanism case and rust the mechanics. These drainage holes let water leave the exit device and are essential for products mounted on exterior doors to deliver long-lasting functionality and durability.

Severe wind and tornadoes requires a safe and secure shelter. Such extreme conditions require specialized testing to both the exit device and the total opening. Von Duprin offers certified and tested products to help keep people safe in the event of an environmental incident, providing superior protection from severe weather. FEMA- and ICC-compliant, reinforced components help secure the building and its occupants from wind and debris. Harsh environment exit devices are certified for hurricane and tornado resistant applications.

“For a long lasting doorway that will endure through some of the harshest conditions, Von Duprin products with these harsh environment options are what facility managers challenged by such applications need,” adds Vaida. “It’s imperative that integrators and their customers specify door hardware that matches the need of each and every access point.”

The harsh environment suite of Von Duprin door hardware is available now. More information is available at http://w3.securitytechnologies.com/Products/exit_devices/solutions/Pages/default.aspx.

# # #

About Ingersoll Rand Security Technologies

Ingersoll Rand (NYSE:IR) advances the quality of life by creating and sustaining safe, comfortable and efficient environments. Our people and our family of brands—including Club Car®, Ingersoll Rand®, Schlage®, Thermo King® and Trane® —work together to enhance the quality and comfort of air in homes and buildings; transport and protect food and perishables; secure homes and commercial properties; and increase industrial productivity and efficiency. Ingersoll Rand Security Technologies’ market-leading products include electronic and biometric access control systems; time-and-attendance and personnel scheduling systems; mechanical locks; portable security; door closers, exit devices, architectural hardware, and steel doors and frames; and other technologies and services for global security markets. Ingersoll Rand is a $14 billion global business committed to a world of sustainable progress and enduring results. For more information, visit ingersollrand.com or securitytechnologies.ingersollrand.com.

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

noreply@blogger.com (Matt Banes) — Wed, 30 Jan 2013 02:15:00 +0000

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.

Sustainable Lighting Made From Recycled Bottles

noreply@blogger.com (Matt Banes) — Thu, 10 Jan 2013 18:19:00 +0000

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

noreply@blogger.com (Matt Banes) — Tue, 08 Jan 2013 17:45:00 +0000

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.

New Xi Plus™ Precast Concrete Wall Systems Showcased by Superior Walls® at 2013 International Builde

noreply@blogger.com (Matt Banes) — Thu, 20 Dec 2012 16:29:00 +0000

NEW HOLLAND, PA – Attendees of the 2013 International Builders' Show in Las Vegas will be able to view the newest product from Superior Walls of America, the Xi Plus^™ product line of insulated precast concrete wall systems. Custom-made for the exact needs of each project, Xi Plus panels feature superior strength and insulation for the creation of dry, warm and energy-efficient foundations.

Along with other Superior Walls products, the Xi Plus walls will be on display at booth N2556 during the January 22 – 24, 2013 trade show.

Building on the success of the popular Xi^™ walls from Superior Walls^®, the enhanced Xi Plus walls feature the additions of Dow^® THERMAX^™ reinforced polyisocyanurate insulation covering rigid foam insulation and a four-inch insulated footer beam. A four-inch standard floor slab may be poured equal to the height of the footer beam eliminating the need for an additional screed board, which saves time and money in the construction process. Xi Plus panels are now available with a built-in insulation value of R-21.3 and can be insulated up to R-42+.

Energy-Efficient Foundations

Top-of-the-line Xi Plus wall panels are based on the proven design of the Xi wall system and provide builders and homeowners with additional superior benefits. Each custom-made panel is manufactured to the specific needs of a project. Features include:

5,000+ PSI concrete reinforced with rebar and polypropylene fibers
Horizontal steel rebar inside top and bottom beams
Four precast and insulated access holes in each standard stud to provide greater ease in wiring and plumbing
Vertical steel rebar inside each stud
Insulated corners, studs and bond beam
Galvanized steel stud facing
Thermally isolated/insulated from exterior

"All Superior Walls products are resource efficient, using up to 70 percent less concrete in a new home than conventional foundations," says Jim Costello, president of Superior Walls. "The custom-made walls include precast openings for windows and doors while stud facings eliminate the need for additional wood framing prior to interior finishing. Using fewer materials helps reduce the carbon footprint of the new home's construction process."

For homeowners, the benefits of Superior Walls foundations systems are substantial. The energy-efficient walls help lower energy costs and reduce energy leakage while providing increased living space in a comfortable setting. Builders also benefit from saved job site time and labor when certified Superior Walls installation crews set the walls in place in less than one day, so that home construction can immediately begin the following day.

Xi Plus wall panels provide R-values that meet or exceed energy conservation values from both the IECC and the IRC. The foundation walls can help in the construction of an ENERGY STAR^® qualified home. As a custom wall assembly, Superior Walls products contribute to the overall home insulation value and reduce air infiltration into the home, thereby making a huge impact on the overall energy efficiency rating of the home.

Builders Earn Points

Builders starting new home projects can earn up to 13 potential points towards National Green Building Certification when using energy-efficient Superior Walls insulated precast concrete foundation panels. Superior Walls is the first and only foundation manufacturer whose products are approved to contribute points toward certification of a building under the National Green Building Standard™.

The National Association of Home Builders (NAHB) Research Center first awarded the Green Approved designation to Superior Walls Xi and R-5 foundations in 2009, allowing builders the chance to earn up to 10 program points towards National Green Building Certification. The organization now has approved the opportunity for builders to add three additional points for practice #903.2.2, "capillary break is added on footing" when foundation walls are set on a minimum of four-inch thick gravel beds with appropriate foundation drainage.

The Green Approved Products Certificate #00071 provides builders the following points for the use of Superior Walls foundation systems:

Practice 601.2 – 3 points – Structural systems/advanced framing techniques optimize material usage.
Practice 601.5 (1-3) – 4 points – Precut/preassembled components, panelized, or precast assemblies are utilized for a minimum of 90% of floor, wall, and/or roof system.
Practice 607.1 – 3 points – Products containing fewer materials are used to achieve the same end-use requirements as conventional products.
Practice 701.4.3.1 (1) – Mandatory – Insulation is installed in accordance with the manufacturer's instructions or local code. Mandatory for certification.
Practice 903.2.2 – 3 points – Capillary break is added on footing.

Evaluated for Use in Canada

The Canadian Construction Materials Centre (CCMC) has declared that Superior Walls Xi precast concrete insulated wall panels are now evaluated for use in Canada. The evaluation report was issued on November 8, 2012 and opens the door for sales of the popular foundation system throughout Canada.

"We've had intense product interest from builders in Canada for many years," says Costello. "This is an exciting opportunity for us to provide Canadian builders with the top-quality foundation systems they desire. In conjunction with this product evaluation, our company will now move forward in searching for a new manufacturing facility location in Canada. Our goal is to produce Xi panels in Canada to directly supply Canadian builders with our energy-efficient foundation system."

Originally created in 2003 as an energy-efficient alternative to traditional foundation methods, Xi panels have revolutionized the home building industry. Available for installation year-round, the foundation panels provide warm, dry basements for homeowners - even in the harshest and coldest northern climates.

For more information visit www.superiorwalls.com or call 800-452-9255.

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

noreply@blogger.com (Matt Banes) — Tue, 11 Dec 2012 16:24:00 +0000

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.

Energy Awareness Tips

noreply@blogger.com (Matt Banes) — Thu, 27 Sep 2012 16:18:00 +0000

Here are some good tips for anyone living in a house – whether you own a house, rent one or are building a new home. Doors are a huge source of energy loss or, if you follow the tips below, energy savings. Enjoy!

MAUMEE, OHIO – How many times have you heard someone call out, "close the door, you're letting the cold air in!" This common refrain has been heard in households for years. Now, during October's Energy Awareness Month, experts at Therma-Tru offer tips on how to keep the cold air outside while keeping energy bills low.

"Doors are a critical part of the housing envelope, so it's important to evaluate and maintain their energy efficiency throughout the year," says Derek Fielding, senior product manager for Therma-Tru Corp. "Along with your main entry door, you have side doors, sliding and hinged doors, garage doors and doors leading from the home to the garage. That's a large number of openings that need attention to maintain energy efficiency in the home."

According to Fielding, homeowners should always purchase an ENERGY STAR® rated door for their specific geographic area. In addition, there are several ways homeowners can assure their doors are helping support the overall energy efficiency of the home, including:

Tip #1 – If you're looking for door, be sure to select one made of fiberglass. A solid fiberglass door is up to four times more energy efficient than a solid wood door, plus you get the benefits that fiberglass has to offer, including resistance to rot, rust, dings and weather. Available in an assortment of styles, Therma-Tru_® Classic-Craft_® doors can come with woodgrain for staining or a smooth surface that can be painted to accent any home design.

Tip #2 – If you're replacing an entry door and want one with decorative or privacy glass in the door or sidelites, take time to research your options. Try to select doorlites and sidelites that have triple paned glass, which helps make the entire door more energy efficient. If only a two-paned glass is available, request a Low E coating on the glass that can enhance the energy efficiency of the unit.

Tip #3 – Reach out and touch your door on both hot and cold days. If you feel the exterior temperatures on the inside surface, then your door may not have adequate insulation and you should consider upgrading it with a replacement that is more energy efficient and has an ENERGY STAR qualified rating for your geographic area.

Tip #4 – Inspect the weather stripping around all sides of every door in the home to make sure it has not worn out. On a bright day, stand inside near your door and look for daylight flowing through the door perimeter. If light is coming in, then so most likely, is external air and possibly moisture. That means it's time to determine if your foam-filled weatherstripping may have lost some of its compression, cracked or has flatted out and needs to be replaced. An easy way to determine what weatherstripping you may need and order on line is to visit the door replacements parts section of the Therma-Tru website at http://www.thermatru.com/customer-support/replacement-parts/index.aspx.

Tip #5 – Open and close your doors --- on both dry and wet, humid days. If your door fits tightly on humid days, then it's most likely leaking air on dry days. You may want to consider a high-performance door made of fiberglass to prevent this type of swelling and add more energy efficiency to your home.

Purchasing a New Door

If your older entry door serves as a leaky energy drain on your home, then it's time to invest in a new high-performance entryway. Many homeowners in the past 25 years have embraced both the energy-efficiency and beauty of durable fiberglass doors.

According to the American Architectural Manufacturers Association (AAMA), fiberglass products are known for their reliability, customization aspects for style design, and energy efficiency. Fiberglass doors have an abundance of features outlined by AAMA at

http://www.aamanet.org/general/1/437/fiberglass-product-reliability-and-durability.

Constructed as a complete system of components, Therma-Tru fiberglass doors are designed and engineered to work together for lasting performance, security and energy efficiency. Multi-point locking systems that engage a series of locks at several places on the frame, impact-rated decorative glass options, plus the adjustable security strike plate that withstands up to three times the force of a standard strike plate, are key factors in creating Therma-Tru's dependable entry door system.

Homeowners looking for durability in their doors can also rely on the Tru-Defense® Door System. This system maximizes the seal between the door and the frame to help keep out the damaging effects of wind and rain, while increasing energy efficiency. Within this optional upgrade system, the weatherstripping, corner seal pad, door bottom sweep and profiled sill all work together to provide a door system that can withstand severe weather conditions along with day-to-day family activity.

Homeowners interested in researching fiberglass door design options for their own homes can use the free "Door Designer" program (located at www.thermatru.com/products/door-designer/) and the "My Saved Doors" tool (located at http://www.thermatru.com/MyThermaTru).

###

About Therma-Tru

Therma-Tru is the nation's leading manufacturer and most preferred brand of entryway doors. Founded in 1962, Therma-Tru pioneered the fiberglass entry door industry, and today offers a complete portfolio of entry and patio door system solutions, including decorative glass doorlites, sidelites and transoms, and door components. The company also offers low-maintenance Fypon urethane and PVC products. Headquartered in Maumee, Ohio, Therma-Tru is part of Fortune Brands Home & Security. (NYSE: FBHS). For more information, visit www.thermatru.com, www.fypon.com or call (800) 537-8827.

Images at: http://thermatru.com/news-events/media-resources/entry-door-images/

Planning a Sustainable Plantation for Wood Production

noreply@blogger.com (Matt Banes) — Tue, 04 Sep 2012 17:02:00 +0000

REPORT OFFERS SOLUTIONS TO EXPAND SUSTAINABLE TROPICAL WOOD PRODUCTION

FOREST PLANTATIONS ARE AMONG SOLUTIONS

WASHINGTON (Sept.4, 2012) – The Union of Concerned Scientists (UCS) today released a report, "Wood for Good: Solutions for Deforestation-Free Wood Products," analyzing tropical wood production's effect on deforestation and offering solutions for sustainable production. According to the report, governments and businesses must begin using sustainably established plantation forests to minimize the toll logging is taking on tropical forests.

Many of the products used every day by American businesses and consumers are made from tropical wood, including paper, furniture, building material and shipping supplies.

"The demand for tropical wood is growing globally, while more and more of the world's tropical forests are disappearing," said Pipa Elias, UCS consultant and the report's author. "It is 100 percent possible to harvest timber in the tropics profitably and sustainably. The main roadblock is a lack of political will. Businesses and consumers must demand responsibly manufactured products – giving governments and wood producers an incentive to expand sustainability efforts."

The report outlines a threefold solution. Firstly, wood producers and businesses should turn to responsible plantation forests to harvest wood. Plantation forests established on previously degraded lands should be used for wood production and sustainable forest management practices – such as protecting water and wildlife – should be followed. Plantations forests tend to grow faster than timber in natural forests and more of the wood can be harvested. Using already-cleared areas would help meet market demand for wood, while protecting primary forests. Secondly, the report also calls on governments to institute policies that make sustainable forest management practice attractive to businesses.

And finally, governments, businesses and consumers should demand products certified by programs such as the Forest Stewardship Council and the Programme for the Endorsement of Forest Certification. While these programs do not prohibit logging from old growth forests, they are the best option currently available for maintaining the profitability of the wood industry while protecting forests.

"Consumers certainly have an important role to play in safeguarding tropical forests," said Elias. "Small, everyday choices like recycling and reducing the demand for new wood absolutely help to protect tropical forests."

In addition to purchasing products that were made, packaged and transported using sustainably sourced wood, decreasing paper use at home helps reduce demand, Elias said. Consumers should buy in bulk to reduce packaging waste, swap paper towels for washcloths, pay bills electronically, and request to be removed from unwanted mailing lists.

Tropical forests are not only home to plants, animals and indigenous communities, but these habitats also purify air and water, and provide food and medicine for millions of people.

Cutting down natural forests also contributes to climate change. Tropical deforestation is responsible for about 15 percent of the world's heat-trapping emissions – more carbon pollution than the emissions from every car, truck, plane, ship and train on Earth.

"Tropical forests should be filled with the sound of howling monkeys and chirping birds, but when these resources are unmanaged, such sounds are replaced with buzzing chainsaws and falling trees," said Elias. "To reverse the damage caused by deforestation, governments and businesses must work together to integrate sustainability and profitability."

###

"Wood for Good" is the third installment in a UCS series of reports highlighting business, government, and consumer solutions for deforestation-free goods. The first report, "Recipes for Success," gave solutions for deforestation-free vegetable oils. The second report, "Grade A Choice?" examines solutions for deforestation-free meat.

The Union of Concerned Scientists is the leading U.S. science-based nonprofit organization working for a healthy environment and a safer world. Founded in 1969, UCS is headquartered in Cambridge, Massachusetts, and also has offices in Berkeley, Chicago, and Washington, D.C. For more information, go to www.ucsusa.org.

New Solar Products Reduce Payback Time

noreply@blogger.com (Matt Banes) — Tue, 24 Jul 2012 14:43:00 +0000

ecoSolargy Launches Top-Efficiency Solar Module Lines That Reduce Payback Time by Up to Five Years

Nanotechnology engineered panels resist buildup and guarantee maximum performance

IRVINE, Calif. – July 24, 2012 – ecoSolargy Inc., a full service solar solutions provider, announced today the release of its Lotus, Apollo and Zeus series, the company's new high-performance solar module lines. The new series have been designed to improve customer experience by maximizing efficiency and reducing investment payback time by up to five years. In addition to providing high-quality solar products, ecoSolargy develops strategic and installation solutions to fit the business needs of contractors, project developers and building owners.

"An increasing number of businesses have begun recognizing the environmental and cost-effective benefits of going solar," said Alan H. Lee, CEO at ecoSolargy. "ecoSolargy's objective is to facilitate the use of renewable energy through the provision of reliable and affordable solar solutions. The features in our new lines embody our commitment to sustainability, quality and cost-savings for our customers."

The new high-efficiency, black-on-black Lotus solar modules come in three different wattages to fit a variety of solar projects. The Lotus panels are engineered at the molecular level using state-of-the-art nanotechnology. Unlike regular solar modules, nanotechnology-built panels have a smooth surface that prevents water, dust and dirt accumulation, making them self-cleaning, anti-fading, anti-fogging and anti-bacterial. The modules' buildup resistance improves solar energy absorption by up to six percent and increases efficiency by 35 percent over a 20-year period. This feature also eliminates the need for periodical cleaning maintenance and ensures the panels are always performing at maximum efficiency, resulting in cost savings equivalent to a three to five year decrease in payback time.

The Lotus series also offer excellent performance under low light conditions and the black aluminum frames withstand the severest environmental conditions.

ecoSolargy's Apollo and Zeus mono-crystalline photovoltaic modules come in five different wattages that adapt to many budgets and project sizes. In addition to durability benefits –including corrosion and high wind loads resistance – both Apollo and Zeus panels rank high in performance. The Zeus 300W module has the second highest PTC [i] rating out of all 300w mono crystalline PV modules in the market; the Apollo 250W module, when combined with a M215 micro inverter, delivers one of the most efficient system performances in the market.

ecoSolargy is also revamping three of its existing module lines. The Alpha, Orion and Titan series have been improved for maximum efficiency and cost-savings. All the updated panels have more power, are more efficient and ensure quicker investment payback.

ecoSolargy's photovoltaic modules are highly efficient and reliable, and are designed to fit solar projects of all scales. Each panel undergoes meticulous quality inspection, which has earned them a 99.9 percent success rate. The company's racking and inverters are provided by industry leading partners that meet strict quality requirements.

All ecoSolargy solar panels now come with a ten-year workmanship warranty, as well as a 25-year performance guarantee, and can be financed through the company's financing program.

ecoSolargy has on-hand inventory and offers manufacturer-direct pricing on all its products, regardless of the order size. For ecoSolargy products specifications, please visit www.ecoSolargy.com.

About ecoSolargy
ecoSolargy is an American-owned full solar service solution headquartered in Irvine, CA. ecoSolargy's name combines the terms ecology, solar energy and technology and reflects the company's mission—to offer the latest in solar solutions to deliver affordable, clean and renewable energy to businesses and homes striving to achieve economic sustainability. The company has evolved from being a solar (PV) manufacturer to being a comprehensive solar solutions provider to meet the expanding needs of contractors, project developers and building owners.

For more information about ecoSolargy, please visit www.ecoSolargy.com. Follow on Facebook, facebook.com/ecoSolargy, and Twitter, twitter.com/ecoSolargy.

Community College Retrofits Lighting with LED Tube Lights

noreply@blogger.com (Matt Banes) — Tue, 13 Mar 2012 18:45:00 +0000

Seesmart Embarks on $2.3 Million Lighting Retrofit of Pasadena City College
Over 34,000 LED tube lights to be installed across campus of third-largest community college in U.S.

Simi Valley, CA, USA — 7 March, 2012 – LED lighting manufacturer Seesmart, Inc. has secured a $2.3 million contract with Pasadena City College for a lighting retrofit to further its reputation as a leader in sustainability. The retrofit will replace more than 34,000 fluorescent tube lights in campus buildings with high-efficiency, long-lasting Seesmart LED tube lights.

Pasadena City College’s anticipated LED retrofit benefits include significant energy savings of $720,000 and 3.7 million kilowatt-hours per year, and its carbon footprint will reduce by 5 million pounds per year. Additionally, the college expects an $850,000 rebate from Pasadena Water Power for this energy-saving project.

“Pasadena City College is a nationally and internationally recognized leader in sustainability,” remarked Richard van Pelt, CFO and assistant president of Pasadena City College. “The move to replace all fluorescent lamps on campus with LEDs represents what we are about—global leadership in everything we do. Not only will this save more than 55 percent of electrical consumption for lighting, but it saves in manufacturing resources and disposal costs and impacts. We start saving money on the first day the LEDs are installed, so the payback is instantaneous.”

In the course of Pasadena City College’s lighting retrofit, classrooms, offices, stairwells, parking structures, gymnasium, and mechanical rooms of 26 buildings will be converted from fluorescent to LED lighting. The contract for this massive project was issued using the California Multiple Award Schedules (CMAS).

"Integrating Seesmart LED lighting products into Pasadena City College’s infrastructure will not only save energy, it will bring cost avoidance opportunities,” said Ray Sjolseth, President of Seesmart, Inc. “The long lifespan of our LED products obviates the need for frequent replacement of individual lamps. This minimizes maintenance costs and facility waste and means that on-staff labor will be available for other servicing needs.”

About Seesmart
Seesmart, Inc. is a division of Seesmart Holdings, Inc. Seesmart, Inc. is a complete LED lighting solutions company with decades of experience in research and development, manufacturing and distribution. Seesmart offers a broad product line to meet most commercial or residential needs and delivers a rapid ROI, high-quality products backed by up to a five-year warranty, immediate energy savings and true retrofit solutions. For more information, please visit www.seesmartled.com.

This news release may contain certain forward-looking statements, expectations, intentions, strategies and beliefs regarding the future. All statements contained herein are based upon information available to the management of Seesmart as of the date hereof, and actual results may vary based upon future events, both within and without the control of the management, including risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially.

Management does not take any responsibility to update the contents of this News Release in case new aspects arise or new conditions change the facts available.

Greenblock Insulated Concrete Forms

noreply@blogger.com (Matt Banes) — Fri, 02 Mar 2012 12:17:00 +0000

Greenblock Insulated Concrete Forms: More Than Energy Efficient and Resistant to Forces of Nature

PORT ST. LUCIE, Fla. -- Habitat for Humanity is well-known for developing affordable housing, but its design and construction volunteers are also finding job sites fun as they learn how to build more sustainably with insulated concrete forms (ICF).

“One of the things I like with the product is our people enjoy their time on the job site,” said Habitat for Humanity of Seminole County’s Executive Director Penny Seater. “I just think there are so many plusses for our families and our volunteers,” she said.

The reduced weight of the forms during assembly means, there are less fingers smashed compared with other construction materials, and a lot fewer sore muscles, as well as less overall volunteer safety concerns for Habitat Seminole.

Greenblock Worldwide, LLC, of Port St. Lucie, Fla., was the manufacturer chosen for the Insulated Concrete Forms for two recently completed single-family, green and affordable homes for Habitat of Seminole County.

These homes are located in the Central Florida neighborhood of Altamonte Springs. John Riddle, Greenblock’s LEED Accredited Professional and Southeast Territory Manager, was present from pre-construction to final punch list, offering the project’s volunteers both technical and moral support.

The two homes were built side by side each with 1,556 sq. ft. of Greenblock ICF wall, one to the Florida Green Building Coalition’s (FGBC) green building rating system and one to the U.S. Green Building Council’s (USGBC) LEED rating system. The LEED Home is anticipated to achieve Gold certification. Greenblock 2-4-2/4 inch core product was installed. The designer was Baker Barrios Architects, Inc., and the structural engineer was JHR Consultants, Inc.

Riddle, who serves as chairman of the USGBC’s Central Florida Chapter, and his chapter’s volunteers donated many hours of sustainable design and construction consulting time to the project team. The structures are Habitat Seminole’s first LEED and FGBC registered projects. Nearby Evergreen University provided many of the volunteer ICF installers on one of the homes while local Habitat Seminole volunteers rolled up their sleeves to build the other one.

Once the households were occupied during the summer of 2011, the new home owners reported more than a 75 percent drop in utility bills compared to their last residences, going from over $400 per month to less than $100 electricity bills.

“That’s a tremendous savings,” said Seater, adding: “In low income housing, lower utility bills can be the difference between food on the table or not.” Deeper savings can be achieved with lower insurance costs due to reduced property damage during natural disasters in an ICF home.

In Florida, termites and hurricanes are also concerns but with Greenblock walls those worries are gone as well, she noted. A Greenblock ICF wall has a solid concrete core providing a hurricane, tornado, and seismic resistant home.

Numerous savings were recognized with Greenblock ICF, including time of construction because it can be installed faster than concrete blocks or wood frame construction methods. The ease of fitting blocks together and factory produced pre-engineering means less construction site waste. Furthermore, furring strips are built-in from the inside and outside; the self-contained vapor barrier eliminates the need for a house wrap.

You can even downsize the HVAC system for additional savings up front and for the long-term as less cooling cycles are required by the unit and that lowers utilities cost while providing less ongoing worn parts to replace and an overall longer life span for the heating and cooling units.

Greenblock President Jimmy Myrick explained the speed and ease of building with Greenblock ICFs helps affordable housing project developers achieve very efficient design and construction schedules while reducing the need for job training.

“These recent projects provided Habitat’s volunteers with a fulfilling experience as they learned how to work with a new wall system with just a few hours of training,” Myrick said. He added, “This helps Habitat keep its volunteers working on schedule and until the home is completed, plus they often come back for the next project.”

It is a relative quick construction method, the team can put up the home in a very short time. When using volunteer time, this is a very important factor, since most have other jobs and are available for short periods of time; therefore getting the home finished quickly also helps retain volunteers.

In fact, Seater said the next home they build is scheduled for ground breaking in January 2012 and will utilize the Greenblock ICFs which weigh approximately 3 pounds. The future homes will be following the same design executed on the Altamonte Springs homes, including installation of Greenblock ICF walls, as Habitat Seminole strives to replicate the same sustainable building performance with volunteers from nearby religious institutions and many satisfied helpers returning.

As the green initiative continues to gain ground with homeowners it is projected that when these homes sell they will be in greater demand for their safety, savings and sustainability. Your home is your castle and the new homeowners plan on being there for a long time. Building with Greenblock means the home will outlast any other method of construction out there.

HVAC Motors Can Be More Efficient

noreply@blogger.com (Matt Banes) — Thu, 16 Feb 2012 15:45:00 +0000

RIVERSIDE, Calif. (www.ucr.edu) — Energy efficiency efforts tend to focus on things such as lighting and insulation. But, in fact, motors that run heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) systems are the largest user of energy in buildings.

At the same time, motor related efficiency requirements are relatively lax. There is no independent verification of motor efficiency, the equivalent of cutting out the Environmental Protection Agency and allowing car makers to say how many miles per gallon their vehicles get.

Sadrul Ula, who is research faculty at the University of California, Riverside's Bourns College of Engineering Center for Environmental Research and Technology (CE-CERT), is trying to change that. He recently received a $385,000 grant from the California Energy Commission to evaluate the efficiency of HVAC motors in building through testing on-site and in a soon-to-be built facility at CE-CERT.

"Everyone turns off lights or bathroom fans," said Ula, who is also managing director of the Winston Chung Global Energy Center at CE-CERT. "But, no one turns off motors. The awareness is not there."

In recent years, large-scale clean energy projects, such as solar and wind farms, have generated many headlines, pushing energy efficiency efforts to the side. But those relatively simple energy efficiency steps can have a large impact. A 2009 report by McKinsey & Company found the United States could reduce annual energy consumption by 23 percent by 2020 by deploying energy efficiency measures.

In California, nearly 47 percent of electrical energy consumption was used by commercial buildings. Motors that create that energy tend to operate at 5 to 10 percent below optimal efficiency, Ula said. Increasing that efficiency can have enormous implications.

To view full press release and downloadable illustration and photo visit: http://ucrtoday.ucr.edu/3078

Largest Solar PV Install in the World

noreply@blogger.com (Matt Banes) — Tue, 07 Feb 2012 19:31:00 +0000

New York skyscraper uses MAGE POWERTEC PLUS modules 50 stories above ground; 122.4 kW system also largest in Manhattan.

Dublin (Georgia), February 07, 2012. – MAGE SOLAR, part of the globally operating MAGE GROUP, announced that its MAGE POWERTEC PLUS modules are part of a 122.4 kW rooftop PV-installation in Manhattan. The solar array is at the elevation of 737 feet, making the building the tallest in the world with a solar PV-installation on its roof.

The installation on top of the 50-story commercial building in the heart of Manhattan was recently completed using highest-performance MAGE POWERTEC PLUS modules. With their industry-leading 30-year 80% power output guarantee, they are a highly visible, long-term commitment to corporate sustainability and additionally a sound financial investment and innovative business model as well. Since MAGE SOLAR modules exclusively feature positive tolerances (0 to +5 Watts) the system will produce with optimal efficiency for a maximum amount of time.

"MAGE SOLAR is proud to be part of this enormously exciting project," says Joe Thomas, President and CEO of MAGE SOLAR USA. "Whenever a company decides to add sustainability and innovative technology into their business plan, there are economic drivers behind it as well. With MAGE SOLAR's premium performance modules the owners are guaranteed maximum power efficiency and yield for the longest amount of time. But this innovative PV-installation also proves the great adaptability of solar PV systems, be it a homeowner's roof in the countryside, utility-scale trackers, or almost 1,000 feet above the ground in the middle of one of the most exciting cities in the world, solar works everywhere in America."

Photo Caption: The MAGE POWERTEC PLUS modules are part of this 122.4 kW rooftop array. At an elevation of 737 feet from the ground, this is the world's tallest building with a solar PV-array on top of it. © Vanguard Energy Partners

++++++++++
We would appreciate a sample copy of any reprints.

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 fourteen more countries in Europe, Asia, Africa, and Australia.

www.magesolar.com
www.facebook.com/magesolar
www.twitter.com/mage_solar

LEED Certified Paint Plant Opens in Arizona

noreply@blogger.com (Matt Banes) — Wed, 01 Jun 2011 15:40:00 +0000

Dunn-Edwards Opens the World's First LEED-Certified* Paint Manufacturing Facility

PHOENIX, Ariz. – (June 1, 2011) Dunn-Edwards, the Southwest's leading manufacturer of premium paints, announces the opening of the world's first LEED-certified* paint manufacturing facility. Located in Phoenix, the 336,000-sq.-ft. facility was custom designed to be the greenest and most efficient in the coatings industry. This ultra-modern building encompasses manufacturing, product development, quality control laboratories, a distribution center, retail outlet and office space.

"We have incorporated innovative, energy-efficient equipment and protocols, such as unique dust collection systems that capture and recycle particulates, and novel wastewater recycling techniques. Our systems are classified as ultra-low discharge, meaning that waste generation is greatly minimized," said Karl Altergott, president.

Dunn-Edwards is considered one of the most environmentally-friendly paint manufacturers and an industry leader in eco-efficient principles – all part of its Greener by Design philosophy. For example, throughout its operations the company focuses on initiatives such as energy efficiency, waste minimization, recycling, emissions reduction, and health and safety protection. "So, not only are we manufacturing paint that is more eco-friendly, we have taken great steps to conserve energy and material resources, and to reduce waste in our physical environment," said Altergott.

Even small changes can add up to big eco-savings. The company eliminated cardboard boxes for packaging one-gallon containers and now use heat shrink wrap. Dunn-Edwards is the only paint plant in the United States using heat shrink wrap. This amounts to a reduction of cardboard consumption by one million boxes, which equates to approximately 250 tons of cardboard per year.

Altergott reports that energy calculations on the new plant show a 50 percent reduction over its two existing operations; one was first built in the mid-1950s and the other in the mid-1970s. "Our innovative automation at the new plant is one of the most comprehensive systems in the industry and light years beyond what we had at the older facilities," he explained. "We are so much more efficient -- saving time, money and resources. Increased automation has reduced the physical demands of workers, and thus potential injuries."

With more than 50 percent more space than our two former plants combined, this new plant meets Dunn-Edwards' needs for long-term growth and has room to expand another 40,000 sq. ft.

"Dunn-Edwards is investing in its future in Phoenix by adding more than $40 million in capital investments and creating approximately 120 much-needed new jobs," said Mayor Phil Gordon. "By working together on this project, the end result is a growing Phoenix economy with new jobs."

Barry Broome, president and CEO of the Greater Phoenix Economic Council, added, "Dunn-Edwards joins several new companies focused on green and sustainable solutions that have chosen Arizona because of its emerging reputation in this sector. The City of Phoenix and the Arizona Commerce Authority provided strong leadership in supporting Dunn-Edwards' efforts to expand to Greater Phoenix, and we welcome them to our pro-business environment."

An official grand opening will be held Friday, June 3, 2011. A ribbon cutting ceremony with local officials, including Phoenix Mayor Phil Gordon and Maricopa County Supervisor Mary Rose Wilcox, begins at 11 a.m., followed by plant tours and lunch. (NOTE: Event is for invited guests and media only.) The plant is located at 520 S. 67th Avenue, Phoenix, Arizona, 85043. For more information about Dunn-Edwards, visit www.dunnedwards.com

*LEED certification pending; estimated late summer with a Gold Award

*****

NOTE: Photos and video are available

About Dunn-Edwards Paints
Dunn-Edwards has produced and sold premium paint products for 85 years throughout the Southwest. Operating 109 stores in California, Arizona, Nevada, New Mexico and Texas, Dunn-Edwards is one of the nation's largest independent manufacturers and distributors of architectural paints and painting supplies. Based in Southern California, the company is composed of approximately 1,500 employees. dunnedwards.com

Media Contact:
Judy Lynes
310/752-4400 ext. 124
judy@thephelpsgroup.com

This blog post was approved by www.iGreenBuild.com, a New Venture Communications web property.

Home Remodeling to Save Energy and Increase Value

noreply@blogger.com (Matt Banes) — Wed, 04 May 2011 16:24:00 +0000

Some good tips for home remodeling. Energy consumption in older homes can be dramatically improved with changes to heating and cooling systems, insulation, windows, doors, lighting and operating habits. At iGreenBuild.com we see an attractive market opportunity for the resale of homes that have been remodeled using eco-friendly products and sustainable concepts….even in poor market conditions for home sales.

Smart remodeling adds value to your home

Start planning for your summer remodel during Home Improvement Month

Des Plaines, Illinois, May 4, 2011—Spring is in the air, and homeowners are starting to plan their dream home remodeling projects. To commemorate May as National Home Improvement Month, the National Association of the Remodeling Industry (NARI) offers homeowners a few words of advice for getting the most value out of your remodeling investment.

More Americans are staying in their homes rather than moving. According to Fannie Mae’s National Housing Survey released in November 2010, 85 percent of the general population believed it was a bad time to sell their home. There’s a lot more to be gained through remodeling besides increased functionality, new appliances, efficient systems, updated décor, additional space or the pure enjoyment of making your home your own. There’s also the increased value your home receives when you make improvements.

With so many options available today, NARI offers a few considerations for homeowners who want to get the most out of their remodels.

Curb appeal goes a long way. Exterior home improvements such as roofing, siding, windows and doors are subject to the elements and usually need to be replaced after a number of years. In terms of re-sale value, updated exteriors give sellers an edge over buyers who are attracted to your home before entering.
According to Energy Star, half of a home’s energy use is dedicated to heating and cooling. If a system is more than 10 years old, it may be time to replace it. New, energy-efficient systems are not only more cost-effective but are also better quality.
All homes benefit from increased insulation and sealing, regardless of climate. Older homes are traditionally under-insulated compared to new homes. And recent insulation innovations like spray foam or cellulose increase the ability to trap air inside. Proper insulation evens temperature flows, reduces energy use and has long-term benefits.
Kitchen and bath renovations are still popular—and for good reason. Homeowners continue to see the value in updating areas of the home that are used frequently and are high functioning. Universal design concepts are commonly incorporated into kitchen and bath areas to accommodate people of all sizes and abilities and conveniences for long-term residents.

Most homeowners can handle routine maintenance projects and cosmetic touch-ups, but it’s recommended they consult with qualified professionals for larger remodeling jobs and major changes to the home’s structure.

Homeowners that need to make several updates to their homes but cannot afford a complete overhaul may be interested in phased remodeling. In this instance, remodeling projects are broken into phases over time, for a long-term project plan. This also lessens the burden of remodeling to the homeowner as they remain in the home as work is being done.

As of April 22, 2010, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) passed new regulations for contractors working in homes built before 1978. The Lead Renovation, Repair and Painting rule mandates that remodelers who intend to work in pre-1978 homes to register their company and complete an 8-hour training and certification course with an accredited trainer. The course teaches remodelers how to safely contain lead in a home as it is being disturbed and reduce exposure to residents and workers. Homeowners should be aware that this new rule is enforced and should be skeptical of any contractors who choose not to follow the law. Visit www.nari.org to find a Certified Lead Renovator in your area.

NARI members represent a select group from the approximately 800,000 companies and individuals in the U.S. identifying themselves as professional remodelers.

NARI is a professional association whose members voluntarily subscribe to a strict code of ethics. Consumers may wish to search www.nariremodelers.com to find a qualified professional who is a member of NARI. For the latest information on green remodeling, visit www.GreenRemodeling.org. Click here to see an online version of this press release.

# # #

About NARI: The National Association of the Remodeling Industry (NARI) is the only trade association dedicated solely to the remodeling industry. The Association, which represents more 63,000 remodeling industry professionals — is “The Voice of the Remodeling Industry.”™ To locate a local NARI chapter or a remodeling professional, visit NARI’s Web site at www.NARIremodelers.com, or contact the national headquarters, based in Des Plaines, Illinois, at 800-611-NARI.

EDITOR'S NOTE: NARI can provide hi-res digital before and after photos of award-winning remodeling projects to accompany your story. Contact NARI with your photo request at marketing@nari.org or ask for Morgan Zenner at 800-611-6274.

If you do not want to receive e-mails from NARI please click here to unsubscribe.

Morgan Zenner

Marketing & Communications Coordinator

National Association of the Remodeling Industry

780 Lee St., Suite 200

Des Plaines, IL 60016

P: 847-298-9200

E: mzenner@nari.org

This blog post was approved by www.iGreenBuild.com, a New Venture Communications web property.

Green, Energy Efficient Affordable Custom Home in Florida

noreply@blogger.com (Matt Banes) — Tue, 26 Apr 2011 15:58:00 +0000

This is a very promising story that goes beyond the promotion of the insulated concrete walls. Giving people access to affordable, green homes that have the necessary components for saving energy and low cost, eco-friendly maintenance, is a smart direction for builders around the globe. Green material providers, banks, developers, builders and contractors need to find a way to create affordable housing and maintain profit for growth…..after all that's sustainability isn't it?

News Release
Contact: Kathy Ziprik
828-890-8065
kziprik@aol.com

Builder Stands Apart in Florida Marketplace

ORLANDO, FL. – When builder Dan Wigh was commissioned to build a custom home for a family in Palm Harbor, Fla. in late 2010 he knew exactly where to start --- from the ground up. Wigh, with Wytek Construction LLC, begins many of his projects with the Superior Walls® AG™ wall system to assure the quality, safety and energy efficiency of the homes his company constructs.

"Our fundamental belief is that families should be able to have an environmentally-sensitive, budget-friendly home at a fair price," says Wigh, president of Wytek Construction LLC in Valrico, Florida. "In many cases that home starts with the above grade application of a concrete AG wall system because they are innovative, watertight and extremely energy efficient.

"In 2007 we investigated 18 different types of wall systems and kept coming back to the AG wall system as the best overall solution for our regional needs in central Florida. Since that time we've used Superior Walls products in a dozen projects, and we anticipate another half dozen going up in 2011. We've been exceptionally pleased with the quality of the walls and the value they bring to our clients."

The insulated concrete AG Walls are produced at Superior Walls by Weaver Precast of Florida in a factory-controlled setting in Orlando. The walls are used in above-ground applications and are watertight, termite-resistant and help reduce noise infiltration into the home.

"Wytek Construction has done what few builders in the state of Florida have been able to do --- they have replaced the old building practices of block and wood construction with energy-efficient concrete walls," says David Miller, Florida Sales Manager with Weaver Precast of Florida. "Their approach of building both the first and second floors with the highest quality products possible gives the homeowners what they need to ensure safety, durability, energy efficiency and peace-of-mind."

Saving Time and Dollars

Miller points out that the time-saving aspects of having certified crews install the AG walls on site are also a benefit to both homeowners and builders. Since the system arrives factory-prepared for easy finishing, costly preparation for dry wall is eliminated along with the separate installation of insulation. Most AG wall systems are installed on the job site in just a day, so that construction of the home is immediate.

"Even during these challenging economic times for the housing industry, we're finding there are homebuyers who are eager to invest in well-crafted homes in Florida," says Wigh. "For us, that means we focus on finding the most energy-efficient and top-quality products available. Those searches have led us to the AG wall system, Simonton Windows® ProFinish® vinyl windows and doors, ZIP® System roof sheathing and wall sheathing from Huber®, Stonehenge Roofing Products stone-coated steel roofing and other products with outstanding reputations.

"It's important that we select products that support sustainable, energy-efficient, healthy home technologies that stand up to the Florida hurricane seasons with elegance. Our building practices and selected products are designed to be resource-efficient and more durable than traditional building processes. This helps us deliver value to homebuyers."

Wyteck Construction builds homes in the counties of Hillsborough, Pinellas, Pasco, Polk, Sarasota and Manatee in Florida. For more information on the company, visit www.wytekconstruction.com. Additional details on Weaver Precast of Florida, an authorized dealer of Superior Walls, can be found at www.weaverprecast.com/florida.

This blog post was approved by www.iGreenBuild.com, a New Venture Communications web property.

Yes to Wood as a Green Building Material

noreply@blogger.com (Matt Banes) — Mon, 04 Apr 2011 16:44:00 +0000

This release is promising news for the green building materials business. I’d like to see the actual lifecycle analysis for wood products referenced below.

SCMA Backs New USDA Green Building Policy

PITTSBURGH, April 04, 2011 –The Southern Cypress Manufacturers Association (SCMA) today commended the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) decision to promote wood as a green building material.
In making the announcement last week, U.S. Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack, said the USDA would preferentially select wood in the agency’s new construction projects, enhance green building material research and development, and demonstrate the use of wood in non-residential structures.

SCMA president Frank Vallot said, “Our industry has consistently spread the message that wood is the ultimate green building material because it’s renewable, sustainable, carbon-neutral, and can be locally sourced and repurposed at the end of a building’s life.

In addition, science-based research confirms that wood outperforms other building materials in lifecycle analysis, which examines the total environmental impact of building products through harvesting, transportation, manufacture, and end-of-life scenarios. New studies show that wood products are among the most energy efficient to produce, and yield fewer air emissions than other building products.

The USDA’s efforts will not only encourage the use of American-grown wood and improve the health of America’s forests, but also will help retain and create jobs in our country. We look forward to working with Secretary Vilsack and his agency to spread the positive environmental and economical messages associated with the increased use of wood products.”

The Southern Cypress Manufacturers Association is a non-profit organization dedicated to the promotion of sustainable cypress building products to trade professionals and consumers. For more information, visit www.cypressinfo.org.

This blog post was approved by www.iGreenBuild.com

Green Storm Water Detention Infrastructure

noreply@blogger.com (Matt Banes) — Fri, 01 Apr 2011 15:50:00 +0000

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Horizon Bay Congregate Living Facility Uses Oldcastle Precast, Inc. Green Storm Water Detention Infrastructure

March 2011 Tampa, FL –- Oldcastle Precast, Inc. had the unique opportunity to manufacture and install one of their cutting-edge precast products-- Storm Capture Module System, a subsurface storm water detention structure, specifically engineered and designed to accommodate both the storm water storage capacity demands and the load-bearing needs of the land use above them, at the new Horizon Bay Congregate Living Facility located in Tampa, Florida. The Horizon Bay project needed to be able to capture stormwater and pipe it to 6,572 CF of stormwater detention under the parking area to absorb and detain the storm water and allow water to slowly infiltrate into the ground assisting in recharging the groundwater.

Limited available site space necessitated the use of an underground storm water detention structure beneath the facility parking lot. Underground detention was the only practical choice according to design engineer Fuxan Engineering of Odessa, FL. An overflow pipe led to storm sewers, but the majority of the storm water would be infiltrated back into the ground; a common Low-Impact-Development (LID) practice in Florida that serves to help recharge the aquifer. The Storm Capture Module System – a Green Infrastructure System - provided a much better value proposition to the Owner and Engineer in place of the plastic underground storage chambers originally proposed for the site.

The Storm Capture Module system is ideally suited for this type of underground detention application due to its stand-alone, traffic bearing design which does not rely on final paving and associated stone underlayment for structural capacity.

The Storm Capture Detention Modules are constructed of high-strength structural concrete. Their ability to support traffic on the parking lot allowed for a 50% reduction in thickness of base rock required between the pavement and modules, as well as a 20% reduction under the modules, as compared to the originally planned plastic chambers.

The completed system design for Horizon Bay included 37 Storm Capture Modules. Each module is constructed of precast reinforced concrete with interior dimensions of 6’x12’x2.5’ tall, with open bottom for infiltration. Four of the modules incorporated standard inlet grates to allow storm water direct entry from the parking lot into the system. This eliminated the need for the four separate inlet structures originally designed into the project. A precast splash pad was installed below each inlet grate to prevent scour of the bedding material. In addition, the inlet grates are used for direct access to the modules for inspection and cleaning as needed. Each module has large conveyance windows into adjacent modules to allow flow equalization, as well as access for maintenance.

This was the first project where Ripa Construction used the Storm Capture Module system. Ripa Construction’s project managers stated that the modules were a key component to providing access for a very limited site and did not require ongoing maintenance or cleanout during construction. The initial savings experienced from the reduction of aggregates in the foundation, backfill, and under the pavement are hard, tangible costs. Ripa believes that coupling those savings with the experience they gained in the ease and speed of installation and lack of construction maintenance will make this system very useful in future projects.

About Oldcastle Precast, Inc.:

Oldcastle Precast, Inc is the leading manufacturer of precast and polymer concrete products in the U.S. Providing engineered product solutions nationwide to a number of market sectors including: Water - Transportation - Power & Energy -Communications

Engineering Services - Construction Services - Government/Military. Oldcastle Precast is part of Oldcastle Building Products. For more information please visit www.oldcastleprecast.com.

Contact: Brad Boulton

Oldcastle Precast (239) 574-8896

Submitted by: Oldcastle Precast, Inc. National Sales, Marketing, and Engineering phone: 888-965-3227 http://www.oldcastleprecast.com/

Barbara.bogo@oldcastleprecast.com

This blog post as approved by www.iGreenBuild.com.

Energy Efficient Digital Lighting - Easy to use or not?

noreply@blogger.com (Matt Banes) — Thu, 31 Mar 2011 17:21:00 +0000

SANTA CLARA, CA March 2011 – WattStopper is proud to announce it has received a 2011 Building Operating Management Top Product Award for its innovative Digital Lighting Management (DLM) product line.

An all-digital suite of plug-together lighting controls, DLM automatically configures to the most energy efficient sequence of operation based on installed components. The result is that DLM meets and exceeds energy code requirements, saves more energy than conventional controls, and provides an unprecedented return on investment for both new construction and retrofit projects.

With DLM, each room or space in a building has its own control network where the installer simply connects room controllers, occupancy sensors, switches and photocells as needed. Plug n’ Go technology then recognizes what is connected and automatically configures the space to the most energy efficient operation. For instance, advanced controls strategies such as automatic-on of 50% of lighting with manual-on of the remaining 50% automatically configure when appropriate DLM components are connected. Other DLM innovations include LCD screens on occupancy sensors for ease of setup, as well as a handheld bidirectional configuration tool that provides ladder-free system setup or adjustment. Because DLM uses Cat 5e RJ45 cables to connect components, time-consuming installation activities, such as interpreting wiring diagrams, setting DIP switches, and terminating low voltage wires, are eliminated. This speeds up installation and eliminates the potential for wiring errors.

DLM also offers integration of plug load control, allowing building owners to further leverage code-compliant occupancy sensors and realize greater savings. Most recently, the company expanded the DLM offering with components that allow quick and easy networking of room-based controls and lighting control panels for centralized monitoring, control and programming.

The Building Operating Management Top Products Awards are 100% reader-selected and recognize the most popular manufacturers and suppliers of the year, as determined by building and facility executives who participated in a national survey. Award winners are featured in the January 2011 issue.

WattStopper (www.wattstopper.com), a Legrand group brand, is a leading manufacturer of energy efficient lighting controls for commercial and residential use. We help customers find convenient ways to save energy, meet green initiatives, and comply with energy codes with our comprehensive range of products, programs, and services. Legrand (www.legrandelectric.com ), located in Limoges, France, is the world specialist in products and systems for electrical installations and information networks, offering solutions for use in residential, commercial and industrial buildings.

# # # #

BOM Product of the Year DLM Press Release

This blog post was approved by www.iGreenBuild.com

Clean Burn Furnaces - Company Saves $25,000

noreply@blogger.com (Matt Banes) — Wed, 30 Mar 2011 14:54:00 +0000

Barr Truck Group Saves $25,000 In Just One Winter With Clean Burn Furnaces

LANCASTER, PA -- Barr Truck Group saved $25,000 on heating bills this past winter by converting the used motor oil collected at their two Maryland service facilities into free heat. More than 39,000 square feet of shop space spread between Salisbury and Delmar locations is heated with Clean Burn waste oil furnaces.

“We operate 37 service bays across our two locations and generate thousands of gallons of waste oil,” says Dave Barrett, Machine Shop Manager. “Having a system that recycles that oil while saving us money is a huge advantage to our business.”

As part of the dealer network for the Navistar, Freightliner, Carrier Transicold, and Isuzu brands, Barr Truck has access to tap a nationwide recommendation pool. When research on a new heating system began, the case for Clean Burn was clear. “Once we decided to use our waste oil for heat, we really started to do our homework on the best system,” explains Barrett. “Clean Burn was recommended across the board by the other truck dealers we talked to.”

The conversion from fuel oil heat was made at their Salisbury location in 2008 with the installation of three CB-5000 units. The Delmar location converted from propane heat with a CB-5000 installed in 2008 and a CB-3500 installed in 2009.

The furnaces were installed and are now serviced by Eco Heating Systems, the Authorized Distributor for Clean Burn products in Maryland and Southern Delaware. “They’re a great group to work with,” Barrett says of the relationship with Eco Heating Systems. “The service and support we get from having a local distributor like that is really what sets Clean Burn apart.”

Barr Truck Group recycled more than 8,000 gallons of waste oil in their Clean Burn furnaces last winter alone.

“We know we can count on our Clean Burns,” says Barrett. “The reliability and available support from our distributor allows us to focus on running our business and not worrying about our furnaces.”

For more information on Barr Truck Group visit www.barrtruck.com. For additional details on waste oil heating products available in Maryland and Southern Delaware, visit www.ecowasteoilheaters.com.

There are over 80,000 Clean Burn functional furnaces and boilers located throughout the world that burn millions of gallons of waste oil each year on-site, at the point of generation. This volume of waste oil would otherwise be transported on highway systems and pose a considerable risk to spills and/or contamination to the environment.

Clean Burn is an ENERGY STAR® partner. The company holds numerous industry certifications and works with the U.S. government, the Environmental Protection Agency and various associations to help coordinate the establishment of standards and regulations related to heat recovery and recycling efforts involving used motor oils. For more information on Clean Burn, visit www.cleanburn.com or call 1-800-331-0183.

PHOTOGRAPHY: For images of Clean Burn products visit the MEDIA ROOM at www.cleanburn.com.

This blog post was approved by www.iGreenBuild.com.

LED Lighting Awards

noreply@blogger.com (Matt Banes) — Wed, 23 Mar 2011 05:37:00 +0000

EvoLucia's Aimed LED Lighting Honored with Next Generation Luminaires Lighting Design Award for Street/Area Lighting

[SARASOTA, FL: March 21, 2011] The U.S. Department of Energy, along with its partners the International Association of Lighting Designers (IALD) and the Illuminating Engineering Society(IES), has announced the winners of the 2010 Next Generation Luminaires™ Solid State Lighting Design Competition including EvoLucia's Aimed LED Lighting among the 37 profiled winners. EvoLucia is a wholly-owned subsidiary of Sunovia Energy Technologies, Inc.

The competition drew 368 total entries, though only 138 entries from 61 companies qualified for adjudication. All four of those chosen as "Best in Class" were selected from the indoor lighting market.

After thoroughly evaluating five of EvoLucia's Cobrahead (SCHX5 LED)units, looking for those products with the lowest glare, highest efficiency, best thermal management, highest uniformity and most efficient optics, the judges applauded the glare control, uniformity and efficacy of the SCHX5 LED. EvoLucia's SCHX5 LED was one of the remaining 33 entries that were selected to be a product that the judging panel would recommend to lighting specifiers. There was only one other honoree in the roadway light category selected from all the entries. EvoLucia's SCHX5 LED was the only outdoor roadway/parking luminaire in this category that was recognized with an award.

The EvoLucia product profiled by the judges was the Cobrahead or SCHX5 LED street/area light which employs EvoLucia's patent pending Aimed Optics™ technology to efficiently direct light to a targeted area. The SCHX5 performs with an industry-high Fitted Target Efficacy score of 57 to put the most foot-candles on the ground, in the pattern required, with the best uniformity, using the fewest LEDs and the least power consumed.

Bob Fugerer, Chief Technology Officer of Sunovia, stated "The entire team at EvoLucia applauds the DOE, IALD and IES for advancing the awareness and market-acceptance of innovative LED lighting technologies that are worthy of specification by lighting designers. There is no question that LEDs are setting new standards for general illumination lighting. We are delighted that the distinguished judging panel has recognized the pace-setting efficiencies in energy and light utilization that our Aimed Optics™ technology has made possible in nextgeneration LED roadway and parking area luminaire design."

EvoLucia Aimed LED Lighting is not only more energy-efficient and environmentally friendly than many other light sources, it is also much more effective. Through EvoLucia's patent pending Aimed Optics™ technology, less overall light is needed if the light is correctly focused on the target area, which allows for more efficient lighting solutions.

Links: www.evolucialighting.com www.sunoviaenergy.com

Sunovia Energy Technologieswas founded in 2007 to provide energy-efficient and sustainable energy solutions by commercializing advances in clean technology. The subsidiary EvoLucia Lighting, Inc. markets LED Lighting for roadways, public spaces and other outdoor site applications, using patent-pending Aimed Optics™ technology providing more energy-efficient, environmentally friendly, and effective aimed lighting than other light sources.
　
Simply put, "aimed LED lighting" is the method of providing exactly the light that's needed, where it's needed. EvoLucia optimizes utilization of LEDs to put the most foot-candles on the ground, in the pattern required, with the best uniformity, using the fewest LEDs and the least power consumed.
It is this capability of "Aimed Optics" that ideally enables EvoLucia's luminaires to meet and exceed the Dept. of Energy's Fitted Target Efficacy (FTE) Energy Star criteria for solid-state lighting (SSL) luminaires.
　
EvoLucia: Aimed Light. Better Light. Energy Lite.

This blog post was approved by www.iGreenBuild.com

Lead Paint Hazards and Older Windows - Poison Prevention Week

noreply@blogger.com (Matt Banes) — Mon, 21 Mar 2011 17:49:00 +0000

- March 20-26 National Poison Prevention Week -

PARKERSBURG, W. VA. - If your home was built before 1978 and you still have the original windows, it’s time to seriously consider replacing your windows --- especially if you have young children or a pregnant person living at home. During National Poison Prevention Week --- March 20-26, 2011 --- homeowners are urged to evaluate their windows and make healthy living changes.

According to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), the routine opening and closing of windows in homes built prior to 1978 can disturb lead-based paint around the windows, causing paint dust and chips to be released into the air. These lead particles are so potentially dangerous that the EPA now requires contractors to be trained and certified before they can perform any renovation, repair or painting projects that may have previously applied lead-based paint.

“Research indicates that the everyday activity of opening and closing windows creates friction that then allows invisible lead dust to enter the air,” says Rick Nevin, a consultant to the National Center for Healthy Housing (NCHH). “Young children, who crawl on the floor where the lead dust has settled, can be especially at risk. Toddlers put their hands in their mouths … and after playing on the floor near a window, they can easily transfer the lead dust into their mouths. The ingested lead travels through the bloodstream to a child’s developing brain, causing many types of neurobehavioral damage.”

According to Nevin, one of the most important long-term investments a homeowner can make for the overall safety of a family is to replace older windows, using the EPA-approved lead safe renovation guidelines. “Replacing older windows is one of the best ways to reduce lead risks,” says Nevin. “Make sure to use only a contractor that is certified in lead-safe work practices and strongly consider the use of ENERGY STAR® qualified windows, like the vinyl replacement windows offered by Simonton Windows®. These windows are a healthy choice for replacing older single-pane units. They’re energy-efficient and a good value for the investment.”

“At Simonton, we advocate that replacing older windows coated with lead-based paint with vinyl windows is a sensible step for homeowners who want to create a healthier home environment,” says Gary Pember with Simonton Windows. “We believe Rick’s research substantiates the replacement of all windows coated with lead based paint as a way to dramatically help reduce lead dust within that home.”

Nevin explains that, according to his research funded by the National Institute of Health (NIH), homeowners need to understand there are four key steps to completing a “lead-safe window replacement strategy” for the home. “First, they advise replacing all single-pane windows with ENERGY STAR qualified windows,” says Nevin. “Second, stabilize any significantly deteriorated paint. Third, perform specialized cleaning to remove any lead-contaminated dust. And finally, perform dust wipe tests to confirm the absence of lead dust hazards after the clean up.” Research results can be obtained at www.ricknevin.com/windows.

Celebrating its 65^th year of quality manufacturing operations in 2011, Simonton Windows produces ENERGY STAR® qualified replacement and new construction windows and doors, including a line of impact-resistant products. Simonton ranked “Highest in Builder and Remodeler Satisfaction among Residential Window and Patio Door Manufacturers” in the J.D. Power and Associates 2010, 2009, 2008 Builder and Remodeler Residential Window and Patio Door Satisfaction Study^SM. The company also ranked “Highest in Customer Satisfaction among Residential Window and Patio Door Manufacturers” in the J.D. Power and Associates 2010 Windows and Patio Doors Satisfaction Study^SM.

Simonton was also ranked #1 in quality in the 2009, 2007, 2002 and 1998 Brand Use Studies sponsored by Builder magazine and has won three Best In Class Awards currently administered by LBM Journal Research Institute.

Founded in 1946, Simonton’s hallmark has been to deliver the industry’s shortest, most dependable lead-times. Part of the home and security business of Fortune Brands, Inc. (NYSE: FO), Simonton delivers award-recognized products nationwide to key markets throughout the 48 continental United States. Simonton is a founding

ENERGY STAR is a government program that helps consumers protect the environment through superior energy efficiency and is a registered trademark of the U.S. Department of Energy and the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency.

This blog post was approved by www.iGreenBuild.com.