Monday, February 8, 2010

Solar Energy International Spring Schedule @ Guemes Island has been announced

Hands-on classes in renewable energy here in Washington State. I highly recommend SEI as I've taken just about every class they have to offer. Great organization.

Monday, February 1, 2010

SILICON ENERGY SOLD TO SPECTRUM RENEWABLE INVESTMENTS

January 15, 2010

Washington State’s First Solar PV Module Manufacturer Sold

SEATTLE, Wash. – Silicon Energy, LLC (Silicon), the first manufacturer of PV (photovoltaic) modules has been sold to Spectrum Renewable Investments (Spectrum) headquartered in Irvine, CA by their parent company OutBack Power Systems, Inc. (OutBack), based in Arlington, WA.

“The sale will facilitate Silicon Energy’s ability to significantly increase our manufacturing capacity to meet consumer demand in Washington, expand our product line offerings and reduce the costs of our products,” says Silicon’s President Gary Shaver. “Additionally,” Shaver added, “we will be introducing a solar financing program, which will make solar more accessible to people wanting to invest in our solar systems.”


Although terms of the sale were not disclosed, Silicon has an agreement in principle for OutBack to provide a Washington-made inverter, insuring that Silicon will be the only manufacturer in Washington that can provide a fully integrated Washington made system to fully take advantage of the State’s substantial financial incentives available to Washington State buyers. “This will result in substantial financial incentives for buyers of our systems in Washington,” Shaver said. OutBack will retain a minority interest in Silicon.

About Spectrum Renewable Investments: Spectrum is owned by the principals of Newport Partners, LLC (Newport) whose primary business is in developing, financing, syndicating and managing properties with tax credit subsidies (Solar, Historic, Wind and Low Income Housing Tax credits). Spectrum has an agreement in principle with Tainergy Tech Co., Ltd. (Tainergy), a Taiwanese solar cell manufacturer to become a major investor in Spectrum. It is expected that the Tainergy partnership will be formalized before the end of January 2010.

About OutBack Power: OutBack Power Systems is a privately held company headquartered in Arlington, WA and is a leading designer and manufacturer of power electronics for renewable energy, back-up power and mobile applications. With an emphasis on product durability OutBack has established itself as the product of choice in harsh environmental conditions and applications where product reliability is paramount.

About Silicon Energy: Silicon Energy is the first PV module manufacturer in Washington and is headquartered in Arlington, WA. They manufacture a unique, world- class solar PV system that combines strength and durability with safety and great looks.

Wednesday, January 27, 2010

Phinney Ridge Home Designa nd Remodel Fair this Sunday

Find Inspiration at the 13th Annual Home Design and Remodel Fair

Sunday, January 31, from 10 a.m.-4 p.m. in the Blue Building.

Admission: PNA members $6, general public $9, children 12 and under are free.

The event features 95 exhibitors, presentations by experts, consultations with City of Seattle permit specialists ... and door prizes!

Click here for a full list of exhibitors and the presentation schedule.

Martha Rose is throwing a party!


Martha says "it's time to take it to the next level," join us for a special Behind the Walls Tour of Martha Rose's newest 5-Star Built Green Homes

Fish Singer Place

Wine & Cheese

Friday January 29, 2010 2pm-4pm
Saturday January 30, 2010 12pm-4pm
Address: 15715 Dayton Ave N. Shoreline Wa. 98133


Friday, January 22, 2010

Next Solar Washington Meeting

Just to remind, we have a General Membership Meeting THIS MONDAY January 25, from 7-9pm at the REI in Seattle, 222 Yale Ave N, up on the Second Floor.

AGENDA

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Our featured speaker, Jong Limb, owner of Silicon Energy will lead a Q&A about current plans and new developments at Washington's first solar module manufacturer.

=> A discussion of new bills on net metering, standard offer contracts and community solar that are passing through the Washington Legislature this year.

We hope to see you there!

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Solar Washington will be holding Board elections at the March meeting. Speak up now to nominate yourself or someone else. Please contact Jason Keyes at jkeyes@solarwashington.org or (206) 919-4960 for more information.