2004
Release: Immediate
Contact: Jean Donovan, NYSERDA, (518) 862-1090, ext. 3516
Mr. Leigh Seddon, Solar Works, (802) 223-7804 Phantom Laboratory Dedicates Energy Efficient Photovoltaic Solar System
Albany, New York (September 21, 2004) - The Phantom Laboratory, located in Greenwich, New York, dedicated its new photovoltaic (solar electric) system on Tuesday, September 21, 2004. The 15-kilowatt system was recently installed by Montpelier, Vermont-based Solar Works, Inc., with funding assistance from the New York State Energy Research and Development Authority (NYSERDA). Solar Works is an eligible NYSERDA installer.
The President of NYSERDA, Peter R. Smith, said, "A key component of New York's comprehensive energy policy is to promote environmentally clean, efficient and economic energy resources. Governor Pataki has asked New Yorkers to produce and use alternative energy sources - like solar power - whenever possible. NYSERDA is proud to have helped Phantom Laboratory take advantage of the energy efficiencies and savings offered by a photovoltaic system."
"Increases in oil and gas prices are a catalyst for more residents and businesses to consider solar energy, but a lot of people have questions," said Senator Betty Little (Queesnbury). "This is a smart investment of public and private dollars which will serve as a model for others to follow to reduce dependence on conventional energy resources. And this is a good investment in a local business to promote economic development."
"The Phantom Laboratory is a great example for other businesses that want to save energy and protect the environment." Said Solar Works president Leigh Seddon. "Not only will the Laboratory see a dramatic decrease in its utility bill, but the PV system will help eliminate 19,678 pounds of CO 2 emissions each year. Through NYSERDA's PV incentive program, solar electric systems are now affordable for both small and large businesses. I hope many more will follow in Phantom Laboratory's footsteps."
Phantom Laboratory, an internationally recognized producer of high-precision "phantoms" for the medical imaging industry, is proud of its healthy work environment. Owners Joshua Levy and Julie Simms have made it a priority to minimize the building's environmental impact through the incorporation of high efficiency windows, heat recovery ventilation, and special insulation. "We do what we can to use more environmentally responsible energy sources." said Mr. Levy. "The new photovoltaic system is a step in reducing our use of fossil fuels."
Photovoltaic (PV) systems convert sunlight directly into electricity. In contrast with electricity generated by fossil fuels, PV-generated electricity creates no air or water pollution, and may reduce the amount of energy purchased from 40 to 70 percent. NYSERDA offers cash incentives for the installation of PV systems by eligible installers. Through NYSERDA's New York Energy $mart Loan Fund, interest rate reductions are available for energy efficiency improvements and renewable energy technologies.
Under NYSERDA's solar electric incentive program, the Phantom Laboratory qualified for a $75,000 incentive toward the $132,650 PV system. The new system is expected to reduce Phantom Laboratory's power purchased by 70 percent. In addition, Niagara Mohawk is executing a purchase power agreement with the Laboratory to buy excess solar generation.
NYSERDA, located on the Web at www.nyserda.org, is a public benefit corporation established by law in 1975. It identifies and promotes solutions to New York State's energy challenges in ways that achieve energy efficiency while benefiting the state's economy and environment. It administers the New York Energy $martSM program that benefits all ratepayers of the investor owned electric companies across the state.
For further information visit PowerNaturally.org on the Web.
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