solarcentury news

Solarcentury named as CNBC "Low Carbon Pioneers"

Thu, 17 Apr 2008 12:34:58 GMT

We are today celebrating our award for being a "Low Carbon Pioneer" by CNBC European Business Magazine. The annual ranking highlights the Top 100 European companies, who have truly demonstrated a courageous or groundbreaking stance on climate change or embraced a future, low-carbon solution in the form of clean technology or renewable energy.

CNBC's list made note of our award-winning C21e solar tiles, an "easy to fit, easy on the eye solar roof tile that could be a turning point in this sector," and the "spectacular growth" recently seen by the company.

Our Executive Chairman Jeremy Leggett said of the award, "CNBC's recognition of Solarcentury's work in the carbon reduction field is encouraging, and an indicator of the dedicated approach the company's employees have exhibited since Solarcentury's inception in 1998." He added: "Shifting away from fossil fuels towards a low-carbon economy requires the solar industry to make the transition an easy one. We will continue to strive to make this happen, delivering the best in solar innovation for the built environment, with an aim to see this highly effective technology on the roof of every new building."

Derry Newman, CEO of Solarcentury, added: "Our solar electric roof tiles have a vital role to play in cutting carbon dioxide emissions. Making solar simple, these tiles don't need a specialist installer and produce a streamline finish in line with the natural roof. We're convinced demand for this technology will continue to grow, making solar the intelligent energy generation choice of this century.'

For more information, click on the logo below.

Solar4Schools and the Co-Op provide free Green Energy for 50th Solar School

Wed, 02 Apr 2008 16:23:25 GMT

Cherry Orchard Primary School in Greenwich, South London, has become the 50th school to receive free solar panels with Solar4Schools . As part of their National Green Energy for Schools Campaign, the Co-op will be donating the second half of the funding required for the solar installation. Other Schools can now apply for funds through finance company, Quartz.

Solar4Schools is a partnership between Solarcentury and energy provider Scottish and Southern Energy. The scheme is designed to help schools to apply for government funding for half the value of a solar energy installation. The scheme provides 4 kWp solar photovoltaic (pv) systems (or multiples of 4).

Solar 4 Schools' 50th PV installation at the Cherry Orchard School, London.

Without the funding available through Solar4Schools, these systems would cost around �20,000 each. �10,000 is provided through Solar4Schools as part of the Department of Trade and Industry's Low Carbon Building programme. In Cherry Orchard Primary School's case, the additional �10,000 needed will be provided by the Co-op's �1,000,000 fund, established to provide 100 schools throughout the UK with free with green energy.

The Solar pv technology creates no pollution and is silent in operation. The 4 kWp system installed at Cherry Orchard School will generate around 3,300 kWh a year, equivalent to the electrical consumption of an average three bedroom house in the UK. This will prevent nearly two tonnes of carbon dioxide from being emitted into the atmosphere annually. Since fifty solar pv installations have been funded by the Co-op and Solar4Schools, the scheme is currently preventing around 100 tonnes of CO2 being emitted each year.

While corporate funding for solar pv is only available for a limited number of schools, Solarcentury is collaborating with Quartz to provide an affordable financing option. Without any capital outlay, a 4kWp system with a 50% grant can be purchased over three years for just �977.66 a quarter, or �650.12 a quarter over five years. Financing from Quartz on Solarcentury installations is also availble to schools not eligible for Department of Trade and Industry grants.

Jeremy Leggett, CEO of Solarcentury comments: "The 50th project completed by Solar4Schools and the Co-op represents an important milestone in solar installations in this country. Solar installations in schools not only prevent CO2 emissions and generate clean energy, but also serve an important educational purpose. If children growing up see solar energy working and powering the school they attend every day, their attitudes to renewable energy and the environment will be shaped accordingly."

Schools are invited to apply for funding by filling in the Solar4Schools Online Application Form or by emailing their contact details to: solarschools@solarcentury.com .

Solar leasing now available to the Public Sector

Wed, 26 Mar 2008 18:13:34 GMT

Solarcentury is proud to announce a new leasing product for charities and Public Sector organisations. The lease provides easy access to the Government's generous 50% grant scheme without the need for upfront capital investment.

Many public sector oganisations are unaware that the Government's Low Carbon Buildings Programme (LCBP) provides up to 50% grant funding to install solar photovoltaic panels on their buildings.

Now, in combination with our leasing scheme public sector and charitable bodies are able to access to these funds and spread the costs of payment over five years. As part of a carbon reduction, energy saving or CSR strategy a photovoltaic installation provides a long lasting, maintenance-free solution with numerous benefits for the organisation.

As well as reducing energy bills directly and providing additional revenue from ROCs (Renewable Obligation Certificates) and the sale of excess electricity, a PV display - which comes free with every system - encourages energy efficiency and helps engage employees in energy saving initiatives.

The combination of 50% grant funding and spreading payments over three to five years is available to all NGOs, charities and Public Sector Organisations including: Schools, Universities, Churches, Fire stations, Local Authorities and Emergency Services as part of a refurbishment or new build programme.

For more information please contact 020 7803 0166 or e-mail commercial@solarcentury.com

You can read more about it at the Business Green website .

Solarcentury wins prestigious award for innovation

Thu, 20 Mar 2008 15:17:49 GMT

As part of the UK Technology Innovation and Growth Awards, we have been awarded the 'Cleantech Advancement of the Year' category at this year's ceremony.

These awards recognise individuals and organisations currently driving the success of the fastest growing technology companies in the UK. This particular award was presented to us, as a company which has shown strong developments in its contribution to clean technology. Passing a stringent judging process, our company underwent investigation by an esteemed panel of industry judges. The award not only seeks to recognise companies who have succeeded in market growth, but also to recognise innovations in technology and the good business practices which support future success.

Jeremy Leggett, Solarcentury Executive Chairman said: "This award pays great testimony to current growth of the market for solar products, as more organisations seek to generate their energy onsite in order to reduce their carbon dioxide emissions. Solarcentury could not meet the demands of this rapidly growing market without significant support in the form of investment, by those who recognise the value in tackling climate change in this way."

Our Chief Executive Derry Newman said: "With further investment in the production of building-integrated solar photovoltaic technology, Solarcentury is continuing to increase its manufacturing capabilities, especially here in the UK � reflected in our recent manufacturing agreement with the Sony UK Technology Centre. We're excited by the speed of change in this industry, and aim to continue to lead the way in solar product innovation."

UK's first solar mortgage launched

Thu, 06 Mar 2008 12:51:22 GMT

Click on the image above to visit the Solar Mortgage site

The UK's first solar mortgage has now been launched in Northern Ireland. In partnership with Ulster Bank, we have introduced the innovative new product which is available for both existing and new mortgage customers in Northern Ireland. It offers significantly discounted borrowing for the purchase and installation of the latest solar photovoltaic technology as well as full management of supply and installation through an arrangement between ourselves and Ulster Bank. The groundbreaking deal also includes full support of the customer through any building control, planning or grant applications.

The new mortgage is viewed as an innovative step from the financial and renewable energy communities. Reflecting a rising interest in solar power as an investment for the home, the decision by Ulster Bank to offer the product demonstrates a belief that this trend is set to continue. The mortgage is being trialled in Northern Ireland prior to wider roll out later in the year.

The mortgage offers a 50 per cent reduction on Ulster Bank's standard variable rate for three years to cover the cost of purchasing and fitting the solar photovoltaic technology, in addition to the convenience of the whole process being handled by a leading provider.

A close-up of our award-winning C21e tiles.

Solarcentury CEO Derry Newman says: "We are delighted to be working with Ulster Bank in launching such an innovative product that makes solar more accessible and affordable. Solar photovoltaic technology is a clean, reliable and readily available alternative to fossil fuels, which generates clean electricity, producing power directly from daylight."

He adds: "We are particularly pleased to offer our own photovoltaic roof tile, which is manufactured in the UK including components from suppliers in Northern Ireland. This integrates seamlessly into the roof, adds value to properties and significantly reduces the exposure to the homeowner from future energy price rises."

Ulster Bank Head of Mortgages, Derek Wilson, says: "Mortgages are an extremely important part of our business and we consider this to be a significant innovation in the marketplace as well as an important step in helping bring domestic renewable energy technology into the mainstream."

"This new product will help make installation of solar panels much more affordable and cost effective and provides reassurance to homeowners because the whole process is managed by a pre-approved, high quality supplier and installer."

Dr Andy McCrea, Director of Northern Ireland's renewable energy champion, Action Renewables, welcomed the new solar mortgage.

"Ulster Bank is leading the way in Northern Ireland and in the wider UK mortgage market with the introduction of this solar mortgage. We consider this to be an extremely significant development which will help make solar technology more affordable and will help further raise awareness of the important issue of addressing climate change. I would urge homeowners to consider the product as a convenient and cost effective means of reducing their carbon footprint."

For further information see: www.solarmortgage.co.uk

Solarcentury: Officially one of the best renewable energy companies to work for

Tue, 05 Feb 2008 16:01:28 GMT

Our company has been awarded with the coveted two star status accreditation for Best Companies 2008, recognising its outstanding workplaces and investment in its people.

The elite national accreditation scrutinises workplace engagement and sets a benchmark for other companies. One of seven employers within the energy sector, we were the only renewable company to be listed for outstanding performance. The title 'Best Company' takes a deep-rooted commitment by the organisation to being the best it can be in every area of the workplace and in supporting the day-to-day working lives of its workforce.

"We are extremely proud to have earned the Best Companies Accreditation, which recognises the dedication of Solarcentury in providing an enjoyable and balanced environment for all those within," comments Derry Newman, CEO, Solarcentury. "In order for our company to be successful, we have to make sure that Solarcentury is the best place for our employees, something that we take very seriously."

The accreditation follows a `Michelin star' rating system for organisations that demonstrate high levels of employee engagement. Based on staff feedback, organisations receive a Best Companies Index score, which determines their star rating compared to a fixed standard.

The Best Companies survey is designed to measure employee engagement and uses 66 questions to gain a comprehensive view of the general workplace feeling and views across eight factors: leadership, well being, my manager, my team, my company, personal growth, giving something back and fair deal.

Some of the Solarcentury staff on the solar roof in Waterloo.

"I would like to congratulate these companies on their outstanding achievement. Our role at Best Companies is to set a rigorous benchmark so that organisations can become even better employers. This year it is encouraging to see that the number of companies entering the accreditation scheme for excellence in workplace engagement has grown by one third," says Jonathan Austin, Chief Executive, Best Companies.

For further information please see http://www.bestcompanies.co.uk

Solarcentury helps new academy meet renewables target

Thu, 31 Jan 2008 17:06:49 GMT

The Harris Acedemy

When the architects of a new school needed to meet local authority targets for renewable energy, our photovoltaic (pv) panels provided the answer.

The Harris Academy in South Norwood was designed by John McAslan + Partners and is said to be one of the most technologically advanced schools in the country. It features the latest IT systems � with interactive whiteboard technology in all departments, as well as a recording studio, radio station and technology centre.

Fanos Panyides of John McAslan explains that when the building was submitted for planning consent one of the conditions of the local authority was that it should incorporate a certain proportion of energy services from renewable sources:

"The challenge was that the building design was already substantially completed and we were working on quite a constricted site, so there was no room for technology such as a wind turbine. Solar photovoltaic cells were the only way of integrating renewable energy supply at that stage," he says.

Solar cladding is the ideal solution for projects where space is limited. Meanwhile the 'fit and forget' nature of pv means it is a good renewable to choose for busy organisations where maintenance could be a costly issue.

The Solarcentury panels were simply mounted on the south-facing elevations of the plant enclosures on the top of the school's five blocks, with further panels mounted on the front of the building as cladding.

The high power to size ratio of our photovoltaic solar panels, combined with their ease of installation, are making them an increasingly attractive way for new and existing public buildings to meet sustainability targets.

New Housing development benefits from solar

Thu, 24 Jan 2008 13:40:01 GMT

C21e roof tile installation at the Poppyfields showroom, Derby

Eco-savvy housebuyers in and around Derby have the chance to reduce their carbon footprint, and electricity costs, in style. Wheeldon Homes is offering our latest solar power as part of the package of value-added options at its prestigious Poppyfields development in Mickleover.

An exclusive development of 20 four-bedroom homes comprising a range of four exciting house types, Poppyfields will appeal to both families and executives. The two showhomes at Poppyfields have been installed our innovative C21e solar photovoltaic, or electricity-generating roof tiles. Buyers are encouraged to consider specifying solar power along with the other options that individualise each home.

"Wheeldon Homes has tapped into solar power as a way to offer homebuyers an easy route to being more green in their day to day lifestyle," explains James Parkin of Wheeldon Homes. "Consumers are increasingly aware of the effects of climate change, so integrating environmental measures into the home is just one more way of making a contribution to a more sustainable existence."

Solar power provides protection against the future price rises in electricity costs, which are estimated to rise by 7.5% each year. When it comes to selling the house, the presence of solar power can command as much as a 10% premium over other similar homes on the open market.

Housebuyers visiting the showhomes at Poppyfields will notice a small monitor inside each house, which displays how much electricity the tiles on the roof are generating, and how much CO2 they are saving. Each home has a 1.2 kWp solar system, capable of producing over 1000 kWh of electricity per year and saving a tonne of CO2 from entering the atmosphere each year.

Our C21e roof tiles are not discernable from the ground. Instead they blend naturally with the standard roof tiles, maintaining the natural pitch of the roof. The tiles generate environmentally sound electricity for the home by absorbing photons during daylight hours and transforming this into electricity, which can be used around the house in the same way as conventional electricity. Because of the immense power of the sun, the tiles are just as effective on cloudy days.

Because the home is also linked to the National Grid, night-time electricity requirements are drawn from it. Meanwhile, power that is generated by the C21e roof tiles, but not used in the home, is transported back to the National Grid, showing as a credit on electricity bills. The homeowner stands to gain 18p for every kWh of electricity that is exported to the Grid, as recently announced by Scottish & Southern Electricity.

"Not only is solar power a good way to protect yourself from the inevitable price rises of standard electricity," explains Jeremy Leggett, CEO of Solarcentury, "Homeowners can actually get paid for the electricity they generate. Having a solar system on the roof does not present any problems either; the solar roof tiles are maintenance free, with no moving parts. Therefore the risk of things going awry is minimal, while any dust or debris that naturally accumulates on the roof is washed away during normal rainfall."

D&AD Student Awards 2008 - your chance to get involved

Mon, 21 Jan 2008 10:33:22 GMT

We are challenging talented design students to develop a medium for bridging the gap in the public's understanding of solar power as a viable method for tackling climate change. By entering the D&AD Student Awards 2008, entrants this year can choose to design a piece of web-based communication to increase knowledge about the role of solar electricity in large scale carbon reduction.

"Solarcentury believes that there is a gap in consumer knowledge about renewable energy in general, and solar electricity in particular," explains Solarcentury founder and Executive Chairman Jeremy Leggett. "The long running success of the D&AD Student Awards led to Solarcentury becoming a sponsor. Our focus as a company is on popularising solar energy through innovation, and so the use of innovative young design talent to reach the public is an ideal method."

The competition's brief requires students to design a piece of web-based communication to promote the benefits of building integrated solar photovoltaic energy ('PV energy'� electricity generated from the sun). The design must be interactive, in order to engage viewers, educational, to explain PV as well as raising awareness, and not more than 120 seconds long if a film or audio piece. The piece could be an animation, an audio clip, a game or so on. The piece is aimed at the general public, who may not have any knowledge or understanding of solar PV, and so must be accessible and engaging.

The design should also reflect our position in the industry, as a young, ambitious company seeking to fundamentally change the global energy market through innovation, rather than campaigning. We operate in both the consumer housing market and in the commercial arena, and is seeking to raise awareness of PV, and of its uses and advantages. Solar PV can operate very effectively in the UK climate, and cuts both carbon emissions and fuel prices for users.

The D&AD Student Awards 2008 are now in their 30th year, and are amongst the most prestigious awards for young design, creative and advertising talent in the world. In 2007, forty-two different nations took part, including Finland, Bosnia & Herzegovina, South Africa, Brazil, Honduras, New Zealand, Russia, Saudi Arabia, Singapore, Italy, China, France, Germany, Spain, Israel, UK and USA.

For more information on The D&AD Student Awards 2008, visit www.dandad.org/studentawards08/

For questions relating to the brief please contact:

marketing@solarcentury.com

New housing development leads the way for solar PV

Wed, 09 Jan 2008 17:36:53 GMT

The development at Hutton Mews

We have just supplied PV units to a new six house development in Putney, south-west London. In the Hutton Mews development, each home is fitted with 36 of our C21e PV tiles. The 36 solar electric roof tiles, a 1.8 kWp system, will generate 1,500 kWh of electricity each year and are capable of providing more than 50% of each household's electricity. This is expected to save over a tonne of CO� emissions each year per house, amounting to six tonnes across the development.

The occupants are firmly in favour of the developers's decision to install the PV units, as homeowner Mrs. Haines explains: "When we saw the property, the solar tiles weren't especially used as a selling point by the developer but as soon as we saw them I realised that they had great potential to not only generate free, clean electricity but also add value to our home. The kids and I think they're great."

The PV installation at Hutton Mews

Mr. Bernard Page, Mrs Haines' neighbour, agrees: "We're very happy with the solar panels. While it wasn't a deciding factor in our decision to buy here, it was seen as a major advantage and influenced our offer price. We believe it's important to conserve our environment as much as possible, and this technology really lets us do that. The energy costs we're saving are also naturally a bonus."

"Our energy supplier reimburses us annually for the energy our tiles supply to the grid, so when we're out of the house during the day, none of the energy generated is wasted. Also, the electricity the panels generate mean that we're protected against future energy prices rises; there have been absolutely no drawbacks to the system."

Solar photovoltaics create electricity from daylight, so as long as the sun rises in the morning, a PV system will generate clean renewable electricity for use in the home or office building. For optimal C21e performance, the ideal roof would have a predominantly south facing aspect: a roof pitch of between 30 and 40 degrees and a minimum of 10m� unshaded roof space. Although the system for the Hutton Mews homes was integrated into the development's build process, Solarcentury PV systems can easy be retrofitted to existing properties. Installation is extremely simple, and homeowners converting to solar PV can begin generating their own electricity on the day of installation.