BCD Electric | Blog

House Walk through

2008-07-15T10:30:00.000-07:00

Doing our final inspection on a new install.
Video is shot to locate buried pot lights, and device boxes in drywall.

Today’s Wind Turbines

2008-06-04T13:10:00.000-07:00

Today’s Wind Turbines
Today's wind turbines are larger and more efficient than the turbines of the 1980s. They are much quieter, the blades move more slowly, and each turbine produces 10 times more energy than before.
Wind turbines work like windmills. The wind makes the blades spin, and this motion turns a generator to produce electricity, just as the water in a hydroelectric generator does. The minimum annual average wind speed required is approximately 7.0 metres per second or about 25 kilometres per hour.
Wind energy is intermittent, so people cannot rely on it alone for daily supply.
However, hydroelectricity is a good complement to wind, as it can provide power when wind energy is insufficient.
Wind Turbines and the EnvironmentWind turbines use no fuel. They do not produce air pollution or greenhouse gases, but they can affect the environment in other ways.
If the wind farm is large and poorly designed, the turbines can be visually unappealing. However, with the increased efficiency of today's wind turbines, wind farms no longer need to be large. One well-known wind development in Palm Springs contains nearly 3,000 turbines.
In the past, some large wind farms killed large numbers of birds. However, new blade designs on wind turbines mean that birds can now fly over them more safely. Wind farms can also be located to avoid common flyways for birds.
At new wind power plants, wind turbines would usually be placed five blade widths apart, providing ample space for birds to pass through. Because each of the towers is 50 metres high, any recently replanted trees in the area can grow without disturbing the flow of wind to the turbine blades.

Geothermal in North America

2008-04-06T17:07:00.000-07:00

Geothermal in North America

In September of this year, Glitnir, one of Iceland’s largest investment houses, released the most extensive state-by-state market analysis of the geothermal potential in the United States. The chart from their analysis on Washington state is here. (Note: this data is a rehash of the Geopowering the West analysis here). Significant to this market analysis was their projections of an $11 Billion industry by 2025. Glitnir’s announcement is here.Glitnir announced a geothermal sector approach specific to the United States. From their announcement:
Glitnir projects an annual U.S. geothermal electricity market of $11 billion by 2025 from about $1.8 billion now, with geothermal potentially providing up to 20% of California’s electricity needs, 60% of Nevada’s and 30% of Hawaii’s. The industry is expected to draw about $40 billion in financing over the next 18 years.
Coverage of their September announcement is here, here and here.Glitnir’s openness towards this market is reflective of the Icelandic approach, as was evidenced by the President of Iceland’s testimony here (link to his exact part of senate testimony).
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North American Geothermal Map
Posted on December 18th, 2007 by Lawrence Molloy
(click map to enlarge)This map outlines the geothermal potential of Washington state. The North American Geothermal Map was produced by the Southern Methodist University Geothermal Lab. The databases are referred to as: the Western Geothermal Database and the U.S. Regional Database, SMU Geothermal Lab, Dallas, Texas. Maria Richards, Database Manager, mrichard@smu.edu, 214-768-1975. See even more maps from SMU. For a discussion on data.
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Washington State in Geothermal News
Posted on December 18th, 2007 by Lawrence Molloy
Raser Technologies Inc. in Provo, UT, said it has completed an initial review of property available under its option on 229,000 acres held by International Paper, and has selected approximately 78,000 acres in Oregon and Washington for further study of its geothermal potential.
You can read the full article about Raser geothermal investment in Washington in the Salt Lake Tribune. The scope of the deal, according to Raser Technology PR, says that the initial review of IP holdings:
completed an initial review of the previously announced 229,000 acres option on International Paper property for geothermal resources, and has selected approximately 78,000 acres in Oregon and Washington for further study. Raser will have the exclusive right to these properties over the next 36 months to complete its analysis and enter into a long-term lease with the property owner.
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Geothermal 101
Posted on December 18th, 2007 by Lawrence Molloy
Geothermal power is a form of renewable energy using heat from deep inside the earth. In geothermal power plants, steam, heat or hot water from geothermal sources provide the energy that spins the turbine generators and produces electricity. The used geothermal water is then returned down an injection well into the reservoir to be reheated, to maintain pressure, and to sustain the reservoir.There are many geothermal technologies. Hydrothermal is the most common today, and accounts for 90% of the electrical production from geothermal. Hot dry rock is another geothermal technology, as are enhanced geothermal systems. These geothermal technologies offer enormous potential for electricity production nationwide. In this process, energy is extracted by circulating water through man-made fractures in the hot rock. Heat can then be extracted from the water at the surface for power generation, and the cooled water can be recycled through the fractures to pick up more heat, creating a closed-looped system. The capital cost of geothermal development is expensive, and drilling accounts for two-thirds of those costs. Yet, as we overcome some of these technology challenges and make the process more standardized, it is believed that geothermal can supply up to 20% of the United States electricity needs by 2050. It’s important that innovation and investment in initial steps happen now.The current production of geothermal energy from all uses places it third among renewables, following hydroelectricity and biomass, and ahead of solar and wind. Despite these impressive statistics, the current level of geothermal use pales in comparison to its potential. The key to wider geothermal use is greater public awareness and technical support.Geothermal in Washington StateThe Geothermal Energy Association estimates the near-term power production potential of Washington at 50 MWe (megawatts electric), with a longer-term, higher-cost projection of 600 MWe for sites at Mount Baker and Wind River in the Cascades.In 2006, the net generation of electricity in Washington was 108 million megawatt hours annually. At 600 MW Washington could generate 5.2 million megawatt hours annually through geothermal – nearly 5% of the annual total. At 50 MW Washington could generate 438,000 megawatt hours annually.The typical geothermal power plant operates at full capacity about 95% of the time. This means that 300 MW of developed geothermal in Washington could produce about 2.5 million megawatt hours of electricity – enough to provide about 265,000 average homes with electricity.Geothermal - BenefitsClean. Geothermal power plants, like wind and solar power plants, do not have to burn fuels to manufacture steam to turn the turbines. Generating electricity with geothermal energy helps to conserve non-renewable fossil fuels, and thus reduces emissions that harm our atmosphere. There is no smoky air around geothermal power plants — in fact, some are built in the middle of farm crops and forests, and share land with cattle and local wildlife.For ten years, Lake County, California, home to five geothermal electric power plants, has been the first and only county to meet the most stringent governmental air quality standards in the U.S.Easy on the land. The land area required for geothermal power plants is smaller per megawatt than for almost every other type of power plant. Geothermal installations don’t require damming of rivers or harvesting of forests — and there are no mine shafts, tunnels, open pits, waste heaps or oil spills.Reliable. Geothermal power plants are designed to run 24 hours a day, all year. A geothermal power plant sits right on top of its fuel source. It is resistant to interruptions of power generation due to weather, natural disasters or political rifts that can interrupt transportation of fuels.Flexible. Geothermal power plants can have modular designs, with additional units installed in increments, when needed to fit growing demand for electricity.Keeps Dollars at Home. Money does not have to be exported to import fuel for geothermal power plants. Geothermal “fuel’” - like the sun and the wind - is always where the power plant is; economic benefits remain in the region and there are no fuel price shocks.Helps Developing Countries Grow. Geothermal projects can offer all of the above benefits to help developing countries grow without pollution. And installations in remote locations can raise the standard of living and quality of life by bringing electricity to people far from “electrified” population centers.

by Lawrence Molloy

What is a power disturbance?

2007-11-15T22:22:00.000-08:00

What is a power disturbance?
Power disturbances are defined in terms of magnitude and duration.
Disturbances range from transients that last for microseconds to outages that continue for hours.
When a power disturbance falls outside operating limits, equipment may be disrupted or damaged.The costs of poor power quality can be significant!
Lost production: Each time production is interrupted, your business loses profit on product that is not manufactured and sold.
Damaged product: Interruptions can damage a partially complete product, causing the material to be re-run or scrapped.
Energy cost: Electric utilities may charge penalties on poor power factor or high peak demands.
Power quality tools from Fluke: Fluke offers an extensive range of power quality test tools for troubleshooting, preventive maintenance, and long-term recording and analysis in industrial applications and utilities.Power Quality Troubleshooters:
Dedicated power and power quality clamp meters for frontline troubleshooting
Single-phase and three-phase power quality analyzers for predictive maintenance, quality of service compliance testing and load studies Power Quality Loggers:
Power loggers for characterizing power quality, conducting load studies and capturing hard-to-find voltage events over a user-defined period of time Power Quality Recorders:
Advanced power quality recorders for capturing comprehensive details of power disturbances, trend analysis and Class-A 'quality-of-service' compliance testing over a user-defined period of time .

Fluke 43B Power Quality Analyzer

2007-11-15T22:20:00.003-08:00

Fluke 43B Power Quality Analyzer

BCD electric is proud to announce...

Specifications
Input Characteristics Input impedance 1 MΩ, 20 pF
Voltage rating 600V rms, CAT III

V/A/Hz Display True-rms voltage (ac + dc)
Ranges: 5.000 V, 50.00 V, 500.0 V, 1250 V*
Accuracy: ±(1% + 10 counts)

True-rms current (ac + dc)
Ranges: 50.00 A, 500.0 A, 5.000 kA, 50.00 kA, 1250 kA
Accuracy: ±(1% + 10 counts)

Frequency
Ranges: 10.0 to 15.0 kHz
Accuracy: ± ([% of reading] + [counts]): 0.5% + 2

CF Crest factor
Ranges: 1.0 - 10.0
Accuracy: ±(5% + 1 count)

Power Display Watts, VA, VAR
1-phase and 3-phase,3 conductor balanced loads
Ranges: 250 W - 1.56 GW
Accuracy: ±(4% + 4 counts) Fundamental Power
Accuracy: ± (2 % + 6 counts) Total Power

PF Power Factor
Range: 0 - 1.0
Accuracy: ±0.04
DPF Displacement Power Factor, Cos .F
Range: 0.25 - 0.9
Accuracy: ±0.04
Range: 0.90 - 1.0
Accuracy: ±0.03

H2 Frequency Fundamental
Ranges: 40.0 to 70.0 Hz
Accuracy: ± ([% of reading] + [counts]): 0.5% + 2

Harmonics Display Voltage, Current, Frequency
Ranges: Fundamental to 51st harmonic
Accuracy:
Fundamental: VA ±(3% + 2 counts) W ±(5% + 2 counts)
2 to 31st harmonic: VA ±(5% +3 counts) W ±(10% +10 counts)
32 to 51st harmonic: VA ±(15% +5 counts) W ±(30% +5 counts)

Frequency Fundamental
Ranges: 40 Hz to 70 Hz
Accuracy: ±0.25 Hz

Phase
Range: V, A (between Fundamental & Harmonics)
Accuracy: ±3º to ±15º
Range: W (between Voltage Fundamental & Current Harmonics)
Accuracy: ±5º to ±15º

K-factor (Current and Power)
Range: 1.0 to 30.0
Accuracy: ±10%

THD Total Harmonic Distortion
Range: 0.00 - 99.99
Accuracy: ±(3% + 8 counts)

Sags and Swells Recording times: 4 min to 16 days (selectable)
Vrms Actual, Vrms max, min(AC + DC)
Ranges: 5.000V, 50.00V, 500.0V, 1250V*
Accuracy: Readings ±(2% +10 counts); Cursor readings ± (2% + 12 counts)

Arms Actual, Arms max, min (AC + DC)
Ranges: 50.00A, 500.0A, 5.000 kA, 50.00 kA
Accuracy: ±(2% +10 counts)

Transient Capture Minimum pulse width: 40 ns
Useful bandwidth input 1: DC to 1 MHz
Number of transients: 40
Voltage threshold settings: 20%, 50%, 100%, 200% above or below reference
Reference signal: After START, the Vrms and frequency of the signal are measured. From these data a pure sinewave is calculated as reference for threshold setting.
Vpeak min, Vpeak max at cursor: 10 V, 25 V, 50 V, 125 V, 250 V, 500 V, 1250 V Accuracy: ±5% of full scale

R, C, Diode, Continuity Resistance ranges: 500.0 Ω, 5.000 kΩ, 50.00 kΩ, 500.0 kΩ, 5.000 MΩ, 30.00 MΩ
Resistance accuracy: ±(0.6% + 5 counts)
Capacitance ranges: 50.00 nF, 500.0 nF, 5.000 µF, 50.00 µF, 500.0 µF
Capacitance accuracy: ±(2% + 10 counts)
Diode Ranges: 0 to 3.000 V
Diode voltage:
Accuracy: ±(2% + 5 counts)
Continuity: Beeper on at < 30 Ω ± 5 Ω
Max current: 0.5 mA
Temperature: °C or °F

Inrush Current Inrush times: 1 s, 5 s, 10 s, 50 s, 100 s, 5 min
Current ranges: 1 A, 5 A, 10 A, 50 A, 100 A, 500 A, 1000 A
Cursor readings: A peak max at cursor 1 and cursor 2
Accuracy: ±5% of full scale
Time between cursors: 4 to 235 pixels (1 pixel = inrush time/250) Accuracy: ±(0.2% + 2 pixels)

Temperature (with accessory) Range: -100 °C - 400 °C
Accuracy: ±(0.5% + 5 counts)

Scope Display Measurements: dc, ac, ac+dc, peak, peak-peak, frequency, duty cycle, phase, pulse width, crest factor
Time ranges: 20 ns/div to 60 s/div
Max sampling rate: 25 MS/s
Bandwidth
Voltage channel [1]: 20 MHz at inputs, 1 MHz with TL24 Leads
Current channel [2]: DC to 15 kHz at inputs, 10 kHz with i400s Current Clamp
Coupling: AC, DC (10 Hz - 3 dB)
Vertical sensitivity: 5 mV/div to 500V/div
Vertical resolution: 8 bit (256 levels)
Record length: 512 samples per channel
Base ranges: 60 S/div to 20 nS/div ± (0.4% + 1 pixel)
Timebase modes: Normal, roll, single
Pre-trigger: Up to 10 divisions
Trigger Source: Input 1 or Input 2 or automatic selection
Trigger Mode: Automatic Connect-and-View™, Free Run, and Single Shot

Connect-and-View™: Advanced automatic triggering that recognizes signal patterns
Automatically adjusts triggering, timebase and amplitude and displays stable pictures

Memories 20 (screens, settings, data)

Recording Recording times: 4 min to 16 days (selectable)
Parameters: Choose one or two parameters from one of the groups below:
Volts/Ampères/Hertz
Power: Watts, VA, VAR, PF, DPF, Frequency
Harmonics, THD, Volts (Fund. & Harmonic), Ampères (F&H) Watts(F&H)
Frequency (H), %(H) of total, Phase(H), KF
Temperature
Resistance: Resistance, Diode, Continuity, Capacitance
Scope: DC Voltage, DC Current, AC Voltage, AC Current, Frequency,
Pulse Width + or -, Phase, Duty cycle + or -, Peak max, Peak min, Peak min-max, Crest Factor

Note *Rated EN 61010-1 600 V CAT III CSA

Environmental Specifications
Operating Temperature 0°C to +50°C

Safety Specifications
Electrical Safety EN 61010-1 CAT III, 600V. CSA listed

Mechanical & General Specifications
Size 232 x 115 x 50 mm

Weight 1.1 kg

Warranty 3 years

Battery Life Rechargeable NiMH pack (charger included), 6.5 hrs extended operating time (continuous)

Shock & Vibration Mil 28800E, Type 3, Class III, Style B

Case IP51 (dust, drip, waterproof)

Fluke 43B

2007-11-15T22:20:00.001-08:00

Combines the most useful capabilities of a power quality analyzer, multimeter and scope
Calculates 3-phase power on balanced loads, from a single-phase measurement
Trends voltage, current, frequency, power harmonics and captures voltage sags, transients and inrush current
Monitoring functions help track intermittent problems and power system performance
Records two selectable parameters for up to 16 days
20 measurement memories to save/recall screens and data with cursor readings
FlukeView® software can log harmonics and all other readings over time and provides a complete harmonics profile up to the 51st harmonic
Measures resistance, diode voltage drop, continuity, and capacitance
Users/applications manual and power quality video to help answer tough questions
Complete package with voltage probes and 400 A current clamp, FlukeView Software and optically isolated interface cable
3 year warranty on the Fluke 43B, 1 year on accessories

Harmonics

Voltage, current, and power harmonics
Up to 51st harmonic
Total harmonic distortion (THD)
Phase angle of individual harmonics

Power

Watts, power factor, displacement power factor (cos Θ), VA and VAR
Voltage and current waveforms

Three phase

On-screen graphics show you how to set up 3-phase power measurements

Sags and swells

Measurements are always automatically recorded to instantly show changes over time
Use cursors to read time and date of sags and swells

Transients

Catch voltage transients and waveform distortion down to 40 nS
Catch and save up to 40 transients
Correlate the cause of transient with time and date stamps

Volts/Ampères/Hertz

Voltage and current waveforms
True RMS voltage and current
Frequency

Individuals who may perform electrical work

2007-11-15T22:16:00.000-08:00

Individuals who may perform electrical work
4 (1) Subject to subsection (2), an individual must not perform regulated work in respect of electrical equipment unless the individual

(a) holds an appropriate industry training credential in respect of electrical work,

(b) has successfully completed training recognized by a provincial safety manager,

(c) is employed by an organization that utilizes training programs that are approved by a provincial safety manager and the individual

(i) has successfully completed the relevant training, and

(ii) does not perform regulated work for any person other than the individual's employer who provided the training,

(d) is a homeowner acting in accordance with section 17,

(e) is a manufacturer's technical representative,

(f) holds another certificate of qualification under the Gas Safety Regulation or the Power Engineers, Boiler, Pressure Vessel and Refrigeration Safety Regulation, or

(g) is permitted to do so under section 5 of the Safety Standards General Regulation.

(2) Any right referred to in subsection (1) to perform electrical work is limited by

(a) any exception under this regulation,

(b) any terms and conditions imposed under a permission issued under the Act, or

(c) by the scope of the individual's certificate of qualification or industry training credential.

(3) For the purposes of section 5 of the Safety Standards General Regulation or section 12 of this regulation, only an individual referred to in subsection (1) (a), (b), (c) or (f) of this section is authorized to supervise a person to do electrical work.

Appliance & Lighting Calculator

2007-11-15T22:15:00.000-08:00

Appliance & Lighting Calculator
Want to know how much it costs to operate your clothes dryer every year? Need to get a better handle on how much energy is used by your water heating, cooling or lighting systems?

The Appliance Calculator can give you a quick and easy rundown of the energy used by your appliances or systems, gas and electric.

To begin, select any category below. You will be asked to enter a few details such as the size, age or average use of the appliance.

Appliance & Lighting Calculator

What is an electrical permit and when is one required?

2007-11-15T22:09:00.000-08:00

What is an electrical permit and when is one required?
An electrical permit gives permission or authorization in writing to perform work regulated by the BC Safety Authority.

Contractors must obtain permits and submit an Electrical Contractor Authorization as the work progresses and upon completion of the installation.

An electrical permit is not required for the replacement of defective fuses, receptacles, switches or lamps with identical types and ratings.

Who can take out an electrical permit?
The person or company doing the work takes out the electrical permit. If you hire someone to do the work, he/she must obtain the permit. If you're doing the work yourself, you must obtain the permit. The homeowner must reside in the detached singe-family dwelling.

HIRING AN ELECTRICAL CONTRACTOR
If you’re rewiring your home or doing renovations that require new or altered electrical systems, the best way to proceed is to hire a qualified electrical contractor licensed with the BC Safety Authority.

All licensed contractors are, or employ, electricians who are certified Field Safety Representatives (FSR). An FSR is the person who will be responsible for the permit issued to the contractor, with the class of the FSR determining the scope of work the contractor is allowed to perform.

All FSRs have demonstrated to the BC Safety Authority that they have the necessary qualifications – and passed a written exam administered by us – before being issued a Field Safety Representative Certificate of Qualification authorizing them to accept the responsibility for installing, maintaining, operating and repairing electrical products.

Look for contractors who:

Are licensed with the BC Safety Authority
Are bonded and insured for liability and property damage
Offer warranties that cover equipment, materials and labour
Offer maintenance and service after installation and after warranties have expired
Provide customer references
Are members in good standing of the Better Business Bureau

Remember: As the homeowner, you must ensure the appropriate electrical permits are in place. You can protect yourself by calling the BCSA at 1-866-566-7233 to confirm that your contractor is registered with us and that a permit has been issued for the work on your home. You should also ask the contractor for the BCSA permit number for your records.

“DO IT YOURSELF” INSTALLATIONS

If you have sufficient knowledge and feel confident in your ability to do the work, you may apply for a permit to perform regulated electrical work, provided that:

The work will be done on a single-family fully detached dwelling that is, or is intended to be, your permanent dwelling.
The work will be done on ancillary buildings, such as detached garages and workshops, located on the same property.
The fully detached dwelling does not include one or more self-contained suites.
The work will be done on your vacation premises, such as a cottage, provided the premises will not be rented or used as a source of income for the owner.
For more detailed information on when homeowners may perform regulated work, please call 1-866-566-SAFE (7233), contact your local safety officer or refer to the Safety Standards Act.

All electrical work done by a homeowner MUST be inspected by a BC Safety Authority Safety Officer.

Electrical Saftey Regulation

2007-11-15T22:08:00.000-08:00

Electrical Saftey Regulation

Search for licensed contractors

2007-11-15T22:06:00.000-08:00

Search for licensed contractors

Why hire a licensed contractor?

2007-11-15T22:04:00.000-08:00

Why hire a licensed contractor?
Renovating or building your home should be a positive experience free from stress and worry. But did you know that electrical and gas installations and renovations can pose some of the most serious safety risks in the home?

“Do-it-yourself” might make sense when it comes to some home improvements, but when it comes to doing electrical or gas work, it’s best that you rely on the experts. Simply put, hiring licensed contractors provides peace of mind.

So while you’re thinking about renovations that involve gas and electricity, think about the legal requirements and benefits of hiring a licensed contractor to do the work.

Laws and regulations

Every province and municipality has its own set of laws and regulations that must be followed. A licensed contractor works with these every day, and knows what work is regulated, and requires permits and inspections.

Doing regulated electrical and gas work without a permit is illegal, and may jeopardize your insurance or the re-sale value of your home, not to mention your family’s safety.

Quality and qualifications

In order to be licensed, a contractor must have the training, expertise and experience required to do the job well, safely and to code. While a licence doesn’t guarantee quality, it provides you with some assurance that the contractor has adequate knowledge and experience in his or her field.

Before issuing a licence, the provincial licensing agency or board will verify the contractor's background and be satisfied that the person is qualified to hold such a licence.

In British Columbia, all gas and electrical contractors doing regulated work are required, under the Safety Standards Act, to hold a valid licence issued by the BC Safety Authority. The licence ensures the contractor and the people employed by the contractor are qualified and can perform the work safely. Licences must be renewed annually and require certain qualifications are met, including a $10,000 surety bond.

Finding a licensed contractor

You can find gas and electrical companies and contractors on our website, in your local phone book, and by asking friends and neighbours for recommendations.

No matter how you find a contractor, it’s important to confirm he or she is a licensed contractor. Ask to see the licence, or check with us on our website or by calling 1-866-566-SAFE.

When you can’t wait for a licensed contractor

Sometimes it’s difficult to find a licensed contractor who can take on the work when you want it done. You may be tempted to do the work yourself, or go with an unlicensed contractor. Don’t! Work done improperly can impact you and your family’s safety. Having the work done by a licensed contractor will give you assurance and peace of mind that it is done safely. Good licensed contractors are busy because they are in demand.

Many people think its okay to hire their neighbours or friends, if they are licensed electricians or gas fitters. This is not so. The person they hire must be a licensed contractor. This is important for the homeowner because contractors are bonded. If subsequent safety issues arise and the contractor refuses to fix them, the BC Safety Authority can call in the bond and have the work made safe.

Think about the safety of your family and your home. Delaying a renovation project to make sure it is done correctly and to code is worth the wait.

Siemens Wind Power secures order for the largest European wind farm

2007-09-27T11:52:00.000-07:00

Siemens Power Generation (PG) has been awarded a contract for the delivery of 140 wind turbines for the Whitelee Wind Farm to be located south of Glasgow in Scotland, United Kingdom. With an installed capacity of 322 megawatts (MW) it will be Europe’s largest wind farm. The capacity will be sufficient to supply electricity to about 200,000 households in Scotland. The Whitelee Wind Farm project is the largest wind farm contracted by Siemens Power Generation to date. Total contract value is approximately EUR350 million. Completion of the project is scheduled for summer 2009.

The contract has been awarded by the utility Scottish Power. For the Whitelee Windfarm, the 140 2.3 MW wind turbines will be split into 100 SWT-2.3-93 wind turbines and 40 SWT-2.3-82 VS wind turbines. The Siemens PG scope of supply includes the delivery of wind turbines, installation, commissioning and a service and maintenance agreement. Scottish Power is responsible for the infrastructure works, including the civil and electrical part with transformers located outside the wind turbine towers.

Since the early 1990s, Siemens has successfully implemented several onshore wind turbine projects in the United Kingdom. In fall 2005, Siemens PG’s wind power division signed an agreement for Burbo Banks, its first offshore project in the United Kingdom. "Following the successful completion of the Black Law Wind Farm I and II projects for Scottish Power, the Whitelee Wind Farm order will enable us to further expand our strong presence in the United Kingdom," said Andreas Nauen, CEO of Siemens Power Generation’s wind business. Later this year, Siemens also will commence the delivery of 14 wind turbines with a capacity of 1.3 MW each for Scottish Power's Wether Hill Wind Farm in Scotland.

Renewable energy is an integral part of the UK’s aim at reducing CO2 emissions. The British government has set a target of 10 percent of electricity supply from renewable energy by 2010. "Wind projects like Whitelee will play an important role in reaching this goal by providing clean energy to this region," Nauen added.

Nanosolar to Build 430MW Solar Cell Factory

2007-09-27T11:51:00.002-07:00

Nanosolar Inc., a global leader in solar power innovation, today last week that it has started executing on its plan to build a volume cell production factory with a total annual cell output of 430MW once fully built out, or approximately 200 million cells per year, and an advanced panel assembly factory designed to produce more than one million solar panels per year. Presently in pilot production in its Palo Alto, California facility, Nanosolar announced that it has started ordering volume production equipment for what is going to be the world's largest solar cell manufacturing factory. The company also announced today that its first cell fab will be located in the San Francisco Bay area and that its first panel fab -- for a broad array of novel product form factors using advanced processes -- is expected to be located in Berlin, Germany.
Seed-financed by the founders of Google, the company's team started pursuing its mission of making solar electricity vastly more affordable in 2002. After four years of intense commercial research and development, including two years of manufacturing process development and engineering, the company has now delivered on its ambition to produce a fundamentally less expensive, mass-manufacturable solar cell.

"Thin-film printing overcomes the complexity, high cost, and yield and scalability limitations associated with vacuum-based processes. Nanosolar?s technology enables low-cost, high-yield production previously unattainable," said Chris Eberspacher, Nanosolar's head of technology, noting further: "This allows us to produce cells very inexpensively and assemble them into panels that are comparable in efficiency to that of high-volume silicon based PV panels."

Added Werner Dumanski, Nanosolar's head of manufacturing and a storage-disk industry manufacturing veteran: "Given the square meter economics of solar, high-throughput high-yield processes have to be used to succeed in this industry. With Nanosolar's printing process, the fully-loaded cell cost -- including materials, consumables, energy, labor, facility, and capital -- is less than the depreciation expense alone that vacuum thin-film companies have to pay for the equipment that produces their cells."

Regarding the scale of the factory, Dumanski points out: "A factory of this capacity would cost more than one billion dollars to build if one used conventional solar technology. Given the distinctly superior capital efficiency of our unique process technology, we can achieve this scale with a lot less capital and as a startup company."

About Nanosolar

Nanosolar is a global leader in solar power innovation. Nanosolar's solar electricity panels deliver unparalleled cost efficiency, enabling customers to use green power without paying more. With its proprietary nanoparticle ink and fast roll-printing technology, Nanosolar owns the processes and designs to produce the world's most cost-efficient solar cells and make them available in many versatile product forms. The company's headquarters are in Palo Alto, California, with European operations based in Berlin, Germany.

Idaho Power Seeks 100 Megawatts of Geothermal Power

2007-09-27T11:51:00.001-07:00

Idaho Power issued a request for proposals (RFP) in early June for 100 megawatts of geothermal power. Although the request may seem bold for a state that currently has no geothermal power plants, the Idaho Power RFP actually allows for geothermal power developments outside of the state, so long as the power can be transmitted to the Idaho Power service territory, which covers much of southern Idaho and parts of eastern Oregon. The RFP is based on the company's 2004 Integrated Resource Plan, a biennial effort to examine the company's need for future power generation facilities or other means to meet power requirements over the following 20 years. Idaho Power prefers projects that will be online by June 2009, but will also consider other proposals that include a reasonable development schedule. The company will hold a pre-bid meeting in Boise for all interested parties on June 29th; proposals are due on August 11th..
The RFP has already benefited Idaho's sole geothermal power developer, U.S. Geothermal, Inc. The company had signed an agreement to sell 10 megawatts of power to Idaho Power from its proposed 13-megawatt Raft River geothermal power plant. U.S. Geothermal now plans to submit a response to the Idaho Power RFP, which could allow it to sell the full 13 megawatts of power to the utility.

Meanwhile, the company is negotiating with the Eugene Power and Water Board for the sale of power from its second proposed geothermal plant, which will also produce 13 megawatts of power. The Raft River Geothermal Project is located in south-central Idaho, and the first plant is expected to start producing power next year.

For more information see the Idaho Power announcement and RFP

Solar Thermal in Europe grows significantly

2007-09-27T11:50:00.001-07:00

The use of solar thermal has increased significantly in 2006, the same applies for sales of solar thermal systems in Europe which grew by 35 % up to 1.900 megawatts of solar thermal power. The most dynamic markets are in France, in the UK, and in Germany, where growth rates are in between 40 % and 70 %. Industry and research institutions - motivated by their large success - are developing a common vision for the use of solar thermal in 2030 and have just launched the European Solar Thermal Technology Platform (ESTTP). Current developments in the international markets, in industry, in technology and in politics will be discussed at the European Solar Thermal Energy Conference (estec2007) on June 19-20, 2007, in Freiburg, Germany. This conference will be the most important international meeting point of the industry in the next year.

The European solar thermal market has become more and more dynamic within the last few years. France shows annual growth rates from 50 % up to 100 % and aims to increase the newly installed capacity from 150 megawatt-thermal (MWth) per year today until 700 MWth per year in 2010. In order to achieve this goal investors receive a tax reduction of 50 % for each solar thermal system installed. Italy will grant a 55 % tax reduction to achieve a similar goal. In Spain, the government has obliged homeowners to to installing a solar thermal system when renovating an existing building or during the construction of a new building in order to reach their ambitious goals. Further market growth is expected also in the UK and in the leading markets of Austria and Germany.

The current development in solar thermal is very encouraging, says Ole Pilgaard, President of ESTIF, and we are positive that it will accelerate in the coming years.

This dynamic is heightened by the insight that solar thermal technology will play a much more important role in the fight against climate change and against the dependency on fossil fuel imports. Experts consider that in the long run, 50 % of the low temperature heating needs in Europe can be covered by solar thermal. In order to discuss the necessary technological developments, experts from industry and science have launched the European Solar Thermal Technology Platform (ESTTP), which kicked-off their work on December 6, 2006. Until 2008, this platform will elaborate a strategy for research and development as well as for support policies and other positive framework conditions.

The European Solar Thermal Energy Conference is the most important forum worldwide for discussing these new developments. From June 19 20, 2007, it will take place in Freiburg for the third time, just two days before the Intersolar trade fair, the biggest solar-only trade fair in Europe. At estec2007, more than 400 experts form industry, science, politics and consultancies are expected for an exchange about market-, technological and political developments. Abstract proposals can be submitted online by January 8, 2007. Interested participants and press representatives can pre-register online as of the beginning of December.

The estec2007 is a conference of the European Solar Thermal Industry Federation, ESTIF, and organized by the German Solar Industry Association, BSW, in co-operation with Intersolar2007. This industry-oriented conference is supported by the most important European solar thermal companies, among them the German manufacturer of absorbers and collectors, KBB Kollektorbau. The copper industry is highly positive about the development of solar thermal, which is the rationale for the commitment of the European Copper Institute to be one of the important sponsors.

Further information about this conference is available at www.estec2007.org, where you can register for the monthly newsletter, giving information about the international development of solar thermal in the lead up to the conference and about the most important conference topics.

Wind power ready to meet looming energy gap, says report

2007-09-27T11:49:00.001-07:00

The paper entitled ?Plugging the Gap ? A survey of world fuel resources and their impact on the development of wind energy? was launched by the Global Wind Energy Council (GWEC) and Renewable Energy Systems Limited (RES) at a press conference at the Renewable Energy House in Brussels. The report has been prepared by RES in co-operation with GWEC and the EUREC Agency?s Masters programme.International Energy Agency (IEA) figures predict that 60% of the world?s energy supply could still be provided by oil and gas by 2030 ? with demand for electricity doubling. The report, however, estimates that global production of oil could ?peak? in as little as eight years time with production of gas likely to ?peak? in 2030, with prices rising steeply well in advance of this. The report says that while coal could last until the end of the century and could increase its share of energy supply, its large-scale use for electricity generation will only be acceptable with the development of clean coal technologies, which still have cost and technological barriers.

As a result, the report estimates that a serious shortfall between demand and supply could become evident soon after 2010. It predicts there could be a 10% shortfall by 2020 and an 18% short fall by 2030.

Eventually this gap will be filled by a mix of technologies ranging from renewables, coal and nuclear. The report concludes that wind power, as a safe, carbon-neutral, economic and indigenous energy resource, is the best choice to fill the electricity generation gap left by gas.

According to Dr Ian Mays, Managing Director of the RES Group, ?Fossil fuels cannot sustain our expected growth in energy demand and low energy prices are gone forever. Wind power is very much ready to keep the lights on and fill the gap. Wind power technologies are working successfully all over the world and with foresight and appropriate policy frameworks there is enough resource to roll out wind power on a huge-scale. Wind is a sustainable, free resource and the wind energy technology is cost effective, reliable, clean and green ? so what are we waiting for??

?GWEC forecasts that the global installed capacity for wind power will reach 135 GW by 2010. Furthermore, GWEC estimates that more than 1,000 GW of wind capacity could be installed by 2020, if significant policy changes are implemented,? said Prof. Arthouros Zervos, Chairman of GWEC. ?This potential is technically realisable but will require continuing development of policies to facilitate more substantial integration of wind energy into the generation mix.?

Maui Windpower

2007-09-27T11:46:00.001-07:00

In Hawaii—where there are no fossil fuel resources, and 90 percent of the state’s energy consumption must be imported—the decisions become more immediate. Last year, the Hawaiian legislature enacted a Renewable Portfolio Standard requiring that by 2020, 20 percent of electricity sold needs to be generated from renewable sources. [As of last year, 18 states plus the District of Columbia had passed similar legislation.]
“Hawaii has one of the best wind resources in the country, but the state hasn’t been using the resource to its fullest potential,” says Gaynor. “It’s a situation where wind is extremely competitive, compared to conventional power sources. It makes sense for consumers, it makes sense for the state, and it has environmental benefits.”
In March, Gaynor secured financing for a $70 million project on the island of Maui. [The project is a joint venture with Makani Nui Associates, which owns 49 percent.] The 30-megawatt wind farm at Kaheawa Pastures will be Hawaii’s first utility-scale project to be put into service since the 1980s. Plans call for 20 towers, 180 feet tall, with 1.5-megawatt General Electric turbines. Construction is expected to begin this summer, and the project should be completed by the first quarter of 2006. When operational, the wind farm will supply up to 9 percent of demand to customers of Maui Electric Company.
The Kaheawa Pastures site is situated on state conservation land, between Ma’aleaea and Olowalu, at elevations ranging from 2,000 to 3,000 feet. Gaynor describes the spot with elation, as he points to it on a wind resource map (opposite page) that shows where strong trade winds are squeezed between the West Maui Mountains and the Haleakala volcano. He is equally enthusiastic about the natural beauty of the site. “In the morning,” he says, almost reverently, “when the sun is rising, you can see over to the big island. It’s virgin land, with nothing but a few Jeep trails. It is absolutely gorgeous.”
Why, then, add a wind farm?
“Hawaii had to make a choice,” he answers. “On Maui, consumers pay about 25 cents per kilowatt hour for electricity.” [Retail rates in Hawaii are about twice the national average.] According to reports by the Hawaii Wind Working Group, the project was welcomed by residents: at hearings held by the Board of Land and Natural Resources in the early stages of the project, there was no opposing testimony from the homeowner, environmental, and native Hawaiian associations present.
“They want us to do this,” says Gaynor. “They’re saying, ‘I would rather look at wind turbines than have my kids unable to afford electricity and have to deal with the effects of global warming.’ They understand that it’s not a panacea but a piece of the solution toward becoming more energy efficient and less dependent on foreign oil. But there aren’t enough Hawaiis out there. That’s why we have to proceed slowly and surely.”

Worldwide solar

2007-08-22T22:27:00.000-07:00

Energy Innovations Corporation
Sunflower Solar System

August 18, 2007

Norwich University
Brian Olson
Alexandra Pierce
Jefferey Sharpe
Anthony Williams
I. Executive Summary
California based Energy Innovations Corporation (EIC) manufactures and develops solar technologies for commercial and residential properties. The firm’s flagship product, the Sunflower System, is the first high concentration photovalic (PV) system designed for commercial rooftop and adjacent ground-mounted applications. Combining the world's most efficient solar cells with proprietary lenses, self-powered tracking, and a unique two-axis tracking carousel, the Sunflower delivers more energy at less cost than traditional PV systems. Energy Innovations Corporation is currently in the final stages of testing the product and expects to deliver the first commercial units in 2008.

India is an excellent market for the Sunflower PV. It not only boasts a conducive climate to solar power, but the recent proliferation of high tech industries has proved incredibly taxing to the existing electrical grid. A widespread switch to solar power would mitigate this.

In this report, we will state clearly why we have chosen the Indian market for to produce sell, and export the Sunflower System. We have determined Chennai would be an ideal place to manufacture the product based on its location in the southern region providing a temperate climate year round. The high level of foreign direct investment (FDI) in India by American high tech firms is notable because the Sunflower System can be sold to American companies and other foreign MNC's to guarantee consistent power supplies at their Indian subsidiaries.

II. EIC and the Sunflower system

a) Energy Innovations Corporation (EIC)
Energy Innovations is an up and coming leader in power innovation. Their mission is to deliver cost effective, grid-competitive solar electric power. The immediate goal of Energy Innovations is to reduce the payback time for a solar system so that it becomes both a sensible and logical investment for individual, public and corporate electricity users around the world.
Their strategy is to improve the cost-effectiveness of existing photovoltaic-based systems through innovations in not only the collection of solar energy, but also the generation of electric power from it. To execute this strategy, Energy Innovations has developed a compact tracking system to concentrate solar energy and a customized photovoltaic cell designed to work efficiently under concentrated sunlight. After extensive beta testing of the Sunflower, they have created a photovoltaic-based system that is assured long life, reliability and ease of installation. The Sunflower was released domestically in the U.S. commercial and institutional market through Energy Innovation’s system integration arm, EI Solutions. (http://www.energyinnovations.com)

b) The Sunflower
The Sunflower is the first high concentration PV system designed for commercial rooftop and adjacent ground-mounted applications. By combining the world's most efficient solar cells with proprietary lenses, self-powered tracking, and a unique two-axis tracking carousel, the Sunflower delivers more energy at less cost than traditional PV systems.
The Sunflower uses a proprietary-designed Fresnel lens to focus the sun's rays onto a very small piece of photovoltaic material. Our PV cell is the most efficient cell in the world - over 35% efficient, meaning that 35% of the energy from the sun is converted into electricity. It is composed of three layers of PV material, each of which responds to a different wavelength of light, enabling it to produce far more energy than traditional single-layer silicon-based cells. Each cell is backed by a set of aluminum cooling fins that use natural air flow to keep it at an optimal operating temperature despite the concentration levels.
In order for a high-x solar concentrator to work, the lens must be pointed directly at the sun. This requires a tracking system that moves the module in both altitude and azimuth dimensions. The Sunflower design includes an integrated two-axis tracker. Each of the three sticks (each containing four lenses and cells) contain a highly reliable, military-grade motor that tracks the sun's altitude, and they are mounted on a carousel that tracks the azimuth. Tracking is also "closed loop," meaning that it does not rely on GPS locators or an internal clock to get its bearings; it relies solely on internal sensors to find and track the sun.
Additionally, the Sunflower is the first high-x concentrator designed for rooftop applications. Its low profile enables it to maintain its position even in high winds. Its feet are designed to quickly connect to adjacent units, perfectly spacing them apart to eliminate inter-unit shading. This configuration also creates a "peloton" effect - changing the shape of the wind's movement across the units to reduce its ability to move them - much like what you see a group of bicyclists do in a race to deflect the wind. The result is that Sunflower systems will withstand winds up to 120 mph without requiring any roof penetrations.
Lastly, the small amount of energy needed by the Sunflower to power its tracking system and motors is derived from a separate strip of traditional PV cells mounted on the center stick. As a result, there is no need to bring wires back from the building's electrical system, and all of the energy produced by the Sunflower can be used to power the building or export to the grid. (http://www.energyinnovations.com)

c) Product requirements
Concentrating solar systems only respond to direct rays of the sun, meaning that they cannot take advantage of diffuse light on a cloudy day or when the humidity is extremely high. As a result the Sunflower will be most advantageous in the parts of the world where the annual kWh/m2 is at least 100-200 kWh/m2 or greater, as that is the minimum solar output needed in order to make solar effective enough to be useful. The map below details worldwide annual solar distribution.

As a point of reference, all countries except those that are designated by the purple color, representing solar output of less than 100 kWh/m2 annually, receive enough solar energy to make solar power both a viable and effective option.
The only other requirement for the effective use and installation of the Sunflower system is a flat area for mounting, either on a roof or on the ground adjacent to a grid-tied building.

d) Reason to Internationalize now
Over the past 20 years, solar energy demand has grown consistently by 20-25% per annum, and has been against a backdrop of rapidly declining costs and prices. The declines in cost have been driven by a) increasing efficiency of solar cells, b) manufacturing technology improvements, and c) economies of scale. The photovoltaic solar industry now globally generates around $10 billion in revenues, which accounts for meeting less than 2% of the total global demand for energy. Despite this fact, as oil resources are depleting and their cost dramatically increasing, more and more governments around the globe are making the push to become “green,” or at least use renewable energy sources. (http://www.solarbuzz.com/StatsMarketShare.htm)
With governments around the globe making the push to switch to renewable energy sources, the fact that there is currently very little competition, and the fact that the solar energy market is still a very young and emerging market, is the exactly why Energy Innovations needs to bring its Sunflower solar system to the international market as soon as possible. The increased efficiency and durability of the Sunflower, coupled with its substantially lower price, will enable them to penetrate foreign markets currently being served by other solar energy companies, while being the first mover in other markets, thus capturing a dominant portion of the market share.

III. International Market Overview
Australia:
Year-round sunshine, a stable political environment, robust economy, English-speaking workforce, environmentally conscious population, and well-developed infrastructure make Australia a strong candidate for FDI by Energy Innovations Corporation. Australia’s main benefit is that it is a large, sunny landmass where solar energy production would be relatively simple. The Australian dollar is currently weaker than the American dollar, meaning that investment would be less costly. Business relations are amicable and the country’s infrastructure would make serving the entire nation possible.

The most notable drawback to investment in Australia is that the country is a net exporter of energy and demand does not exist for more power. Therefore EIC’s systems would have to be marketed strictly as an ecological alternative to the power grid. While the market for this does exist, it is more difficult to sell solar energy than somewhere with widespread power shortages. Also, the geographic distance between Australia and the United States would make shipping and travel costly.

Brazil:
Brazil offers a relatively stable economy, an educated workforce, a developed infrastructure, and a diverse culture that embraces foreign investors. Its mixture of natural resources suggest that as the economy expands, the nations populace will increase in wealth allowing for further growth. As a member of Mercosur, Brazil’s success has the potential spill over and help other alliance nations grow, providing further expansion of our enterprise within LATAM (Latin America). Additionally, Brazil may lead and assist with political and economic stability of member nations such as Argentina, Paraguay and Uruguay, allowing for sustained growth, which should affect non-Mercosur nations. Another added benefit to EIC, assuming a substantial increase market share in the region, is growth outside of the region through partner nations such as Netherlands, Germany, China, Japan, Canada, and the United States.

Unfortunately, banking on the success of Mercosur not a viable investment strategy. Without the successful implementation of the Mercosur agreement, Brazil is still a strong candidate for investment in terms of climate, location, labor costs, and potential for growth, but lags behind other candidate nations in terms of political, legal, and economic conditions.

Canada:
Canada is a favourable market politically, legally, and logistically because it is the United States’ largest trading partner, a member of NAFTA, and geographically nearby. The government is presently undertaking a number of “green” initiatives, including major investments in alternative energy sources. The bulk of Canada’s industry is located in areas favourable to solar energy, and Eastern Canada would be a reasonable location for EIC’s first foreign subsidiary. The country’s well-developed infrastructure would make transportation and installation simple.

However, Canada does have some major drawbacks. While industrialized areas are located in the southern regions, many of those areas are already served by hydroelectric energy. Other areas are located too far north to make use of solar power. Due to the government’s green policies, competition in the alternative energy sector is already fierce. Furthermore, the low barriers to entry are also available to EIC’s competitors; so early headway in the Canadian market does not really generate sustainable competitive advantage. Essentially, Canada is a safe market to enter, and the metrics support this. However, operations to not show the potential for ROI that other markets do.

France:
France is a highly favourable market for investment for several reasons. Climactic conditions can support solar energy, demand for power outstrips domestic supply, and the economy is robust and growing. As a developed nation and a member of the European Union, rules and guidelines for FDI make market entry relatively straightforward, and the country’s well-developed infrastructure supports industrial development.

While the metrics show France as a prime candidate for EIC investment, there are several qualitative drawbacks that make it a less viable option. Relations between the U.S. and France have been chilly in recent years, and while this has not caused formal political strife, public opinion in both countries does not support amicable business dealings between the two. Other important considerations are a strong Euro and that English is not widely spoken, making supplier and contract arrangements more difficult. Also, while France is in a location favourable to solar energy it does not have the climate or sunlight hours that more southern nations do. While France would likely be a safe market for FDI, like Canada and Australia it does not show the potential for long-term sustainable competitive advantage of emerging and developing markets.

India:
India is the most viable market for EIC’s products. While the political and legal systems – particularly patent laws – are more difficult to navigate than those of the other countries considered, India shows the highest potential for long-term ROI for a number of reasons. First, India has power problems. Major markets suffer from rolling brownouts and the widespread use of solar energy would remedy this. Secondly, India is a sun-drenched country near to the equator. It does not experience the unfortunate drawbacks associated with winter such as shortened daylight hours and unfavourable weather that other markets face; the rainy season in India is only three months long. Third, U.S. FDI in India, particularly in the power-hungry high tech sector, has been substantial in recent years. American companies rely on power to realize the savings of operating in India and cannot afford to be affected by brownouts. This situation provides a number of opportunities for joint ventures and contract agreements with American tech companies to help sustain their Indian operations. A side benefit of the country’s highly developed tech sector is an educated, English-speaking workforce at a fraction of the cost of hiring American expatriates. Finally, India’s underdeveloped infrastructure may be problematic for transportation and installation, but it also means that there are a number of locales in India that are off the power grid. Solar energy is a viable option for these locations, and potential exists for agreements with the government or with NGOs to do so.

Drawbacks are supported by the metrics. Because India is not yet a Western developed market, it presents more challenges for FDI, most notably problems with patent protection. However, as a number of American companies have already discovered, this rapidly growing market has the highest potential for profitability of any of the countries considered.

IV. Market Assessment Comparison
Criteria:
a) Market Potential – Based on demand for product, viability of solar conditions, competition, cost of available energy, electricity consumption/production ratio
0 = Product unnecessary in most applications; little available solar energy; high competition; existing electricity is inexpensive; more electricity is produced than consumed
10 = Customers seeking renewable energy solutions; high solar energy; low competition; electricity generation is costly; electricity shortage

b) Political – Based on political stability, diplomatic relations, and trade organizations (i.e. NAFTA, EU, etc…)
0 = Unstable government system; unfriendly towards U.S. or hostile neighbors; not part of an advantageous trading block
10 = Highly stable government; friendly towards U.S. and neighbors; active member of NAFTA or retains Most Favored Trade Partner status

c) Economy – Based on economic development, inflation, education, and public debt
0 = Negative economic growth; uncontrollable inflation; low literacy; uncontrollable public debt (IMF involvement)
10 = High economic growth; low inflation; high literacy rate; manageable public debt

d) Infrastructure – Based on electronic banking, ports of entry, and internal road networks (for product distribution)
0 = Electronic banking unavailable; limited/difficult ports of entry; incomplete road/bridge network
10 = Electronic banking prevalent; multiple ports of entry; complete and free-flowing road network

e) Legal – Based on tariffs and rule of law enforcement (civil and criminal)
0 = High tariffs on imported solar energy systems; no enforcement of copyright or international laws; high crime rate; rampant public corruption
10 = Low/no tariffs on solar energy systems; rigid enforcement of copyright and international laws; low crime rate; no public corruption

f) Total Score:
0 = High Risk: Conditions oppose any investment; failure nearly assured
5 = Moderate Risk: Investment conditions allow a reasonable chance for success
10 = Low Risk: Conditions encourage investment; high probability of success

Summary:
∑ Each category assigned a weight based on importance to Energy Innovations
∑ Sum of total weights from each category will equal 100%
∑ Raw scores are determined from each category based on country reports
∑ High weighted scores indicate a country is favorable for investment by EIC

Market Potential Evaluation
Country Australia Brazil Canada France India
Weight Raw Weighted Raw Weighted Raw Weighted Raw Weighted Raw Weighted
Market Potential 0.3 9 2.7 8 2.4 8 2.4 9 2.7 10 3
Political 0.15 9 1.35 9 1.35 10 1.5 8 1.2 8 1.2
Economy 0.2 9 1.8 9 1.8 10 2 10 2 10 2
Infrastructure 0.15 9 1.35 9 1.35 10 1.5 10 1.5 9 1.35
Legal 0.2 10 2 9 1.8 10 2 10 2 9 1.8
Total 1 46 9.2 44 8.70 48 9.4 48 9.4 46 9.35

V. India – Recommended Market
Demographics
The Republic of India is an attractive market for the Sunflower System due to several factors including: climate, the world’s second largest population (over 1 billion citizens), language: English is the primary language for business and academia, transportation, one of the largest labor forces in the world (Friedman 2006) and a multitude of multinational corporations already operating in the country. Literacy and patent protection are some issues of concern, with a literacy rate of 61% (CIA World Fact Book, 2007), and the government’s willingness to acquire intellectual property via an obscure law regarding national security interest (CBS 60 Minutes, August 12, 2007 Episode) however; they are not compelling enough to prevent us from developing and manufacturing our product within their borders.

It has made rapid economic progress in the last decade; it is the world's twelfth largest economy by market exchange rates and the third largest in purchasing power. The nation’s standard of living is expected to rise sharply in the next half-century; it currently battles high levels of poverty, illiteracy, malnutrition, and environmental degradation.

India is the seventh-largest country in the world in terms of geographical area, the second most populous country, and the most populous liberal democracy. Bounded by the Indian Ocean on the south, the Arabian Sea on the west, and the Bay of Bengal on the east, India has a coastline of over 7500 kilometers. The Himalayas extend from the eastern extremes to the North of India, to the east lies the Thar Desert. It borders Pakistan to the west; China, Nepal, and Bhutan to the northeast; and Bangladesh and Myanmar to the east. In the Indian Ocean, India is in the vicinity of Sri Lanka, Maldives, and Indonesia (BBC, www.bbc.co.uk/india.htm).

The country, nearly 3 million square kilometers, is comprised of 28 states and 7 union territories, all connected by an efficient transportation system of roadways, airports, waterways and railways. Exports and imports are essential to the GDP of India, and while agriculture remains the largest area of employment, the service labor, in the technology field, brings in the greatest amount of revenue. (CIA, 2007) India is cultural mix of religion, traditional labor and the fastest growing, technically educated, population in the world. Despite the dichotomy between the poor and the rich, the educated and the illiterate, those who have

Political Analysis

India enjoys the rights and privileges of the world’s largest democracy it has followed the structure of democratic nations, such as Great Britain, Canada and the United States governed by a constitution. It has a President and Vice President but the real power is that of the Prime Minister, Pratibha Patil, a woman, which is highly symbolic since typically women are not as highly educated as men, and whose roles have been historically trivialized simply to a wife, mother, and servant to her husband. With its structure like that of the United States it makes the country very attractive to American MNC such as Google, Microsoft, Ford, General Motors, Dell Hewlett Packard, and many others; for this reason it is also very attractive to us.

Financial Reasons for Choosing India

Foreign Direct Investment (FDI)

India encourages foreign investment through significant tax incentives to corporations conducting business within its borders in order to promote development and growth. Additionally, the government has reduced controls on foreign trade and investment with Tariffs on non-agricultural items in 2006 averaging 12.5% (percent).

Listed below are key incentives Energy Innovation Corporation and its international subsidiary will enjoy:
∑ Five year tax holiday for:
o Power projects.
o Firms engaged in exports.
o New industries in notified states and for new industrial units established, in electronic hardware/software parks.
o Export Oriented Units and units in Free Trade Zones.
o Firms engaged in providing infrastructure facilities.
∑ 100% tax deductions of export profits.
∑ 50% tax deduction on foreign exchange earnings earned in foreign exchange.
∑ 30% tax deduction on net income for industrial companies up to a 10 year period.

India is very interested in Foreign Investment opportunities through:
∑ Financial collaborations
∑ Joint ventures and technical collaborations
∑ Capital markets via Euro issues
∑ Private placements or preferential allotments

Value System Comparison to United States
Conducting business in a foreign country requires that we have an understanding of the local culture, customs, and views therefore; it is necessary for us to understand how Indian values differ from that of our own. Using Geerte-Hofstede model it provides us with that understanding of India’s values and compares them with that of the United States. The results show that India:
∑ They have a high level of inequality of power and wealth within the society with women typically on the bottom rung of the social ladder
∑ India is very similar to the US in Masculinity signaling little difference between the value of men and women.
∑ India’s lower UAI rating indicates they are more accepting of change and more open to less structure. This may result in them being more creative than the typical US worker.
∑ Their low LTO (long term orientation) rating indicates they are thrift and willing to work to overcome adversity, and obstacle. This may suggest they are strong problem solvers or possess the ability to stick with an issue until a conclusion may be found.

Technology and Infrastructure:
The highly skilled labor force and growing economy are conducive to a highly technical product such as solar panels. Additionally, opportunity exists for contracting with foreign firms operating in India to provide reliable power to their enterprises locally.

Many analysts argue that infrastructure is the weak link in India’s sustained development and in 2006 Prime Minister Manmohan Singh said an investment of over $150 billion is needed in the next few years to develop India's infrastructure (Press Trust of Inda, 2006).

India has one of the largest road networks in the world. It also boasts an efficient railway system that that extends 63,000 kilometers and carries over 11 million passengers and 11 Lakh tones of freight daily. It has a long coast line with 12 major ports (Kandla, Mumbai, Nhava Sheva, Marmagao, Cochin, Tuticorin, Chennai, Vishakapatnam, Paradwip, Haldia, Goa and Kolkata). Additionally, it has a well structured airport system with four major international locations strategically located throughout the country.

10 Reasons to Establish Operations in India:

1. Excellent climate – we can select region with lots of annual sunshine.
2. Stable political situation – an ally of the United States
3. Very good legal system – similar to the United States.
4. Efficient transportation system.
5. Tax incentives.
6. Trade free zones.
7. Large labor pool.
8. English language spoken.
9. Comparable value system.
10. One of the world’s fastest growing economy.

VI. Entry Strategy

a) Locally vs. Import
It is financially beneficial for us to produce the product locally (in India), deliver to that market, as well as export the product to other countries. India has and will continue to have a high demand for energy. It currently produces 630.6 kWh per annum, but consumes 527.9 billion kWh and exports 60 million kWh. They import 1.5 billion kWh per annum (CIA, 2007). The addition of a nationwide solar network would solve the problems the country has with rolling brownouts, as well as its difficulties connecting rural areas to the power grid. Solar panels could be easily installed in every village powering their every need. Partnerships could be developed within the private sector with companies interested in developing India’s villages, reducing our installation costs and allowing a faster deployment. The government is committed to developing its infrastructure therefore we must move quickly to capitalize on this.
b) Competition
There are a significant number of solar energy companies that are committed to providing the technology locally and or globally to reduce customers and various countries dependence on fossil fuel. There are currently 21 companies operating in India as retailers and installers of solar technology. Solar Energy, headquartered in Delhi, is one of the largest retailers and installers of solar energy products in India. They and the other 20 organizations may be willing to distribute the Sunflower System, as there is currently no manufacturer of solar energy based in India. This provides EIC with a distinct advantage over foreign producers of same or similar technology.
c) Localization requirements
We recommend that initial investment take place in the facilities designated for use by American customers. Most of these facilities will likely be located in the Bangalore region, where the high tech industry is centered. Chennai would be an ideal place to manufacture the product based on its location in the southern region providing a temperate climate year round. Expansion to other markets will be driven by demand. Most Indian urban centers like Delhi, Bombay, and Calcutta suffer from rolling brownouts, so state and local government contracts can be sought in these areas.
d) Brief marketing strategy
It will be necessary to first sell the Sunflower System to American high-tech companies as cost-effective, environmentally friendly brownout protection. This will not only provide an easy and effective port of entry but also, EIC can then utilize these large customers’ supply chains for future sales based on the same rationale. For direct sales in the Indian market, the Sunflower System as a solution to the country’s power problems can be sold to heads of government and of major industry. Other options include distribution by Indian solar companies. It is essential that the system be sold at a price point where large industrial operations will be able to recoup the cost of the system from the savings generated by moving off the grid and by doing away with expensive generator systems to protect from brownouts.

VII. Recommended Timetable for Implementation
a) Short Term

The first market to be targeted should the American high tech firms operating in Bangalore. These firms are well aware of the fact that such alternative, renewable energy sources are both necessary in brownout protection, and also that they offer a means of generating a significant cost savings over the expensive generator systems that most of them have in place currently. Approaching these companies in the United States also dramatically drives down entry costs.

b) Medium Term

Upon successfully entering and establishing ourselves in the Bangalore market, EIC should then turn towards the other major urban centers throughout India, particularly Delhi, Bombay, and Calcutta. Despite these cities being major urban centers, they are not void from the rolling brownouts that plague the country. The best approaches for entry into urban markets are likely through seeking local and state government contracts or contracting with established local solar companies willing to distribute the Sunflower System.

c) Long Term

Once successfully establishing EIC’s presence in the major urban areas throughout India, the next marketing objective should be to reach the rural areas of the country where brownouts are more prevalent and more severe in their duration. This would require pursuing partnerships with government agencies or NGOs looking to help develop rural India or with corporate entities interested in operating there; particularly agricultural enterprises. Long-term goals include widespread distribution of solar energy throughout India to help the country combat its power shortage and make a major investment in sustainable, renewable energy. While this is best achieved through pursuing partnerships, licensing, and distribution agreements in the short-term, EIC will eventually become entrenched in the Indian market, which will necessitate a full Indian division. This will serve as a launch pad to entering other markets in the region, such as Thailand, Indonesia, Sri Lanka, the Philippines, and Vietnam.

References:
1. Solarbuzz: Stats: market share. http://www.solarbuzz.com/StatsMarketShare.htm

2. Energy Innovations Incorporated: About us. http://www.energyinnovations.com

3. CBS 60 Minutes, August 12, 2007 Episode

4. Press Trust of India, 2007. Government Profile. Retrieved August 18, 2007 from www.ptinews.com.

5. Hofstede, 2007. Cultural Profile, India. Retrieved August 18, 2007 from www.geert-hofstede.com

6. Friedman, Thomas L. The World Is Flat: A brief history of the twenty-first century, C. 2006 Farrar, Stratus, and Giroux, New York, NY.

8. BBC, 2006. Country Profile: India. Retrieved August 17, 2007 from www.bbc.co.uk

Solar power in Canada

2007-08-22T22:25:00.000-07:00

INTRODUCTION:

California based Energy Innovations Corporation (EIC) manufactures and develops solar technologies for commercial and residential properties. The firm’s flagship product, the Sunflower System, is the first high concentration photovalic (PV) system designed for commercial rooftop and adjacent ground-mounted applications. By combining the world's most efficient solar cells with proprietary lenses, self-powered tracking, and a unique two-axis tracking carousel, the Sunflower delivers more energy at less cost than traditional PV systems. EIC is currently in the final stages of testing and expect to deliver the first commercial units in 2008. The Sunflower produces more energy over the course of the day than a traditional PV system of equal capacity. This extra energy is particularly helpful in making a system more cost-effective, as the cost of utility-supplied electricity the system is displacing during afternoon "peak" periods is often substantially more expensive than at other times of the day .

At first glance, Canada is an ideal market for the Sunflower System for a number of reasons. Its location and trade agreements with the United States make it easy and accessible. Also, recent government initiatives to fund “green” or energy-saving renovations and construction projects make it an attractive market for solar energies. Because the Sunflower is a higher-output system than traditional PVs, Canada’s dark winters will be less of a problem than with traditional solar systems.

In this report, I will assess the Canadian market for solar energy. I will determine which provinces and markets are most attractive and will consider market potential for the Sunflower in geographical, cultural, political, economic, technological, and industrial contexts. Canada is a market with a great deal of support and government funding for renewable technology, but Chinese and Canadian firms are already well entrenched in the Canadian market. Therefore, I will assess whether the benefits of the Sunflower System will make it a viable competitor in this growth market.

OVERVIEW:
Canada is the second largest landmass in the world and the United States’ number one trading partner. While often seen as “the 51st state” to Americans, Canada is a diverse nation with a number of policies and practices that create a culture that is distinctly different than that of America. Canada generally supports NATO on international issues. It has been involved in both World Wars, as well as the Korean War, but it’s military has played a peacekeeping role in recent decades. As a government and population, Canada is more vocal in its concerns about environmental conservation than the United States, especially in its major urban centers.

Major Canadian cities include Montreal (population 3,192,110), Ottawa (989,165) Toronto (population 4,356,845), Winnipeg (population 662,520), Calgary (population 885,100), Edmonton (population 871,175), and Vancouver (population 1,861,975) .

The country is abundant in natural resources and primarily exports agricultural goods, oil, and lumber. Most major automakers have plants in Canada, and Bombardier, a leading manufacturer of trains, aircraft, and recreational snow and watercraft is based in Quebec. Canada will play host to the 2010 Winter Olympic Games in Vancouver and Whistler, which is expected to draw a great deal of international attention, evidenced by previous experiences hosting Expo ’86, and Olympiads in Montreal and Calgary. Green mandates are an integral part of the 2010 Olympics, and the Vancouver Olympic Organizing Committee (VANOC) plans to make the 2010 Olympics the greenest games in history .

The Conservative party took power in 2006, forming a minority government. This ended several decades of Liberal party rule. Federal Liberals recently elected a new leader, but an election is not expected to be forthcoming. Although the previous government ratified the Kyoto protocol, which, along with other benchmarks, sets emissions targets for nations; Jim Brown, the current environment minister, has dismissed Kyoto as “unattainable” and has rolled out a new environmental program that, while still extremely aggressive, does not contain Kyoto’s strict mandates.

GEOGRAPHY AND CLIMATE:
Canada’s distinct geographical and climate zones are depicted on the following map:

Part of the Canadian mainland and most of the Arctic Archipelago fall within the arctic temperature zone; the remainder of the country is more temperate. As a consequence, general climatic conditions range from the extreme cold characteristic of the Arctic regions to the moderate temperatures of more southerly latitudes. The Canadian climate is marked by wide regional variations. In the Maritime provinces (New Brunswick, Nova Scotia, and Prince Edward Island), extremes of winter cold and summer heat are modified by oceanic influences, which also cause considerable fog and precipitation. Along the western coast, which is under the influence of warm ocean currents and moisture-laden winds, mild summers and winters, high humidity, and abundant precipitation are characteristic. In the central plains, or Cordilleran region, the higher western slopes of certain uplifts, particularly the Selkirk and the Rocky mountain ranges, receive sizable amounts of rain and snow, but the eastern slopes and the central plateau region are extremely arid, marked by warm summers and cool winters. A feature of the Cordilleran region is the Chinook, a warm, dry westerly wind that substantially ameliorates winter conditions in the Rocky Mountain foothills and adjoining plains, often causing great daily changes . Because of its northern location, much of Canada experiences extended daylight during the summer months.

Implications For EIC
Southern Canadian markets, especially the central Cordilleran region are most attractive for solar power and for the Sunflower System. In the North, combination systems that use and store solar energy in the summer and are able to run off hydroelectricity in the winter will be more marketable. Because of its sheer size, Canada has many remote locations. Structures far from urban centers are also important candidates for solar power, primarily large businesses like wilderness lodges that can benefit from EIC’s large industrial products.

CULTURE:
Canada is often described as a “mosaic” with many distinct ethnic and cultural groups. The most notable cultural issue is the English/French dichotomy. The province of Quebec was originally a French territory and was captured by the English in the late 18th century. To this day, Quebec remains a distinct society and is largely French speaking. Canada has two official languages, English and French. Other cultures are also prevalent. Canada’s aggressive immigration policies have attracted a large number of professionals, particularly from Asian countries; thus, the country boasts large ethnic Chinese, Korean, Japanese, Vietnamese, Filipino, and Indian populations.

Canada, like many other nations, is faced with an aging population. It has a relatively high level of education, particularly in its urban centers and the government is actively trying to meet the country’s labor force challenges by recruiting educated immigrants. Notably, the Canadian government extended permanent resident status to business owners from Hong Kong who were willing to “buy in” to the Canadian economy for a set amount in the months leading up to the Chinese takeover of the province in 1997.

Specific Demographic Data:
Population: 31,612,987
Median Age: 37.6
Housing
Total Private Households: 29,552,305
Family Households With Children: 3,530,180
Family Households Without Children: 3,237,620
Language
English: 17,572,170
French: 6,741,955
Other: 5,202,240
Ethnicity
Aboriginal/First Nations: 976,305
Chinese: 1,209,395
South Asian: 917,070
Black: 662,215
Filipino: 308,575
Labor Force
Age 15-24: 2,581,445
Age 25-54: 11,431,345
Age 55+: 1,859,285
Average Age: 39.0
Incomes
Average Income: $31,757
Median Family Income: $72,524
Education and Earnings
High School or Less: 7,596,640, $34,631
College or Trades: 5,015,035, $41,072
University or Graduate School: 3,676,630, $61,156
Countrywide Statistics
Unemployment Rate: 6.1%
GDP (purchasing power parity): $1.178 trillion (2006 est.)
GDP (official exchange rate): $1.088 trillion (2006 est.)
GDP - real growth rate: 2.7% (2006 est.)
GDP - per capita (PPP): $35,600 (2006 est.)
GDP - composition by sector:
Agriculture: 2.3%
Industry: 29.2%
Services: 68.5% (2006 est.)
Labor force: 17.59 million (2006 est.)
Labor force - by occupation:
Agriculture 2%, manufacturing 14%, construction 5%, services 75%, other 3% (2004)
Population below poverty line: 15.9%; note - this figure is the Low Income Cut-Off (LICO), a calculation that results in higher figures than found in many comparable economies; Canada does not have an official poverty line (2003)

Household income or consumption by percentage share:
Lowest 10%: 2.8%
Highest 10%: 23.8% (1994)
Distribution of family income - Gini index: 33.1 (1998)
Inflation rate (consumer prices): 2% (2006 est.)
Investment (gross fixed): 21.3% of GDP (2006 est.)
Budget:
Revenues: $183.5 billion
Expenditures: $181.8 billion; including capital expenditures of $NA (2005 est.)
Public debt: 65.4% of GDP (2006 est.)

Green Initiatives and Implications for EIC:
While Canadian interest in Green policies and practices varies by region, the country is seen as progressive on environmental issues and there is intense public pressure for environmental reform. The Federal Government has responded with tax breaks to citizens who buy fuel-efficient cars and renovate their homes to make them more energy efficient.

There has been a strong movement toward green issues in recent years, most notably in British Columbia, where the government is heavily subsidizing renewable energy technologies, including Victoria’s Carmanah Corp. a solar power company with quarterly sales of $14.9 million .

Affluent populations concerned with green issues, strong government initiatives for environmental projects and renewable energies, as well as a strong Canadian dollar make current conditions for entry into Canada favorable. Forestry, agricultural, and manufacturing industries are excellent candidates for solar energy. There is also potential to contract with First Nations tribes on Native lands and projects.

POLITICAL AND LEGAL:
Canada is divided into ten provinces: Alberta, British Columbia, Manitoba, Saskatchewan, Ontario, Quebec, New Brunswick, Newfoundland and Labrador, Prince Edward Island, and Nova Scotia, and three territories: Northwest Territories, Yukon Territory, and Nunavut. The country’s independence was officially recognized by the UK on December 11, 1931 but it gained autonomy on July 1, 1867 with the union of British North American colonies. Canada’s constitution is, much like Britain’s, largely made up of unwritten and written acts, customs, judicial decisions, and traditions; the written part of the constitution consists of the Constitution Act of 29 March 1867, which created a federation of four provinces, and the Constitution Act of 17 April 1982, which transferred formal control over the constitution from Britain to Canada, and added a Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms as well as procedures for constitutional amendments. The legal system is based on English common law, except in Quebec, where civil law system based on French law prevails. Education and healthcare are also different in Quebec than in the rest of Canada .

Canada is governed by a bicameral Parliament consisting of a Senate (105 seats; members appointed by the governor general with the advice of the prime minister and serve until reaching 75 years of age) and the House of Commons (308 seats; members elected by direct, popular vote to serve five-year terms) . The country’s two major political parties are the Liberal and Conservative parties, while secondary parties Bloc Quebecois and the New Democratic Party (NDP) also hold seats in the House of Commons. The Green Party is also a notable voice in Canadian government. Steven Harper’s Conservative party came to power with a minority government (meaning that the Conservatives need the backing of at least one other party in order to pass legislation) in 2006, with the next election slated for 2011, though many analysts suggest that it will happen earlier since Stephane Dion, an outspoken environmental activist, took control of the Liberal Party in early 2007.

Implications for EIC:
Canada’s diverse and dynamic government is presently very focused on environmental programs, with the major parties trying to “out-green” each other. Stephane Dion is a longtime environmental activist (he has a dog named Kyoto) who has formed alliances with the Green Party, while the Conservatives have spent the past year rolling out environmental programs to remain competitive with the Liberals. Politically, Canada is very friendly to alternative energy companies, and there is market potential for the Sunflower System in public structures.

ECONOMY AND INDUSTRY:
An affluent, high-tech industrial society in the trillion-dollar class, Canada resembles the US in its market-oriented economic system, pattern of production, and affluent living standards. Since World War II, the impressive growth of the manufacturing, mining, and service sectors has transformed the nation from a largely rural economy into one primarily industrial and urban. The 1989 US-Canada Free Trade Agreement (FTA) and the 1994 North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA) (which includes Mexico) touched off a dramatic increase in trade and economic integration with the US. Given its great natural resources, skilled labor force, and modern capital plant, Canada enjoys solid economic prospects. Superior fiscal management has produced consecutive balanced budgets since 1997, although public debate continues over how to manage the rising cost of the publicly funded healthcare system. Exports account for roughly a third of GDP. Canada enjoys a substantial trade surplus with its principal trading partner, the US, which absorbs about 85% of Canadian exports. Canada is the US' largest foreign supplier of energy, including oil, gas, uranium, and electric power . In recent years, the Canadian dollar has made substantial gains against the American dollar, opening the door for increased imports from the United States.

Major industries include transportation equipment, chemicals, processes and unprocessed minerals, food products, wood and paper products, fish products, petroleum and natural gas. The country has a robust service sector, with 67% of the labor force employed in service industries. Notably, Canada is a major producer and exporter of electricity, particularly to California. The country produced 573 billion kWh in 2004, 28% of which was by fossil fuel production, 57.9% from hydroelectric, 12.9% from nuclear and 1.3% from other sources. Consumption was 522.4 billion kWh in 2004, while Canada exported 33.01 kWh and imported 22.48 billion kWh . It is important to note that since 2004, rising oil prices, distrust of nuclear facilities, and environmental concerns have strengthened the alternative energy market.

Implications for EIC:
While less favorable solar markets like British Columbia are exporting electricity from hydroelectric sources to the United States, oil-producing Alberta and the arid prairie regions rely on fossil fuels for energy. With the strong Canadian dollar, environmentally concerned citizenry and healthy economy, Canada, particularly Alberta, Saskatchewan, and Manitoba are excellent markets for solar energy. Government subsidization for solar power to be used in the agricultural sector is also a very real possibility.

TECHNOLOGY AND INFESTRUCTURE:
Canada has well developed highway and rail infestructures and has major ports in Vancouver, Halifax, Prince Rupert, and Montreal. The country has 509 airports that can support jet traffic. The country also boasts a well-developed technological infestructure with approximately 34 million telephone users, 760 internet service providers, and 21.9 million internet users in 2005 .

Implications for EIC:
As a Western industrialized nation sharing an international border, technology, and infestructure with the United States, Canada is an uncomplicated highly accessible market for large-scale industrial products.

CONCLUSIONS AND RECOMMENDATIONS:
As I have stated throughout the paper, Canada is an excellent market for international expansion. Because of the country’s proximity to and commonalities with the United States, expansion into Canada is a prudent step in EIC’s internationalization plan. A culture of conservation and a concerned, affluent population, a receptive government willing to subsidize sustainable industry, free trade agreements and a long standing trade relationship with the United States make Canada a highly attractive market for the Sunflower System. Climactic conditions conducive to solar power in areas that are currently using fossil fuels for electricity production further illustrate the appeal of the Canadian market.

I recommend that EIC enter the Canadian market by focusing on the agricultural and manufacturing industrial markets in Alberta, Manitoba, and Saskatchewan, with eventual expansion into residential markets and into other provinces, notably Ontario and Quebec. Contingent on the success of market entry, I recommend that EIC then approach the Canadian Government and First Nations Officials about large public contracts. Long-term recommendations include a possible production and/or assembly facility in Ontario and feasibility studies for the Sunflower System in Ontario’s manufacturing plants. In sum, the Canadian market offers boundless potential and in my opinion is a large and necessary component of any alternative energy export strategy.

REFERENCES:
1. Energy Innovations, 2007. Retrieved June 26, 2007 from http://www.energyinnovations.com/products/

2. Statistics Canada, 2007. “Population Data.” Retrieved June 26, 2007 from http://www40.statcan.ca/l01/ind01/l3_3867.htm?hili_none

3. Vancouver Olympic Organizing Committee, 2007. “Sustainability.” Retrieved June 26, 2007 from www.vancouver2010.com

4. "Canada," Microsoft (R) Encarta. Copyright (c) 1994 Microsoft Corporation. Copyright (c) 1994 Funk & Wagnall's Corporation. MAP BY ENVIRONMENT CANADA, 2000

5. CIA World Factbook (2007) “Canada.” Retrieved June 26, 2007 from https://www.cia.gov/library/publications/the-world-factbook/print/ca.html

6. Carmanah Corporation (2007) “Investor Relations.” Retrieved June 26, 2007 from www.carmanah.com