think greenEnergy-Arizona is a resource for valuable news and information about some of Arizona's premier companies powering innovation in the Energy Industry.

Kyocera Solar, Inc. Announces 96.4-Kilowatt Solar Electric Installation At Children's Museum San Diego

http://www.kyocerasolar.com/news/news_detail.cfm?key=453

System is expected to generate approximately 136,000 kWh per year

San Diego, CA (November 12, 2007) - Kyocera Solar, Inc., a world-leading supplier of environmentally friendly photovoltaic (PV) systems, today announced the completion of a 96.4-kilowatt solar electric generating system atop the newly redesigned Children's Museum San Diego (CMSD).

The system, composed of 576 Kyocera 200-watt PV modules, was designed and installed by Independent Energy Solutions, Inc. (IES) of Vista, California, and is expected to generate approximately 136,000 kilowatt hours (kWh) of electricity per year.

CMSD has undertaken the greatest transformation since its 1983 founding by building a new, state-of-the-art facility in the heart of the city's vibrant Marina district. The three-level, 50,000-square-foot facility is scheduled to open in May 2008 with expanded programming as the museum reshapes its role and identity as a premier arts-based town square and community resource.

Solar energy is an important part of the museum's new architecture and commitment to sustainable design for the community. Designed by renowned architect Rob Wellington Quigley, the environmentally friendly, modern structure is made from recycled building materials -- and in addition to the solar electric system, will feature water-saving devices, natural day lighting and convection cooling, making CMSD one of the first "green" museums in California.

"We are very pleased with the solar system's performance and look forward to the museum's official ribbon cutting ceremony in 2008," added Troy Strand, Vice President of Independent Energy Solutions.

Located on the rooftop of the new CMSD building, the museum's solar electric system will be used to provide power to the 3-level, 50,000 sq ft. building, which is expected to officially open in May of 2008. Nearly doubling in square footage from its previous space, the building will contain 13,000 sq ft. of galleries, a public lobby, retail stores, indoor and outdoor cafes, activity areas, as well as a 2,500 sq ft. performance space. The building will also house a 6,000 sq ft. educational center and offices for the museum staff.