Automation Alley Technology Center Receives Energy Efficiency Grant

TROY, Mich., July 20 -- The Automation Alley Technology Center, in collaboration with United Solar Ovonic in Auburn Hills, received a $550,000 grant from the Michigan Public Service Commission (MPSC) for the installation of a building-integrated solar power electric system with integrated energy management and battery backup systems. The energy-efficient system will be installed in Automation Alley's 11,000 square-foot headquarters in Troy, and is expected to be fully operational by June 2006.

"Our facility offers an opportunity to showcase advanced energy technology to a broad membership base of technology companies, academic institutions, government officials and regional economic development centers," said Tom Anderson, director of the Automation Alley Technology Center. "Through installing the system, Automation Alley will help promote the benefits of renewable solar power throughout Southeastern Michigan and the world."

The Automation Alley Technology Center grant is part of $6 million being distributed by the MPSC to promote energy efficiency throughout Southeast Michigan. The projects are estimated to generate up to 225,000 kW/hrs per year of clean solar electricity, providing numerous benefits such as: increased energy self-reliance and independence; stabilized long-term energy prices; and reduced fossil fuel and natural gas price vulnerability.

The successful installation of these systems will help reduce strain on the power grid in critical areas and assist in the growth of Michigan's technology-manufacturing base. Additionally, the installation of the systems will benefit the local environment by improving air quality by reducing nitrogen oxide, sulphur oxide and carbon dioxide emissions. These emissions are often linked to health problems such as asthma and respiratory illness, as well as environmental hazards, including acid rain and global warming.

About Automation Alley Technology Center

Located within Southeast Michigan's global technology cluster, the Automation Alley Technology Center leverages businesses, educators and government to help entrepreneurs bring new technologies to market quicker and more efficiently. Automation Alley Technology Center assistance includes pre- seed and commercialization funding, business plan and strategy development support as well as a powerful network of experts and mentors.