27 February 2012

First Solar to install PV array as part of the Energizing Taliesin West initiative

The Frank Lloyd Wright Foundation, in conjunction with energy efficiency consultant Big Green Zero, is launching Energizing Taliesin West, a sustainable energy initiative at Frank Lloyd Wright's Taliesin West (a National Historic Landmark) in Scottsdale, AZ, USA. As part of the initiative, First Solar Inc of Tempe, AZ, USA, which makes thin-film photovoltaic (PV) modules based on cadmium telluride (CdTe), will install a 250 kW (AC) solar PV array at Taliesin West.

Energizing Taliesin West will transform the entire Taliesin West site into a "net zero" energy customer, producing as much energy as it consumes annually, while maintaining the character of the site. The initiative will focus on the twin goals of maximizing Taliesin West's energy efficiency (through improved lighting, insulation, climate controls and other techniques), while also generating clean renewable energy on-site.

First Solar has developed and installed some of the largest solar projects in the world. Approximately 4,000 of the firm's solar modules will generate clean electricity for Taliesin West. As part of its commitment to the local communities where it operates, First Solar, with help from several key suppliers, is donating the complete custom-designed ground-mounted solar PV system.

The panels will not be visible from anywhere in the historic core of Taliesin West, nor will visitors be able to see the panels from any location during their tour experience. However, intentionally, visitors will be able to see the solar array from the road before they arrive at Taliesin West.

"I couldn't be more excited about this partnership with Big Green Zero and First Solar," said Sean Malone, CEO of the Frank Lloyd Wright Foundation. "This is an extraordinary opportunity; the goal of making a world-famous National Historic Landmark site entirely self-sustaining is unprecedented. And we're going to make it happen. The endeavor will have a broad and deep impact for sustainability efforts throughout America and across the globe. And, importantly, the initiative is entirely consistent with the values of Taliesin West: innovation, an evolving site, embracing new technology, celebrating nature and strategic use of resources."

"Frank Lloyd Wright is synonymous with innovation in architecture and design, and we share the Frank Lloyd Wright Foundation's passion to forward his legacy — by integrating sustainable energy into his work," said Larry Whittet, First Solar project manager for the Taliesin West solar project. "Taliesin West is a global architectural landmark that has captivated the imagination of visitors for 75 years, and we are proud to be part of this historic undertaking,"

"The Foundation is proud to announce First Solar as a partner in achieving our sustainability goals," said Robert Roth, Ph.D., CEO of Big Green Zero. "As a local company focused on harnessing Arizona's most abundant natural energy source — the sun — First Solar will provide Taliesin West with state-of-the-art solar panels in order to reach the property's goal of producing as much energy as it consumes."

Tags: First Solar Thin-film photovoltaic CdTe

Visit: www.firstsolar.com

Visit: www.franklloydwright.org

Visit: www.biggreenzero.com