Clean Energy Jobs Day

Hudson Valley Poised to Be Leader in Green Technology

Local residents were able to tour cutting edge green businesses in the Hudson Valley on Thursday, 5/28/09, in a tour organized by the Ulster County MoveOn Council.

Approximately 35 residents and media representatives took part in the “Clean Energy Jobs Day” that included visits to Hudson Valley Clean Energy, Kingston Block and Masonry and Prism Solar Technologies.

“These companies are leading the way in green technology. They will grow the local economy, create good jobs, help reverse global warming and reduce our dependence on foreign oil,” said Linda Abbott, one of the local MoveOn organizers.

Dan Ahouse, chief of staff to Congressman Hinchey addressed the group at Prism Solar.

“There is no place better than the Hudson Valley to be a homeport for new green industry,” he said.

Ahouse said that Congressman Hinchey has supported clean, renewable energy since the 1980’s and helped to establish The Sustainable Energy and Environment Caucus earlier this year to promote clean energy and create green collar jobs. He also spoke about The American Clean Energy and Security Act of 2009 now before Congress. He said that there are many positive features in this bill, but that the oil and coal industries are trying to dilute some of the green energy provisions. MoveOn organizers urged citizens to be in touch with their elected representatives to make the bill stronger and to cut subsidies for fossil fuels.

The first stop of the day was Hudson Valley Clean Energy, in Rhinebeck; a full service solar electric, solar hot water and geothermal installer. John Wright, the owner, said his entire facility has a zero carbon footprint. Solar and geothermal energy is used for all the heating, cooling and electricity. He said it only costs $150 to air condition the facility from April to October. Wright also said that a home geothermal system pays for itself in six years and solar in eight to ten years. He added that the return on investment will only get better as the government provides more incentives and oil prices continue to rise.

Lou Grasso, managing partner of Kingston Block and Masonry said his company is “the epicenter for masonry green building” in the country. They have a patent for “Pozzotive” which is post consumer recycled glass which makes up 30% of their concrete blocks. Every ton of cement replaced by Pozzotive keeps one ton of greenhouse gases from entering the atmosphere.

“Once your on a green track, you want to keep on going to be the best you can be,” said Grasso.

Tom Kacandes, director of operations at Prism Solar Technologies in Highland, said his company uses advanced holographic optics that improve solar collection efficiency by 200 to 300% and enables modules to use 50 to 75% less silicon. Attendees were able to tour the 93,000 square foot facility. Kacandes said they hoped to be employing up to 400 people in the next few years.

Dr John Harrington, vice-president for research and development for The Solar Energy Consortium (TSEC) also spoke. TSEC is an industry driven, not-for-profit that is promoting solar energy. They are currently collaborating with universities and companies in the solar industry to improve efficiency and reduce the costs of solar power. Harrington credited Rep Hinchey with providing the seed for TSEC’s formation.

Ahouse added that four or five other solar manufacturers are considering a move to the Hudson Valley.

“It was a very successful event and I think more people now are aware that green is necessary,” said Michael Hayes, another local MoveOn organizer.

For more information on the American Clean Energy Security Act, or to become more involved with the Ulster County MoveOn Council contact ulstermoveon@gmail.com.