GE to spend more on R&D for thin-film PV panels
General Electric, Niskayuna, N.Y., is upping its ante in thin-film solar research. According to an Associated Press report, GE plans to spend more on R&D at PrimeStar Solar Inc., Aravada, Colo., a start-up firm in which it holds a major stake. PrimeStar produces thin-film PV panels using cadmium telluride (CdTe) technology.
“After having completed an exhaustive survey of the PV landscape, we determined that thin films were the optimum path for GE,” said Danielle Merfeld, GE's solar R&D leader, in a press release at www.primestarsolar.com. “Specifically, the CdTe technology from PrimeStar has great potential. Bringing together world-class materials expertise, unique materials and systems modeling and design capabilities and state-of-the-art indoor and outdoor solar testing facilities, GE researchers are innovating across our four global research centers — literally around the clock — to deliver a breakthrough product to market.”
WESCO expands CSC operations in Salt Lake City
Communications Supply Corp., a division of WESCO Distribution, opened a new location in Salt Lake City, Utah, as part of its 2010 national expansion plan. The new facility will be co-located within a current WESCO facility, providing customers with a one-stop shop for all of their data communications, security and electrical product needs. WESCO has opened nine new CSC branches across the country in the last year and expects to open at least 10 in 2010.