3M Targets Renewables

In a Feb. 2 statement, 3M said its new Renewable Energy Division will market sophisticated solar energy, wind energy, geothermal and biofuel product solutions such as films, tapes, coatings, encapsulants, sealants and adhesives that help reduce the cost of renewable energy. The company is already a player in the solar and wind markets.

3M Solar Concentrator Panels concentrate light and are manufactured to match customer specifications, and the company says its Mirror Films are demonstrating potential to provide cost savings over similar glass-based systems. In the wind industry, the company's polyurethane wind tapes have been used extensively for protecting the leading-edge of wind turbine blades. Michael Roman will lead the 3M Renewable Energy Division as vice president and general manager.