Tag Archives: Energy, Oil, Gas and Solar

Sunpro Solar Ranks No. 416 on the 2021 Inc. 5000 List of America’s Fastest-Growing Private Companies

MANDEVILLE, La. /ScoopCloud/ -- Inc. magazine today revealed that Sunpro Solar is No. 416 on its annual Inc. 5000 list, the most prestigious ranking of the nation's fastest-growing private companies. The list represents a unique look at the most successful companies within the American economy's most dynamic segment-its independent small businesses.

"As we expand, Sunpro Solar has not lost sight of our roots of integrity, exceptional customer service and a commitment to making a difference in our communities," said Sunpro Solar Founder and CEO, Marc Jones. "We continue to maintain our trusted reputation for bringing affordable, clean energy solutions across the nation."

Not only have the companies on the 2021 Inc. 5000 been very competitive within their markets, but this year's list also proved especially resilient and flexible given 2020's unprecedented challenges. Among the 5,000, the average median three-year growth rate soared to 543 percent, and median revenue reached $11.1 million. Together, those companies added more than 610,000 jobs over the past three years.

Complete results of the Inc. 5000, including company profiles and an interactive database that can be sorted by industry, region, and other criteria, can be found at http://www.inc.com/inc5000. The top 500 companies are featured in the September issue of Inc., which will be available on newsstands on August 20.

"The 2021 Inc. 5000 list feels like one of the most important rosters of companies ever compiled," says Scott Omelianuk, editor-in-chief of Inc. "Building one of the fastest-growing companies in America in any year is a remarkable achievement. Building one in the crisis we've lived through is just plain amazing. This kind of accomplishment comes with hard work, smart pivots, great leadership, and the help of a whole lot of people."

About Sunpro Solar

Sunpro Solar is the leading residential solar company in the U.S. providing affordable solar energy and battery storage solutions. Sunpro Solar was named the second largest residential solar installer in the U.S. by Solar Power World magazine in July 2021. An Inc. 500 company, Sunpro Solar continues to expand as the demand for home solar in the United States rapidly increases. Sunpro Solar is headquartered in Louisiana and has operational facilities in 21 states.

For more information, visit https://www.gosunpro.com/ .

MEDIA CONTACT:
Sunpro Solar
Kristie Moser, Marketing
866-450-1012
kristie@theprocompanies.com

Inc. magazine today revealed that Sunpro Solar is No. 416 on its annual Inc. 5000 list, the most prestigious ranking of the nation's fastest-growing private companies. The list represents a unique look at the most successful companies within the American economy's most dynamic segment-its independent small businesses.

Related link: https://www.gosunpro.com/

Encore Green Environmental Names First Re-Furbished Water Treatment Unit for Delzon ‘Possum’ Elenburg

GRANBURY, Texas /ScoopCloud/ -- Encore Green Environmental names their first water treatment unit based on the NOMAD technology in honor of Henry "Possum" Elenburg for his pioneering work in treatment of industrial water.

"At Encore Green, we stand on the shoulders of many giants who have brought us to our place in history today, as we now put this formerly produced water to beneficial use for agriculture and conservation," says Encore Green Co-Founder Marvin Nash. "Possum Elenburg was a truly an innovative man who would get into the field and make things happen. He is how we are able to serve the agricultural and energy communities today."

In the early 2000's Elenburg conceived that energy industry by-product water could be treated and put to uses instead of simply disposing of it into the ground or though evaporation. He partnered with engineer Jacob Halldorson and together they created what became known as NOMAD. Like many great partnerships they each contributed to bring the innovation to life.

"My family and I are honored to have the first unit named for my father and the intent of the water to be used in the agriculture industry is a dream fulfilled," says son Bryan Elenburg.

Elenburg was a highly successful entrepreneur in the energy industry. Together with Halldorson, they were able to start using their technology in the Barnett Shale oil fields during its boom.

Encore Green Environmental is the only company to not only receive permits for surface application of this cleaned water, but also have successfully executed it in Wyoming in 2020. Encore developed the patent-pending process of Conservation By-Design™, which ensures only safe water goes on the soil by water and soil fail-safe testing and continual soil monitoring.

Little did Elenburg know that his work of years past would help create climate wellness and soil health. The Possum has led the way. He made a living in Energy, but Agriculture was his passion. Today Encore Green Environmental continues that vision.

Learn more: https://www.encoregreenenvironmental.com/

MEDIA CONTACT:
Jeff Holder
307.369.4444
Jeff.Holder@EncoreGreenEnvironmental.com

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Encore Green Environmental names their first water treatment unit based on the NOMAD technology in honor of Henry "Possum" Elenburg for his pioneering work in treatment of industrial water. In the early 2000's Elenburg conceived that energy industry by-product water could be treated and put to uses instead of simply disposing of it into the ground or though evaporation.

Related link: https://www.encoregreenenvironmental.com/

Renewable Energy Preventative Maintenance and Visual Inspections Successful with Video Borescopes

TRAVERSE CITY, Mich. /ScoopCloud/ -- As the clean energy revolution continues a path of rapid growth, R&D, along with manufacturing of new green technologies, requires thorough nondestructive testing. With many prototypes and advancements of current components adhering to clean energy standards, ViewTech Borescopes has witnessed an expansion of clients that use a ViewTech VJ-3 video borescope for inspecting a variety of clean energy options including wind turbines, solar, hydro, nuclear, EVs, and electric recreational vehicles.

When an emerging North American electric powersport manufacturer required a remote visual inspection tool, ViewTech Borescopes VJ-3 6.0mm x 3.0-meter Dual Camera was shipped to their Production Supervisor and Lead Test Engineer. After the engineering team had the opportunity to demo the ViewTech video borescope at no cost, it was purchased and quickly put to the test with several time sensitive projects. With a rugged design, an insertion tube rating of IP 67, and the ability to access inspection areas without teardown time, it was clear the VJ-3 video borescope would assist manufacturing and future engineering design processes as they continue to evolve and expand their lineup of electric off-road, snow, and water recreational vehicles.

While the wind power generation market continues expanding as a major source of renewable energy, a maintenance, repair, and remanufacturing power distribution systems company sought remote visual inspection tools to routinely monitor wind turbine gearboxes and bearings. A company Field Technician, with previous experience utilizing higher priced inspection scopes for motor and wind generation repairs, contacted ViewTech Borescopes as they began their videoscope search. With features requested that included image/video capability and portability for the hard-to-reach inspection access areas atop wind turbines, a VJ-3 3.9mm x 1.5-meter video borescope was sent to demo. After testing the VJ-3 onsite, they purchased and outfitted their wind turbine service team with a fleet of six ViewTech inspection borescopes.

VJ-3 Video Borescope

The VJ-3 mechanical articulating video borescope is a NDT instrument used for the RVI of machinery, equipment, and components. The VJ-3 facilitates the visual recording and photo documentation of inspection and components in areas that are otherwise inaccessible or require great effort and expense to access directly. The VJ-3 video borescope consists of two modules integrated into one system: an insertion tube with distally mounted camera/LEDs, and the base unit with a control panel, LCD monitor, power source, and all necessary circuitry.

About ViewTech Borescopes

ViewTech Borescopes, founded as RF System Lab in 2008, is North America's #1 seller of video borescopes. Their first product, the VJ borescope, set a new standard for portability, ergonomics, and ease-of-use, with its industry-first mechanical, joystick-controlled articulation.

For more information on VJ-3 Video Borescope: https://www.viewtech.com

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231-943-1171

dwhite@viewtech.com

As the clean energy revolution continues a path of rapid growth, R&D, along with manufacturing of new green technologies, requires thorough nondestructive testing. With many prototypes and advancements of current components adhering to clean energy standards, ViewTech Borescopes has witnessed an expansion of clients that use a ViewTech VJ-3 video borescope for inspecting a variety of clean energy options.

Related link: https://www.ViewTech.com

Sunpro Solar Expands to California to Offer Affordable Solar

MANDEVILLE, La. /ScoopCloud/ -- Sunpro Solar, one of the top two leading solar companies in the U.S., announces expansion into Southern California, with its operations beginning in Murrieta, California. Sunpro Solar's expansion to Southern California will help meet the demand for lower electricity bills and create statewide renewable energy jobs.

"With California paying some of the highest energy rates in the country, we are expanding our presence there to offer residents affordable solar power and battery storage to help decrease their energy costs and manage power during outages," said Sunpro Solar Founder and CEO, Marc Jones. "We are excited to bring best-in-class customer service, solar products, and renewable energy jobs to Southern California."

California homeowners interested in reducing their energy bills can have Sunpro Solar help them not only purchase and install their home solar power and battery backup systems but can also enhance savings with energy-efficient upgrades.

Sunpro Solar customers in Anaheim, San Diego, and surrounding areas will see an increase in their property value, have the chance to opt-in to utility net metering programs, and take advantage of the 26 percent Investment Tax Credit (ITC) for solar energy offered by the Federal Government.

"Our expansion into California is a milestone moment for our company to offer customers quality service and affordable solar options coast to coast," said Gregg Murphy, Sunpro Solar's Chief Revenue Officer. "The products and services we offer are right in line with those who want to help protect the environment and break free from record-high power costs."

Sunpro Solar will help California customers navigate federal, state and utility incentives and tax credits if they decide to go solar. For more information about opportunities and incentives for California solar customers, schedule an appointment with a Sunpro Solar Specialist here.

Sunpro Solar's growth into California expects to create a significant amount of new jobs in renewable energy for the state. Sunpro Solar plans to hire sales consultants, operations support positions, and installation teams in order to serve customers in the state of California. Candidates interested in employment opportunities can visit http://www.gosunpro.com/careers.

About Sunpro Solar:

Sunpro Solar is a leading residential solar company in the U.S. that provides affordable solar energy and battery storage solutions to homeowners nationwide. Sunpro Solar was named 2nd largest residential solar installer in the U.S. by Solar Power World magazine in July 2021. An Inc. 500 company, Sunpro Solar continues to expand as the demand for home solar in the United States rapidly increases. Sunpro Solar is headquartered in Louisiana and has operational facilities in 20 states. For more information, visit http://www.gosunpro.com/.

MEDIA CONTACT:

Kristie Moser, Marketing

Phone: 866.450.1012

Email: kristie@theprocompanies.com

Direct Message: Facebook - @gosunpro | Instagram - @gosunpro

This release contains forward-looking statements including but not limited to, expected energy savings and future industry growth and expansion These statements should not be read as a guarantee of future indicators, performance, or results. These statements are based on current expectations and assumptions regarding future events.

Sunpro Solar, one of the top two leading solar companies in the U.S., announces expansion into Southern California, with its operations beginning in Murrieta, California. Sunpro Solar's expansion to Southern California will help meet the demand for lower electricity bills and create statewide renewable energy jobs.

Related link: https://www.gosunpro.com/

Community Recycling Powered by the Sun

DORCHESTER, Mass. /ScoopCloud/ -- The Reuse Center of Boston Building Resources, a charitable non-profit dedicated to keeping reusable materials out of landfills and accessible to homeowners, will use the energy from their new SunBug Solar photovoltaic system to power their efforts. The move to solar power aligns perfectly with the ethos of the organization, and allows this unique Boston institution, founded over 40 years ago, to increase its long-term financial stability by reducing operating costs.

"Environmentalism is part of our organizational DNA at Boston Building Resources," said Mattew St. Onge, the president and executive director of Boston Building Resources. "When we were planning the renovation of the Reuse Center, the great solar potential on our rooftop made the decision to go solar an easy one."

"Having the opportunity to execute this array on the roof of the BBR is a real pleasure for SunBug," noted Ben Mayer, SunBug's VP of marketing. "SunBug's and Boston Building Resources' values are very much aligned. And personally, when I renovated my own home 15 years ago, I found excellent inexpensive doors and windows at the Reuse Center. If you live in Greater Boston and have worked on your home, you know what an important resource BBR is, especially for folks of moderate income."

The 114 panel array is substantial. An annual projected output of 45.6 kWh will be enough energy to provide 100% of the power needed to keep the center running. Other facility improvements include an air conditioning system, which will be a welcomed relief to the warehouse style building in Boston's increasingly blistering summers. An electric vehicle charging station is now open to the public to pay-as-you-charge.

The all-electric HVAC system is powered by the rooftop solar array, so the renovation has made the Reuse Center at BBR the first net zero carbon building in Mission Hill.

About Boston Building Resources:Boston Building Resources inspires, educates, and empowers homeowners to increase the efficiency and value of their homes. As a local social enterprise, we focus on affordable solutions that help all of our neighbors create stronger communities while benefiting the environment.

About SunBug Solar:

SunBug Solar is a solar energy consulting and installation company based in Arlington and Westfield, MA. Founded in 2009 and a Certified B Corporation since 2018, SunBug has installed over two thousand solar systems across Massachusetts, from Great Barrington to Cape Cod. SunBug develops, designs, and installs all types of solar systems including residential and commercial rooftops, carports, and ground-mounts. Learn more: https://sunbugsolar.com/

The Reuse Center of Boston Building Resources, a charitable non-profit dedicated to keeping reusable materials out of landfills and accessible to homeowners, will use the energy from their new SunBug Solar photovoltaic system to power their efforts.

Related link: http://sunbugsolar.com/

Sunpro Solar Named Second Largest Residential Contractor in the US

MANDEVILLE, La. /ScoopCloud/ -- Solar Power World has recognized Sunpro Solar's installation success by ranking the company at No. 2 for residential solar contractors in the U.S. This is the sixth consecutive year Sunpro Solar has made the Top Solar Contractors List, climbing three spots since last year.

The Top Solar Contractors list is developed each year by Solar Power World to honor the work of the top 500 solar installers in the United States. Solar companies in the utility, commercial and residential markets are ranked by number of kilowatts installed in the previous year. Companies are grouped and listed by specific service, markets and states.

Sunpro Solar installed an impressive 94,959 kilowatts of solar power in 2020. Since 2008, Sunpro Solar has brought affordable electricity options and energy independence to homeowners across the nation. They have installed more than 189 total megawatts of solar energy for more than 25,000 satisfied customers since its founding.

"It's humbling to see how much Sunpro Solar has grown from its beginnings in Louisiana to now providing clean, solar energy to tens of thousands of families across the nation," said Marc Jones, Sunpro Solar's Founder and Chief Executive Officer. "Our continued growth and success are without question attributed to the passionate and dedicated employees and operations teams that work tirelessly to deliver excellent experiences to our customers. As we grow, our commitment to making a difference in the communities we serve remains our focus."

In 2020, Sunpro Solar's strong growth continued as they expanded into six additional states -- North Carolina, Missouri, Illinois, Nebraska, Arizona, and Virginia, bringing their total to 20 states. Sunpro Solar also received additional honors in 2020 such as making the list of Inc 5000's Fastest-Growing Businesses and Vet 100 lists.

"Not even COVID-19 closures and slowdowns could prevent the solar industry from installing fantastic numbers last year," said Kelly Pickerel, editor in chief of Solar Power World. "The Solar Power World team is so glad to recognize over 400 companies on the 2021 Top Solar Contractors list that not only survived a pandemic but thrived in spite of it." Sunpro Solar now provides jobs for more than 3,000 people, hiring over 1,000 new employees despite the global pandemic.

Committed to expanding services through smart innovation and strong partnerships with leading manufacturers like LG, Enphase, Unirac, and Tesla, Sunpro Solar is positioned to offer customers the most reliable products with strong warranties and complete control of their energy.

About Sunpro Solar

Sunpro Solar is a leading residential solar company in the U.S. that provides affordable solar energy and battery storage solutions. Sunpro Solar was named the second largest residential solar installer in the U.S. by Solar Power World magazine in July 2021. An Inc. 500 company, Sunpro Solar continues to expand as the demand for home solar in the United States rapidly increases. Sunpro Solar is headquartered in Louisiana and has operational facilities in 20 states.

For more information, visit https://www.gosunpro.com/.

About Solar Power World

Solar Power World is the leading online and print resource for news and information regarding solar installation, development and technology. Since 2011, SPW has helped U.S. solar contractors - including installers, developers and EPCs in all markets - grow their businesses and do their jobs better.

MEDIA ONLY CONTACTS

SUNPRO SOLAR
Kristie Moser
866-450-1012
kristie@theprocompanies.com

SOLAR POWER WORLD
Kelly Pickerel, editor in chief
216-860-5259
kpickerel[at]wtwhmedia.com

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Solar Power World has recognized Sunpro Solar's installation success by ranking the company at No. 2 for residential solar contractors in the U.S. This is the sixth consecutive year Sunpro Solar has made the Top Solar Contractors List, climbing three spots since last year.

Related link: https://www.gosunpro.com/

SUNPRO SOLAR Expands Solar Service to Ohio

MANDEVILLE, La. /ScoopCloud/ -- Sunpro Solar, a leading provider of residential solar energy and battery storage in the U.S., announced its most recent expansion to Ohio, further solidifying its footprint in the Midwest. With services beginning in the greater Cincinnati area, the company's expansion to the state of Ohio will help residents reduce their environmental footprint and save with lower energy costs while creating new jobs in a booming industry.

"With the solar tax credit renewed until the end of 2022 and lower prices overall, there's never been a better time to transition to solar," said Sunpro Solar Founder and CEO, Marc Jones. "We're excited to offer world-class customer service and best-in-industry solar technology to the residents of Ohio."

Sunpro Solar will provide a way for homeowners in Ohio to purchase solar energy systems, to invest in battery backup systems and to enhance their savings with energy efficiency upgrades. Ohio customers will be eligible for state and utility rebate programs as well as the federal solar investment tax credit.

"Cincinnati is just the starting point," said Gregg Murphy, Sunpro Solar's Chief Revenue Officer. "We're excited to see what kind of impact we can bring to the rest of the state, including creating jobs state-wide."

The energy market in Ohio continues to evolve for the better, and, for that reason, it is a promising market for rooftop solar which will allow homeowners to take advantage of a more cost-effective home energy alternative. For more information about incentives for Ohio solar customers, schedule an appointment with a Sunpro Solar Specialist about going solar in Ohio.

Sunpro Solar's plans for continued expansion in cities across Ohio further reinforces the commitment to building teams and creating jobs in the state. Candidates interested in employment opportunities can visit www.gosunpro.com/careers/.

About Sunpro Solar:

Sunpro Solar is a leading residential solar company in the U.S. that provides affordable solar energy and battery storage solutions to homeowners nationwide. Sunpro Solar was named 5th largest residential solar installer in the U.S. by Solar Power World magazine in July 2020. An Inc. 500 company, Sunpro Solar continues to expand as the demand for home solar in the United States rapidly increases. Sunpro Solar is headquartered in Louisiana and has operational facilities in 20 states. For more information, visit http://www.gosunpro.com/.

CONTACT:
Kristie Moser, Marketing
Phone: 866.450.1012
Email: kristie@theprocompanies.com
Direct Message: Facebook - @gosunpro | Instagram - @gosunpro

This release contains forward-looking statements including but not limited to, expected energy savings and future industry growth and expansion These statements should not be read as a guarantee of future indicators, performance, or results. These statements are based on current expectations and assumptions regarding future events.

Sunpro Solar, a leading provider of residential solar energy and battery storage in the U.S., announced its most recent expansion to Ohio, further solidifying its footprint in the Midwest.

Related link: https://www.gosunpro.com/

Heal Vet, a Watertown veterinary clinic known for its gentle touch, goes green and helps offset the costs of running a small business

ARLINGTON, Mass. /ScoopCloud/ -- Founded by husband-and-wife team Jamie and Amanda Leef in 2017, Heal Vet is located in the Mount Auburn neighborhood intersecting Cambridge, Belmont and Watertown MA. Heal's staff of 20 provides full pet care services in a low-stress environment. In creating Heal's offices, the team used low carbon and nontoxic building materials whenever possible. Their new 48 panel solar electric system, designed and installed by Arlington-based SunBug Solar, is the finishing touch on an environmentally-conscious workplace.

Dr. Amanda Leef's role as owner and doctor of veterinary medicine is hands-on with the animals, while Jamie's job as general manager tasks him to "steer the ship towards success." Jamie's former career in green building and solar energy helped him understand the value a business can derive from owning their own power source on their roof. And his experience installing solar systems for other businesses prepared him for the long utility approval and permitting process.

"What's great about SunBug is that they've been around a long time, and the people they have working in their design and construction have so much experience solving problems," Leef said. "They manage complications properly, and quickly offered insight into how to install a special transformer for my site's unusual electrical configuration. It's one reason to hire a reputable local company. They happen to know the local inspector really well and how best to contact him, and how to file a dispute with local utility companies if it comes to that."

The 19 kW system provides Heal with 75% of the energy they use a year. Energy bills were around $8000 a year which is typical of a small business with a lot of medical supplies. Not only does installing a PV system reduce utility costs, but it also means that their budget line for electricity is shielded from the rising costs of electricity. As a business, Heal takes advantage of federal tax credits and accelerated depreciation on the investment, reducing the initial cost by over 50%. The strategy is perfect for a resilient small business.

Another addition to the project includes a charging station for electric vehicles. Customers and neighbors alike have been happy to take advantage of green electricity in their community. Leef was even inspired to get an electric car for himself. "A Chevrolet Bolt," Leaf said. "Really the nicest car to drive."

Heal Vet is a full service companion animal hospital located in the Mount Auburn neighborhood. They provide comprehensive services including wellness, urgent care, surgery, dentistry, and specialists. Their specially designed modern facility and staff trained in low-stress animal handling techniques provides you and your pet with a better experience. Learn more here: https://www.heal.vet/.

SunBug Solar is a local, Massachusetts owned-and-operated solar energy consulting and installation company with offices in Arlington and Westfield, MA. SunBug Solar creates positive environmental and social impact by exemplifying our core values of responsiveness, resourcefulness, and reliability with our customers, within our industry, and among our teammates. Learn more here: https://sunbugsolar.com/.

Founded by husband-and-wife team Jamie and Amanda Leef in 2017, Heal Vet is located in the Mount Auburn neighborhood intersecting Cambridge, Belmont and Watertown. Their new 48 panel solar electric system, designed and installed by SunBug Solar, is the finishing touch on an environmentally-conscious workplace.

Related link: http://sunbugsolar.com/

Atlantic-Pratt Energy Celebrates Its 100 Year Anniversary of Supporting South Shore Residents by Giving Back to Charities Selected by Their Customers

NORWELL, Mass. /ScoopCloud/ -- Today, Atlantic Pratt Energy announced a campaign to celebrate its 100th year in business by giving back to those who matter most-their customers and their community. Over the next twelve months, the company will select a charity, submitted by customers, to receive a $100 donation. Customers can nominate their favorite charity on their website. Atlantic-Pratt Energy will also enter their current customers into a monthly raffle to win a $100 in credit for their heating and cooling services. Customers are automatically entered into this raffle each month; every customer gets one raffle entry for each year they've been an Atlantic-Pratt Energy client.

Atlantic-Pratt Energy is a privately held company supporting residents throughout the South Shore. The Nogueira family has owned and operated Atlantic-Pratt Energy for four generations and the current operators are Don Nogueira, his son Jacob Nogueira, and his daughter Rachel Wollam. The Nogueira family has been an important part of the community and is proud to be celebrating 100 years of helping to keep their neighbors comfortable.

"I'm always humbled by my grandfather's immigration story-he came to the US in 1905 when he was 16 years old and had less than $15 to his name. He stayed with an uncle and worked in cranberry bogs in Plympton until he started working in the ice and coal business. Then in 1921, he founded Atlantic Ice and Coal. When he founded this company 100 years ago, I wonder if he ever dreamed about it staying in the family for this long? He would be pleased that we have done our best to live up to the high standards of honesty and hard work that he maintained throughout his career. We all take our job seriously-we know that families depend on us to help keep them warm during our cold winters, and cool during the hottest days in the summer," shares Don Nogueira. "We might be in our 100th year of business but we aren't going anywhere. My son Jacob Nogueira is here to continue our family's history of providing dependable service and fair prices to our neighbors throughout the South Shore."

Customers from Plymouth to Boston and every town in between rely on Atlantic-Pratt Energy and they are one of the most trusted and respected heating and cooling providers in the region.

"I regularly recommend Atlantic-Pratt Energy to new homeowners I work with," says Poppy Troupe, a premier associate with Coldwell Banker. "As a realtor, I feel confident recommending Atlantic-Pratt because I know they will take excellent care of my clients. I also get to feel good about helping to support a fellow local business owner."

"Locally owned businesses are an important part of the South Shore. This is where we work, live, and raise our families," shares Don Nogueira. "I'm proud of what my great-grandfather built, what my family has sustained and grown, and what I know Jacob and Rachel will do to continue our tradition of providing dependable and friendly service."

About Atlantic Pratt Energy

Atlantic-Pratt Energy provides dependable home heating oil delivery and energy services to homes throughout the region from Boston to Plymouth, MA.

For more information on Atlantic Pratt Energy, please visit our website - http://atlanticprattoil.com/

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Today, Atlantic Pratt Energy announced a campaign to celebrate its 100th year in business by giving back to those who matter most-their customers and their community. Over the next twelve months, the company will select a charity, submitted by customers, to receive a $100 donation. Customers can nominate their favorite charity on their website.

Related link: http://atlanticprattoil.com/

Performance Defense, NineTwelve Institute Announce 5G-Enabled, Mission Critical Internet of Things (IoT) Gateway Ready for Certification

INDIANAPOLIS, Ind. /ScoopCloud/ -- Performance Defense, a trusted engineering services and solutions provider for safety and mission critical industries, and the NineTwelve Institute, a full-suite software and 5G rapid development provider, announced today the release of a 5G-enabled, Mission Critical Internet of Things (IoT) gateway. This certifiable gateway, will allow a variety of mission critical industries and the Department of Defense to rapidly enable 5G and IoT amongst its devices and infrastructure unlocking revolutionary data and connectivity promised in the "fourth industrial revolution."

Mission Critical IoT applies to many markets, all of which have different needs. For example:

* For defense and military applications, IoT is creating an intelligent warfighting network by connecting and exchanging data between aircraft, weapons systems, ground vehicles and even troops;

* For manufacturing and logistics, IoT is enabling smart warehouses; and

* For aviation, big data gathered for IoT enabled sensors are providing greater efficiencies and less downtime for aircraft fleets.

"For Mission Critical IoT to become successful, solutions must have a foundation that includes the highest level of security, high-performance computing and connectivity," said Darren Cummings, President and chief owner of Performance Defense. "Most importantly, this all must be developed with the highest level of quality and safety to meet industry standards. At Performance Defense, we are extremely vigilant of the supply chain to ensure our IoT solution can be trusted and certified and that adopters can be assured with hardware and be confident in the software."

The gateway will help organizations to adopt Mission Critical IoT safely, quickly, and efficiently by providing security, high-performance computing, connectivity and trusted and certified solutions that are made in the United States.

"We are happy to partner with Performance Defense and to provide the 5G antenna that makes this gateway possible," said Sean Hendrix, Executive Director of the Indiana 5G Zone and Chief Technology Officer at the NineTwelve Institute. "We are proud to be helping Performance Defense make Mission Critical IoT a reality through a tool thoroughly tested in our unique 5G laboratory."

The Mission Critical IoT gateway is a made-in-the-USA, secure communications solution that enables a wide array of connectivity and data storage solutions. Powered with an ARM Cortex-A53 quad core CPU architecture, it enables hardware partitioned access and the flexibility for the most demanding applications. The gateway supports high-speed wired, WiFi, cellular and Bluetooth communications as well as high speed storage needs. Further, the gateway enables integration with another custom hardware board (e.g., satellite communications).

The gateway is available today.

"Adopting IoT and 5G is not an easy task and requires extensive experience. Our proven Mission Critical IoT gateway is uniquely positioned to help our customers realize their goals," added Cummings. "By leveraging our IoT gateway solution, we help our customers accelerate their time to market, achieve lower overall total cost and lower unit cost."

Performance Defense and NineTwelve Institute will be debuting its Mission Critical IoT gateway at the Indiana 5G Zone's Virtual April Tech Talk Event. The virtual event will take place on April 28, 2021 at 1 p.m. ET / 10 a.m. PT.

Register for the event here: https://zoom.us/webinar/register/4616182611245/WN_lPhf6ifKTkywKS7BIWnr_w

About Performance Defense

Performance Defense is a trusted engineering services and solutions provider for safety and mission critical industries. It's deep knowledge and experience of government and mission critical systems positions itself as a prime developer and integrator for the Department of Defense and Intelligence Communities. For more information, please visit, https://performancedefense.com/, email media@performancedefense.com, or call 623-780-7517.

About NineTwelve Institute

NineTwelve, the parent of the Indiana 5G Zone and NineTwelve Convergence, teams industries, governments, and academia to meet critical technology needs. Its unique collaboration platform accelerates the design and implementation of emergent solutions by bringing together the key elements of innovation: collaboration, prototyping and experimentation. By creating these cross-sectoral collaboration networks that design and deliver groundbreaking solutions, NineTwelve focuses on emergent technologies such as 5G, advanced manufacturing, and trusted microelectronics. Learn more: https://www.ninetwelve.us/

About Indiana 5G Zone:

The Indiana 5G Zone is one of many NineTwelve initiatives, advancing the transformation of physical industries by powering smart cities, intelligent logistics and advanced manufacturing. The testbed is a state-based public-private partnership, the first in the U.S. to enable government, business, and academia to design and commercialize groundbreaking testbed offerings with immediate practical; is a mission critical partner solving the challenges of DevOps; and revolutionizes the speed at which products get to market by de-risking investment and time. For more information visit: http://www.indiana5gzone.com/

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Performance Defense, a trusted engineering services and solutions provider for safety and mission critical industries, and the NineTwelve Institute, a full-suite software and 5G rapid development provider, announced today the release of a 5G-enabled, Mission Critical Internet of Things (IoT) gateway.

Related link: https://www.ninetwelve.us/

Sunpro Solar to Bring Solar Power Savings and Renewable Energy Jobs to Las Vegas, Nevada

MANDEVILLE, La. /ScoopCloud/ -- Sunpro Solar, a national leader for residential solar power and backup battery storage in the United States, announced its most recent expansion to Las Vegas, Nevada. While the company will start its operations in the state by serving customers in Las Vegas and surrounding areas, the company will soon expand throughout Nevada to provide more homeowners with energy savings from solar power and to create more jobs in renewable energy.

"The people of Nevada deserve a clean, cost-effective energy option. We look forward to getting to know our new customers in Las Vegas, Nevada and providing them with a source of relief from the rising costs of electricity," said Sunpro Solar Founder and CEO, Marc Jones.

For homeowners and residents in Las Vegas, Nevada, Sunpro Solar will help them with their purchase of home solar energy systems, battery backup systems and enhance their savings with energy efficiency upgrades. New Sunpro Solar customers in Las Vegas, Nevada will be eligible for state and utility rebate programs as well as the 26 percent solar Investment Tax Credit (ITC) offered by the federal government of the U.S.

"Las Vegas is no stranger to solar power, but we are excited to introduce a higher level of installation quality than what residents are used to. No matter where we go in Nevada or elsewhere, our focus is the best quality and same quality." said Gregg Murphy, Sunpro Solar's Chief Revenue Officer.

As the sixth most solar-powered state in the U.S., Nevada has close to 300 days of pure sunshine every year. As a result, Nevada cities such as Las Vegas have ample access to net metering programs, solar rebates, solar access rights and more. Sunpro Solar will help Nevada customers navigate federal, state and utility incentives and tax credits.

For more information about opportunities and incentives for Las Vegas solar customers, schedule an appointment with a Sunpro Solar Specialist about going solar in Nevada -- https://www.gosunpro.com/location/nevada/nevada-solar-panels/.

The Sunpro Solar growth into Las Vegas, Nevada is expected to create substantial new jobs for the state. Sunpro Solar plans to hire installation teams, sales consultants and administrative support positions in order to serve more customers in the state of Nevada. Candidates interested in employment opportunities can visit https://www.gosunpro.com/careers.

About Sunpro Solar:

Sunpro Solar is a leading residential solar company in the U.S. that provides affordable solar energy and battery storage solutions to homeowners nationwide. Sunpro Solar was named 5th largest residential solar installer in the U.S. by Solar Power World magazine in July 2020. An Inc. 500 company, Sunpro Solar continues to expand as the demand for home solar in the United States rapidly increases. Sunpro Solar is headquartered in Louisiana and has operational facilities in 19 states. For more information, visit https://www.gosunpro.com/careers.

MEDIA CONTACT:
Kristie Moser, Marketing
Phone: 866.450.1012
Email: kristie@theprocompanies.com

Direct Message: Facebook - @gosunpro | Instagram - @gosunpro

This release contains forward-looking statements including but not limited to, expected energy savings and future industry growth and expansion These statements should not be read as a guarantee of future indicators, performance, or results. These statements are based on current expectations and assumptions regarding future events.

Sunpro Solar, a national leader for residential solar power and backup battery storage in the United States, announced its most recent expansion to Las Vegas, Nevada. While the company will start its operations in the state by serving customers in Las Vegas and surrounding areas, the company will soon expand throughout Nevada to provide more homeowners with energy savings from solar power and to create more jobs in renewable energy.

Related link: https://www.gosunpro.com/

Proposed Legislation Would Make the 45L and 179D Energy Efficiency Tax Incentives More Lucrative

BLAINE, Minn. /ScoopCloud/ -- The 'Growing Renewable Energy and Efficiency Now' (GREEN) Act aims to extend and boost tax incentives for energy efficiency and renewable energy. According to Alex Bagne, the President of ICS Tax, LLC, "If passed, the GREEN Act would make both the 45L Energy Efficient Home Credit (45L Credit) and the 179D Energy Efficient Commercial Building Deduction (179D Deduction) more advantageous while furthering the green missions of these incentives."

THE 45L ENERGY EFFICIENT HOME CREDIT

Currently, the 45L Credit allows eligible developers to claim a $2,000 tax credit for each newly constructed or substantially reconstructed qualifying residence. It applies to single family homes, apartments, condominiums, assisted living homes, student housing, and other types of residences. The residences must be three stories above grade in height or less. The 45L Credit requires a HERS Rater, a credentialed professional who tests residential energy efficiency, to inspect the home, perform energy modeling and prepare certificates of compliance. The 45L Credit is set to expire at the end of 2021.

The GREEN Act would increase the 45L Credit from $2,000 to $2,500 per residential unit. It also seeks to extend the incentive to 2026, as it is set to expire in 2021. The energy efficiency standards would increase, going from a 50% to 60% savings over the IRS baseline.

"Many homebuilders are unaware that their homes as built qualify for this incentive," says Travis Cansler, a 45L specialist at ICS.

Steve Samos, a HERS Rater and the Director of Inspections for ICS, adds "For homes that do not pass, builders can often make design changes to get them to qualify where the additional costs are more than offset by the credit."

THE 179D ENERGY EFFICIENT COMMERCIAL BUILDING DEDUCTION

The 179D Deduction, often referred to as the EPAct Deduction, is a Federal tax incentive promoting energy efficient buildings for both new and existing structures. Further, architects, engineers, contractors, and other building design professionals may also be eligible for the incentive on public projects. Commercial building owners can take a Federal tax deduction of up to $1.80 per square foot of the building's floor area if they install certain property (e.g., efficient lights or HVAC systems, added wall or roof insulation, etc.) that reduces energy and power costs. The 179D Deduction, which applies to both new construction and renovations, was recently made permanent by the 'Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2021.' However, that Act significantly increased the energy efficiency standards needed to qualify.

For the 179D Deduction, the GREEN Act would raise the maximum amount of the deduction from $1.80 to $3.00 per square foot for improvements made after December 31, 2021. It would also lower the threshold needed to qualify for the maximum deduction. The current standard compares the building to the ASHRAE standard that was in existence 2 years prior to the start of construction and requires a hypothetical 50% reduction in energy and power costs. The GREEN Act would lower those standards to 30%.

"By making these changes, the 179D Deduction will be more beneficial and further incentivize green building design," says Jillian Jones, a 179D Deduction specialist at ICS Tax.

ABOUT ICS TAX, LLC:

ICS Tax, LLC (ICS) is a consulting firm providing innovative tax planning strategies and specializes in both the 45L and 179D tax incentives. ICS collaborates with taxpayers and their tax professionals to identify credits and incentives that reduce tax liabilities and increase profitability. ICS provides nationwide service through its offices located throughout the country.

Learn more at https://ics-tax.com/.

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MEDIA CONTACT:
Alexander Bagne
ICS Tax
alexb@ics-tax.com
216-870-0742

The 'Growing Renewable Energy and Efficiency Now' (GREEN) Act aims to extend and boost tax incentives for energy efficiency and renewable energy. According to Alex Bagne, the President of ICS Tax, LLC, "If passed, the GREEN Act would make both the 45L Energy Efficient Home Credit (45L Credit) and the 179D Energy Efficient Commercial Building Deduction (179D Deduction) more advantageous while furthering the green missions of these incentives."

Related link: https://ics-tax.com/

Portland, Oregon-based Western Machine Works Expands its Hydro Power Capabilities with the Hiring of Industry Pro, Rob Adams

PORTLAND, Ore. /ScoopCloud/ -- Western Machine Works, an engineering-focused equipment service and maintenance provider based in Portland, Oregon is pleased to announce the hiring of Rob Adams as a dedicated Hydro specialist, sales engineer to provide in-depth knowledge and expertise to its hydro clients.

Rob brings more than 13 years of experience in the Hydroelectric power industry. Previously with PGE (Portland General Electric), Rob was appointed primary maintenance engineer and was tasked to oversee the project management of hydro turbine and generator overhauls. Prior to PGE, Rob worked with Southern California Edison as a field engineer, and with Delaval Turbine/Engine division in California and overseas.

"Rob Adams is the ideal Hydro Sales Engineer to fuel our growth in the industry. He has the technical expertise, business growth mindset, and solid reputation in the hydro industry. I have worked with Rob on previous projects, and I know first-hand that what sets him apart is his work ethic. We are excited to work with Rob in building and growing relationships with the hydro power providers, O&Ms and OEM clients," said Frank Van Liew, President of Western Machine Works, LLC.

"I am pleased to work for Western Machine and look forward in helping fellow utility peers on repairing their vintage hydro components to ensure long-term reliability," Rob Adams added.

Hydropower accounts for over 90% of all electricity that comes from renewable resources, producing more than 90,000 megawatts of electricity annually. In the Northwest, up to 80% of electricity is produced by hydropower each year.

To learn more, visit: https://westernmachine.com/industries/hydro-power-services/.

About Western Machine Works:

Western Machine Works was founded in 1985 in Portland, Oregon, specializing in equipment repair, upgrades, and manufacture of heavy machinery, including critical hydro components such as turbine runners, wicket gates, turbine shafts, gate shift rings, and other precision equipment.

Visit https://westernmachine.com/ for more information.

*LOGO link for media: https://www.Send2Press.com/300dpi/21-0406s2p-wmworks-logo-300dpi.jpg

Western Machine Works, an engineering-focused equipment service and maintenance provider based in Portland, Oregon is pleased to announce the hiring of Rob Adams as a dedicated Hydro specialist, sales engineer to provide in-depth knowledge and expertise to its hydro clients.

Related link: https://westernmachine.com/

GridBright, Inc. launches GRIDEON Secure Grid Collaboration (SGC) As A Service to Help Utilities Share Sensitive Data Needed to Keep the Lights On

ALAMO, Calif. /ScoopCloud/ -- Essential to managing today's and the future electric grid is data-its movement and security. GRIDEON developed by GridBright (gridbright.com) under an award from the US Department of Energy (DOE) Advanced Research Project Agency (ARPA-E) addresses this need.

It was created in collaboration with a team of cybersecurity and utility industry experts from BetterGrids Foundation (Bettergrids.org), Midcontinent Independent System Operator (misoenergy.org), and Mid-Carolina Electric Cooperative (mcecoop.com). Over 40 organizations across the grid value chain have contributed to defining the requirements for GRIDEON.

"MCEC needed to share critical data with a strategic partner. Internet and email were not sufficiently secure. For years the method was walking a USB key to the partner for exchange. GRIDEON is a better way," says Keith Sturkie, VP of IT at MCEC. "GRIDEON improved our security posture and lowered our costs."

GRIDEON is an open-source-based suite of easy-to-use cloud-based Software as a Service (SaaS) applications, technologies, enablement and support services, and standards that provide the full set of capabilities required to instantiate any type of secure grid data exchange.

GRIDEON efficiently ensures secure and compliant grid data exchange among all-electric ecosystem participants encompassing the entire electric value chain from generation to consumers (prosumers) spanning business and real-time operations.

It accommodates the creation of multiple types of exchanges necessitated by the utility industry's grid data sharing applications such as collaboration, real-time system integration, publication-subscriber, one-to-many, among just a few.

Secure Grid Collaboration is the second service established on GRIDEON. The first is the BetterGrids Grid Model Repository that is presently used in 45 countries. BetterGrids.org is a free library of curated, non-sensitive grid models shared voluntarily by grid researchers. It includes synthetic and anonymized grid models and uses a rigorous curation process to ensure data quality. AI tools for semantic and natural language searching allow researchers to find their desired test data easily.

Secure Grid Collaboration extends the GRIDEON service reach. It establishes core grid data exchange standards that drive cost efficiency and management efficacy for foundational exchange artifacts such as nondisclosure agreements (NDA) between counterparties. It provides the foundation for future process management and real time services in emergency management and DER integration and beyond.

It also implements the enabling processes for secure grid data exchanges such as participant registration and advanced encryption key services that support exchange operations, security, and compliance.

Girding these key elements is a support organization providing 24 x 7 help, operations, and technical support functions required by the operational nature of many of the exchanges a typical utility will implement.

Learn more at http://www.grideon.com/.

ABOUT GRIDBRIGHT

GridBright Inc. - https://www.gridbright.com/ - specializes in secure grid integration. Its services and solutions span the full electric value chain, safely interconnecting renewable and distributed energy resources to the grid, implementing and integrating modern computer applications for grid operations and planning, and providing solutions for the secure exchange of grid data among grid value chain participants.

Essential to managing today's and the future electric grid is data-its movement and security. GRIDEON developed by GridBright under an award from the US Department of Energy (DOE) Advanced Research Project Agency (ARPA-E) addresses this need.

Related link: https://www.gridbright.com/

Sunpro Solar Brings Affordable Solar Power to Chicago

MANDEVILLE, La. /ScoopCloud/ -- Sunpro Solar, a leading provider of home solar energy in the U.S., is expanding its services in Illinois to the greater Chicago area. The company's ongoing expansion strategy throughout Illinois creates more opportunity for economic growth and energy independence.

"There has never been a better time for Chicago residents to generate their own electricity and experience relief from rising electricity costs," said Sunpro Solar Founder and CEO, Marc Jones. "We're thrilled to be a part of the clean energy movement in Illinois by creating new jobs and a cleaner future for the city of Chicago."

For residents in Chicago and the surrounding metro area, Sunpro Solar will be able to help them purchase solar energy systems, battery backup systems and enhance their savings with energy efficiency upgrades. As a new Sunpro Solar location, Chicago customers will be eligible for state and utility programs as well as the federal solar investment tax credit.

"With recent changes to the solar rebates in Illinois, we are excited to bring customers new solar offerings that will allow them to own their solar energy systems and take full advantage of the tax and cost-savings benefits," said Gregg Murphy, Sunpro Solar's Chief Revenue Officer. "The company's expansion to Chicago creates economic opportunities and brings local jobs to Chicago that will support the solar energy workplace."

When residents living in and around Chicago switch to solar, there are significant opportunities to claim statewide solar incentives, participate in net metering and take advantage of property tax exemptions. For more information about opportunities and incentives for Chicago, Illinois homeowners are welcome to schedule an appointment with a Sunpro Solar Specialist in Chicago.

Through the end of the year, Sunpro Solar expects to build teams and create a significant number of new jobs for the metro area of Chicago and elsewhere in Illinois. Candidates interested in employment opportunities can visit http://www.gosunpro.com/careers.

About Sunpro Solar:

Sunpro Solar is a leading residential solar company in the U.S. that provides affordable solar energy and battery storage solutions to homeowners nationwide. Sunpro Solar was named 5th largest residential solar installer in the U.S. by Solar Power World magazine in July 2020. An Inc. 500 company, Sunpro Solar continues to expand as the demand for home solar in the United States rapidly increases. Sunpro Solar is headquartered in Louisiana and has operational facilities in 17 states. For more information, visit http://www.gosunpro.com/.

Contact: Kristie Moser, Marketing
Phone: 866.450.1012
Email: kristie@theprocompanies.com
Direct Message: Facebook - @gosunpro, Instagram - @gosunpro

This release contains forward-looking statements including but not limited to, expected energy savings and future industry growth and expansion These statements should not be read as a guarantee of future indicators, performance, or results. These statements are based on current expectations and assumptions regarding future events.

Sunpro Solar, a leading provider of home solar energy in the U.S., is expanding its services in Illinois to the greater Chicago area. The company's ongoing expansion strategy throughout Illinois creates more opportunity for economic growth and energy independence.

Related link: https://www.gosunpro.com/

Eagle River Energy Advisors Announces Sell-Side Engagement of Core Producing ORRI Assets – Bakken Shale, North Dakota

GREENWOOD VILLAGE, Colo. /ScoopCloud/ -- Eagle River Energy Advisors, LLC ("Eagle River") is pleased to announce the sell-side engagement by a private company, seeking the divestment of certain ORRI assets located in Dunn, McLean, McKenzie & Mountrail Counties, North Dakota. The ORRI assets are located on the Ft. Berthold Indian Reservation and are diversified across 60 DSUs with a footprint of ~137,000 gross DSU acres and ~300 producing oil and gas wells. Additionally, the ORRI assets have averaged ~$2.4MM of cash flow per year over the past decade.

QEP Resources is the largest operator of the ORRI assets with ~177 PDP horizontal wells. WPX Energy is the second largest operator with 59 PDP Horizontal wells.

"Our team is pleased to serve another client with a high-quality royalty asset in the Williston Basin. These specific ORRI assets are located in the heart of the Bakken / Three Forks play, which continues to provide some of the best drilling economics of any shale play in the country."

"Since inception, Eagle River has successfully closed 29 transactions in the Williston Basin comprising approximately $500 million in transaction value. The Williston Basin remains a focus area for our team at Eagle River given our technical expertise and track record of success in the basin. We believe the Williston Basin continues to provide some of the best risk-adjusted returns in the U.S. oil and gas industry given (i) its oil-weighted production profile, (ii) the low-risk nature of its development given the well-defined geologic fairways of the Bakken / Three Forks formations resulting from over a decade of horizontal drilling and (iii) a favorable regulatory environment in North Dakota. With EURs in the core of the Williston now exceeding 1 MMBOE and well costs currently below $7MM (two-mile laterals) for many operators, the drilling economics at $50+ oil are compelling. Add to the equation the recent announcements from the Biden administration regarding leasing and permitting on federal lands, we believe the Williston Basin will remain the premier location for companies seeking oil-weighted resource play investment opportunities in the Rockies."

Bids for the ORRI assets referenced in this press release are due February 24, 2020.

About Eagle River Energy Advisors

Eagle River in an industry leading A&D advisory firm focused exclusively on the North American oil and gas sector. We specialize in middle market transactions ranging from $5MM - $300MM. Based in Denver, Eagle River has a team of industry professionals with diverse backgrounds in finance, land, business development, engineering, and geology.

Learn more at: https://www.eagleriverenergyadvisors.com/

Eagle River Energy Advisors, LLC ("Eagle River") is pleased to announce the sell-side engagement by a private company, seeking the divestment of certain ORRI assets located in Dunn, McLean, McKenzie & Mountrail Counties, North Dakota.

Related link: https://www.eagleriverenergyadvisors.com/

Northshore Solar Company Rewards Top Sales Employees with Mercedes-Benz Cars

MANDEVILLE, La. /ScoopCloud/ -- Sunpro Solar hosted its annual President's Club awards ceremony on February 5, celebrating the company's achievements in 2020 and awarding top sales employees with brand new Mercedes-Benz cars. The President's Club Awards recognize top sales consultants who have achieved the highest sales during the past 12 months and who have aligned themselves with the company's values and mission.

For the second year, Sunpro Solar partnered with Mercedes-Benz of Covington to purchase the AMG GLE-53 SUVs and CLA-250 Sedans for the recipients. Award recipients also received all-expenses paid trips to the Caribbean.

"It truly was a memorable and exhilarating experience celebrating the Sunpro Solar team's success," said Laurie McCants, Operating Partner at the Covington Mercedes-Benz dealership.

Slidell native, and Founder and CEO Marc Jones, started Sunpro Solar with a vision to establish a company built on integrity, exceptional customer service and a commitment to making a difference in communities. Originally founded in Louisiana, Sunpro Solar has expanded to 18 states under his leadership and is the fifth largest residential solar company in the U.S. In 2019, Marc was named Ernst & Young Entrepreneur of the Year.

"I am honored to work beside such incredible people here on the Northshore and across the nation," said CEO Marc Jones. "Our success comes from our commitment to our customers, our commitment to each other and our desire to be the best in the industry. Building a company that gives back to the communities in which we serve is our greatest achievement."

As one of the largest employers in St. Tammany Parish, the company employs over 500 people locally, and 2500 employees across the U.S. With headquarters in Covington and Mandeville, local employees support its 24 regional operations offices in 18 states. Within the Northshore offices, a range of corporate employees work in departments such as Accounting, Employee Relations, Marketing, IT, Inside Sales, and Quality Control. To see current job openings on the Northshore and to find out how to join the team at Sunpro Solar, visit http://www.gosunpro.com/careers.

About Sunpro Solar:

Sunpro Solar is a leading residential solar company in the U.S. that provides affordable solar energy and battery storage solutions to homeowners nationwide. Sunpro Solar was named 5th largest residential solar installer in the U.S. by Solar Power World magazine in 2020. An Inc. 500 company, Sunpro Solar continues to expand as the demand for home solar in the United States rapidly increases. Sunpro Solar is headquartered in Louisiana and has operational facilities in 18 states. For more information, visit http://www.gosunpro.com/.

Sunpro Solar hosted its annual President's Club awards ceremony on February 5, celebrating the company's achievements in 2020 and awarding top sales employees with brand new Mercedes-Benz cars.

Related link: https://www.gosunpro.com/

Sunpro Solar Brings Affordable Solar Power and Jobs to Iowa

MANDEVILLE, La. /ScoopCloud/ -- Sunpro Solar, a leading provider of residential solar energy and battery storage in the United States, announced that it is expanding to Iowa as the fifth state in the company's footprint in the Midwest; bringing affordable solar and creating renewable energy jobs. Starting in Des Moines, Sunpro Solar will then expand solar energy offerings across the state of Iowa to Cedar Rapids and Iowa City in order to help satisfy the demand for lower electricity bills.

"In order to provide a first-class customer experience, we must continue to expand the ways homeowners can power their homes and save money on energy bills," said Sunpro Solar CEO and Founder, Marc Jones. "Solar in the Midwest is exciting because it gives customers the assuredness that they now have a choice to partner with companies like us that will help make a difference in their communities."

Sunpro Solar will provide residents in Iowa the ability to purchase their solar energy systems and home battery storage as well as upgrade their home's energy efficiency. Sunpro Solar will also help Iowa customers navigate federal, state and utility incentives and tax credits. For more information about opportunities and incentives for Iowa solar customers, schedule an appointment with a Sunpro Solar Specialist about going solar in Iowa. Learn more: https://www.gosunpro.com/location/iowa/iowa-solar-company/.

"In Iowa, people are paying so much money to utilities for electricity," said Gregg Murphy, Sunpro Solar's Chief Revenue Officer. "We have the opportunity to serve people across Iowa with a more affordable option that gives them peace-of-mind from rising costs."

Switching to solar in Iowa is now easier with Sunpro Solar's simple and affordable approach along with incentives such as solar easement laws, renewable energy property tax exemptions, sales tax exemptions from the state of Iowa, net metering programs and the Federal Solar Tax Credit.

To serve more customers, Sunpro Solar expects to create a significant number of new jobs in communities in Iowa. Sunpro Solar plans to hire sales consultants, installation teams, and administrative support positions for its new offices in Iowa. Candidates interested in employment opportunities can visit www.gosunpro.com/careers.

About Sunpro Solar:

Sunpro Solar is a leading residential solar company in the U.S. that provides affordable solar energy and battery storage solutions to homeowners nationwide. Sunpro Solar was named 5th largest residential solar installer in the U.S. by Solar Power World magazine in 2020. An Inc. 500 company, Sunpro Solar continues to expand as the demand for home solar in the United States rapidly increases. Sunpro Solar is headquartered in Louisiana and has operational facilities in 18 states. For more information, visit http://www.gosunpro.com/.

Contact: Kristie Moser, Marketing
Phone: 866.450.1012
Email: kristie@theprocompanies.com
Direct Message: Facebook - @gosunpro | Instagram - @gosunpro

This release contains forward-looking statements including but not limited to, expected energy savings and future industry growth and expansion These statements should not be read as a guarantee of future indicators, performance, or results. These statements are based on current expectations and assumptions regarding future events.

Sunpro Solar, a leading provider of residential solar energy and battery storage in the United States, announced that it is expanding to Iowa as the fifth state in the company's footprint in the Midwest; bringing affordable solar and creating renewable energy jobs. Starting in Des Moines, Sunpro Solar will then expand solar energy offerings across the state of Iowa.

Related link: https://www.gosunpro.com/

Remote Visual Inspection Requirements Generate Sales and New Clients for ViewTech Borescopes

TRAVERSE CITY, Mich. /ScoopCloud/ -- As a new year begins, many organizations start by evaluating their inspection processes and procedures. With each industry adhering to their remote visual inspection (RVI) guidelines and nondestructive testing (NDT) methods, ViewTech Borescopes VJ-3 articulating video borescope caught the attention of engineers working for a nuclear power facility and a dairy industry pioneer.

A nuclear fuel fabrication facility required a change in video borescope inspection tools used to visually examine the internal cavities of 30B cylinders. With the facility's current inspection scopes not able to produce adequate illumination, the no-cost, no-obligation demo offered by ViewTech Borescopes was an advantageous way to confirm the VJ-3 video borescope would achieve the brightness level required, along with properly documenting their findings. During the demo period, a Senior Manufacturing Engineer was able to visually observe and capture photos and videos of the cleanliness inside the 30B cylinders with the VJ-3 video borescopes enhanced lighting.

Another of ViewTech's newest clients, the world's largest producer of mozzarella cheese, reached out when considering a new videoscope to monitor their Clean-in-Place (CIP) effectiveness and efficiency. With lengthy pipes requiring inspection, a ViewTech video borescope expert advised a VJ-3 6.0mm x 8.0-meter Dual Camera matched their necessary specifications. After being able to tryout their prospective inspection tool without cost, the Associate Director of Engineering confirmed ViewTech's borescope easily accomplished visual verification of their CIP and upgrading to a ViewTech video borescope would prevent timely disassembly of their processing equipment and piping.

By experiencing the superior image quality, 360° articulation, and outstanding customer service that accompanies the VJ-3 video borescope, each organization was able to make a knowledgeable assessment during their no-cost, no-obligation demo period. With ViewTech Borescopes visual inspection technology onsite, both the nuclear fuel fabrication facility and food processing plant agreed to purchase their respective demo video borescopes.

VJ-3 Video Borescope

The VJ-3 mechanical articulating video borescope is an NDT instrument used for the RVI of machinery, equipment, and components. The VJ-3 facilitates the visual recording and photo documentation of inspection and components in areas that are otherwise inaccessible or require great effort and expense to access directly. The VJ-3 video borescope consists of two modules integrated into one system: an insertion tube with distally mounted camera/LEDs, and the base unit with a control panel, LCD monitor, power source, and all necessary circuitry.

About ViewTech Borescopes

ViewTech Borescopes, founded as RF System Lab in 2008, is North America's #1 seller of video borescopes. Their first product, the VJ borescope, set a new standard for portability, ergonomics, and ease-of-use, with its industry-first mechanical, joystick-controlled articulation.

For more information on VJ-3 Video Borescope: https://www.viewtech.com

MULTIMEDIA:

*VIDEO (YouTube): https://youtu.be/nMzKWtANhjQ

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Media Contact:
For more information, press only:
Duncan White, Director of Sales and Marketing
231-943-1171
dwhite@viewtech.com

As a new year begins, many organizations start by evaluating their inspection processes and procedures. With each industry adhering to their remote visual inspection (RVI) guidelines and nondestructive testing (NDT) methods, ViewTech Borescopes VJ-3 articulating video borescope caught the attention of engineers working for a nuclear power facility and a dairy industry pioneer.

Related link: https://www.ViewTech.com

Landowner Receives Right of First Refusal for Water and Gas – Landmark Surface-Use Agreement Signed for ESG Goals

CHEYENNE, Wyo. /ScoopCloud/ -- Encore Green Environmental announces a step forward in landowner relationships with the energy industry. The O.J. Enterprise ranch operation outside Cheyenne, Wyoming has secured a unique surface-use agreement with a Dallas-based midstream company, allowing the ranch to receive the right of first refusal for the produced/by-product water and any potential flare gas.

Encore Green Environmental has worked with the Goertz family for three years to now successfully bring water from an energy source to their land, to be put to beneficial use for ag and conservation. This new agreement paves the way for the landowner and midstream company to meet Environmental, Stewardship, Governance (ESG) goals.

Owen Goertz, co-owner of the ranch, said, "Today, we finally broke the glass ceiling. We ranch on arid land and additional water is vital to us and every rancher working today. This signals a new era."

The agreement was brokered by Kimberly Wurtz of Dennis & Wurtz PLLC. "We tell landowners that 'Your property is our priority' as we work to find new paths for stronger landowner relationships in the energy space. Our goal is to create a win-win," says Kimberly Wurtz.

"We've just created a win-win for all concerned," says Marvin Nash of Encore Green Environmental. "We've said for a while now that the energy industry's next midstream partner is agriculture. This is the new way forward."

John Robitaille, who works with Encore Green Environmental and is the director of the Carbon Asset Network, sees great potential in this as well, "This acreage will be a part of CAN, which is a company dedicated to increasing soil health. Better soil is the key for the land to healthier vegetation, a greater yield, and through photosynthesis, an increase in carbon sequestration." CAN is partnered with the nonprofit Synergy for Ecological Solutions.

Synergy for Ecological Solutions is a registered 501(c)3 nonprofit who bring donors called Change Agents together with Land Stewards.

The energy community and landowners have historically had uneasy relations, but the opportunity to work together can achieve great things for each party. This agreement is the first of its kind and hopefully will represent a better, more cooperative future.

For more information visit:

Dennis & Wurtz PLLC, http://denniswurtzlaw.com/

Encore Green Environmental, http://encoregreenenvironmental.com/

Synergy For Ecological Solutions, https://www.synergyforecologicalsolutions.org/

Carbon Asset Network, http://carbonassetnetwork.com/

*LOGO link for media: https://www.Send2Press.com/300dpi/21-0208s2p-encore-green-300dpi.jpg

Encore Green Environmental announces a step forward in landowner relationships with the energy industry. The O.J. Enterprise ranch operation outside Cheyenne, Wyoming has secured a unique surface-use agreement with a Dallas-based midstream company, allowing the ranch to receive the right of first refusal for the produced/by-product water and any potential flare gas.

Related link: https://www.encoregreenenvironmental.com/

EV Solar Charging Carport Offered by SunnyCal Solar

JACKSON, Calif. /ScoopCloud/ -- SunnyCal Solar Inc., a provider of innovative solar products, announces release of the new EV Solar Carport to provide independent charging power for Electric Vehicles.

Solar powered carports are powered by patented Steel Roof Solar (SRS) modules that have crystalline solar cells built into the metal roof sheets. These SRS modules create energy that is stored in a local battery and powers the EV car charger.

The structure is a stand-alone steel framed structure, that provides shade and rain protection for vehicles while charging. All components are fully galvanized for long life. Options are available for lighting, powder coating and foundation anchors.

Benefits of the EV Solar Carport are numerous. Solar charging power saves money by avoiding utility charges. Construction costs to connect EV chargers to the electric meter are eliminated. Future mileage taxes and charging fees are avoided. Carports may be eligible for Renewable ITC tax benefits.

"Meeting the growing demands for EV chargers can be an expensive proposition," said Steven Dollens, SunnyCal Solar, CEO. "EV Solar Carports are the most cost-effective way for many businesses meet the increasing needs for customer charging services."

Businesses that are mandated to provide EV charging, but lack the required high-power wiring in parking lots, can avoid massive upgrade costs. Since EV Solar Carports are lighted and self-powered, they can be placed without regard for proximity to power or lighting outlets.

EV Solar Carports are available in kit form, with on-site installation services available. Dealer network available.

More general information is available at https://sunnycalsolar.com/electric-car-charging/.

Purchase details are available as https://sunnycalsolar.com/products/24x14-ev-solar-carport-4000w-solar/

*PHOTO link for media: https://www.Send2Press.com/300dpi/21-0203s2p-sunnycal-carport-300dpi.jpg
*Caption: EV Solar Carport, 14-feet x 24-feet, 4kW Solar.

SunnyCal Solar Inc., a provider of innovative solar products, announces release of the new EV Solar Carport to provide independent charging power for Electric Vehicles.

Related link: https://sunnycalsolar.com/

Sunpro Solar Expands Solar Service to Arizona

PHOENIX, Ariz. /ScoopCloud/ -- Sunpro Solar, a leading provider of residential solar energy and battery storage in the U.S., announced its most recent expansion to Arizona. With services beginning in the greater Phoenix area, the company's expansion to the state of Arizona will help satisfy the demand for lower electricity bills and will create more renewable energy jobs.

"With the nation's enthusiasm toward clean energy, we are pleased to bring affordable solar to Arizona," said Sunpro Solar Founder and CEO, Marc Jones. "We continue to invest in the areas that support a high demand for renewable energy and we look forward to providing best-in-class customer service to Arizona homeowners as they reduce their electricity bills."

Sunpro Solar will provide a way for homeowners in Arizona to purchase solar energy systems, to invest in battery backup systems and to enhance their savings with energy efficiency upgrades. Arizona customers will be eligible for state and utility rebate programs as well as the federal solar investment tax credit.

"From Phoenix to Tucson, Flagstaff and even Sedona, we provide solar service to the entire state of Arizona, and we serve it well," said Gregg Murphy, Sunpro Solar's Chief Revenue Officer. "We're excited to offer residents a better quality solar installation option and create job opportunities statewide."

Arizona residents currently pay some of the highest electricity prices in the United States. For that reason, Arizona is a promising market for rooftop solar which will allow homeowners to take advantage of a more cost-effective home energy alternative. For more information about opportunities and incentives for Arizona solar customers, schedule an appointment with a Sunpro Solar Specialist about going solar in Arizona.

Learn more: https://www.gosunpro.com/location/arizona/solar-panels-arizona/

Sunpro Solar's plans for continued expansion in cities across Arizona further reinforce the commitment to building teams and creating jobs in the state. Candidates interested in employment opportunities can visit http://www.gosunpro.com/careers.

About Sunpro Solar:

Sunpro Solar is a leading residential solar company in the U.S. that provides affordable solar energy and battery storage solutions to homeowners nationwide. Sunpro Solar was named 5th largest residential solar installer in the U.S. by Solar Power World magazine in July 2020. An Inc. 500 company, Sunpro Solar continues to expand as the demand for home solar in the United States rapidly increases. Sunpro Solar is headquartered in Louisiana and has operational facilities in 17 states. For more information, visit http://www.gosunpro.com/.

Media Contact: Kristie Moser, Marketing

Phone: 866.450.1012

Email: kristie@theprocompanies.com

Direct Message: Facebook - @gosunpro, Instagram - @gosunpro

This release contains forward-looking statements including but not limited to, expected energy savings and future industry growth and expansion These statements should not be read as a guarantee of future indicators, performance, or results. These statements are based on current expectations and assumptions regarding future events.

Sunpro Solar, a leading provider of residential solar energy and battery storage in the U.S., announced its most recent expansion to Arizona. With services beginning in the greater Phoenix area, the company's expansion to the state of Arizona will help satisfy the demand for lower electricity bills and will create more renewable energy jobs.

Related link: https://www.gosunpro.com/

EnergyCAP’s Energy Information Management System Earns FedRAMP Authorization

STATE COLLEGE, Pa. /ScoopCloud/ -- EnergyCAP, Inc. (ECI) is pleased to announce that its EnergyCAP® energy management information solution (EMIS) has been granted an Authorization to Operate (ATO) under the U.S. Government's FedRAMP program and is now an authorized participant in the FedRAMP Marketplace. The U.S. Department of State granted the ATO and is now the first EnergyCAP client in the FedRAMP environment.

The certification confirms that ECI's robust software platform and data hosting service meet the rigorous security requirements outlined by the Federal Information Security Management Act (FISMA). FedRAMP provides a uniform approach to risk-based security management and improves the trustworthiness, reliability, consistency, and quality of the federal security authorization process.

EnergyCAP is now the obvious choice for federal agencies in need of cloud-based utility bill tracking, management of submeter-based chargebacks for tenants and reimbursable activities, energy and sustainability reporting, goal tracking, and measurement and verification of savings (M&V).

ECI established a GSA contract (Contract #: GS35F231CA) in 2015 to streamline the EnergyCAP purchasing process for federal and other publicly funded organizations. By purchasing under ECI's GSA contract, organizations can bypass the costly and time-consuming public procurement process and are guaranteed to receive the lowest price available. The addition of FedRAMP-certified data hosting completes ECI's offering and reinforces EnergyCAP as the go-to energy management solution for federal agencies.

"We've served Federal agencies, including several military bases, with utility bill management and energy reporting software for decades. Obtaining an official Authorization to Operate in a cloud environment has been an important objective in serving more agencies and installations, and in satisfying important sustainability, energy reduction and expense accounting goals," according to Steve Heinz, ECI Founder & CEO.

Until now, many federal agencies have been required to host their EnergyCAP database on premises. By shifting the hosting responsibility to ECI, organizations reduce demands on their staff to maintain their EnergyCAP database(s), including software installation, setup, and maintenance. In addition to lower labor costs, agencies that license EnergyCAP no longer need to dedicate much-needed computer hardware and IT resources to host EnergyCAP on premises. The EnergyCAP implementation process is now much easier and faster, and customers can be confident that their data resides in a federally approved, secure hosting environment.

With the addition of the FedRAMP-certified hosting, ECI now offers three hosting service levels in addition to its Standard service: Advanced, Optimum, and FedRAMP. EnergyCAP customers that may want expanded services-multiple databases, automated process support, multi-factor authentication, event logging, and more-are encouraged to visit the company's Hosting Services page to learn about available options.

Learn more: https://www.energycap.com/pricing/database-hosting-services

About EnergyCAP:

EnergyCAP, Inc. has helped more than 10,000 energy managers in government, education, and commercial organizations derive value from their utility bills and energy data. Clients use our comprehensive EnergyCAP software-based solution to streamline utility bill processing and auditing, track energy and greenhouse gas data, process campus chargebacks, target reduction goals, benchmark facilities, submit to ENERGY STAR, measure and verify energy & cost savings, create budgets and forecasts, and much more.

Learn more at: https://www.energycap.com/

MEDIA CONTACT INFORMATION
For more information contact:
Blaine Clapper
Chief Marketing Officer
EnergyCAP, Inc.
Phone: 877.327.3702 x38
Email: blaine.clapper@energycap.com

*LOGO link for media: https://www.Send2Press.com/300dpi/21-0108s2p-energycap-300dpi.jpg

EnergyCAP, Inc. (ECI) is pleased to announce that its EnergyCAP® energy management information solution (EMIS) has been granted an Authorization to Operate (ATO) under the U.S. Government's FedRAMP program and is now an authorized participant in the FedRAMP Marketplace. The U.S. Department of State granted the ATO and is now the first EnergyCAP client in the FedRAMP environment.

Related link: https://www.energycap.com/

Sunpro Solar to Expand Solar Service to Virginia

MANDEVILLE, La. /ScoopCloud/ -- Sunpro Solar, a leading provider of solar energy and battery storage in the U.S., announced its most recent expansion to Virginia. The company's expansion to Virginia will help satisfy the demand for lower electricity bills and to create more renewable energy jobs.

"There has never been a better time for people to own their electricity," said Sunpro Solar Founder and CEO, Marc Jones. "Homeowners in Virginia now have a choice that will allow them to get relief from rising utility costs and do something that makes a difference in their communities."

For residents in Richmond and other cities in Virginia, Sunpro will be able to help them purchase solar energy systems, battery backup systems and enhance their savings with energy efficiency upgrades. As a new Sunpro territory, Virginia customers will be eligible for state and utility rebate programs as well as the Federal Solar Investment Tax Credit.

As of 2020, Virginia currently ranks 17th in the United States in terms of total installed solar capacity. In addition, the Virginia Clean Economy Act permits larger solar systems for more power production.

For more information about opportunities and incentives for Virginia homeowners, Sunpro welcomes interested residents to take a look at its Virginia location page: https://www.gosunpro.com/location/virginia/virginia/.

The Sunpro Solar expansion expects to create a significant number of new jobs for the state. Candidates interested in employment opportunities can visit: https://bestsolarjobs.com/.

"We like to hire local installers, salespeople, operations people who know and understand the culture we're selling in," said Gregg Murphy, Sunpro Solar's Chief Revenue Officer. "Our vision is to create great living wages and opportunities to grow and become the best they can be. Solar is our vehicle to do that."

About Sunpro Solar:

Sunpro Solar is a top solar company in the U.S. that provides affordable solar energy and battery storage solutions to homeowners nationwide. Sunpro Solar was named 5th largest residential solar installer in the U.S. by Solar Power World magazine in July 2020. An Inc. 500 company, Sunpro Solar continues to expand as the demand for home solar in the United States rapidly increases. Sunpro Solar has headquarters in Louisiana and currently operates in 17 states.

This release contains forward-looking statements including but not limited to, expected energy savings and future industry growth and expansion These statements should not be read as a guarantee of future indicators, performance, or results. These statements are based on current expectations and assumptions regarding future events.

Learn more: https://www.gosunpro.com/.

Sunpro Solar, a leading provider of solar energy and battery storage in the U.S., announced its most recent expansion to Virginia. The company's expansion to Virginia will help satisfy the demand for lower electricity bills and to create more renewable energy jobs.

Related link: https://www.gosunpro.com/

Arroyo Closes $821 Million in Global Refinancings During Pandemic

HOUSTON, Texas /ScoopCloud/ -- Arroyo Energy Investors, the Houston-based, independent infrastructure investment firm with a footprint in North and Latin America, today announced it closed three large refinancings totaling $821 million during the COVID-19 pandemic. The transactions were executed with several of Arroyo's strategic lending partners and are illustrative of Arroyo's experience with such transactions refined over the team's 25+ years' experience in the power industry.

The three refinancings, which closed between March and November of this year, were preceded by the execution of value creation initiatives at each of the following portfolio companies:

* Broad River, an 878 MW dual-fuel peaking plant in South Carolina

* Pemcorp, a 142 MW gas-fired power plant in Monterrey, Mexico

* ARCO I, a 219 MW renewable utility scale portfolio in Chile

"We are pleased that during these unprecedented times, we executed on the plan of delivering key commercial value-added initiatives followed by strategic refinancings at each of these portfolio companies," said David T. Field, an Arroyo Founding Partner. "This is a testament to our significant relationships with major global project finance lenders across the United States, Mexico and Chile, as well as the strength of these assets, which are underpinned by long-dated contractual cashflows with credit-worthy offtakers."

Details on each of the three project refinancings are as follows:

Broad River

The $197 million refinancing is backed by contracted revenues with Duke Energy, one of the largest electric power companies in the United States. Prior to the refinancing, Arroyo successfully extended on behalf of Broad River its offtake agreement, securing continued gross margin. The Broad River refinancing was strengthened by an extension of the tolling contract with Duke and closed in March during the volatile period at the early stage of the COVID-19 pandemic. The financing was executed as an amend and extend with commercial lenders including CIT as Bookrunner, Joint Lead Arranger and Agent, Associated Bank as Joint Lead Arranger, and Siemens Financial and DZ Bank as lenders.

Pemcorp

The $195 million Pemcorp refinancing, closed in September, is one of the first visible commercial transactions that was launched, executed and closed in the project finance energy infrastructure market in Mexico since the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic. Prior to the refinancing, Arroyo successfully restructured on behalf of Pemcorp its 20-year offtake agreement with its customers, Kia Motors Mexico and Hyundai Engineering Mexico, resulting in increased contracted gross margin throughout the term. The financing was executed solely with commercial banks without reliance on any development financing institutions (DFIs) or development banks. SMBC and Natixis acted as Joint Book-Runners and Coordinating Lead Arrangers, ING as Mandated Lead Arranger, and post-closing, Siemens Financial Services and Intesa Sampaolo came in as lenders.

ARCO I

This refinancing totaled $429 million and includes ancillary DSR LC and working capital facilities. The facilities are backed by contracted revenues with Minera los Pelambres ("MLP"), a Chilean mining operation within the Antofogasta PLC, a large international mining group. The revenues are comprised of long-term offtake agreements with MLP from ARCO I's Conejo and El Arrayan projects. Prior to the refinancing, Arroyo, on behalf of ARCO I, successfully restructured these two agreements, resulting in additional elements of downside protection for the remaining term. The financing closed in October and was led by Credit Agricole-CIB and SMBC as Joint Bookrunners, MUFG, Société Générale, as Mandated Lead Arrangers and Caixabank and Sabadell as lenders. Despite COVID-19 disruptions, market challenges in Chile and volatility around the U.S. election, the transaction was oversubscribed and was successfully distributed to a group of banks across different tiers. The financing qualifies as one of the largest green loans closed to date in Latin America.

ABOUT ARROYO ENERGY INVESTORS

Arroyo Energy Investment Partners LLC is a private equity fund manager with an investment focus in infrastructure projects throughout the Americas. Based in Houston with an office in Santiago, Chile, Arroyo is actively managing nearly $2 billion in assets.

For further information, visit https://www.arroyoenergygroup.com/.

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Arroyo Energy Investors, the Houston-based, independent infrastructure investment firm with a footprint in North and Latin America, today announced it closed three large refinancings totaling $821 million during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Local Non-Profit Gets Green Energy with Help from An Innovative Philanthropic Investment

WATERTOWN, Mass. /ScoopCloud/ -- Watertown Boys & Girls Club, a local non-profit, has partnered with Rise Up Solar, a philanthropic solar investment firm, to turn rising energy costs into an opportunity to go green and save big with an installation by SunBug Solar, an energy consulting and installation provider in Massachusetts.

After some renovations to the facilities in 2016, the Watertown Boys & Girls Club's utility bills skyrocketed. Renee Gaudette, Watertown BGC's executive director, recognized that this extra cost took money away from the kids they serve. The organization had already been investigating a solar solution, but years of searching ended due to difficulty with the roof, some lofty trees, and a steep initial cost to invest.

Eventually, the Watertown BGC contacted SunBug Solar, a leading solar installer company for small business and nonprofit organizations in the Commonwealth. Fortunately, they knew a business designed for the challenge.

Peter Glick had worked with SunBug years prior for an installation on his own home in Cambridge. He was pleasantly surprised to learn that with available incentives his payback was only six years, and his rate of return was more appealing than what he could find in the financial markets. He mused how this might work for nonprofits.

Without access to significant capital or tax breaks offered to for-profit businesses, nonprofits are at a substantial disadvantage when it comes to solar. Glick set out to find a solution to this problem and came up with a business model that benefits investors, non-profits, and the installers and other vendors involved. He named his business Rise Up Solar.

Glick's early efforts to find organizations willing to participate were less than encouraging. He tried with 10 organizations he knew, but educating nonprofits on the value proposition was much harder than he'd anticipated. The organizations he approached were highly risk-averse, with a range of concerns involving the technology, the potential impact to their roof, fear of hidden costs and snow build-up, to name a few. When he reconnected with SunBug Solar, a leader among installers serving nonprofit organizations, they briefed him on the Watertown BGC project.

"All of the obstacles seemed to melt away," said Gaudette. "The initial costs were so prohibitive, but the agreement with Rise Up opened up doors."

The Watertown BGC signed a power purchase agreement (PPA) with Rise Up, and Rise up then contracted with SunBug to build the system - a 45kW, 120-panel ballasted solar array which sits on the BGC's flat membrane roof and requires no roof penetrations.

Rise Up will purchase a solar array on behalf of a nonprofit, and will sell the power to the organization at a substantial discount from their current rate - or simply pay the nonprofit to lease their roof space. Rise Up takes the tax credits and incentives, and will own the system until it has generated a modest return. It then gifts the system back to the nonprofit, which receives all financial benefit for the remainder of the solar system's life, which can easily be 20 years or more.

For the next 8-10 years, the Watertown BGC will save money by purchasing power from the array at a discounted rate. Once Rise Up has recouped its investment with a modest return, the system will be gifted to the BGC, which will then enjoy continued incentive payments for another decade and free electricity for another two decades or more. "All in all, it's a compelling win-win," says Glick, "the nonprofit gets solar and all of its benefits, while Rise Up restores its capital so it can approach other nonprofits with a similar offer."

The solar solution is a natural fit for the Watertown BGC. "We try to instill a sense of stewardship in the environment," explained Gaudette. Monitoring the power production serves not only as a financial and problem-solving talking point with the children, but there's also potential to build out a science curriculum centered around the project.

"You can't look at the numbers without reacting positively. We're so impressed with Mr. Glick and his philanthropy," said Gaudette. "He's come up with a very smart, long term solution to the needs of non-profit organizations."

About Watertown Boys and Girls Club:

The mission of the WBGC is to inspire and enable all young people, especially those who need their services most, to realize their full potential as productive, responsible and caring citizens. The Club serves approximately 1,000 youth members throughout the year, and also provides activities and services to an additional 1,400 kids through cooperative programs with the Watertown Recreation Department, the Watertown Family Network, and other similar organizations.

About Rise Up Solar:

Rise Up Solar enables community-focused nonprofits to harness all of the environmental and economic benefits of solar power. Since solar tax incentives are unavailable to nonprofit organizations, Rise Up Solar bridges the gap. The firm uses a for-profit model with a non-profit mission, channeling the vast majority of solar's financial benefit to groups that need it most. Further details are available at https://www.riseupsolar.com/.

About SunBug Solar:

SunBug Solar is a solar energy consulting and installation company based in Arlington and Westfield, MA. Founded in 2009 and a Certified B Corporation since 2018, SunBug has installed over two thousand solar systems across Massachusetts, from Great Barrington to Cape Cod. SunBug develops, designs, and installs all types of solar systems including residential and commercial rooftops, carports, and ground-mounts. Learn more: https://sunbugsolar.com/

Watertown Boys & Girls Club, a local non-profit, has partnered with Rise Up Solar, a philanthropic solar investment firm, to turn rising energy costs into an opportunity to go green and save big with an installation by SunBug Solar, an energy consulting and installation provider in Massachusetts.

Related link: http://sunbugsolar.com/

Sunpro Solar to Expand Rooftop Solar in the Midwest Region

MANDEVILLE, La. /ScoopCloud/ -- Sunpro Solar, a leading residential solar energy company in the U.S., announced today that they are expanding to bring affordable solar to homeowners in the states of Nebraska and Illinois. The company's expansion to new markets in the Midwest will help satisfy the demand for lower electricity bills and to create more renewable energy jobs.

Sunpro Solar will offer residents of Nebraska and Illinois affordable solar energy systems, battery backup and energy efficiency upgrades. This expansion into the Midwest represents a significant chapter in the company's rapid national growth. The company has experienced remarkable success taking solar energy to neighborhoods and areas around the U.S. where residents deserve an economic and environmentally responsible alternative to the high-cost traditional electricity grid.

"There is a strong interest and growing demand for clean energy in the Midwest," says Sunpro Solar Founder and CEO, Marc Jones. "Our company is excited to help these homeowners lower their electric bills, especially during this time of uncertainty."

Sunpro Solar's expansion into this region will bring hundreds of new jobs within the next year. To learn more about career opportunities in Nebraska and Illinois, visit the Sunpro careers website, https://bestsolarjobs.com/.

About Sunpro Solar:

Sunpro Solar is a top solar company in the U.S. that provides affordable solar energy and battery storage solutions to homeowners nationwide. Sunpro Solar was named 5th largest residential solar installer in the U.S. by Solar Power World Magazine in July 2020. An Inc. 500 company, Sunpro Solar continues to expand as the demand for home solar in the United States rapidly increases. Sunpro Solar has headquarters in Louisiana and currently operates in 17 states.

Contact:

Kristie Moser, Marketing

Phone: 866.450.1012

Email: kristie@theprocompanies.com

Direct Message: Facebook - @gosunpro, Instagram - @gosunpro

https://www.gosunpro.com/

Sunpro Solar, a leading residential solar energy company in the U.S., announced today that they are expanding to bring affordable solar to homeowners in the states of Nebraska and Illinois. The company's expansion to new markets in the Midwest will help satisfy the demand for lower electricity bills and to create more renewable energy jobs.

Related link: https://www.gosunpro.com/

Sunpro Solar Named to Inc. Magazine’s Vet100 List

MANDEVILLE, La. /ScoopCloud/ -- Sunpro Solar has been named to the annual Vet100 list which acknowledges the nation's fastest growing veteran-owned businesses and entrepreneurs. The ranking is composed of honorees who have also landed on the iconic Inc. Magazine 5000 list of the fastest-growing private companies in the U.S and created in partnership with Syracuse University's Institute for Veterans and Military Families (IVMF). Both distinctions are considered hallmarks of entrepreneurial success.

"We attribute our success as a company to the employees we hire and the culture that supports them. The values that guide our team are many of the same values like responsibility, service and integrity that are found in the armed forces," says Marc Jones, Sunpro Solar Founder, CEO and U.S. Army veteran. "We are proud of our employees who have served our nation and who continue to make a difference for our company today."

In July 2020, Sunpro Solar was named 5th largest residential solar installer in the U.S. by Solar Power World Magazine. As the demand for home solar in the United States rapidly increases, Sunpro Solar continues to expand nationwide. Sunpro Solar is proud to bring cleaner energy and lower utility costs to homeowners across the nation. Sunpro Solar offers customers affordable home solar, energy efficiency solutions and battery storage. With over 2000 employees, Sunpro Solar currently operates in 17 states.

"Business growth is a real economic driver in this country and the fact is that most of the new jobs in the economy-over 87 percent-are created by private businesses," says Eric Schurenberg, CEO of Mansueto Ventures, publisher of Inc. Magazine. "Veteran entrepreneurs contribute their share to the job story, employing over 5.5 million. They deserve to be recognized for their continued service to the country."

"Military experience provides veteran entrepreneurs with skills and knowledge we know to be valuable in the business world," says Mike Haynie, Syracuse University Vice Chancellor and IVMF Founder and Executive Director. "The growth of this year's list is a hopeful and inspiring indication of how important and valuable veteran entrepreneurs are to our society and economy. These businessmen and women not only served in defense of our collective freedom and security, they now continue to serve by bettering the economies in their communities and across the country. We are proud to partner again with Inc. magazine and are grateful for their efforts to shine a spotlight on the success of veteran-owned businesses."

For more information on the Inc. Vet100 list, visit: https://ivmf.syracuse.edu/Vet100/

About Sunpro Solar:

Sunpro Solar is a top solar company in the U.S. that provides affordable solar energy and battery storage solutions to homeowners nationwide. Sunpro Solar was named 5th largest residential solar installer in the U.S. by Solar Power World Magazine in July 2020. An Inc. 500 company, Sunpro Solar continues to expand as the demand for home solar in the United States rapidly increases. Sunpro Solar has headquarters in Louisiana and currently operates in 17 states. Visit https://www.gosunpro.com/ to learn more about Sunpro Solar.

Contact: Kristie Moser, Marketing
Phone: 866.450.1012
Email: kristie@theprocompanies.com
Direct Message: Facebook - @gosunpro, Instagram - @gosunpro

About Inc. and the Inc. 5000

Founded in 1979 and acquired in 2005 by Mansueto Ventures, Inc. is the only major brand dedicated exclusively to owners and managers of growing private companies, with the aim to deliver real solutions for today's innovative company builders. Total monthly audience reach for the brand has grown significantly from 2,000,000 in 2010 to over 20,000,000 today. For more information, visit https://www.inc.com/.

The Inc. 5000 is a list of the fastest-growing private companies in the U.S. Now in its 40th year, this prestigious list of the nation's most successful private companies has become the hallmark of entrepreneurial success.

Sunpro Solar has been named to the annual Vet100 list which acknowledges the nation's fastest growing veteran-owned businesses and entrepreneurs. The ranking is composed of honorees who have also landed on the iconic Inc. Magazine 5000 list of the fastest-growing private companies in the U.S and created in partnership with Syracuse University's Institute for Veterans and Military Families (IVMF).

Related link: https://www.gosunpro.com/

Dominion Energy – Surry Power Station in Surry, Va. Receives Their Fourth ‘Virginia Star’ Designation Under the Department of Labor and Industry’s Voluntary Protection Program

RICHMOND, Va. /ScoopCloud/ -- Commissioner C. Ray Davenport announced today that Dominion Energy Surry Power Station in Surry, Virginia, has been recertified as a Virginia STAR Worksite under Virginia's Occupational Safety and Health (VOSH) Voluntary Protection Program (VPP), the program's highest level of recognition. The facility was approved on November 23, 2020 with their third recertification since originally being certified on April 13, 2005.

"I am very proud of the Dominion Energy Surry Power Station for embodying the VPP commitment to safety and health, day in and day out, as they strive to make Virginia a better and safer place to work and live," said Commissioner Davenport. "I congratulate Dominion Energy Surry Power Station in Surry, Virginia, on the occasion of their recertification as a Virginia STAR Worksite."

The Surry Power Station's commitment to providing a safe and healthy workplace for its employees is demonstrated by its very low injury and illness rates. The worksite has a total three-year average for the TCIR (Total Case Incident Rate for injuries and illnesses) of 0.17 compared with a Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) national rate of 0.20. This represents a TCIR rate that is 15% lower than the national average. The site's three-year average DART rate (Days Away, Restricted, or Transferred injury and illness cases) is 0.03, compared with the 0.10 national rate, which is 66% below the national average.

As part of the recognition for achieving STAR status under VPP, the worksite is entitled to fly the "Virginia STAR" worksite flag. The Surry Power Station is the second VPP STAR site in Virginia and one of three VPP STAR sites in the United States. VPP includes two levels of participation, Merit and STAR, with STAR being the highest. Similar voluntary protection programs are conducted in other states across the country.

The process for reaching Virginia STAR status is extensive ensuring that the very best programs qualify. Since the inception of Virginia's VPP in 1996, only 72 Virginia STAR worksites have been recognized, and only 35 Virginia companies currently retain the Virginia STAR designation. The Surry Power Station has set a standard of excellence that is second to none.

In Virginia VPP, a cooperative relationship is formed between the VOSH program, the employer, and employees, which include the agreement of company leaders to operate an exceptional safety and health management system that meets a rigorous set of criteria. Employers agree to voluntarily participate in the program and directly involve employees in all aspects of the safety and health management systems.

Businesses that participate in VPP substantially improve safety and health protections for thousands of employees through cooperative efforts to reduce injuries, illnesses, and fatal accidents. Virginia STAR sites regularly report decreased bottom line costs associated with dramatically reduced injury and illness rates (an average of over 50% below the respective industry average), improved productivity and employee morale. Reducing private sector employer costs associated with the above-mentioned enhances a company's economic viability and competitiveness while increasing capital.

DOLI operates six recognition programs including:

1 - Virginia STAR, a cooperative relationship between the VOSH program, employers, and employees including the agreement of company leaders to operate exceptional safety and health management systems that meet a rigorous set of occupational safety and health criteria. Requirements include an extensive application process, submission of written safety and health policies and procedures, demonstration of successful implementation of those programs through injury and illness rates that are below the national average for the employer's industry, and an intensive weeklong inspection by a team of VPP experts.

2 - Virginia BEST (Building Excellence in Safety, Health and Training), a strategic partnership between the DOLI and the Associated General Contractors of Virginia (AGCVA) that recognizes AGCVA members who voluntarily implement highly effective safety and health management systems to benefit construction workers and reduce or eliminate injuries, illnesses, and fatalities on construction sites in Virginia.

3 - Virginia BUILT, a new strategic partnership between the DOLI and the Associated Builders and Contractors of Virginia (ABCVA) and is designed to encourage and recognize ABC-VA members who voluntarily implement highly effective safety and health management systems to benefit construction workers and reduce or eliminate injuries, illnesses, and fatalities on construction sites in Virginia. The Virginia BUILT program incorporates the ABC STEP program (Safety Training Evaluation Process) as the gateway to participation in Virginia BUILT.

4 - Virginia CHALLENGE, a formal three-stage recognition program that dramatically improves safety and health at the worksite and prepares the company to apply for Virginia STAR recognition.

5 - VOSH-VADOC CHALLENGE, a strategic partnership between the DOLI and the Virginia Department of Corrections (VADOC) to recognize safety and health excellence at correctional facilities around the Commonwealth. Three stages of participation in VADOC Challenge prepare sites to apply for Virginia STAR recognition. Virginia has the only two correctional facilities in the nation to have received VPP STAR status, Augusta and Lunenburg Correctional Centers. Additional information can be obtained by contacting the DOLI office closest to you at www.doli.virginia.gov or Milford Stern, VPP Manager, at (540) 562-3580, ext. 123, or Milford.Stern@doli.virginia.gov.

6 - The Safety and Health Achievement Recognition Program (SHARP) recognizes businesses of 250 employees or fewer and is administered by the DOLI Consultative Services Division. Contact Tracy Michaud, Consultation Program Manager, (804) 786-8707 or tracy.michaud@doli.virginia.gov.

DOLI also offers free On-Site Consultation Services to help employers better understand and voluntarily comply with VOSH standards. Priority is given to high hazard workplaces with 250 or fewer employees and all services are offered to employers at no cost. On-Site Consultation Services helps employers identify and correct potential safety and health hazards by conducting walk-through surveys (without citations or penalties), abatement advice, on-site training, and program assistance to develop safety and health programs.

Additional information about On-Site Consultation Services can be obtained by contacting the DOLI office closest to you at https://www.doli.virginia.gov/about/doli-offices-statewide/ or by contacting Tracy Michaud, Consultation Program Manager, (804) 786-8707, or tracy.michaud@doli.virginia.gov.

The Virginia Occupational Safety and Health (VOSH) program is financed in part by a grant from the U.S. Department of Labor, Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), under §23(g) of the Occupational Safety and Health Act of 1970. The FFY21 Virginia State Plan is funded by a grant of $4,332,400 federal funds, which constitutes 50% of the State Plan budget excluding any state overmatch funds. Zero percent, or $0.00 of the State Plan budget, is financed through nongovernmental sources.

The Virginia On-Site Consultation Cooperative Agreement program is financed in part by a grant from the U.S. Department of Labor, Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), under §21(d) of the Occupational Safety and Health Act of 1970. The FFY21 Virginia Consultation program is funded by a grant of $1,189,200 federal funds, which constitutes 90% of the Virginia Consultation program budget excluding any state overmatch funds. Zero percent, or $0.00 of the Virginia Consultation budget, is financed through nongovernmental sources.

MEDIA CONTACT:
Jennifer L. Rose, CSP
VOSH Cooperative Programs Director
jennifer.rose@doli.virginia.gov
804-786-7776

Commissioner C. Ray Davenport announced today that Dominion Energy Surry Power Station in Surry, Virginia, has been recertified as a Virginia STAR Worksite under Virginia's Occupational Safety and Health (VOSH) Voluntary Protection Program (VPP), the program's highest level of recognition.

Related link: https://www.doli.virginia.gov/

Oil and Gas Companies to Solve Climate Change – Develop Global Enhanced Geothermal Energy

YAP, Micronesia /ScoopCloud/ -- How can oil and gas companies lead in the fight against climate change? That is a question whose answer could very well solve the climate crisis rapidly. A new research project hosted by the Center for Open Science's online collaboration platform explores one option: pay them generously to drill for geothermal energy, and let their profits transform the entire global economy. That is the focus of Dr. Daniel Helman, a multidisciplinary researcher on the small island of Yap in Micronesia, who initiated the work this week.

According to an MIT study published more than a decade ago, there are large amounts of usable geothermal energy located all over the world, in every country. It is enough energy to power civilization for several millennia to come.

Called "enhanced geothermal" because it involves adding to the drilling process to fracture the surrounding rock, the oil and gas industries can do the work to ramp up this new geothermal energy to fuel the global economy. It could feasibly end reliance on fossil fuels.

"The timing and scale of climate change mitigation and adaptation are important," writes Helman about his motivation. The idea is to use the profit motive to encourage the oil and gas sector to come to the table, and provide a carrot for developing nations to make the switch. That could end the deadlock in the official climate negotiations as well.

"Providing viable pathways for oil and gas companies to cease production of fossil fuels and transition to developing geothermal energy is a novel and useful avenue for research," writes Helman about the work.

This solution doesn't come cheap. Adoption still depends on developed countries like the United States, the UK, and members of the European Union to fund the effort. And negotiations over how much geothermal energy to develop in each country are bound to be contentious, but could easily be based on population or on known fossil fuel reserves.

Helman's "Mixing Climate Change Response with the Profit Motive: Policy Roadmap for Hiring the Oil/Gas Sector to Develop Global Enhanced Geothermal Energy" is available on the Open Science Framework, an online platform of the Center for Open Science, at: https://osf.io/ta9wj/.

Follow Dr. Helman on Twitter at: https://twitter.com/HelmanDaniel

*IMAGE link for media: https://cdn2.hubspot.net/hubfs/6723653/Cos_2020/Images/48798340263_aa2b2e6163_b.jpg

How can oil and gas companies lead in the fight against climate change? A new research project hosted by the Center for Open Science's online collaboration platform explores one option: pay them generously to drill for geothermal energy, and let their profits transform the entire global economy. That is the focus of Dr. Daniel Helman.

Related link: https://twitter.com/HelmanDaniel

Sunpro Solar, Unirac Donate Solar Installation to Joy Junction

ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. /ScoopCloud/ -- Sunpro Solar, a national leader in residential solar power, joins Unirac, a solar mount manufacturer, on a mission to donate and install solar energy panels that will power facilities for Joy Junction, a homeless shelter in Albuquerque, New Mexico.

Joy Junction provides assistance to the homeless population and underserved families and individuals in Albuquerque, New Mexico. Unlike other shelters in the area, the organization believes that no one should be turned away and that families should be kept together.

In light of COVID-19, many in the community are left vulnerable and without the means to self-quarantine or shelter-in-place; a situation that causes a significant draw on the resources Joy Junction needs to do its work - dramatically more than pre-pandemic.

The donated solar installation from Sunpro Solar will make sure that hundreds of dollars every month are used to support Joy Junction's efforts in the community and not diverted to pay for electricity costs. Solar power provides a cost-saving solution for the shelter that will last long after the pandemic has passed.

"If the COVID-19 pandemic has shown us anything about our [solar] industry, it is that we are resilient, we are tenacious, and we care about our fellow human beings," says Unirac's Karen Paramanandam.

"Our company was founded with the mission to change lives and make our communities a better place," said Marc Jones, Founder and CEO of Sunpro Solar. "We are proud to partner with great companies like Unirac to help support Joy Junction's world-changing work."

Both Sunpro and Unirac encourage residents in the Albuquerque area to visit http://www.joyjunction.org/how-to-help/ for other ways to help Joy Junction in its work with the homeless and vulnerable.

About Sunpro Solar:

Sunpro Solar is a top solar company in the U.S. that provides affordable solar energy and battery storage solutions to homeowners nationwide. Sunpro Solar was named 5th largest residential solar installer in the U.S. by Solar Power World Magazine in July 2020. An Inc. 500 company, Sunpro Solar continues to expand as the demand for home solar in the United States rapidly increases. Sunpro Solar has headquarters in Louisiana and currently operates in 15 states. For more information visit https://www.gosunpro.com/.

Sunpro Solar, a national leader in residential solar power, joins Unirac, a solar mount manufacturer, on a mission to donate and install solar energy panels that will power facilities for Joy Junction, a homeless shelter in Albuquerque, New Mexico.

Related link: https://www.gosunpro.com/

NAES Southampton Power Station in Franklin, Virginia Receives the Virginia ‘Star’ Designation Under the Virginia Department of Labor and Industry’s Voluntary Protection Programs

RICHMOND, Va. /ScoopCloud/ -- Commissioner C. Ray Davenport announced today that NAES Southampton Power Station in Franklin, Virginia, has been recertified as a Virginia STAR Worksite under the Virginia's Occupational Safety and Health (VOSH) Voluntary Protection Programs (VPP), the agency's highest level of recognition for excellence in safety and health management systems. The facility was honored with its fourth recertification since being originally certified on December 13, 2004. NAES operates the biomass fueled Southampton Power Station which is owned by Dominion Energy, Inc.

"This outstanding achievement in occupational safety and health has come through the dedication and hard work of NAES Southampton Power Station employees and management. I commend NAES Southampton Power Station for embracing the cooperative spirit of VPP, and congratulate them on their hard earned recertification as a Virginia STAR Worksite," said Commissioner Davenport.

NAES Southampton Power Station's commitment to providing a safe and healthy workplace for its employees is demonstrated by its low injury and illness rates. The Franklin facility has a total three-year average for the TCIR (Total Case Incident Rate for injuries and illnesses) of 0.0 compared with a Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) national rate of 6.4, representing a TCIR rate 100% lower than the national average for the industry. The site's three-year average DART rate (Days Away, Restricted, or Transferred injury and illness cases) is 0.0, compared with the national rate of 2.1, which is 100% below the national average for the industry.

As part of the recognition for achieving Virginia STAR status under VPP, the worksite is entitled to fly the Virginia "STAR Worksite" flag. The NAES Southampton Power Station facility is the only STAR Worksite in Virginia for NAES and is one of two NAES VPP STAR sites currently in the United States.

Virginia businesses that participate in VPP substantially improve safety and health protections for thousands of Virginia employees through cooperative efforts to reduce injuries, illnesses, and fatal accidents. VPP STAR sites regularly report decreased bottom line costs associated with dramatically reduced injury and illness rates (an average of approximately 50% below the respective industry average), and improved productivity and employee morale. Reducing private sector employer costs associated with injuries, illnesses, and fatal accidents enhances a company's economic viability, competitiveness, and increases available capital for reinvestment, expansion, and new hiring.

VOSH operates six recognition programs. These include:

1 - Virginia STAR is a cooperative relationship between the VOSH program, the employer, and the employees that include the agreement of company leaders to operate exceptional safety and health management systems that meet a rigorous set of occupational safety and health criteria. Participating employers agree to voluntarily participate in the program and to directly involve employees in all aspects of the company's safety and health management systems. Requirements include an extensive application process, submission of written safety and health policies and procedures, demonstration of successful implementation of those programs through injury and illness rates that are below the national average for the employer's industry, and an intensive weeklong inspection by a team of VPP experts.

2 - Virginia BEST (Building Excellence in Safety, Health and Training) is a strategic partnership between the DOLI and the Associated General Contractors of Virginia that recognizes AGCVA members who voluntarily implement highly effective safety and health management systems to benefit construction workers and reduce or eliminate injuries, illnesses, and fatalities on construction sites in Virginia.

3 - Virginia BUILT is a new strategic partnership between the DOLI and the Associated Builders and Contractors of Virginia and is designed to encourage and recognize ABC-VA members who voluntarily implement highly effective safety and health management systems to benefit construction workers and reduce or eliminate injuries, illnesses, and fatalities on construction sites in Virginia. The Virginia BUILT program incorporates the ABC STEP program (Safety Training Evaluation Process) as the gateway to participation in Virginia BUILT.

4 - Virginia CHALLENGE is a formal three-stage recognition program that dramatically improves safety and health at the worksite and prepares the company to apply for Virginia STAR recognition.

5 - VOSH-VADOC CHALLENGE is a strategic partnership between the DOLI and the Virginia Department of Corrections (VADOC) to recognize safety and health excellence at correctional facilities around the Commonwealth. Three stages of participation in VADOC Challenge prepare a site to apply for Virginia STAR recognition. Virginia has the only two correctional facilities in the nation to have received VPP STAR status, Augusta and Lunenburg Correctional Centers. For additional VPP information, contact Milford Stern, VPP Manager, at (540) 562-3580, ext. 123, or Milford.Stern@doli.virginia.gov.

6 - Virginia SHARP recognizes businesses of 250 employees or fewer and is administered by the DOLI VOSH Consultative Services Division. Contact Tracy Michaud, Consultation Program Manager, at (804) 786-8707 or tracy.michaud@doli.virginia.gov.

DOLI also offers free On-Site Consultation Services to help employers better understand and voluntarily comply with VOSH standards. Priority is given to high hazard workplaces with 250 or fewer employees and all services are offered to employers at no cost. On-Site Consultation Services helps employers identify and correct potential safety and health hazards by conducting walk-through surveys (without citations or penalties), abatement advice, on-site training, and program assistance to develop safety and health programs.

For additional information about On-Site Consultation Services visit https://www.doli.virginia.gov/vosh-programs/consultation/.

Commissioner C. Ray Davenport announced today that NAES Southampton Power Station in Franklin, Virginia, has been recertified as a Virginia STAR Worksite under the Virginia's Occupational Safety and Health (VOSH) Voluntary Protection Programs (VPP), the agency's highest level of recognition for excellence in safety and health management systems.

Related link: https://www.doli.virginia.gov/

Technology Meets Tradition on A Monson Family Farm

MONSON, Mass. /ScoopCloud/ -- SunBug Solar, a Massachusetts-based solar solutions provider, has completed the construction of a dual-use solar-terra photovoltaic system in Monson, Massachusetts. The design of the system allows the local landowner to harvest both sun from above and crops from below on land which has been in the family for three generations.

The system, dubbed "Million Little Sunbeams," and owned by Monson native Nate Tassinari and his wife Ania, is the first operational dual-use agricultural photovoltaic (PV) system in the state.

Generally, solar projects on agricultural land face pushback because traditional solar systems cover the ground in a manner that significantly reduces the amount of available farmland. This project did not face this kind of opposition because a dual-use system doesn't replace crops, it works with them. The array is designed to allow sufficient sunlight for the crops and raised high enough in the air to allow tractors continued access underneath.

"It's a good compromise between the need for innovation and respecting the land," said Tassinari. "Plus, it's my backyard. I want it to be both functional and beautiful!"

Just like all operations on the farm, the system must be designed to make a profit. Designing Million Little Sunbeams to be the most efficient PV system possible required pairing together several innovative technologies.

Million Little Sunbeams features an East-West tracking system from RBI Solar. The array is designed with 20 ft row-spacing and a minimum panel height of 10 ft to improve performance and to allow tractors continued access. Dual-use systems use special solar photovoltaic (PV) racking to harvest power from the same sunlight that nourishes the crops that grow under the mounts. On typical PV systems, solar panels are fixed and so consume the energy from direct sunlight themselves, shading the ground below and rendering it not suitable for crops.

Additionally, the Million Little Sunbeams project uses Longi Perc bifacial panels which allows some solar energy to go through the panels reaching the plants below while capturing radiation on the opposite side of the panel as it bounces off the ground and crops below. Lightly colored crops, such as dry hay, are particularly helpful to this process.

Finally, per panel power optimizers mitigate factors such as shading and aging of the solar panels. Using SolarEdge optimizers, the maximum power point of every module is tracked individually. This advancement prevents one panel from slowing down the rest of the system from operating at full capacity.

The land where the solar array is located has been in his family since Nate's Grandmother bought it more than 70 years ago. The neighboring Murphy Dairy Farm, owned and operated by Nate's cousins, utilize the fields to help feed to their cattle. The Murphy Farm was established in the 1910s by Nate's Great Grandfather; Thomas F. Murphy. Today the farm grows hay, produces milk, and now hosts two types of honey-producing bees as well as a young orchard with variety of fruits, exemplifying the diversity of resources this land generates.

Tassinari had worked with SunBug to put solar on his home in Boston, and reached out to SunBug to see what could be done with this land. When SunBug designed a dual-use solar photovoltaic agricultural solution, Tassinari was able to reconcile tradition with technology, and named the project Million Little Sunbeams after a book by conservationist and author Thornton Burgess.

Tassinari will be able to provide power not just to his own home, but through the Community Solar SMART program, he will also have the opportunity to sell this green power back to the community. Participants save money on their utility bills by purchasing through MLS, and part of the proceeds will be donated to Norcross Wildlife.

The website for Million Little Sunbeams - Millionlittlesunbeams.com - is scheduled to go live on October 22, 2020. There, interested Monson residents and anyone who has National Grid as their electricity provider will be able to learn more and sign up to purchase energy fresh from the farm.

About SunBug Solar:

SunBug Solar is a local, Massachusetts owned-and-operated solar energy consulting and installation company with offices in Arlington and Westfield, Mass. SunBug Solar creates positive environmental and social impact by exemplifying our core values of responsiveness, resourcefulness, and reliability with our customers, within our industry, and among our teammates. Founded in 2009 and a Certified B Corporation.

Visit the website at: https://sunbugsolar.com/.

*PHOTO link for media: https://www.Send2Press.com/300dpi/20-1020s2p-sb-solar-ranch-300dpi.jpg

*Caption: Bifacial solar panels allow crops to grow on this family farm while producing energy from the sun.

SunBug Solar, a Massachusetts-based solar solutions provider, has completed the construction of a dual-use solar-terra photovoltaic system in Monson, Massachusetts. The design of the system allows the local landowner to harvest both sun from above and crops from below on land which has been in the family for three generations.

Related link: http://sunbugsolar.com/

Berico Fuels Appoints Fourth Generation Company President

GREENSBORO, N.C. /ScoopCloud/ -- Founded by W.N. Berry in 1924, Berico Fuels recently named its sixth Berry to be the company's president. Will Berry is fourth generation and does not take the position for granted.

Will did not originally set out to work in the family business. After getting his master's degree at Michigan State, he worked in the real estate development business for five years. Ready for a change, Will and his father, Tom Berry, Berico's current CEO, said that he and his son traveled the country studying franchises as they sought out new business opportunities together. They looked at the books and analyzed many different opportunities.

"After studying various franchises, my father and our other partner, John Fuquay, approached me on my interest in joining Berico," Will says. "After considerable thought I agreed to join Berico in 2011."

Since then, he's helped grow the multiple company divisions and has cultivated valuable employee relationships. He bought into the partnership in 2017.

"I could not have done any of this without the direction and mentorship of my father and John, the company's current Chairman of the Board. John gave 50 years of service to this business and he's one of the most dedicated people I know," Will says. "I've got some big shoes to fill."

With no signs of slowing down, Will is looking to a future of smart growth - one that focuses on company culture, values relationships and positions them as a regional energy leader. He's committed to Berico's mantra - "Always dependable" - and adds, "I will always work to keep our employees and our customers happy."

"I realized early on that I needed to give 120 percent effort to show the other employees I wasn't looking for the silver-spoon per-say," he says.

About Berico Fuels

Berico Fuels started out in the coal business delivering and servicing clients via its horse-drawn buggies. Today, it has more than 100 employees and has been through numerous acquisitions; six in the last six years. The company, and its subsidiaries, Alamance Oil and Carolina Fuels, deliver residential heating fuels and propane, commercial fuels and lubricants, and HVAC service within the Greensboro Triad Area.

Since its inception, Berico has tried to be the "always dependable" company for home comfort through its various avenues of business. Each generation of the business has been deeply rooted in giving back to the local community. Berico is particularly proud of its "Gift of Warmth" campaign, raising and matching over $50,000 in donations to the Salvation Army; helping the less fortunate to heat their homes each winter.

For more information: https://www.berico.com/

Founded by W.N. Berry in 1924, Berico Fuels recently named its sixth Berry to be the company's president. Will Berry is fourth generation and does not take the position for granted.

Related link: https://www.berico.com/

Aris Energy Solutions and Partners Win Dept of Energy Award to Advance Modular Fuel Cells from Development to Deployment

MOUNT VERNON, N.Y. /ScoopCloud/ -- Aris Energy Solutions announces that it has been selected for a Department of Energy funding award for its proposal "Modular Fuel Cells Providing Resiliency to Data Centers and Other Critical Power Users." Aris celebrates this $2.66 million 3-year award with its esteemed program partners - the National Energy Technology Laboratory (NETL), West Virginia University (WVU), the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA), Gaia Energy Research Institute, and Velocity Data Centers.

Steve Almeida, Aris' Director of Fuel Cells and CHP, commented: "We are grateful for this opportunity with the DOE, our partners, FCHEA and SOLIDpower to bring a Resilient fuel cell-based energy solution to the markets. Our scalable solution will increase Energy Efficiency, enhance Electrification, minimize downtime - ensuring Resiliency, while decarbonizing Data Center operations. In a present/post Covid World, critical power is where we need it most, in our homes and businesses. Hence, small capacity fuel cells will prove a preferred medium transitioning towards a hydrogen economy, as we will also demonstrate functionality via hydrogen/natural gas blend."

The core fuel cell technology, the modular/scalable BlueGEN micro fuel cell was developed by SOLIDpower, a European company with facilities in Italy and Germany. Aris is currently installing early units in the U.S. and will demonstrate a key feature that will be integrated into the fuel cell system: Resiliency. Near term targeted markets include small/distributed data centers and other critical power users, some of which are in the small commercial segment, and multi-family residential.

Through both the kW size scale-up and cost reductions that are incorporated into this DoE program plan, the markets will broaden to include Medium Size Commercial, Institutional, Municipal and larger scale Data Center/Critical Power users.

Separately, but closely aligned with the goals of the DoE program, Aris is installing BlueGEN units in "real world" applications.

Lou Lombardozzi, Aris' Director of Engineering & Project Development said: "We're pleased to announce grid interconnect approval allowing for BlueGEN installation in a single-family home. This achievement enhances commercial readiness; an objective of the DoE program."

Dan Connors, Aris's COO and Co-Founder, added: "The market has made its two key needs very clear: Resiliency and De-Carbonization. Beyond the Resiliency goal on this program, we seek to advance the BlueGEN's current ability to De-Carbonize buildings and facilities of all types. We believe the BlueGEN fuel cell can become a key part of a Resilient and De-Carbonized energy infrastructure."

We encourage you to Learn More About This Program and Aris Energy Solutions (PDF): https://ariswind.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/10/PR-Web-link-20201008-1.pdf

About ARIS:

Founded in 2013 and lead by executives with decades of experience in the electric utility, engineer, construction and fuel cell industries, Aris Energy Solutions is introducing the BlueGEN mCHP fuel cell solution to a broad range of US markets.

More information: https://ariswind.com/

Aris Energy Solutions announces that it has been selected for a Department of Energy funding award for its proposal "Modular Fuel Cells Providing Resiliency to Data Centers and Other Critical Power Users." Aris celebrates this $2.66 million 3-year award with its esteemed program partners.

Related link: https://ariswind.com/