As part of its alternative energy initiative, Genesis Worldwide Enterprises has installed a commercial solar power system to provide full-plant electric power for the corporate headquarters. The 84 kilowatt photovoltaic roof-mount power system can generate more than 150,000 kilowatt-hours of clean, renewable energy annually, equivalent to the amount needed to power 20 homes per year. The system was designed and installed by American Solar Electric, a Phoenix, Arizona-based integrator of photovoltaic power systems.

"Genesis Worldwide is setting an example for other Arizona businesses by installing this photovoltaic power system," said former Arizona Congressmen Matt Salmon, the current National Chairman of Americans for Solar Power. "When private businesses and utilities work together to develop more distributed solar resources, all of Arizona benefits by creating new jobs and diminishing our dependence on out-of-state energy supplies."

Bob Flynn, President of Genesis Worldwide, described the reasons for the installation: "We saw a distinct advantage in utilizing the considerable solar energy resources available to us here in Arizona. Our company strives to reduce its impact on the environment wherever possible. Installing the solar panels not only helps us achieve this, but also offers long-term economic benefits with a relatively short-term payback. Its a win/win environmentally and economically."

How Solar Energy Works:

Photovoltaic modules generate electricity by converting photons of sunlight into DC electrical current. The DC electrical current is transformed into utility-grade power by an inverter and is then used to power AC electrical loads for the facility. When excess power from the solar system is available, it is sold back to the utility company for a credit on the customers bill.

The photovoltaic power system on Genesis Worldwide's facility is unique in that all 448 solar modules installed on the warehouse roof are mounted using a non-penetrating attachment method. This method of attachment ensures roof longevity and also saves time on the installation of the solar array, thereby reducing the installed cost of the system. The PV system also incorporates a complete Data Acquisition System, which allows real-time monitoring of system performance on a computer located within the offices of Genesis Worldwide.