31 August 2007

Aug 31 2007
by Sion Barry, Western Mail

A US company is to outline plans to turn its groundbreaking solar energy factory in South Wales into a “green operation.”

G24 Innovations (G24i) is pushing ahead with its strategy to manufacturer renewable energy products (solar cells) using entirely renewable energy.

The company, preparing to become the world’s first large-scale producer of the revolutionary dye-sensitised solar cell (DSSC) technology, will unveil its plans to erect a wind turbine at its Wentloog Environmental Centre [the former Acer plant] in Cardiff through two open exhibitions next year.

G24i said it is keen to share its plans with the general public at open exhibitions in Cardiff.

As well as being an integral part of the firm’s aim to become a leader in sustainability, it is hoped that the wind turbine will be the showpiece for an onsite environmental learning centre for Welsh students and the general public.

G24i is currently in talks with Cardiff City Council and Techniquest about developing such a centre at its 187,000 sq ft facility. The centre would explore all forms of renewable energy and its role in helping to address climate change.

Clemens Betzel, president of G24i, said, “We are excited at the prospect of making next generation solar cells from state-of-the-art wind energy.

“This would be another first for G24i and for Wales and represents a positive step in embracing tomorrow’s renewable energy solutions.

“We are very much looking forward to discussing this with members of the public at our exhibitions.

“The British Wind Energy Association has noted the essential role that onshore wind can play in helping the Assembly Government meet its renewable energy targets. No new turbines have been commissioned in Wales for over a year and we are hopeful that our project will help address this.”

G24i manufactures fourth generation solar cells based on a new photovoltaic technology.

Its advanced solar cell can be used to power mobile telephones and portable electronics and can be used in clothing, tents and building materials.

The exhibition, on September 6, will be held at the St Mellons Enterprise Centre from 1pm-4pm, then on September 8 at Rumney Memorial Hall from 1pm-4pm.