PARAMUS, N.J., July 30, 2009 – Visitors and tenants at 205 Robin Rd., a three-story Class-A office building in Paramus, N.J., can now witness first-hand what it is like to save 52 acres of trees and significantly reduce greenhouse emissions – in real-time. The 61,000-square-foot property, which serves as the headquarters for the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers (IBEW) Local 164, successfully underwent a solar conversion involving more than 650 rooftop panels installed here and atop the adjacent 40,000-square-foot Local 164 Training Academy, located at 65 W. Century Rd.

Completed by Local 164 electricians certified in advanced photovoltaic (PV) technology, the new solar energy system provides streaming real-time updates via a monitor in the lobby of 205 Robin Rd. The project also serves as a working model available to contractors and customers alike for tours.

“Photovoltaic technology is here to stay, and Local 164 has embraced it as a means to save on operating costs while demonstrating our commitment to the environment and sustainable energy,” said Richard Dressel, Local 164 business manager. Projections indicate a total cost-savings of more than $323,000 over the next 10 years for both buildings.

The poly-crystalline silicon photovoltaic modules leverage the sun’s light through solar cells, comprised of thin layers of silicon, which release electrons to generate an electrical current when sunlight strikes the cells and causes a chemical reaction. Individual cells are grouped together to form solar modules.

The project was performed by two IBEW Local 164 signatory contractors, All Ways Electric of Westwood, N.J., and Sal Electric, based in Jersey City, as well as the local’s specially trained and certified electricians. The system also will serve as a training venue for the local’s apprenticeship and continuing education programs.

As an industry leader known for accurately forecasting trends in the electrical and telecommunications fields, Local 164 partnered with Sharp Solar Systems three years ago to develop hands-on PV laboratory training programs. Today, more than 300 members have successfully completed the curriculum.

For more information about renewable and sustainable energy, visit New Jersey’s Clean Energy Program web site at www.njcleanenergy.com. ###