News Release  ( C-10-98)

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For Immediate Release ( C-10-98) Contact: Communications Office (916) 324-9670 September 18, 1998

BP Solar Receives Cal/EPA Seal of Approval for Thin-Film Solar Energy Product

SACRAMENTO - The California Environmental Protection Agency today presented its environmental technology seal of approval for an innovative thin-film photovoltaic module manufactured by BP Solar, Inc. The module, known as Apolloâ , is a self-contained power producer using thin-film technology to capture and convert sunlight into electricity.

We are enthused to certify BP Solar product as "earth-friendly", and believe it will help advance clean renewable power needs as well as provide opportunities for economic growth here in the Golden State, said California Secretary for Environmental Protection Peter M. Rooney.

"This important recognition from Cal/EPA bolsters our belief that we can work together to advance the market for renewable energy sources like solar power in a cost-effective and environmentally responsible manner," said BP Solar President Peter Beadle. "The unmatched recognition accorded Cal/EPA certification will give us a powerful assist as we market these exciting technologies in California, across the United States, and abroad."

BP Solar has made a major, long-term commitment to California, having recently opened a $20 million manufacturing facility in Fairfield, employing nearly 100 people. The facility manufactures BP's proprietary Apolloâ thin-film product, which can be used in many new settings - including a substitute for glass in windows, skylights, and other architectural features. With this leading edge technology, planners, designers and architects are given a whole new range of design and construction options, all of which positively affect the environment.

Cal/EPA's Air Resources Board conducted the technical evaluation of the photovoltaic device, certifying its clean-air benefits. Apolloâ generates no air pollutants from combustion, unlike traditional fossil fuel-fired electrical generation facilities. Additionally, potential economic benefits of the product were noted as it provides clean energy for areas where the electric power infrastructure has not been developed.

Cal/EPA established the certification program in 1993, working with the private sector to advance the development and marketing of new pollution prevention and cleanup products. The program certifies the effectiveness of emerging technologies, thereby lending instant credibility to products and processes, making it easier to gain regulatory acceptance elsewhere.

In all, Cal/EPA has now certified 70 new technologies, from additives that detoxify water pollutants to quicker and cheaper tests for measuring PCB levels in soil and water. Certification is typically granted within six months of an application, but only after a thorough review of test and field data, independent peer review, and if necessary, additional testing.

California and Canada have established reciprocal agreements for recognizing environmental certification. Cal/EPA's certification program is also collaborating with the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, other U.S. states, as well as the nations of Canada and China and the German state of Bavaria.

"This is just one of many ways all of us in the Wilson Administration are working toward leaving California's environment in better shape than we found it," said Rooney. "To do it through private industry by bringing new technology into the state and creating new jobs is a bonus."

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