PPG to install solar array at glass research facility

The site is expected to be functional early this summer.

Scott Follett, global director, PPG Solar Performance Group, said the site will demonstrate the value of PPG solar glass products such as the SOLARPHIRE(R) line to customers, and it will help company researchers and product developers to gather real-world data on the performance of existing and prototype products. “We’re excited about this project because it will enable us to track, in real time, the performance of specific products and technologies, and to report those results to our customers online or in writing,” he said.

Follett added that the array will be available for use as a testing and demonstration site for customers as well. “It is one thing for us to tell current and potential customers about the virtues of Solarphire glass products by PPG,” he said. “To actually show them the value of the glass, used in their own modules, is far more impressive.”

The array will include two 10-module assemblies, complete with on-line monitoring software to measure the real-time power output of each module type. Customers may use the demonstration site in one-month intervals, and those with products installed on the array will have access to performance data via email or the Internet. Solar power generated by the array will be tied back into building operations.

For the initial installation, PPG will equip one assembly with Solarphire PV photovoltaic glass and the other with Solarphire AR anti-reflective glass and compare their performance.

For more information about testing at the PPG Flat Glass Business and Discovery Center, call Scott Follett or Pat Kelly at (412) 820-8500.

About PPG

PPG Industries’ vision is to continue to be the world’s leading coatings and specialty products company. Founded in 1883, the company serves customers in industrial, transportation, consumer products, and construction markets and aftermarkets. With headquarters in Pittsburgh, PPG operates in more than 60 countries around the globe. Sales in 2010 were $13.4 billion. PPG shares are traded on the New York Stock Exchange (symbol: PPG). For more information, visit www.ppg.com.

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