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Roof Upgrade Proves Key Component of Solar Energy Projects

Posted on: Wednesday, 25 February 2009, 09:30 CST

The Bright Group, Inc. Responsible for Initiating Largest Solar Installation at a U.S. Winery

NAPA, Calif., Feb. 25 /PRNewswire/ -- The Bright Group, Inc. today announced its key role as initiator and co-developer of the solar energy project hosted at four of the Foster's Wine Estates. While in the process of evaluating Foster's roofing program, The Bright Group proposed and negotiated an innovative solar project at each of the host locations, which included the installation of high technology roofs. The 1.34 MW system installed at the Beringer Winery is currently the largest operational solar energy installation at a United States winery.

The Bright Group was responsible for all aspects of the roofing surface at each location, covering 400,000 square feet for the solar installation. Each roof features a 25-year warranty to ensure its longevity for the host and offers several eco-friendly aspects. The roofing is made with some recycled materials, developed specifically for The Bright Group and approved by the Cool Roof Rating Council. These eco-friendly and innovative roofs are designed to collect potable water or can be ph neutral in order to prevent ground water contamination. By salvaging the existing insulation in the roof assembly, the company avoided hauling 611 cubic yards of debris to local landfills.

Foster's purchases the energy generated by the system from Perpetual Energy Systems (PES) which combined conventional financing and federal energy tax credits to finance the solar project. PES owns the solar array as well as the renewable energy certificates and carbon credits determined by the system's actual output. The Bright Group also enlisted SolarNet to coordinate and co-develop the project. Stellar Energy Solutions was then recruited to serve as the solar engineer and general contractor for the installation.

"Our innovative roofing concepts provide Foster's with a new, high-performance, solar-ready system which will outlast the industry standard 25-year warranty for solar panels," said Michael Bright, president of The Bright Group, Inc. "We offer an ideal solution for companies or roofing contractors who are in the market for a quality roof upgrade and are open to incorporating a solar design. Our company can do as much or as little as needed to provide a complete, long-lasting roof and solar energy system. It's a win-win situation for everybody involved, including the environment."

About The Bright Group, Inc.

The Bright Group provides renewable energy development backed with more than 65 years of combined experience in project management and roofing expertise. Headquartered in the beautiful Napa Valley, Bright Group's comprehensive list of services includes integrated solar energy generation, innovative roof applications, financing arrangements, project management and ongoing maintenance. The experienced team at The Bright Group offers a proven track record of recognizing idealistic opportunities for green energy and providing corporations with a complete solar solution from start to finish. The company offers its services for large or multiple commercial projects with a minimum combined square footage of 50,000. For more information, please call 1-800-348-0477 or visit www.brightgroup.us.

About Foster's Wine Estates

Foster's Wine Estates has a proud history that dates back to the 1800's. The winery group, owned by Foster's Group in Australia, produces and markets an international portfolio of highly respected brands from iconic estates like Beringer Vineyards, Etude, Stags' Leap Winery, and Chateau St. Jean in California, Penfolds, Rosemount and Wolf Blass in Australia, Castello di Gabbiano in Italy, and Matua Valley in New Zealand. Many of these estates were founded by pioneers in their regions and continue to craft wines at the forefront of quality, innovation and regional expression.

Our approach to sustainability at Foster's recognizes the direct link between the effective management of our environmental and social impacts and our business success. On strong foundations, a passionate global team is building a sustainable future for Foster's, our people, our environment and our communities. For more information, visit www.fostersgroup.com.

About Perpetual Energy Systems

Perpetual Energy Systems is a comprehensive developer of solar powered renewable energy systems, providing solar energy power to industrial, commercial and municipal enterprises. Without the need for capital expenditure outlays, recipients benefit from reduced utility costs, access to sustainable energy sources and a significant reduction in carbon outputs through clean energy technology. Perpetual Energy Systems combines renewable energy tax credits with conventional financing to achieve the design, construction, installation and operations of large-scale solar energy systems. For more information, please contact Laurance Friedman at 914-777-2224 or visit them at www.goperpetual.com.

About Stellar Energy Solutions

Stellar Energy is a leading California-based solar energy integrator. With comprehensive services including project financing, engineering and installation management, Stellar leads corporate, non-profit, educational and governmental clients toward a better energy future. For more information, please contact Chris Phipps at chrisp@stellarenergy.com or visit the Stellar website at www.stellarenergy.com.

Media Contact: Natasha Biasell 559-917-4476 nbiasell@brightgroup.us

SOURCE The Bright Group, Inc.

Source: PR Newswire

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