Aus dem Transscript der Telefonkonferenz vom 10. August 2009.
Now I want to review our achievements based on previously communicated milestones. We have successfully completed the preliminary design of the ThermaVolt II module. We have built and internally demonstrated a working prototype of the ThermaVolt II module. This included a field demonstration of the electricity and hot water generation from the module.
We have completed and filed multiple patent applications associated with the design and manufacture of the ThermaVolt II module, and we have completed the preliminary production design of the Company's patented tubular skylight product.
We believe the benefits and design features of ThermaVolt II provide end-use customers with a compelling value proposition. ThermaVolt II leverages Entech's proven optical technology by using its proprietary arched Fresnel lens to generate about 20 times concentration of sunlight onto the solar cells. This innovation saves almost 95% of the relatively expensive silicon cell material.
Our product's unique design will be compatible with both ground and roof-mount sun-tracking systems, which we believe will significantly broaden our addressable market. In addition, the module's low-cost design, ease of manufacturer ability and installation, compactness and high reliability will provide longer-term sustainability in the marketplace.
The ThermaVolt II module's in complete solar arrays will be structured for distribution through two channels to market. While we believe that selling our modules and trackers to solar integrators and installers may be the more profitable business model for a longer-term growth, we will also leverage Entech's existing expertise in engineering, procurement and construction to approach the market through the installation of complete ThermaVolt solar systems, including early beta sites at potential user and customer locations.
The ThermaVolt II's form factor is similar to that of a conventional flat-plate PV module. The standard size and shape will ease adoption into the marketplace and expand our addressable market when including rooftop applications. In addition, the fully assembled compact shape will enable palletized shipping and reduced transportation costs.
Finally, due to its improved design, the ThermaVolt II module will leverage existing semi-conductor manufacturing processes using proven offthe-shelf equipment. With this design, Entech Solar can take advantage of low-cost outsourcing opportunities, more competitive pricing, and a quicker ramp-up of production volumes as needed to meet future product demand.
While we are still assessing the commercialization timeline for both the ThermaVolt II and tubular skylight products, and do not plan to offer specific timing, our next steps include: first, detailed design and internal verification testing, then final design and advancement into product certification; deployment of beta sites at potential user and customer locations to gather feedback and to seed the market with working installations; four, marketing and sales activities that are aimed at generating a pipeline of orders during the pre-production site testing; supply chain and production roll-out; and finally, product line. Our team at Entech Solar is working hard every day, and our commitment and enthusiasm is resulting in identifiable progress that we are pleased to report to you today. Our plans are to continue to provide you with periodic updates on our progress as important milestones are completed. We continue to be encouraged by growing opportunities for government funding programs that support the expansion and development of renewable energy projects, specifically solar projects in our industry. This summer, Entech Solar has submitted one proposal to the National Renewable Energy Laboratory based on a funding opportunity for up to $3 million of potential cash grants related to the research, development, and demonstration of combined heat and power, or CHP systems. |